Best Rotary Hammer Drills of 2021: Complete Reviews With Comparisons

1. DeWalt DCH273B

The DeWalt DCH273B promises high-performance action thanks to its brushless motor and impressive impact energy.

Product Highlights

As part of the brand’s PERFORM and PROTECT Series, you can expect efficient work from this rotary hammer drill without compromising health and safety.

Here’s what the DeWalt DCH273B offers that others don’t:

• Fast and Powerful

Despite the lightweight build, this rotary hammer drill can provide 2.1 Joules of impact energy.

In most cases, this is more than enough to deliver swift and seamless drilling in concrete.

When drilling holes, you might find that some concrete is sturdier than others.

As such, you need a rotary hammer that packs sufficient force to produce precise holes.

The DeWalt DCH273B offers such power.

• Versatile

This German-engineered equipment is ideal for a variety of home projects.

You can use it for rod hanging, cable tray mounting, safety attachments, and so much more.

You can fully utilize this cordless power tool’s capabilities in numerous drilling tasks within your home or even in a professional setting.

• Hassle-Free Drilling

To enhance user experience, the item comes with SHOCKS-Active Vibration Control.

This is responsible for effectively reducing vibration during operation.

This feature makes the power tool easier to handle and significantly reduces the risk of slippage and accidents.

• Easy Storage

The DeWalt DCH273B rotary hammer has a retractable utility hook.

With this added feature, you will find that hanging it up and storing it is as effortless as it can be.

The Good

When you pair the DeWalt DCH273B with the DWH303DH Extractor, this rotary hammer drill becomes an OSHA Table 1 Compliant power tool.

The Bad

Unfortunately, despite the package being presented as a complete set, it does not come with a battery or charger.

2. ENEACRO ENRH3201

According to ENEACRO, the ENRH3201 rotary hammer drill is powerful enough for DIY users and professionals.

You can use it for your various tasks, such as dismounting walls, decorating houses, breaking floors, and many more.

Product Highlights

Here’s what the ENRH3201 can do:

• Heavy-Duty Usage

To ensure the ENRH3201 can withstand constant usage, it exhibits a copper wire motor that can tolerate temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius.

It delivers an impressive 7.4 Joules of impact energy, guaranteeing that the machine can handle concrete and metal projects accurately and with less effort.

What’s more, you can rely on this rotary hammer to see you through long hours of continuous work.

This is thanks to its state-of-the-art heat dissipation system that allows the motor to not be at high temperature constantly.

• Multiple Modes

If you’re working on a variety of settings at the same time, the ENEACRO ENRH3201 has got you covered.

It boasts four adjustment functions: hammer, drill, hammer drill, and chisel.

You can also expect service longevity because it features a double function switch design.

This is a useful feature, as the usual single-function switch design is prone to breakage.

• Safety Features

The 13-amp motor comes with a safety clutch system that protects you when the power tool is on the verge of overloading.

To reduce fatigue and potential accidents during long hours of work, it has a 360-degree adjustable auxiliary handle with a soft grip.

Vibration control is also a component of this rotary hammer drill.

The Vibration Damping Technology or VDT contributes to user safety and precise control.

• Dustproof Design

To deliver a low-maintenance experience, the ENEACRO ENRH3201 has a double-layer protection structure.

This design choice prevents dust and debris from coming into the motor.

• Keyless Chuck

This rotary hammer drill features a patented SDS-Plus keyless chuck to help improve your efficiency.

• Aluminum Alloy Housing

Compared to other items, the ENEACRO ENRH3201 rotary hammer drill features an aluminum alloy housing design instead of plastic.

As such, you can expect this model to be durable, sturdy, and heat-resistant.

The Good

Aside from the actual power tool, the package comes complete with drill bits, grease, spanner, carbon brush, and a carry case.

From storage to maintenance, you are most likely not to purchase additional tools to utilize the machine fully.

The Bad

If you’re looking for a rotary hammer drill with a speed switch function, this model is not the answer.

ENEACRO did say they didn’t add this feature but will consider adding the speed switch function in their subsequent releases.

3. Milwaukee M18 Rotary Hammer Drill

The M18 Rotary Hammer boasts being faster than corded drills and long-lasting battery life.

