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10 Best Rotary Hammer Drills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hilti TE 50-AVR 120-Volt SDS Max Combihammer

The Hilti TE 50-AVR is a powerful and versatile rotary hammer drill designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks. It runs on a standard 120-volt power source with a strong 50-amp rating, delivering reliable performance for construction or renovation work. One of its standout features is Active Vibration Reduction (AVR), which significantly reduces hand-arm vibration, making it much more comfortable to use for extended periods and helping to prevent fatigue. This feature is particularly useful if you’ll be drilling a lot or working daily. Its SDS Max chuck system allows for quick bit changes and compatibility with larger drill bits, which suits demanding drilling capacities. The drill's maximum speed is 360 rotations per minute—a moderate speed typical for rotary hammers geared towards hammering power rather than fast drilling.

Weighing 22 pounds, it is relatively heavy compared to some models, which might make it less comfortable for overhead or prolonged use, but the low contact pressure design helps mitigate this. Additional benefits include a detachable power cord for easy replacement and an optional dust removal system that captures up to 95% of dust, promoting a cleaner and safer work environment. The drill’s torque of 4.4 foot-pounds suggests it’s optimized more for controlled, powerful hammering rather than high-speed drilling.

The Hilti TE 50-AVR is ideal for professionals or serious DIYers needing a durable, vibration-reduced rotary hammer for heavy masonry or concrete work, especially when user comfort and dust control are priorities.

#2

Hilti 3493739 TE 60 120-volt SDS Max Combihammer Performance Package

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)

Most important from
8 reviews

Power (Wattage)
The drill delivers outstanding performance and is considered the best tool for heavy-duty jobs.

The Hilti TE 60 is a powerful rotary hammer drill ideal for heavy-duty drilling in masonry and concrete. With a strong 1300-watt motor, it delivers enough power to handle drilling diameters from about 1/2 inch up to 4 inches, making it suitable for a variety of construction tasks including coring and hammer drilling. Its optimum drilling range (5/8 inch to 1-9/16 inch) covers common drilling sizes well. The drill operates at a variable speed with a maximum of 1300 RPM, allowing better control depending on the material.

Weighing 26 pounds, it’s heavier than many cordless models, which could affect comfort during extended use, but this weight is typical for a corded tool designed for tough jobs. The SDS Max chuck system provides a secure bit hold and easy bit changes, which is a plus for professional or frequent users. The drill is corded, so it provides continuous power but requires access to an outlet, limiting portability compared to battery-powered models.

The Hilti TE 60 is suited for professionals or serious DIYers needing high power and reliable performance for demanding drilling tasks, especially in concrete and masonry. If you want a strong, corded rotary hammer with solid drilling capacity and variable speed, this is a good choice, but be prepared for its weight and ensure you have power access on site.

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)

Most important from
8 reviews

Power (Wattage)
The drill delivers outstanding performance and is considered the best tool for heavy-duty jobs.
#3

BOSCH 11264EVS 1-5/8 Inch SDS-Max Combination Hammer, Rotary Hammer & Hammer Modes, 13 Amp

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)
Speed (RPM)
Weight

Most important from
356 reviews

Power (Wattage)
A massive step up in power and material removal, making it highly effective for demanding tasks.
Speed (RPM)
Variable speed is a valuable feature, preventing bouncing off materials and enhancing control during drilling applications.
Weight
Despite its weight, the tool is nimble enough for prolonged use without excessive fatigue.
Vibration Control
The anti-vibration features work very well, significantly reducing user fatigue during extended use.
Chuck Type
The SDS-Max system is efficient, allowing for easy and quick bit changes.
Additional Features
The tool's design, including its straight handle and dual-mode selector, provides versatility and precision for both drilling and demolition tasks.

The Bosch 11264EVS SDS-Max Combination Hammer is a powerful tool suitable for heavy-duty tasks, featuring a robust 13-amp motor and an impressive 6.5 ft.-lbs. of impact energy. This makes it highly effective for drilling into tough materials like concrete. Weighing 15.2 lbs., it offers a commendable power-to-weight ratio, aiding in handling and reducing user fatigue during extended use.

