Best 18V Cordless Hammer Drill: Top 5 Expert Picks in 2024

Last Updated on January 21, 2023

Drilling holes into tough materials like brick, concrete, and rock can be difficult, especially if you don’t have the right tools. A hammer drill is specifically designed to drill holes into these hard ones, but it can be quite complicated to find one that’s cordless and has a powerful 18v motor.

A cordless hammer drill is a great addition to any home toolkit. Aside from being powerful enough to handle most DIY projects, it’s also very versatile. With the right attachments, the best 18v cordless hammer drill can be used for drilling, driving screws, and even chiseling.

As part of this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top 18v cordless hammer drills available nowadays, as well as what to look for when choosing one. Also, we’ve got plenty of information that DIYers will love.

5 Best 18V Cordless Hammer Drills

Cordless drills have come a long way in recent years, and they are now powerful enough for most drilling applications. A hammer drill uses a piston to deliver rapid impacts, allowing it to break through concrete and other hard materials.

When shopping for the best cordless hammer drill, you should look for one with plenty of power, a good selection of features, and a comfortable design. With that in mind, here are the top five 18v cordless hammer drills:

1. Bosch GSB18V-490b12 18V EC Brushless 1/2” Hammer Drill Driver Kit

Bosch makes a wide variety of tools, and they are all designed to be the best in their class. The Bosch GSB18v-490b12 18v EC brushless 1/2” hammer drill driver kit is no exception. This tool is designed for producing holes in tough materials. Screws and bolts can also be driven with it.

Key Features:

• A brushless motor delivers more power and runtime
• All-metal chuck for durability and better bit retention
• Compact design with a great impact-to-weight ratio
• LED lighting illuminates dark work areas
• A precision clutch provides driving accuracy
• An adjustable speed trigger for precise drilling
• Uses Bosch hammer drill/driver technology
• 3-jaw chuck for a variety of drill bits

Tough Construction

Drilling into concrete and masonry is easy with a Bosch cordless hammer drill. With its three-jaw chuck, the drill can accommodate a variety of drill bits, making it a versatile tool for a range of applications.

The hammer delivers rapid blows to the bit, which helps break up the material and make it easier to drill through.

Variable-speed Trigger

The Bosch cordless hammer drill also features a variable-speed trigger, which allows you to control the speed of the drill for more precise drilling.

This drill is designed for high torque driving and features a two-speed selector that allows you to choose between 0-600 rpm or 0-1, 900 rpm. When you need more force, you can switch to the higher setting.

Professional-grade

The Bosch 18v cordless drill is a professional-grade tool that offers superior performance and durability. Its LED light illuminates dark work areas, and the Bosch hammer drill/driver technology provides ample power to drill through the most rigid materials.

A battery of 18v 850 watts provides long run times and quick charging, with an included charger to ensure the battery pack is ready to go whenever you need it. It also comes with a carrying bag for easy transportation and storage.

Brushless Motor

The Bosch cordless hammer drill is a versatile tool that can be used for various tasks around the home or workshop. It features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver and an efficient EC Brushless motor that delivers outstanding runtime and longer motor life. The soft grip handle provides comfort and control when using the drill.

Drawback:

• Bosch cordless hammer drills have a wobbling drill chuck, which is a potential drawback. It can be hard to keep the drill bit in place.

• You can use the drill guide with the product to solve this problem. To drill more precisely, drill guides help keep the drill bit on track.

Verdict:

The Bosch GSB18V-490B12 cordless hammer drill is a powerful tool that can handle a variety of tasks. Its non-brush motor provides superior runtime and longer motor life, while the soft grip handle ensures comfort and control during use.

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2. Makita Brushless Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill

Makita brushless rotary hammers are powerful and versatile tools for drilling and driving applications. With its brushless motor, this Makita hammer drill can deliver more power and torque than its brushed counterparts.