Product Highlights

This battery-based power tool is primarily designed for remote drilling tasks, thanks to its set of impressive features.

• All-Day Use

In a single charge, you can rely on the Milwaukee M18 to last a whole day of regular usage.

It runs on battery packs of REDLITHIUM XC5.0, which offers 20 percent more power and twice more recharges than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

Because it has an anti-vibration system or AVS, you can use this item with supreme control and comfort.

• Fast and Powerful

Milwaukee is proud of its M18 FUEL series, as it delivers unrivaled performance when it comes to power, durability, and run-time.

This compact power tool promises faster-than-corded speed and similar durability as a corded rotary hammer drill.

With its impact energy measuring about 1.7 ft-lbs, this device’s POWERSTATE brushless motor can handle many drilling tasks without much fuss.

• Safeguard Mechanism

The M18 boasts the REDLINK PLUS system, which integrates complete communication between the motor, battery, and charger.

Because of this coordination, it has protection against overheating, overloading, and over-discharging.

The Good

Despite its small build, the Milwaukee M18 is arguably one of the best choices when it comes to remote drilling because of its light yet powerful output.

While many factors could be considered when it comes to durability, the company has set a five-year warranty for this tool.

More than anything, this is a good indication that Milwaukee is confident that this power tool can sustain heavy usage for a long time.

The Bad

Compared to other rotary hammer drills here, this cordless model does not include any accessories.

You’ll also have to buy the battery separately.

Considering its price, it would have been nice if it came ready to use out of the box.

4. Makita XRH04Z

The Makita XRH04Z Rotary Hammer delivers fast and efficient percussive drilling, perfect for many DIY projects.

Product Highlights

Among the Makita XRH04Z’s highlights are the three-mode operation and stable torque control.

Here are its other features suitable for many concrete drilling tasks:

• Safety Measures

This rotary hammer drill features a torque-limiting clutch specially constructed to avoid gear damage.

It does so by automatically releasing gears whenever the bit gets stuck.

It is crucial to have this attribute because there might be situations where the bit binds.

You might inadvertently damage your rotary hammer drill if you still attempt to continue as normal.

You will also find that it has a shock-absorbent handle, ensuring that the battery is safe from the elements.

• Speed Drilling

With the Makita XRH04Z’s variable speed motor, you can experience fast drilling because of the synchronized RPM (revolutions per minute) and BPM (blows per minute).

Its motor delivers up to 1200 RPM and up to 4000 BPM, more than enough for several heavy drilling tasks.

• Convenient Usage

If you need a quick bit change now and then, this item features a one-touch sliding chuck that ensures a hassle-free experience.

The chisel of the Makita XRH04Z is capable of rotating 360 degrees with 40 different positions.

As such, you can do complex drilling tasks in tricky angles with relative ease.

The large two-variable speed trigger makes it easier to adjust the setting during work.

The Good

With its compact and ergonomic design, the Makita XRH04Z Rotary Hammer promises seamless, relaxed drilling.

Some drilling tasks might be tougher than others, so having a user-friendly rotary hammer drill at your side will make your work less daunting.

The Bad

The need to purchase the battery separately might be a hassle for some.

This is especially true for those who want to use the device immediately after receiving their order.

5. Bosch GBH2-28L

Coming from the revered Bulldogs product line, the Bosch GBH2-28L exemplifies a set of qualities that makes it a must-own for many DIY enthusiasts and pros.

Product Highlights

If you’re looking for exceptional speed and power in your rotary hammer drill, the Bosch GBH2-28L might just be the one.

• Enhanced Controls

Rotating and locking the chisel into a preferred angle is possible with this device, thanks to the Vario-Lock positioning feature.

Switching between modes is a simple task because of the multi-function selector that delivers convenience.

Bit jamming is not an unusual occurrence in drilling.

As such, the Bosch GBH2-28L comes with Kickback Control that uses an integrated sensor to halt the motor’s rotation if it encounters bit jamming.

What’s more, it has a counter-balanced vibration control that effectively reduces vibration during drilling or chiseling to promote user comfort.

• Easy Storage

The Bosch GBH2-28L is designed with a HammerHook that allows hassle-free tool storage during and after the job.

