Best Makita Sds Drill of 2026
Finding the right Makita SDS drill means balancing impact energy, battery compatibility, and the specific demands of your drilling or chiseling tasks. We have analyzed the current lineup to highlight the models that deliver the best performance for masonry, concrete, and demolition work.
Quick answer
The Makita XRH07Z (18V X2) is the best overall for heavy demolition due to its 5.6 ft-lbs of impact energy. For a lighter, more manageable option, the Makita HR2475 is the best budget corded pick for general drilling and light chipping.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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Research updated June 2026.
Makita XRH07Z 18V X2 (36V) SDS-PLUS
Best for heavy demolition and large diameter core drilling.
| Product | Best For | Impact Energy | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita XRH07Z | Heavy Demolition | 5.6 ft-lbs | 4.8/5 | $$$ |
| Makita HR2475 | Budget Corded | 2.6 Joules | 4.6/5 | $ |
| Makita XRH04Z | General Cordless | 2.0 ft-lbs | 4.5/5 | $$ |
| Makita HR166D | Compact / Light Duty | 1.0 Joules | 4.4/5 | $$ |
| Makita HR2811FT | Chiseling & Scaling | 4.3 Joules | 4.7/5 | $$$ |
Makita XRH07Z 18V X2 (36V) SDS-PLUS
Best Overall / Heavy DemolitionPros
- Exceptional 5.6 ft-lbs of impact energy
- Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT) for safety
- Variable speed with soft start
Cons
- Requires two 18V batteries
- Heavy at nearly 10 lbs
The Makita XRH07Z is the most powerful cordless SDS drill in the Makita lineup, delivering power comparable to a corded rotary hammer. It uses two 18V batteries in series to produce 36V of power, which allows it to handle large diameter holes in reinforced concrete and heavy chiseling tasks with ease. Owner reviews consistently praise its lack of cord and its ability to outperform many corded competitors.
The AFT system immediately shuts off the tool if the bit binds, which is a critical safety feature for high-torque applications. The only real drawbacks are its weight and the need to manage two batteries, but for professionals who need maximum cordless performance, this is the top choice.
Makita HR2475 1-1/8-Inch SDS-PLUS
Best Budget CordedPros
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Very affordable for the performance
- Includes depth gauge and side handle
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy chiseling
- Cord limits mobility
The HR2475 is a classic corded rotary hammer that offers a great balance of power and price. It is ideal for DIYers and tradespeople who need to drill anchor holes in brick, block, and concrete up to 1-1/8 inches in diameter. Its 2.6 Joules of impact energy is sufficient for most residential and light commercial tasks.
User reviews frequently highlight its durability and the fact that it has lasted for years with minimal maintenance. The lack of a chiseling mode is a minor limitation, but for pure drilling performance at a low cost, the HR2475 remains a top seller.
Makita XRH04Z 18V LXT SDS-PLUS
Best General CordlessPros
- Runs on a single 18V battery
- Compact design for tight spaces
- Three-mode operation (drill, hammer, stop)
Cons
- Less impact energy than the X2 model
- Battery and charger sold separately
The XRH04Z is the go-to cordless SDS drill for those already invested in Makitas 18V LXT system. It is significantly lighter than the X2 model and is perfect for drilling smaller holes in concrete, brick, and block. The variable speed trigger and reverse switch give good control for both drilling and removing stuck bits.
Aggregated reviews show that users appreciate its balance and the fact that it uses the same batteries as their other Makita tools. It is not designed for heavy demolition, but for everyday drilling tasks on a job site, it offers excellent cordless convenience.
Makita HR166D 12V Max CXT SDS-PLUS
Best Compact / Light DutyPros
- Extremely lightweight and compact
- Great for overhead drilling
- LED light for visibility
Cons
- Limited to small diameter holes
- Not for concrete demolition
The HR166D is the smallest SDS drill in Makitas lineup, running on the 12V CXT platform. It is designed for light-duty tasks such as drilling into tile, brick, and thin concrete for anchor setting. Its small size makes it ideal for working in tight spaces like electrical boxes or for overhead drilling where weight is a critical factor.