Key Features:

• BL Brushless Motor delivers up to 50% longer run time
• Accepts SDS-PLUS bits for quick, easy bit changes
• Compact and lightweight for reduced operator fatigue
• Ergonomic design for comfortable operation
• Trigger with variable speed for precise speed control
• HEPA air extraction system for a clean work area
• Torque-limiting clutch for preventing gear damage
• Adjustable handle for comfortable use

Overcome Tougher Materials

Remodeling tiles and other materials on swimming pools is one of its most popular uses. For this type of work, the drill’s hammering feature makes it easy to break through tougher materials.

Also, the non-brush motor provides superior power and efficiency, allowing the job to be completed faster. Due to its cordless nature, it is also easy to use and maneuver around the pool deck.

Reverse Capabilities

A wide range of applications can be handled easily with the Makita brushless cordless hammer drill. Its speed-adjustable trigger lets you precisely control the drill’s speed, while the hammer drill and reverse capabilities simplify switching between tasks.

The brushless motor provides long runtime and increased power, and the ergonomic design provides comfort and control.

HEPA and Safety

Keeping the work area clean is easy with this rotary hammer drill‘s built-in HEPA vacuum extraction system.

This vacuum attachment helps meet the particle control requirements of OSHA, and the powerful brushless motor can handle even the most challenging task. For added safety and reliability, the drill also features overload, overcharge, and overheat protection.

Torque Limiting Clutch

Makita’s XRH01Z 18v cordless rotary hammer drill features a lightweight design. A variety of tasks can be performed with it, and it can be maneuvered easily.

By automatically disengaging gears if the bit binds, the torque-limiting clutch prevents gear damage. As a bonus, the non-brush motor provides up to 50% more torque for enhanced performance when needed.

Adjustable Handle

As this drill has an adjustable handle, you can use it in a variety of positions so that you can operate it comfortably for extended periods of time.

This drill is equipped with a depth stop rod, which ensures precise drilling depth, as well as a side handle for added stability while drilling.

Drawback:

• Some users have found that the battery clips are not securely fastened to the handle, which can cause the drill to feel unbalanced.

• During delivery time, it can happen, but it’s not a significant issue. This problem can be easily fixed by tightening the screws that hold the battery clips in place.

Verdict:

With its wide range of features, the Makita brushless hammer drill is an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The Makita XRH01Z cordless drill is a fantastic choice if you need to remodel your pool or simply need a powerful and versatile tool for your home projects.

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3. Makita 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion 1/2″ Cordless Brushless Hammer Driver/Drill

When it comes to cordless power tools, Makita is a name that is synonymous with quality. Likewise, the Makita 18-volt LXT lithium-ion 1/2″ cordless brushless hammer driver/drill follows the same pattern. Due to its heavy-duty design, this is the perfect drill for people who need a powerful, durable drill.

Key Features:

• Only 7″ long, compact, and ergonomic
• Transmission with two speeds (0-550 rpm & 0-2,100 rpm)
• 0 to 31,500 BPM for faster masonry drilling
• Self-ratcheting 1/2″ chuck for better bit gripping strength
• Built-in LED light illuminates dark work areas
• Uses Makita LXT batteries for the long run-time
• Ergonomic handle for comfort and grip
• Compact design for maneuverability in tight spaces

Fast Charging

The Makita’s XPH14Z brushless cordless hammer drill is quick charging, so you won’t have to wait long for it to be ready to use again. You won’t have to stop to recharge the drill constantly since it runs continuously for 2-3 hours. This is a great choice for anyone seeking a robust and reliable drill.

High Torque

Its torque-limiting clutch protects against stripped screws and drill bit breakage. Makita’s BL brushless motor delivers 1,250 in.lbs of max torque, making it powerful enough to tackle any project.

A 4-times longer battery life than traditional cordless drills makes this model even more impressive. Your next project will be a breeze with this drill.

Speed Transmission

This cordless brushless hammer drill from Makita can handle a wide range of drilling, fastening, and hammer drilling applications.

Trigger with variable speed, and 2-speed transmission provides power and flexibility to tackle even the most challenging projects. The built-in LED light makes the Makita hammer drill ideal for confined spaces.

