Best Combi Drill for Brick Walls
Drilling into brick requires a combi drill with high torque, a robust hammer action, and a reliable chuck. We have analysed specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best models for masonry work.
Quick answer
The DeWalt DCD805 is our top pick for brick walls due to its powerful hammer action and 9.5 Nm of torque. For a budget-friendly option, the Bosch Uneo is a compact SDS-plus solution that handles brick without breaking the bank.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
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Research updated June 2026.
DeWalt DCD805
High torque and durable hammer action for masonry.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD805 | Overall brick drilling | 9.5 Nm, 13mm chuck | 4.8/5 | $$$ |
| Makita DHP486 | Battery runtime | 8.5 Nm, 5.0Ah battery | 4.7/5 | $$$ |
| Bosch Uneo | Budget masonry | SDS-plus, 3.6 J | 4.5/5 | $ |
| Milwaukee M18 CHP | Heavy masonry | 8.9 Nm, 13mm chuck | 4.6/5 | $$$ |
| Ryobi R18PD3 | Value for money | 7.5 Nm, 13mm chuck | 4.4/5 | $$ |
DeWalt DCD805
Best Overall for Brick WallsPros
- Powerful hammer action for brick
- Metal chuck for durability
- Long runtime with XR batteries
Cons
- Heavier than some rivals
- Expensive without battery kit
The DeWalt DCD805 is a brushless combi drill that delivers 9.5 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful in its class. Its hammer mechanism provides 34,000 BPM, which is effective for drilling into brick and block work. Owner reviews on Amazon highlight its ability to drive 6mm masonry bits through red brick without stalling.
The metal 13mm chuck reduces bit slippage under load, and the XR battery system offers good runtime with a 5.0Ah pack. Some users note the weight at 2.1 kg can cause fatigue during extended overhead work, but for standard wall drilling it is well balanced. It is a solid choice for regular masonry tasks.
Makita DHP486
Best Battery RuntimePros
- Excellent battery life with 5.0Ah
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Brushless motor for efficiency
Cons
- Slightly less torque than DeWalt
- Chuck can slip under heavy load
The Makita DHP486 features a brushless motor that maximises runtime, especially with the included 5.0Ah battery. It delivers 8.5 Nm of torque and a hammer mode that reaches 28,500 BPM. Owner reviews on Amazon report it drills through brick consistently, though some note the chuck may need tightening after prolonged use.
It is part of Makita's 18V LXT platform, which offers over 300 tools. The weight of 2.3 kg is slightly higher than some competitors, but the balance is good. For users who need to drill multiple holes in brick without recharging, this is a reliable option.
Bosch Uneo
Best Budget Masonry DrillPros
- Compact and lightweight
- SDS-plus chuck for bit retention
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Limited to smaller diameter bits
- Battery life is shorter than 18V
The Bosch Uneo is a unique hybrid that combines a combi drill with an SDS-plus mechanism. It delivers 3.6 J of impact energy, which is effective for drilling into brick and light concrete. Owner reviews on Amazon praise its lightweight design at 1.0 kg, making it easy to use one-handed for quick jobs.
It runs on a 12V battery system, so runtime is limited compared to 18V models. The SDS-plus chuck ensures bits stay secure, but it only accepts bits up to 10 mm. For small masonry tasks like fixing shelves to brick walls, it is a cost-effective solution.
Milwaukee M18 CHP
Best for Heavy MasonryPros
- High torque for tough brick
- Durable metal gearbox
- Redlink intelligence for protection
Cons
- Heavier than most competitors
- Expensive battery system
The Milwaukee M18 CHP is a brushless hammer drill designed for heavy-duty applications. It produces 8.9 Nm of torque and features a hammer mechanism that delivers 32,000 BPM. Owner reviews on Amazon note it drills through hard brick and even some concrete blocks without issue.
It weighs 2.4 kg, which is noticeable during extended use, but the build quality is robust with a metal gearbox. The Redlink system protects the tool from overload. For professionals who regularly drill into brick walls, this model offers the durability needed for daily work.
Ryobi R18PD3
Best Value for MoneyPros
- Affordable kit price
- Lightweight design
- Wide ONE+ battery compatibility
Cons
- Lower torque than premium models
- Plastic chuck can wear over time
The Ryobi R18PD3 is a brushless combi drill that offers solid performance for its price. It delivers 7.5 Nm of torque and a hammer mode that works well for standard brick walls. Owner reviews on Amazon highlight its value, noting it handles 6mm masonry bits without difficulty.
It weighs 2.0 kg, making it one of the lighter 18V options. The metal chuck is a plus at this price point, though some users report the plastic housing around it can show wear. For DIY users who need a reliable drill for occasional brick work, the R18PD3 is a strong contender.
What to Check Before Buying a Combi Drill for Brick Walls
When choosing a combi drill for brick, focus on torque, hammer action, and chuck type. Higher torque (above 7 Nm) is better for drilling into dense brick without stalling. A metal 13mm chuck provides better durability and bit grip than plastic alternatives.
Battery voltage matters: 18V models offer more power and runtime than 12V. Look for brushless motors, which are more efficient and last longer. Also consider the battery ecosystem if you own other tools from the same brand.
Mistakes to Avoid When Drilling into Brick
Using a standard drill without hammer action is a common error. Without hammer mode, the drill will struggle and overheat. Always use masonry bits with a carbide tip for brick.
Applying too much pressure can damage the bit or motor. Let the hammer action do the work. Also, avoid drilling without a dust extraction system, as brick dust can be harmful to breathe.
FAQs
Can I use a combi drill on brick without a hammer function?
No, a hammer function is essential for brick. Without it, the drill will struggle and may overheat.
What size masonry bit should I use for brick walls?
For most fixings, a 6mm or 8mm bit is standard. Larger holes may require a rotary hammer.
Is a brushless motor better for brick drilling?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient and provide better torque, making them ideal for masonry work.
How much torque do I need for brick?
At least 7 Nm is recommended for standard brick. Higher torque up to 9.5 Nm is better for harder materials.
Can I use a combi drill for concrete?
For light concrete, yes. For reinforced concrete, a dedicated SDS rotary hammer is better.
What is the best battery voltage for brick drilling?
18V is the standard for masonry work. 12V models like the Bosch Uneo are okay for small jobs.
How do I prevent the bit from slipping in the chuck?
Use a metal chuck and tighten it firmly. Ensure the bit shank is clean and free of debris.
Is a heavier drill better for brick?
Not necessarily. Weight can reduce fatigue, but a well-balanced drill with high torque is more important.
Can I use a combi drill for screwdriving into brick?
No, brick is too hard for screws. Use wall plugs and masonry anchors instead.
What brand is most reliable for brick drilling?
DeWalt and Makita are highly rated for durability and torque. Milwaukee is also a strong choice for heavy use.
Our verdict
For drilling brick walls, the DeWalt DCD805 is the best overall due to its high torque and durable build. If you need a budget option, the Bosch Uneo offers compact SDS-plus performance for smaller jobs. For heavy masonry, the Milwaukee M18 CHP is a reliable workhorse.