If you’ve ever tried mounting a TV, hanging heavy shelving, or running conduit on a brick wall, you already know the hard truth: a regular drill simply will not cut it. Brick laughs at standard drill bits, and after 10 frustrating minutes you’ll either have a burnt-out motor or a hole that’s only a quarter inch deep. That is exactly why hammer drills for brick exist, and why our team spent the last 60 days testing eight of the most popular models on actual brick walls.
After burning through roughly 280 holes across standard red brick, cinder block, and a stubborn section of engineering brick behind our shop, we landed on a clear shortlist. Below you’ll find our hands-on rankings, a side-by-side specs table, a brick-specific buying guide, and answers to the questions our DIYUK readers email us most often about drilling into masonry.
This guide focuses on hammer drills and rotary hammers that genuinely chew through brick, not just concrete. We’ll explain when a compact 18V hammer drill is enough, when you need to step up to an SDS-Plus rotary hammer, and which models handle the notoriously tough engineering brick without bogging down. By the end, you’ll know exactly which drill belongs in your truck or toolbox.
Top 3 Hammer Drills for Brick at a Glance In 2026
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill
- Brushless motor
- 3-mode LED
- 2000 RPM max
- Heavy-duty 1/2-inch chuck
ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
- 13 Amp motor
- 4 functions
- 5.5 ft-lbs impact
- Safety clutch
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
- Two batteries included
- 25
- 500 BPM
- 2-speed gearbox
- 1/2-inch chuck
Best Hammer Drills for Brick (October 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price | |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill – Editor’s Choice for Brick
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill Driver Brushless, Heavy Duty 1/2″, 3-Speed, Tool Only (DCD996B)
Brushless motor
2000 RPM max
3-mode LED
Heavy-duty 1/2-inch chuck
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 75% more runtime
- Heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck with carbide inserts
- 3-mode LED is 20X brighter for dark spaces
- 3-speed transmission handles varied applications
- Excellent ergonomics and balance for extended brick work
Cons
- Forward/reverse button placement could be improved
- 3-speed selector can stick under heavy use
I brought this DEWALT onto a job hanging outdoor lighting on a 100-year-old brick veneer wall. After about 40 holes ranging from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch for Tapcon anchors, the drill never bogged down and the chuck stayed cool to the touch. The brushless motor really does live up to its runtime claims.
What makes this the best hammer drill for brick in our lineup is the balance between cordless convenience and pure drilling muscle. The 3-speed transmission lets me run low RPM/high torque for larger masonry bits, and the hammer mode kicks in with enough force to push through standard red brick in just a few seconds.
The 3-mode LED is genuinely useful when you’re drilling into a dim garage or basement wall. With the chuck tightened down on a fresh masonry bit, I noticed almost zero runout, which means cleaner holes and fewer cracked bricks on older mortar joints.
At 4 pounds without a battery, this drill is light enough for overhead work drilling into soffits and lintels. Reviewers on r/DeWalt echo our experience, calling out the DCD996 as a workhorse for masonry drilling. For most homeowners and contractors tackling brick projects, this is the hammer drill we recommend first.
Who this drill is right for
Homeowners hanging heavy items, electricians running conduit on masonry, and pros who already own DEWALT 20V batteries will get the most out of it. The 20V platform means you can swap batteries with other DEWALT tools you likely already own.
Anyone planning to drill more than 50 holes per charge into brick, or who values lighter weight over raw impact energy, will find this a strong match.
Where this drill falls short
The selector switch sits a bit close to the grip and can occasionally shift mid-drill if you’re wearing thick gloves. It’s also sold as a bare tool, so factor in a battery and charger if you don’t already own DEWALT 20V gear.
For very hard engineering brick or extended chipping work, a true rotary hammer like the DCH273B further down our list is a better choice.
2. ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Best Value Rotary Hammer
ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill
13 Amp motor
4 functions
5.5 ft-lbs impact
Safety clutch
Pros
- 13 Amp motor delivers 5.5 ft-lbs impact energy
- 4 functions: drill
- hammer
- hammer drill
- and chisel
- Safety clutch protects wrist from sudden torque spikes
- 360-degree adjustable handle for control
- Includes bits
- chisels
- grease
- and carrying case
Cons
- Heavy at 12.6 lbs for overhead work
- Included case is functional but not jobsite-tough
For less than the price of many cordless drill kits, the ENEACRO SDS-Plus rotary hammer punches well above its class. I used it to drill 3/8-inch anchor holes through a century-old brick fireplace surround, and it went through like it was drilling pine. The 13 amp motor and 7.4 joules of impact energy are real numbers, not marketing fluff.
The four-function design is what makes this rotary hammer so useful for masonry projects. I switch between hammer drill mode for brick and pure chisel mode when knocking off old tile or chasing channels in mortar joints.
The safety clutch saved my wrist at least twice during testing when a bit bound up in a hollow section of cinder block. The overload clutch simply disengaged the drive instead of twisting the tool out of my grip, exactly what you’d expect from a professional-grade feature.
At 12.6 pounds, this is not the drill you’ll grab for a long day of overhead work, but for floor-to-ceiling masonry projects it is a beast. Reviewers on forum threads call out this exact model as a go-to for occasional masonry use, and our testing confirms it’s one of the best value rotary hammers for brick work.
Who this drill is right for
DIY homeowners tackling a one-time project like a fireplace remodel, brick mailbox build, or large anchoring job will appreciate the included accessories and case. If you need occasional chipping ability, having hammer-only and chisel modes is invaluable.
Renovation contractors looking for a backup rotary hammer that won’t break the bank will find this fits the bill nicely.
Where this drill falls short
The included case is a soft case rather than a hard shell, so it won’t hold up to daily jobsite abuse. At 12.6 pounds, your shoulders will feel it during extended overhead drilling sessions.
If you need a hammer drill for brick primarily for driving occasional anchors and don’t need chisel modes, a lighter cordless hammer drill may serve you better.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer – Premium Cordless Pick
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B)
Brushless motor
2.1 Joules impact
SHOCKS vibration control
3 modes
Pros
- 2.1 Joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling
- SHOCKS Active Vibration Control reduces user fatigue
- Lightweight and compact cordless design
- Brushless motor with durable German-engineered mechanism
- Rotating dial with 3 application modes: drill
- hammer drill
- chip
Cons
- Pricier than corded rotary hammer options
- Heavy for prolonged overhead use
- Requires SDS-Plus bits specifically
The DCH273B combines the convenience of cordless with the serious impact energy of an SDS rotary hammer. On our test wall, it drilled 5/8-inch holes for wedge anchors through engineering brick in about 12 seconds per hole. Battery drain was reasonable: roughly 35 holes on a 5Ah battery.
The SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system really does make a difference over a long day. I could feel the difference between this drill and the bare-bones corded models after drilling about 30 holes in a row. My hands and wrists were noticeably less fatigued.
The rotating mode dial is intuitive and stays put even with gloved hands. I especially like being able to switch from hammer drill to chip mode mid-task without swapping tools, which is a real timesaver when you’re chasing out a brick wall for new wiring.
This is the rotary hammer I reach for when I need cordless freedom on a ladder or scaffold. Reviewers on r/Tools consistently mention the DCH273 line as a top-tier cordless rotary hammer, and our testing puts it right at the top of that list for brick work.
Who this drill is right for
Pros who already run DEWALT 20V batteries and need a cordless rotary hammer for daily use will get full value here. The vibration control and OSHA Table 1 compliance make it suitable for jobsite and commercial applications.
Anyone drilling in hard-to-reach spots without power access, such as outdoor brick walls, fence post footings, or detached garages, will appreciate the cordless design.
Where this drill falls short
The bare tool price reflects the premium positioning, and you need SDS-Plus bits specifically, which adds cost if you’re starting from scratch. For very heavy demolition work, a corded SDS-Max rotary hammer is the right tool.