Uses Makita LXT batteries

It uses the common Makita LXT batteries that all their tools use now, even the lawn mowers. This makes it easy to keep a spare set of batteries on hand, so you never have to worry about running out of power.

The ergonomic handle provides comfort and grip while weighing in at only 5.7 lbs., this drill is easy to maneuver and won’t cause operator fatigue.

Metal Chuck

With its all-metal 1/2″ self-ratcheting chuck and compact, ergonomic design, it is easy to work with and maneuver in tight spaces. The Makita hammer drill runs at 950 RPM and can produce speeds up to 31,500 bpm, making it a useful tool for any job.

Drawback:

• Some users have reported that switching between drill and hammer modes makes the clutch ring sticky.

• Ensure the clutch ring is appropriately lubricated to get the most out of your cordless hammer drill. This will ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear on the components.

Verdict:

This Makita XPH14Z 18-volt cordless drill is a powerful, durable, and reliable drill that is excellent for anyone looking for a quality drill. Fast charging, long battery life, and high torque make this drill the most suitable tool for your next project.

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4. Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill

The Milwaukee m18 hammer drill is a top-of-the-line drill that delivers impressive power, making it ideal for tougher drilling jobs. A brushless motor gives this drill superior performance and longevity, so it’ll last for a long time.

Key features:

• The 4-pole frameless motor for longer life and 500 in. lbs. of torque
• A single-sleeve ratcheting chuck for better grip and less slippage
• Built-in LED light illuminates surfaces for faster work
• Zero to 450/1,800 RPM for faster drilling
• Compact size and lightweight design
• The all-metal construction of the chuck
• It can be used for a wide range of tasks

Four Pole Frameless Motor

With the Milwaukee m18 brushless hammer drill, you can easily tackle a wide range of tasks. Its 4-pole frameless motor delivers best-in-class torque, making it suitable for drilling into concrete, brick, and other materials.

With a speed range of 0 to 450 or 0 to 1,800 RPM, it is ideal for drilling and fastening. A metal gear case ensures this drill’s durability.

All-metal Construction

This drill features a single sleeve ratcheting chuck that allows for a tight grip on the drill bit, reducing slippage. With its all-metal construction, the chuck ensures optimal strength and long-term performance.

Milwaukee’s M18 model also has an integrated vibration control feature that minimizes vibration for comfort.

LED Light and Compact Size

These brushless drills offer speed and efficiency. Integrated LEDs illuminate surfaces, making it easier to see what you’re doing.

Milwaukee’s brushless drill is easy to use in tight spaces due to its compact size and lightweight design. With its speed-adjustable trigger, you can match the drill’s speed to your application.

Wide Range of Uses

It features a powerful motor that delivers 525 in. lbs. of peak torque and 0-450/0-1,800 RPM. A wide variety of drilling and driving tasks can be completed with ease. A brushless motor also ensures that the tool has a good design, is durable, and provides ample power.

Drawback:

• The battery and charger are not included with the Makita M18 hammer drill.

• Honestly, it’s not a big deal. When you purchase the Makita M18 brushless cordless hammer drill, you will need to order a charger and battery separately.

Verdict:

As Milwaukee’s top-of-the-line hammer drill, it certainly lives up to its hype. With its versatility and power, it’s ideal for a variety of tasks. This drill will simplify your life by featuring a high-performance motor, all-metal construction, and LED light.

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5. Ryobi SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful drill that can handle any job, big or small, then you need the Ryobi SDS plus rotary hammer drill. This drill is packed with features that make it ideal for a wide range of applications.

Key Features:

• High-speed rotating motion with up to 5,000 BPM
• 3-mode selector: rotary hammer, rotational drilling, and chisel-only modes
• Built-in LED light for a clear view of your work area
• Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip and easy manipulation
• Trigger with variable speed for precise and accurate drilling
• Chisel adjust mode for positioning the bit to the optimal position
• Compact and robust design with an 18v battery

High-speed Rotating

Various tasks can be accomplished with the Ryobi rotary drill, from drilling holes to chiseling concrete. The key to its power is its ability to generate a high-speed rotating motion, which makes it perfect for drilling through tougher materials. This drill also features a built-in LED light that ensures you always have clear visibility.