• SDS-Plus Bit System

You can easily change the bit without using any tools too.

This rotary power tool has an SDS-Plus mechanism that allows for automatic bit locking.

• Powerful Motor

With its 8.5-amp motor that delivers impact energy of 2.4 ft-lbs, you can expect high-quality results even for heavy drilling tasks.

The Good

Compared to others on this list, the Bosch GBH2-28L features a variable-speed reversing trigger that contributes to precise bit starting.

This feature positively impacts productivity because, in some cases, bit starting could be a drag.

The Bad

Its plastic composite exterior material could be a negative because it is not as durable as other models.

Buyer’s Guide

Adding another tool, such as a rotary hammer drill, to your arsenal might be fun.

Still, before you purchase one, here are a couple of factors to consider.

1. Cord or Cordless

Choosing between a cord or cordless rotary hammer drill shouldn’t be that complicated.

If you’re someone who frequently does remote work, you’re better off with a cordless model because of its portability.

However, if you prefer more drilling power, you will have to go with corded models.

In most cases, corded hammer drills have a more compact design because of the lack of battery housing.

Overall, regardless if you are a pro or a dedicated DIY worker, it would be best to have both a cord and cordless rotary hammer drill.

2. Price

While this factor may be a non-issue for some, it is still important to check the price.

If you intend to use a rotary hammer occasionally as a DIY worker, it would be better to get yourself a cheaper model from a recognized brand.

This way, you can be sure that it will be enough to handle your drilling tasks.

On the other hand, you should invest in a good rotary hammer if you picture yourself doing drilling jobs regularly.

3. Features

In choosing a rotary hammer, you must look out for these qualities because they could make your tasks easier.

Brushless Motor

This motor type is prominent with cordless variants.

In general, brushless motors are more energy-efficient, more responsive, and more powerful.

Considering these advantages, it would be hard to argue not to go with a brushless rotary hammer drill.

Vibration Control

Any rotary hammer drill should have a vibration control system.

This helps you make precise holes while reducing the stress on your hands and arms.

LED Light

If you want more precise drilling, consider a rotary hammer drill with built-in LED lighting.

This feature helps you target and see the area you want to drill through.

Kickback Control

Since you are working with hard materials, it is normal to experience the bit getting stuck in the substrate you are working on.

Kickback control prevents the tool from wrenching itself from your grip by automatically shutting down the motor.

Not only does it prompt you to make adjustments, but it also prevents accidents.

Rotary Hammer Drill FAQs

1. What is the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer drill?

There are mechanical differences when it comes to these two drill types.

If we are highlighting their purpose, the latter is primarily used for heavy-duty masonry drilling.

In comparison, the former is mainly used for wood and metal drilling.

2. Can a rotary hammer drill wood?

Usually, it is not recommended to use it for boring holes into a wooden surface.

If you do, it will most likely damage the wood itself because of its powerful output.

However, some rotary hammer drills have a chiseling function that makes the machine viable to drill into the wood without damaging it.

Before using yours to drill wood, make sure it has that function first to avoid any issues.

3. Can I use a rotary hammer to drill metal?

Most handymen wouldn’t suggest using a rotary hammer for drilling metal.

After all, a standard electric drill should be enough for the job.

Generally, the bits, chucks, and speed settings of the rotary hammer drill are not suited for metals.

This is because they are tailored for sturdy concrete surfaces.

4. What does rotary hammer size mean?

The size in the rotary hammer means the recommended hole size it is capable of producing.

For example, a 1/2-inch bit shank can create a max hole size of half an inch.

5. Can I use a hammer drill as a regular drill?

You may use a hammer drill as a regular drill by choosing the Drill mode, which disengages the clutch and the pounding action.

In Drill mode, the bit receives maximum rotational torque, resulting in powerful and concise hole-producing motion.

Which Is the Best Rotary Hammer Drill to Buy?

Out of these five products, we pick the Bosch GBH2-28L as the best rotary hammer drill.

It exhibits the essential features that every good rotary hammer drill should have, including a powerful motor, kickback control, and a variable reverse speed function.

In addition to the tool, the package also comes with a carrying case, an accessory that the others lack.

To top it off, it is not the most expensive item on this list, which means you are getting the most out of your hard-earned money.