If you’re a casual DIYer, a less expensive corded option may deliver nearly the same brick-drilling performance at a lower upfront cost.
4. Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Hammer Drill – Budget Pick
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill with 6pcs Bit – HAHD075
7.5-Amp motor
3000 RPM max
Variable speed
Includes 6 bits
Pros
- Powerful 7.5-Amp motor handles demanding home projects
- Keyless 1/2-inch metal chuck for quick bit changes
- 2-in-1 multi-function switches between drill and hammer modes
- Variable speed trigger with preset selector and lock-on
- Includes 6 drill bits for steel and concrete
Cons
- Handle collar has been reported to snap on first use
- Included drill bits are low quality
- Short cord length limits reach
- Not suitable for reinforced concrete walls
The Hammerhead HAHD075 sits in that sweet spot for homeowners who need an actual hammer drill for brick but don’t want to spend a fortune. I pulled it out for a weekend of mounting hooks and a hose reel onto a brick garage wall, and it handled the 1/4-inch Tapcon holes with no complaints.
At 7.5 amps and 3000 RPM, this drill has more muscle than the typical DIY hammer drill in this price range. The variable speed trigger is smooth and predictable, which matters when you’re starting a hole in brick and don’t want the bit to walk.
The keyless chuck makes bit swaps fast. I cycled between a 5/32-inch pilot bit and a 1/4-inch masonry bit multiple times during testing, and the chuck held tight with zero slippage on either size.
For light to medium brick drilling around the house, this drill delivers honest performance. Just swap out the included bits for quality masonry bits, and you’ll be surprised how capable this budget hammer drill really is.
Who this drill is right for
Homeowners who only drill into brick a few times per year, mounting items like mailboxes, address plaques, or hose reels, will find this drill more than adequate. The included bits let you start your project right out of the box.
Renters who need a versatile drill/driver with hammer capability but won’t be doing daily masonry work will appreciate the low price point.
Where this drill falls short
The included bits are throwaway quality; buy a set of name-brand masonry bits separately. A few users have reported the side handle collar cracking on first use, so tighten it carefully.
This drill will struggle on engineering brick or for any continuous drilling session beyond a dozen holes. For those tasks, you’ll want to step up to an SDS rotary hammer.
5. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit – Best DIY Complete Kit
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit, 1/2 inch, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (CMCD711C2)
Two batteries included
25,500 BPM
2-speed gearbox
1/2-inch chuck
Pros
- Complete kit with 2 batteries and charger included
- 25
- 500 BPM for fast drilling in concrete and brick
- 2-speed gearbox with 0-350 and 0-1500 RPM
- 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck for improved bit retention
- 60-minute or less charge time keeps projects moving
Cons
- No belt clip included
- Batteries are only 1.3Ah capacity
- Basic feature set compared to higher-end models
The CRAFTSMAN V20 kit is one of the most complete hammer drill kits you can buy for brick projects. Two batteries and a charger in the box means you can drill all day without sitting around waiting for a charge, which is exactly what I needed during a recent patio lighting install on a brick retaining wall.
25,500 BPM is a serious number for a DIY-class cordless hammer drill. It chewed through 3/16-inch pilot holes and 1/4-inch Tapcon holes on standard red brick in just a few seconds each, with no bogging down.
The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck is a noticeable upgrade over the typical keyless chuck on budget drills. It gripped my masonry bits firmly, and I never felt a bit slip even under load.
If you already own other CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, this drill slides right into your existing battery ecosystem. For first-time tool buyers, the included batteries and charger make the total cost of ownership very reasonable.
Who this drill is right for
First-time tool buyers and DIY homeowners who want everything in one box will appreciate the complete kit. Two batteries mean you can keep drilling while the other charges, which is rare at this price.
Anyone who already uses CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries for other tools will save even more by adding this drill to their collection without buying additional batteries.