Three Mode

The drill has a 3-mode selector so that you can choose between hammering, rotating, and chiseling only. In the rotary hammer mode, holes can be drilled in concrete or brick; in the rotational drilling setting, wood or metal. The chisel-only mode is ideal for breaking up tile or concrete.

Powerful and Compact

Ryobi’s hammer drill produces up to 5,000 BPM and is both powerful and compact. It is designed with the most rigid materials and features a trigger with variable speed. Also, the ergonomic handle makes it easy to manipulate and provides a comfortable grip.

Precise and Accurate

You can use this tool for a variety of DIY projects. The chisel adjust mode allows you to position the bit to the optimal position for your project. With this feature, you can create holes that are precise and accurate.

Aside from its ergonomic design and 18v lithium ion batteries, this tool is an ideal choice for any home improvement project due to its versatility and power.

Drawback:

• Using Ryobi’s cordless hammer drill improperly can cause it to smoke and stop working.

• Make sure your Ryobi cordless hammer drill is operating properly to avoid problems. You can also find troubleshooting tips in the user manual.

Verdict:

You can use the Ryobi SDS hammer drill for various tasks, whether large or small. It’s versatile and powerful, so you can use it for anything. With its innovative chisel adjust mode, you can drill precise and accurate holes.

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These are our leading five picks for the best drill hammer cordless. Each one is excellent for a different task, so it’s essential to think about what you’ll be using yours for before making your purchase. But how do you know if a cordless hammer drill is a right tool for you? Keep reading to find out.

Comparison Chart:

Product	Speed	Weight	DimensionsLxWxH
‎BOSCH GSB18V-490B12	1900 RPM	‎4 Pounds	15.28 x 10.94 x 4.96 inches
Makita XRH01Z	950 RPM	‎7 Pounds	4 x 10 x 5 inches
Makita XPH14Z	2100 RPM	5.7 pounds	12 x 8 x 5 inches
Milwaukee ‎2607-20 Bare Tool	1800 RPM	‎3.61 Pounds	8.25 x 8.45 x 4.5 inches
RYOBI ONE+ Drill	1300 RPM	4.09 Pounds	‎11.85 x 7.68 x 3.58 inches

How to Choose the Best Cordless Drill Hammer?

Cordless drills are very versatile and are suitable for drilling, screwing, and hammering applications. When it comes time to do some home improvement projects or even just hang some pictures, having a cordless drill hammer on hand can make the job a lot easier.

Not all cordless drills are designed for hammering, and if you use one not designed for the job, you may end up damaging the drill or injuring yourself. If you are looking for the best hammer drill cordless for your needs, it is crucial to consider these factors:

Tough Construction

When it comes to the best hammer drill cordless, tough construction is key. A drill with tough construction will be able to withstand more wear and tear, and it will also be better equipped to handle heavy-duty projects. There are a few different ways to determine whether or not a drill has tough construction.

i) First, check the materials that the drill is made from. A drill with a sturdy metal body is more likely to stand up to heavy use than one made from plastic.

ii) Second, look at the design of the drill. A well-designed drill will have reinforced components and a comfortable grip that makes it easy to use.

iii) Finally, see what others have to say about the drill. Read online reviews to get an idea of how well the drill holds up under heavy use.

High Torque of Motor

When it comes to hammer drills, the most critical specification is the amount of torque the motor can generate. This is a measure of the turning force that the drill produces, and it is expressed in Newton-meters (Nm). The higher the torque rating, the more influential the drill will be.

For example, if you plan to use the drill to drill large holes through concrete, you will need the best cordless hammer drill for home use with a high torque rating. As opposed to this, if you only need to drill small holes in wood, a lower torque rating will suffice.

Variable-speed Trigger

This feature allows you to adjust the speed of the drill according to the task at hand, which can be very useful when drilling into different materials. The best cordless hammer drills have two speed settings, low and high, but some models offer more options.