Owner feedback notes that it is surprisingly capable for its size, but it will struggle with larger bits or hard aggregate concrete. It is a specialized tool for the professional who needs a secondary, ultra-portable rotary hammer.
Makita HR2811FT 1-1/8-Inch SDS-PLUS
Best for Chiseling & ScalingPros
- Excellent chiseling performance
- Anti-vibration technology (AVT) reduces fatigue
- Constant speed control under load
Cons
- Corded only
- Heavier than the HR2475
The HR2811FT is a corded rotary hammer that excels in chiseling and scaling applications. It features a 4.3 Joule impact mechanism and Makitas AVT system, which significantly reduces vibration, making it more comfortable for prolonged chiseling work. It is a favorite among masons and remodelers for tasks like removing tile, chasing walls, and breaking up small concrete sections.
Users report that its chiseling mode is smooth and powerful, and the variable speed dial allows for precise control when starting a chisel cut. While it is a corded tool, its power delivery is consistent and does not rely on battery charge levels.
What to check before buying a Makita SDS drill
Impact energy is the primary spec that determines drilling speed in concrete. Higher Joules or ft-lbs means faster drilling and the ability to use larger diameter bits. For general use, 2.0 Joules is a good baseline, while heavy demolition requires 4.0 Joules or more.
Battery platform compatibility is crucial if you are already in the Makita ecosystem. The 18V LXT platform offers the widest range of tools, while the 18V X2 (36V) system provides corded-level power. The 12V CXT platform is best for compact, light-duty tools.
Weight and ergonomics affect user fatigue. A lighter drill like the HR2475 (5.3 lbs) is easier to handle for overhead work, while a heavier model like the XRH07Z (9.7 lbs) offers more power but requires more effort to control.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a rotary hammer
Do not confuse an SDS drill with a standard hammer drill. SDS drills use a piston mechanism that delivers much higher impact energy, making them essential for concrete. A standard hammer drill is only suitable for brick or block.
Avoid buying a model with too little impact energy for your intended use. Using a 1.0 Joule drill to bore 3/4-inch holes in reinforced concrete will be slow and may damage the tool. Match the tool to the task.
FAQs
What does SDS stand for?
SDS stands for Slotted Drive System, a chuck design that allows bits to slide back and forth for hammering action while being securely locked.
Can I use standard drill bits in an SDS drill?
No, SDS drills require SDS-plus or SDS-max bits. You can use a special adapter, but it is not recommended for heavy use.
Is a corded or cordless Makita SDS drill better?
Corded drills offer unlimited runtime and consistent power, while cordless models provide mobility. The best choice depends on your access to power outlets on the job site.
What is the difference between SDS-plus and SDS-max?
SDS-plus is for smaller drills (up to 1-1/8 inch bits), while SDS-max is for larger, heavier rotary hammers used for core drilling and heavy demolition.
How do I maintain my Makita SDS drill?
Regularly clean the chuck with compressed air and apply a small amount of grease to the bit shank. Keep the air vents clear of dust.
Can a Makita SDS drill be used for chiseling?
Many models have a chiseling mode. Check the specifications, as some budget models like the HR2475 do not include this function.
What size hole can a Makita XRH07Z drill?
The XRH07Z can drill up to 1-1/2 inches in concrete with a solid bit and up to 4 inches with a core bit.
Is the Makita HR166D powerful enough for brick?
Yes, the HR166D is suitable for drilling small holes in brick and block, but it is not designed for hard concrete or large diameter holes.
Does the Makita HR2811FT have a soft start?
Yes, the HR2811FT features a soft start motor that reduces start-up torque for better control.
What is the warranty on Makita SDS drills?
Makita typically offers a 3-year limited warranty on their power tools, covering defects in material and workmanship.
Our verdict
The Makita XRH07Z is the best overall SDS drill for professionals who need maximum cordless power for heavy concrete work. For DIYers and light commercial users on a budget, the corded Makita HR2475 offers the best value and reliable performance for general drilling tasks.