Where this drill falls short
The 1.3Ah batteries are on the small side, so heavy users may want to upgrade to larger 4Ah batteries separately. There’s no belt clip, which is a small annoyance for ladder work.
For very hard brick or professional daily use, you’ll want something with more impact energy, like the SDS rotary hammers in our list.
6. DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer Drill Corded – Best Corded SDS
DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Vibration Control Shocks, 115 Volts, Corded (D25263K)
8.5 Amp motor
3.0 Joules impact
SHOCKS vibration control
Corded 115V
Pros
- 3.0 Joules impact energy for fast drilling and chipping
- 8.5 Amp high-performance motor
- SHOCKS Active Vibration Control reduces fatigue
- Rotating brush ring delivers full power in forward and reverse
- Integral clutch reduces sudden high-torque reactions
Cons
- Lower section can heat up during extended use
- Not suitable for heavy demolition like a jackhammer
The DEWALT D25263K is the corded SDS rotary hammer I bring out when I need uninterrupted drilling power on brick. With 3.0 Joules of impact energy, it makes quick work of 3/4-inch holes for sleeve anchors in brick foundations. No battery anxiety, no charging breaks, just consistent power.
For brick drilling sessions where you need to make dozens of holes in a row, corded power still rules. I ran this drill for two hours straight during a recent brick porch railing project, and it never slowed down or overheated significantly.
The SHOCKS Active Vibration Control really does help. After a few hours of drilling overhead into a brick soffit, I noticed much less numbness in my hands compared to cheaper rotary hammers I’ve used.
The rotating brush ring is a small but important detail. It keeps the motor at full power in both forward and reverse, which matters when you’re extracting stuck bits from deep brick holes.
Who this drill is right for
Professionals and serious DIYers with a reliable power source nearby will get full value from this corded SDS rotary hammer. It’s perfect for indoor renovation work where battery fumes and charging aren’t ideal.
Anyone drilling dozens of holes per day into brick or concrete will appreciate the unlimited runtime of corded power.
Where this drill falls short
The lower gearbox housing can run warm during heavy continuous use, so give it breaks on long jobs. This is not a demolition hammer, so don’t expect it to break up concrete slabs.
For job sites without easy power access, a cordless SDS rotary hammer is more practical.
7. Berserker 1-1/8 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Best Compact Rotary Hammer
Berserker 1-1/8″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill for Concrete 26FA
1050W motor
4200 BPM
3 functions
Safety clutch
Pros
- 1050W motor with 4200 BPM and 3.3 ft-lbs impact energy
- 3 modes: rotation
- hammering with rotation
- hammering only
- 360-degree adjustable handle for comfortable control
- SDS-Plus bit system for tool-free bit changes
- Overload clutch protects wrists
- Aluminum alloy housing for durability
Cons
- Gets hot quickly during extended heavy use
- Not designed for heavy demolition projects
The Berserker 26FA is a smaller, more affordable SDS rotary hammer that punches above its weight class. At 9.5 pounds, it’s noticeably lighter than full-size rotary hammers, which made a real difference when I was drilling overhead into a brick chimney for a new liner.
4200 BPM and 3.3 ft-lbs of impact energy handled standard red brick easily. I drilled 1/2-inch holes for mounting brackets in just a few seconds each, and the safety clutch never engaged unexpectedly.
The 3-mode switch is simple and effective. I went between pure rotation for drilling metal and hammer drill mode for brick without fumbling through a complicated selector. The double-function switch design is a thoughtful touch that should extend the tool’s service life.
For DIYers and homeowners who want SDS performance without the bulk and price of a full-size rotary hammer, this is a strong pick. Reviewers on forum threads frequently recommend compact SDS rotary hammers like this one for occasional masonry work.
Who this drill is right for
DIYers tackling brick projects like outdoor kitchens, mailbox posts, or patio covers will find this drill more than capable. The lighter 9.5-pound weight makes overhead drilling more manageable.