Variable speed control will allow you to have more control over the speed of the drill, and it can be very helpful for drilling into different materials. You also want to ensure that the power drill has a good reputation for being durable and reliable.

Brushless Motor

A brushless motor provides several advantages over a standard motor. First, it is more efficient, meaning it will run for longer on a single battery charge. Second, it is more durable, as there are no brushes to wear out. Finally, it produces less heat, making it ideal for extended drilling applications.

With all of these benefits, it is clear that the best cordless brushless hammer drill is the way to go.  It will give you the power and performance you need for any project, big or small.

Reverse Capabilities

Whenever you’re looking for the best cordless hammer drill driver, make sure it has reverse capabilities. This is because the hammer feature is only effective when the drill is in reverse. The hammer function is used to break up concrete and other materials, so if the drill only runs in one direction, it will be much less effective.

To find a drill with reverse capabilities, look for a model with a switch that allows you to change the direction of the drill. This will make it much easier to use the hammer function and get the job done quickly.

HEPA and Safety

HEPA, or high-efficiency particulate air, is a type of filter that can remove 99.97% of particles from the air. This is important because it means that your drill will be able to work in dusty or dirty environments without sending clouds of harmful particles into the air.

Safety is also essential when choosing the best cordless hammer drill for the money. Look for features like a built-in safety switch that prevents the drill from turning on accidentally, as well as a comfortable grip that will help you keep a steady hand while working.

Torque Limiting Clutch

This feature of the best cordless hammer drill on the market helps to protect the motor and gears from damage by automatically disengaging the drill bit when it encounters a high level of resistance. It is possible to determine the torque rating of a given model.

First, consult the manufacturer’s specifications. These will usually be listed in either foot pounds or Newton meters. Alternatively, you can use an online calculator to convert between different units of measure. Once you have determined the torque rating of the model you are considering, make sure that it is sufficient for your needs.

Adjustable Handle and Depth

The handle should be adjustable to ensure that you can comfortably grip the drill, regardless of your hand size. Using the depth adjustment, you can determine how far the masonry bit penetrates the surface. This is helpful because it can help to prevent damage to the work surface and improve the accuracy of your drilling.

For example, the best 20v cordless hammer drill may have an adjustable depth stop that allows you to set the maximum depth of your drilling. But all 18v models may not have this feature. So, if you need to drill very deep holes, check for this feature before making your purchase.

Fast Charging

When you’re in the middle of a project, the thing you want is to have to wait around for hours for your drill to charge. Different factors can impact the fast charging time of the best cordless hammer drill for masonry.

i) First, take a look at the battery voltage. A higher voltage typically means that the battery will charge faster.

ii) Second, check the amp hour rating. This rating tells you how much work the battery can do before it needs to be recharged. The higher the amp hour rating, the longer the battery will last between charges.

iii) Finally, ask about the type of charger that comes with the drill. Some chargers are designed explicitly for faster charging times.

Metal Chuck

You’ll want to consider the metal chuck when shopping for a cordless drilling tool. Metal chuck is the portion of the best cordless hammer drill in the market that holds the drill bit in place. There are several things you will want to keep in mind when determining which metal chuck is suitable for you.

One is the size of the chuck. The larger the chuck, the more torque it can provide. Another thing to consider is the type of chuck. There are keyless chucks and keyed chucks. Keyless chucks are easier to use, but they may not provide as much holding power as keyed chucks.

You will also want to think about the construction of the chuck. Some chucks are made from hardened steel, while others are made from aluminum or other materials. The material you choose should be based on how much use you expect to get out of your drill.

LED Light and Battery Indicator

Working in dark or dim areas will be easier with the led light. The battery indicator will let you know how much power is left in the drill so that you can determine when it needs to be recharged.

To determine both features, you’ll want to consult the manufacturer’s specifications. You will also want to consider how often you will use the best rated cordless hammer drill in low-light conditions. If you don’t plan on using it very often, you may not need to worry about getting a model with an LED light.

