Best Hammer Drill Under £200

The Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE is a professional-grade SDS Plus hammer drill that consistently receives high marks from owner reviews for its reliability and drilling speed in concrete and brick. The 800-watt motor delivers a steady 2.6 joules of impact energy, which is sufficient for drilling holes up to 26mm in diameter in masonry. The Vario-Lock feature allows you to rotate the chisel to 36 different positions, making it versatile for light chiselling work.

Aggregated reviews highlight the low vibration levels and the durable chuck mechanism as key advantages over cheaper models. The main trade-off is the cord, which can be restrictive on larger job sites, but the consistent power output and lack of battery anxiety make it the top choice for heavy use. It sits at the top of the price range for this guide but offers the best long-term value.

The DeWalt DCD805D2 is a brushless combi drill that functions as an excellent hammer drill for general purpose work. Owner reviews praise its compact size and the power of the brushless motor, which delivers up to 70 Nm of torque. The 3-speed gearbox allows you to match the speed to the task, from screwdriving to drilling into masonry with the hammer function engaged.

This model is part of the DeWalt XR ecosystem, meaning batteries are interchangeable with a wide range of other tools. The key trade-off is that for sustained heavy masonry drilling, a corded SDS drill like the Bosch GBH 2-26 will outperform it. However, for its combination of drilling, driving, and hammer action, it is the best cordless option under £200 when purchased as a kit with batteries.

The Makita HR2470 is a corded SDS Plus hammer drill that is built to last. Owner reviews frequently mention its ability to withstand heavy daily use on construction sites without issue. The 780-watt motor provides 2.6 joules of impact energy, matching the Bosch in raw power for drilling into reinforced concrete. The constant speed control helps maintain drilling performance even under heavy load.

While it lacks the Vario-Lock chisel positioning feature of the Bosch, it compensates with a slightly more affordable price point and Makita's reputation for motor longevity. The main downside is its weight at 2.8 kg, which can cause fatigue during overhead work. For users who prioritise a tool that will last for years without breakdowns, the HR2470 is a strong contender.

The Einhell TE-RH 32 E offers the highest impact energy in this roundup at 3.2 joules, powered by a 1050-watt motor. This makes it a strong performer for drilling larger diameter holes in masonry. Owner reviews note that it handles tasks well beyond its price point, making it a compelling option for DIYers on a strict budget. It comes with a depth stop, auxiliary handle, and a chisel.

The trade-offs are in refinement and comfort. It is heavier at 3.0 kg and has higher vibration levels compared to the Bosch or Makita models. For occasional use, this is acceptable, but for all-day professional work, the extra vibration can lead to fatigue. It is the best value option for users who need raw power for occasional heavy drilling without spending over £200.

The Ryobi R18SDS-0 is a cordless SDS Plus hammer drill that offers the convenience of battery power at a very accessible price point. It is designed for users who already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries and want a hammer drill for light to medium masonry work. The brushless motor provides 2.0 joules of impact energy, which is adequate for drilling into brick and block but will struggle with reinforced concrete compared to corded models.

Owner reviews highlight its lightweight design and ease of use for quick jobs around the house. The main limitation is its performance on tougher materials, where a corded drill will be significantly faster. For DIY users who value portability and have other Ryobi tools, this is the best budget cordless option under £200.