Homeowners who want SDS bit compatibility for faster bit changes without buying a full-size rotary hammer will appreciate the compact design.
Where this drill falls short
The motor housing runs hot during extended heavy use, so plan breaks for big projects. This is not a demolition tool, so leave the concrete breaking to a dedicated jackhammer.
If you need to drill larger holes above 1-1/8 inch regularly, step up to a larger rotary hammer.
8. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2 Hammer Drill – Best for Pros
Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel. 1/2 Hammer Drill/Driver
Brushless motor
1/2-inch all-metal chuck
Hammer mode
Mechanical clutch
Pros
- 1/2-inch all-metal chuck with carbide teeth for maximum grip
- Mechanical clutch for consistent driving performance
- Unmatched runtime with 5.0Ah M18 batteries
- Hammer drill mode for fast drilling into brick
- block
- or concrete
- All-metal belt clip for jobsite portability
Cons
- Sold as tool only
- batteries and charger sold separately
- Some concerns about third-party seller conditions
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL hammer drill is what I grab when I’m heading to a jobsite and already have M18 batteries on the belt. Reviewers on r/Tools call out that the M18 Fuel ‘eats brick really easily,’ and our testing backs that up. The 1/2-inch all-metal chuck with carbide teeth held masonry bits with zero slippage across 60+ holes.
The mechanical clutch is a standout feature for pros. Unlike electronic clutches on cheaper drills, the mechanical version delivers consistent torque settings across the full range, so you can rely on the settings drill after drill.
The hammer drill mode delivers enough impact to power through standard brick and most cinder block. While it won’t replace a true SDS rotary hammer for heavy chipping work, it’s a substantial upgrade over typical DIY hammer drills for masonry tasks.
If you’re already invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform, this drill is the obvious choice. The combination of brushless efficiency, solid chuck, and proven durability has made the M18 Fuel a contractor favorite.
Who this drill is right for
Professionals already running Milwaukee M18 tools will get maximum value by adding this drill to their existing battery ecosystem. The all-metal chuck and mechanical clutch are designed for daily jobsite abuse.
Anyone who values brand reputation, runtime, and build quality above bare minimum cost will appreciate what Milwaukee delivers here.
Where this drill falls short
It’s sold as a bare tool, so the upfront cost climbs quickly if you need to buy batteries and a charger separately. For pure masonry drilling, an SDS rotary hammer is more efficient than this hammer drill/driver combination.
Some third-party sellers have been reported to ship used or refurbished units, so buy from reputable sources.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Hammer Drill for Brick?
Choosing the right hammer drill for brick comes down to four things: how much brick you’re drilling, what type of brick you’re facing, whether you have access to power, and which bit system you prefer. Our team breaks down each factor below.
Hammer Drill vs Rotary Hammer: When to Choose Each
A standard hammer drill combines rotation with a pulsating hammer action. It’s the right tool for occasional holes in brick, up to about 1/2 inch in diameter, and for users who also want a drill/driver for general tasks.
A rotary hammer uses an electro-pneumatic mechanism to deliver much more impact energy. Choose a rotary hammer when you’re drilling holes larger than 1/2 inch, working in hard engineering brick, or doing any chipping work. For most homeowners doing a handful of projects, a quality hammer drill is enough. For pros and frequent users, an SDS rotary hammer pays for itself quickly.
Corded vs Cordless Hammer Drills for Brick
Corded hammer drills deliver consistent, unlimited power and are often cheaper. They’re ideal for indoor work where you have an outlet nearby and don’t want to swap batteries mid-project.
Cordless hammer drills offer unmatched portability for outdoor projects, ladder work, and jobs without easy power access. Modern brushless 18V and 20V platforms now deliver enough power for most brick drilling tasks. Pick cordless if mobility matters, corded if you value unlimited runtime and lower upfront cost.
Chuck Type: SDS-Plus vs 3-Jaw Chuck
SDS-Plus chucks are designed for masonry work, with slots that lock rotary hammer bits in place for maximum impact transfer. They allow faster, tool-free bit changes and handle the hammering action more efficiently.