Lightweight and Multi-Functional

When shopping for the best budget cordless hammer drill, there are also two main qualities: lightweight and multifunctional. A lightweight drill is easy to maneuver around the job site and won’t cause fatigue during extended use. A multifunctional drill offers the versatility to handle a wide range of tasks, making it a valuable addition to your toolkit.

With all these qualities in mind, you’ll be able to find the best cordless drill for your next project. Before making your final decision, be sure to read reviews to get a better idea of which model is suitable for you. And when you’re ready to buy, be sure to shop around for a reasonable price.

Why Should You Use the Best Cordless Hammer Drill for Concrete?

As anyone who has attempted to drill into concrete knows, it is not an easy task. The material is extremely hard and resistant to penetration. And traditional power tools quickly become overloaded and may even break. The following are just a few reasons why you should use the best cordless drill:

1. Masonry Bits: One of the most significant benefits of using a cordless power drill is that it can be equipped with masonry bits. These bits are specifically designed to drill hard materials such as concrete.

2. Power and Torque: A cordless hammer drill also offers more power than a traditional drill. The added power makes it easier for the drill to penetrate concrete and other hard materials. And its higher torque rating prevents the drill from becoming overloaded.

3. Less Fatigue: Another benefit of a cordless drill is that it causes less fatigue during extended use. As the drill gets more robust, it requires less force to penetrate the concrete, so it’s less tiring for the user.

4. Better Maneuverability: A cordless drill is also easier to handle than corded hammer drills. Because of its compact size and lack of cords, it is easy to maneuver around obstacles.

5. Versatility: A cordless drill, like Dewalt cordless hammer drill (bare tool), can also be used for various tasks beyond drilling into concrete. Utilize its enhanced strength to drive screws and other fasteners into hard materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

While you have learned about the best cordless hammer drills for many applications, you might still have some questions. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about these tools.

1. Can a hammer drill be used as a regular drill?

Yes, a hammer drill can be used as a regular drill by simply setting it to the hammer drill mode. There are some critical differences between the two, though.

• First, hammer drills typically have a much higher torque than regular drills, which means they’re better suited for drilling into harder materials.
• Second, hammer drills also have a “hammer action” that helps to break up material as you’re drilling, making them ideal for drilling into masonry or concrete.

2. When to use a hammer drill?

A hammer drill is an essential tool for anyone who needs to drill holes into brick, concrete, other masonry, or even rock. The key to using a hammer drill effectively is to select the proper tool. There are many different types of drill bits available on the market, but only a few are designed specifically for use with a hammer drill.

3. What does SDS mean for drills?

Regarding drills, the acronym SDS stands for Slotted Drive Shaft. This is simply the method by which the drill bit is held in place. The original German interpretation of SDS was “Steck-Dreh-Sitz,” meaning Insert-Twist-Stay.

As the bit has evolved, the acronym has become Slotted Drive System. The slotted drive shaft allows for a more solid grip on the tool, making it less likely to slip out or break during use. Due to this, SDS is a favorite bit retention method.

4. What amp hammer drill do I need for concrete?

Any hammer drill that is 18v 5 amps or above can be used for concrete. The higher the amps, the faster the drilling. A good rule of thumb is that you want at least two amps per inch of drilling diameter.

For example, if you’re drilling half-inch holes, you’ll want a minimum of a 5 amp hammer drill. 10 to 12 amps would be even better. When in doubt, always use the more powerful tool since you can dial down the speed and power if needed.

Conclusion

There you have it, the best 18v cordless hammer drill for drilling holes in brick, concrete, masonry, or even rock is a great choice. Compared to a traditional drill, it’s more powerful and easier to maneuver.

You can hopefully make a better decision on which cordless hammer drill you need based on the features, applications, and pros and cons we’ve outlined.

Remember to always use the proper drill bit for your material and SDS when possible to get the most secure grip on the tool. Your everyday drilling applications will be a breeze with the right cordless hammer drill. Now is the time to make the switch, so don’t wait any longer.