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10 Best Sds Drills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 5/8 in., Tool Only (DCH172B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is a cordless tool that stands out for its powerful performance and user-friendly design. It delivers 1.4 joules of impact energy, making it efficient for fast drilling in concrete and other demanding tasks. The maximum rotational speed of 1100 RPM ensures it can handle a variety of drilling applications. Its lightweight design, at just 4.61 pounds, makes it ideal for extended use without causing significant fatigue.

The brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism contribute to its efficient performance and long runtime, while the SHOCKS active vibration control system helps reduce the vibration felt by the user, enhancing comfort during prolonged use. The mode selector switch allows for quick transitions between drilling and hammer drilling, adding to its versatility. Being cordless, it offers greater mobility and flexibility, although it requires batteries (not included) which might add to the cost if you don't already own compatible ones.

The keyless chuck is a convenient feature for quick bit changes. A potential drawback is the absence of included batteries, so you need to purchase them separately if you don’t already have compatible DEWALT batteries. Additionally, with a maximum power of 300 watts, it may not be as powerful as some corded alternatives for the most heavy-duty tasks. The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is particularly suited for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts who value portability and efficiency in their power tools.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Power
Powers through concrete like butter.
Additional Features
With the 5ah double batteries and charger, it offers longer run time and helps get more done.
#2

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill (DCH273B) is a versatile and powerful tool ideal for various applications like rod hanging, seismic & safety attachments, cable tray & strut mounting, clamp mounting, and rail mounting. One of its prominent strengths is its cordless design, offering the convenience of portability without being tethered to a power outlet. It delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy, making it effective for fast drilling in concrete and other tough materials.

The brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism contribute to its efficient performance and longer runtime. Weighing just 6.4 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, reducing user fatigue during extended use. The SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL System is another significant advantage, as it minimizes the vibration felt by the user, enhancing comfort and control during operation. It also features a rotating dial that allows users to switch between Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip modes, adding to its versatility.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The tool is sold as a bare unit, meaning batteries and a charger are not included, which could be an additional expense. Additionally, while it is battery-powered, the runtime will depend on the battery capacity, potentially requiring frequent recharges or spare batteries for longer tasks. Despite these minor inconveniences, the DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill is a high-performing tool, well-suited for both professional and DIY users looking for a reliable and powerful cordless drill.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Power
Battery life is impressive, offering ample power for extended use without frequent recharges.
Impact Energy
The drill handled tough materials like concrete with ease, making heavy-duty tasks much quicker and less strenuous.
Weight
Despite being a bit heavier, the drill's robust build and powerful performance are worth the extra weight.
Corded vs. Cordless
The cordless design adds a layer of convenience, eliminating the need for extension cords and providing freedom of movement.
Additional Features
Three application modes allow for easy switching between drilling, hammer drilling, and chiseling, enhancing versatility.

Buying Guide for the Best Sds Drills

When it comes to picking the right SDS drill, it's important to understand your specific needs and the tasks you plan to undertake. SDS drills are powerful tools designed for heavy-duty drilling, particularly in hard materials like concrete and masonry. To make an informed decision, you should consider several key specifications that will determine the drill's performance and suitability for your projects.
PowerPower in SDS drills is measured in watts (W) or volts (V) for cordless models. This spec indicates the drill's ability to handle tough materials. Higher power means more capability to drill through hard surfaces. For light to medium tasks, a drill with 500-800W or 18V might suffice. For heavy-duty tasks, look for models with 800W or more, or 24V and above for cordless options. Choose based on the toughest material you expect to work with.
Impact EnergyImpact energy, measured in joules (J), indicates the force with which the drill can hammer into materials. This is crucial for drilling into hard surfaces like concrete. Lower impact energy (1-2J) is suitable for lighter tasks, while higher impact energy (3J and above) is better for heavy-duty drilling. Consider the hardest material you will be drilling into and choose a drill with appropriate impact energy.
SpeedSpeed in SDS drills is measured in rotations per minute (RPM). Higher speeds allow for faster drilling, but may not be necessary for all tasks. Variable speed settings are beneficial as they allow you to adjust the speed based on the material and task. For general use, a drill with speeds up to 1,500 RPM is usually sufficient. For more specialized tasks, higher speeds might be needed.
WeightThe weight of the drill affects its ease of use and maneuverability. Lighter drills (around 2-3 kg) are easier to handle and suitable for overhead or prolonged use. Heavier drills (4 kg and above) are more stable and powerful, making them better for heavy-duty tasks. Consider the duration and type of work you will be doing to choose a weight that you can comfortably manage.
Chuck TypeSDS drills typically come with either SDS-Plus or SDS-Max chucks. SDS-Plus is suitable for lighter to medium-duty tasks and can handle drill bits up to 1 inch in diameter. SDS-Max is designed for heavy-duty tasks and can accommodate larger bits. Choose SDS-Plus for general home use and lighter tasks, and SDS-Max for professional or heavy-duty applications.
Corded vs. CordlessCorded SDS drills offer continuous power and are generally more powerful, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Cordless drills provide greater mobility and convenience, especially in areas without easy access to power outlets. However, they may have limited battery life and slightly less power. Choose corded for continuous, heavy-duty work and cordless for flexibility and portability.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features like anti-vibration systems, adjustable handles, and depth stops can enhance the usability and comfort of the drill. Anti-vibration systems reduce user fatigue, adjustable handles provide better control, and depth stops ensure precise drilling. Consider these features based on your comfort and the precision required for your tasks.

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