Best cordless drill for concrete
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Bosch GSB18V-490B22 is our top pick for concrete drilling thanks to its effective hammer action and versatile combo kit that covers most DIY and professional needs.
The Milwaukee 2801-22 suits pros who need brute torque day in and day out, while the DeWalt DCD777C2 is a solid all-arounder for mixed jobsites.
Drilling into concrete and masonry demands a hammer drill, a tool with a pulsing mechanism that pounds the bit into hard materials. Cordless models have improved dramatically in recent years, letting you tackle driveways, block walls, and brick facades without tethering to an outlet. The key factors to weigh are impact energy (how hard it pounds), RPM, battery platform, and whether the chuck is metal or plastic for long-term grip. A good concrete drill also needs a comfortable grip and balanced weight, since you often drill overhead or in tight spaces. We have researched owner feedback, professional contractor reviews, and published comparisons to narrow the field. Our picks range from a dedicated hammer-drill combo to a pro-grade powerhouse and a reliable all-around drill that handles concrete occasionally. Each excels in specific scenarios, and we will help you decide which fits your work habits and budget best.
Bosch GSB18V-490B22
the dedicated concrete companion
4.7out of 5Combines a true hammer drill mechanism with a versatile kit that includes two batteries and a charger, making it a smart buy for serious concrete work. The brushless motor delivers strong performance, though the chuck can feel less premium under heavy loads.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Milwaukee 2801-22
the pro’s choice for heavy use
4.8out of 5A standout for its brute torque and durable build, ideal for crew leads and contractors who demand reliability day after day. The all-metal chuck and gear case add longevity, but the weight and cost limit its appeal for casual users.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →DeWalt DCD777C2
the balanced all-rounder
4.5out of 5Delivers consistent performance for general drilling with good hammer action for occasional concrete use. The brushless motor and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use, though it lacks the punch of dedicated hammer drills for sustained masonry work.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Bosch GSB18V-490B22 | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Homeowners and DIYers who regularly drill into brick, block, or poured concrete and want a | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Milwaukee 2801-22 | 4.8 / 5 | $$$ | Professional tradespeople who need a reliable hammer drill for daily concrete anchoring an | Check price → |
| Best value | DeWalt DCD777C2 | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | DIYers and tradespeople who need one drill for wood, metal, and light concrete tasks witho | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Bosch GSB18V-490B22: the dedicated concrete companion
Best overallCombines a true hammer drill mechanism with a versatile kit that includes two batteries and a charger, making it a smart buy for serious concrete work. The brushless motor delivers strong performance, though the chuck can feel less premium under heavy loads.
Pros
- Effective hammer action for masonry
- Includes two batteries and charger
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Compact design for tight spots
Cons
- Keyless chuck can slip under heavy load
- Not the most powerful for large core bits
- Grip could be more rubberized
Who it’s for
Homeowners and DIYers who regularly drill into brick, block, or poured concrete and want a complete kit.Who should skip it
You need an SDS-plus rotary hammer for heavy-duty demolition or frequent large-diameter holes.2. Milwaukee 2801-22: the pro’s choice for heavy use
Runner-upA standout for its brute torque and durable build, ideal for crew leads and contractors who demand reliability day after day. The all-metal chuck and gear case add longevity, but the weight and cost limit its appeal for casual users.
Pros
- High torque for tough masonry
- All-metal chuck and gearbox
- Compatible with Milwaukee’s M18 battery system
Cons
- Bare tool, no battery or charger included
Who it’s for
Professional tradespeople who need a reliable hammer drill for daily concrete anchoring and light chiseling.Who should skip it
You’re a weekend warrior on a budget or prefer a lighter tool for overhead work.3. DeWalt DCD777C2: the balanced all-rounder
Best valueDelivers consistent performance for general drilling with good hammer action for occasional concrete use. The brushless motor and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use, though it lacks the punch of dedicated hammer drills for sustained masonry work.
Pros
- Well-balanced design reduces fatigue
- Brushless motor extends runtime
- Includes two batteries and a charger
Cons
- Hammer action is less aggressive than rivals
- Chuck is plastic rather than metal
- Not ideal for heavy masonry drilling
Who it’s for
DIYers and tradespeople who need one drill for wood, metal, and light concrete tasks without breaking the bank.Who should skip it
Your primary work is extensive concrete drilling or you need a tool that can handle large masonry bits daily.Best for specific needs
Best for heavy concrete drilling
When you need to bore through thick poured concrete or drive many tapcons into foundation walls, the Milwaukee 2801-22 delivers the torque and build quality to handle abuse. Its all-metal chuck and gear case stand up to constant hammering, and the motor keeps chugging even under load. This is the drill you grab for serious jobsite concrete work. Our pick: Milwaukee 2801-22.
Best for light masonry and anchoring
For occasional brick, block, or thin slab drilling, or anchoring shelves and handrails, the Bosch GSB18V-490B22 hits the sweet spot. Its hammer action is effective without being overly aggressive, and the included kit means you have everything you need out of the box. It is portable enough to carry on a ladder and powerful enough to get the job done. Our pick: Bosch GSB18V-490B22.
Best for everyday job site versatility
If you need one drill that transitions smoothly from driving screws into studs to drilling small masonry anchors, the DeWalt DCD777C2 is the balanced choice. It is lighter than the Milwaukee and more refined than the Bosch in general use, with an ergonomic grip that reduces fatigue over a full day. It handles concrete in moderation without compromising on wood and metal tasks. Our pick: DeWalt DCD777C2.
Our verdict
For concrete and masonry work, the right drill depends on how often and how hard you push it. The Bosch GSB18V-490B22 is our top recommendation because it balances effective hammer action, a complete kit, and a reasonable price tag. If you are a professional who needs maximum durability and torque, step up to the Milwaukee 2801-22. And if concrete is only part of your mixed workload, the DeWalt DCD777C2 offers the best all-around value without sacrificing comfort. Whichever you choose, make sure to pair it with quality masonry bits for clean, fast holes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hammer drill and a standard drill?
A hammer drill adds a percussive action on top of rotation, hammering the bit forward and back rapidly while it spins. This combination breaks through the aggregate in concrete and masonry that rotation alone cannot penetrate efficiently. Standard drills can drill into concrete slowly with the right masonry bit, but a hammer drill is significantly faster and puts far less strain on the motor. If concrete and masonry are occasional tasks, a drill with a hammer mode covers both. If you’re doing it regularly, a dedicated rotary hammer (SDS-Plus) is the professional choice.
Do I need an SDS drill or is a hammer drill sufficient?
For typical homeowner tasks, anchoring a lag bolt into a concrete floor, drilling holes for masonry screws, or mounting a TV bracket on a brick wall, a standard hammer drill handles it. An SDS drill (using SDS-Plus or SDS-Max bits with a locking shank) is the professional standard for continuous concrete work, core drilling, and breaking. SDS drills deliver significantly more impact energy per stroke. If you’re drilling occasional holes in concrete, a hammer drill does the job. If you’re drilling dozens of holes or going through rebar-reinforced concrete, rent an SDS drill.
What bits do I need for drilling into concrete?
Carbide-tipped masonry bits are the right choice for a hammer drill working in concrete or brick. They have a distinctive spade-shaped carbide tip that survives the impact action. Do not use standard high-speed steel twist bits, they dull almost immediately in concrete. Masonry bit quality matters: cheap bits lose their edge quickly. For occasional use, a mid-grade masonry bit set is sufficient. For frequent use, look for quality branded bits from Bosch, Hilti, or DeWalt.