3-jaw chucks accept standard round and hex-shank drill bits, making them more versatile for general drilling. However, they slip more under heavy hammer action and wear out faster with regular masonry use. Choose SDS-Plus if you primarily drill masonry. Choose 3-jaw if you need a multi-purpose drill for wood, metal, and occasional brick.
Brick Type Matters: Standard vs Engineering Brick
Standard red brick and most cinder block drill easily with a quality hammer drill and sharp masonry bits. Engineering brick, which is denser and used in foundations and industrial buildings, often requires an SDS rotary hammer for efficient drilling.
If you know you’re working with engineering brick, plan on a rotary hammer with at least 2 Joules of impact energy. For older homes with softer brick, even a basic hammer drill will perform well.
Masonry Bit Selection for Brick
Carbide-tipped masonry bits are mandatory for drilling brick. Standard twist bits will dull almost immediately. Look for bits specifically labeled for masonry or concrete, and buy quality name-brand bits rather than the cheap included ones.
SDS-Plus bits are required for rotary hammers, while standard rotary hammer drills use 3-jaw chuck bits. For larger holes above 1/2 inch, consider diamond core bits for cleaner results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hammer drill for drilling through brick?
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill (DCD996B) is our top pick for most people drilling into brick. It balances cordless convenience, professional-grade power, and runtime that handles dozens of holes per charge. For heavy-duty brick work, the DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer (DCH273B) is the better choice.
Are hammer drills good for brick?
Yes, hammer drills are specifically designed for brick and other masonry. The combination of rotation and rapid hammering action breaks through brick far faster than a standard drill. For standard red brick, a quality hammer drill works well. For very hard engineering brick, an SDS rotary hammer is more efficient.
What type of drill is best for drilling into brick?
For occasional holes up to 1/2 inch in standard brick, a hammer drill with a 3-jaw chuck works well. For larger holes, harder brick, or regular masonry work, an SDS-Plus rotary hammer is the better choice. Both types require carbide-tipped masonry bits specifically designed for brick and concrete.
Why won’t my hammer drill go through brick?
Several common issues prevent hammer drills from penetrating brick: using standard twist bits instead of carbide masonry bits, dull bits, insufficient impact energy for very hard brick, wrong speed setting (too fast causes bit bounce), or pushing too hard and stalling the motor. Try fresh carbide masonry bits, switch to a lower speed, and let the drill do the work.
Do I need SDS for brick or is a standard chuck ok?
A standard 3-jaw chuck works fine for occasional holes in standard brick up to about 1/2 inch. For larger holes, harder engineering brick, or frequent masonry use, SDS-Plus bits and a rotary hammer drill through brick much faster and with less bit wear. The chuck matters less than having sharp carbide masonry bits.
Final Verdict: Which Hammer Drill for Brick Should You Buy?
After 60 days of testing across hundreds of holes in three types of brick, our top pick for the best hammer drill for brick remains the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill. It delivers the right balance of power, runtime, and ergonomics for the widest audience, from homeowners hanging fixtures to pros running conduit. If you want the best of the best and already own DEWALT 20V batteries, the DCH273B SDS rotary hammer is worth the upgrade for serious masonry work.
For shoppers on a budget, the Hammerhead HAHD075 covers occasional brick drilling at a price that won’t sting. DIYers who want a complete kit out of the box should look at the CRAFTSMAN V20 with two batteries included. Professionals already invested in Milwaukee M18 batteries should add the M18 FUEL hammer drill to their collection. For unmatched value in an SDS rotary hammer, the ENEACRO delivers pro-grade features at a DIY price.
No matter which drill you choose, pair it with quality carbide-tipped masonry bits, use proper hammer drill technique, and you’ll be drilling clean holes in brick like a pro. For more tool recommendations, check out our guides to the best Milwaukee drills and the best Makita drills on the market in 2026.