The tool's versatility is enhanced by its dual-mode selector, allowing users to switch between rotary hammer and hammer-only modes based on the task at hand. User comfort is a priority with Bosch's Active Vibration Control, which minimizes vibration and reduces strain, making it easier to work for longer periods. The one-handed, tool-free SDS max bit system simplifies bit changes, enhancing productivity on job sites.

Additionally, Bosch's Constant Response Circuitry ensures consistent performance by maintaining speed under load and providing smooth starts, while also offering overload protection. However, at a maximum rotational speed of 340 RPM, it might be slower compared to other models, potentially affecting efficiency in some drilling tasks. The weight, though managed well for the power it delivers, could still be a drawback for users who need to handle the tool for prolonged periods. Ideal for professional contractors and those involved in heavy-duty construction work, the Bosch 11264EVS stands out in its class, though those seeking lighter or faster drills might need to consider alternatives.

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)
Speed (RPM)
Weight

Most important from
356 reviews

Power (Wattage)
A massive step up in power and material removal, making it highly effective for demanding tasks.
Speed (RPM)
Variable speed is a valuable feature, preventing bouncing off materials and enhancing control during drilling applications.
Weight
Despite its weight, the tool is nimble enough for prolonged use without excessive fatigue.
Vibration Control
The anti-vibration features work very well, significantly reducing user fatigue during extended use.
Chuck Type
The SDS-Max system is efficient, allowing for easy and quick bit changes.
Additional Features
The tool's design, including its straight handle and dual-mode selector, provides versatility and precision for both drilling and demolition tasks.

Buying Guide for the Best Rotary Hammer Drills

Choosing the right rotary hammer drill can make a significant difference in the efficiency and ease of your drilling tasks. Rotary hammer drills are powerful tools designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling in hard materials like concrete, brick, and stone. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, indicates the overall strength of the rotary hammer drill. Higher wattage means more power, which is essential for drilling through tougher materials. For light to medium tasks, a drill with 500-800 watts may suffice. For more demanding jobs, especially in construction or heavy-duty renovation, look for models with 800-1500 watts. Choose based on the toughest material you expect to work with regularly.
Impact Energy (Joules)Impact energy, measured in joules, determines the force with which the drill bit hits the material. This is crucial for breaking through hard surfaces. Light-duty tasks may require 1-2 joules, medium-duty tasks 2-4 joules, and heavy-duty tasks 4-10 joules or more. Consider the hardest material you will be drilling into and select a drill with sufficient impact energy to handle it efficiently.
Drilling CapacityDrilling capacity refers to the maximum diameter of holes the drill can create in different materials like wood, metal, and concrete. This is important to ensure the drill can handle the sizes you need. For example, a capacity of 13-16mm in concrete is suitable for light tasks, while 20-30mm is better for more intensive work. Match the drilling capacity to the typical hole sizes you will be making.
Speed (RPM)Speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), affects how quickly the drill bit rotates. Higher speeds are useful for drilling into softer materials, while lower speeds with higher torque are better for harder materials. Variable speed settings are ideal as they allow you to adjust the speed based on the material and task. Choose a drill with a speed range that covers your most common applications.
WeightThe weight of the rotary hammer drill can impact your comfort and ease of use, especially during prolonged tasks. Lighter models (2-4 kg) are easier to handle and suitable for overhead work or extended use. Heavier models (4-8 kg) offer more stability and power for tough jobs but can be tiring to use for long periods. Consider the duration and type of work you will be doing to find a balance between power and comfort.
Vibration ControlVibration control features reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to your hands and arms, making the drill more comfortable to use and reducing fatigue. This is particularly important for extended use or for users with joint issues. Look for models with built-in vibration control technology if you plan to use the drill frequently or for long periods.
Chuck TypeThe chuck type determines how the drill bit is held in place. SDS-Plus chucks are common for light to medium-duty tasks and allow for quick bit changes. SDS-Max chucks are used for heavy-duty applications and can handle larger bits. Choose the chuck type based on the size and type of bits you will be using most often.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features like a depth stop, auxiliary handle, and carrying case can enhance the usability and convenience of the rotary hammer drill. A depth stop helps you drill to a precise depth, an auxiliary handle provides better control, and a carrying case makes transportation and storage easier. Consider which features will be most beneficial for your specific needs and preferences.

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