Best Sds Drill for Home Use
An SDS drill is the right tool for drilling into concrete, brick, and stone without burning out a standard drill. This guide compares the best models for home use based on power, ease of use, and value.
Quick answer
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best SDS drill for most home users, offering a great balance of power and control. For lighter jobs on a budget, the Ryobi RHS18-0 delivers cordless convenience at a lower price point.
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch GBH 2-28 F
Powerful, reliable, and versatile for masonry and drilling tasks.
| Product | Best For | Impact Energy | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GBH 2-28 F | Overall Home Use | 2.7 J | 4.7/5 | $$ |
| DeWalt DCH273B | Cordless Power | 2.1 J | 4.5/5 | $$$ |
| Makita HR2470 | Durability | 2.6 J | 4.6/5 | $$ |
| Ryobi RHS18-0 | Budget Cordless | 1.8 J | 4.3/5 | $ |
| Milwaukee 2712-22 | Heavy Duty | 3.0 J | 4.8/5 | $$$ |
Why You Need an SDS Drill for Home Projects
Standard drills struggle with masonry because they lack the hammering action needed to break through concrete. An SDS (Slotted Drive System) drill delivers a percussive force that makes drilling into brick, block, and stone fast and efficient. For home users, this means hanging shelves on solid walls, installing anchors, or even light chiseling tasks become manageable without renting expensive equipment.
Choosing the right model depends on the scale of your work. A corded SDS drill offers consistent power for larger jobs, while a cordless version provides freedom for outdoor tasks. This guide focuses on models that balance performance with affordability for DIYers and occasional users.
What to Check Before Buying an SDS Drill
Impact energy is the key spec. It determines how much force the drill delivers per blow. For home use, 2.0 to 3.0 Joules is sufficient for most tasks. Higher energy means faster drilling but adds weight. Look for a drill with variable speed control to manage different materials like wood or metal when using the rotary-only mode.
Consider the chuck type. SDS-plus is the standard for home tools, offering good compatibility with bits. Weight matters for overhead work: a 5 to 7 pound drill is manageable. Also check for a vibration control feature, which reduces fatigue during longer sessions. Finally, evaluate the brand's warranty and parts availability. Bosch, DeWalt, and Makita have strong support networks.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an SDS Drill
A common mistake is buying a drill with too much impact energy for light DIY. A 5 Joule model is overkill for drilling a few holes for curtain rails and will be heavy and tiring to use. Stick to the 2 to 3 Joule range for home projects. Another error is ignoring the battery ecosystem. If you already own tools from a brand like Ryobi or Milwaukee, buying a cordless SDS drill that shares batteries saves money and charger clutter.
Some users overlook the need for a depth stop. Without it, drilling consistent holes for anchors is difficult. Many drills include a depth rod, but check the listing. Lastly, avoid cheap no-name brands. They often lack replacement parts and have poor vibration dampening, which can make the tool uncomfortable and unsafe over time.
Bosch GBH 2-28 F
Best OverallPros
- Excellent vibration control
- Three-mode operation
- Reliable Bosch build quality
Cons
- Corded only
- Bit not included
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is a corded SDS-plus drill that delivers consistent 2.7 Joules of impact energy. Owner reviews on retailer sites highlight its smooth operation and low vibration, which makes drilling into reinforced concrete less tiring. The three-mode selector lets you switch between rotary drilling, hammer drilling, and chiseling, adding versatility for light demolition work.
This model weighs 5.5 pounds, which is balanced for overhead use. The depth stop is adjustable and the side handle rotates 360 degrees. Some users note the lack of a carrying case, but the tool itself is built to last. For home users who need a reliable drill for brick walls and concrete slabs, this is a top choice.
DeWalt DCH273B
Best CordlessPros
- No cord, great mobility
- Shares DeWalt 20V batteries
- LED light for dark spaces
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Less impact energy than corded models
The DeWalt DCH273B is a cordless SDS-plus drill that runs on the popular 20V Max platform. It delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy, which is enough for most home masonry tasks like drilling into brick or block. Owner reviews praise its runtime with a 5Ah battery, allowing dozens of holes per charge. The brushless motor improves efficiency and tool life.
Weighing 6.2 pounds with a battery, it is slightly heavier than corded options, but the freedom of movement is a trade-off many users appreciate. The side handle and depth stop are included. Some users report that the chisel mode is less effective than dedicated demolition tools. For DIYers with existing DeWalt tools, this is a logical upgrade.
Makita HR2470
Best DurabilityPros
- Very durable build
- Low maintenance design
- Good power for concrete
Cons
- No case included
- Vibration control is average
The Makita HR2470 is a corded SDS-plus drill known for its robust construction. It produces 2.6 Joules of impact energy and has a variable speed trigger for precise control. Owner reviews on Amazon and Home Depot highlight its ability to drill through hard concrete without overheating. The motor is protected by a labyrinth construction that keeps dust out, extending tool life.
This model weighs 5.7 pounds and includes a side handle with a depth stop. The chisel mode works for light scaling tasks. Some users note that the vibration dampening is not as refined as the Bosch model, but the overall reliability is excellent. For home users who want a tool that lasts for years, the HR2470 is a strong contender.
Ryobi RHS18-0
Best Budget CordlessPros
- Low price point
- Shares Ryobi One+ batteries
- Good for light masonry
Cons
- Less power for tough concrete
- Chisel mode is weak
The Ryobi RHS18-0 is a cordless SDS-plus drill designed for budget-conscious DIYers. It delivers 1.8 Joules of impact energy, which is sufficient for drilling into brick and soft concrete but may struggle with reinforced slabs. Owner reviews on Ryobi forums note that it works well for hanging shelves and small anchor jobs. The tool is part of the Ryobi One+ system, so it uses the same batteries as other Ryobi tools.
Weighing 5.9 pounds with a battery, it is manageable for short sessions. The variable speed trigger and LED light are useful features. Some users report that the chisel function is not very effective for removing tiles. For home users on a tight budget who already own Ryobi batteries, this drill offers good value.
Milwaukee 2712-22
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Highest impact energy
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Heavy and expensive
- Overkill for light tasks
The Milwaukee 2712-22 is a cordless SDS-plus drill from the M18 Fuel line, offering 3.0 Joules of impact energy. This is the highest in our roundup, making it capable of drilling into reinforced concrete and performing light demolition. Owner reviews on professional sites praise its power and runtime, with a 5.0Ah battery providing extended use. The brushless motor and Redlink Plus intelligence protect the tool from overload.
Weighing 7.0 pounds with a battery, it is the heaviest model here. The trade-off is raw power that can handle tough jobs. The kit includes a battery, charger, and case. Some home users find it too heavy for occasional use. For those planning major renovations or frequent concrete work, the 2712-22 is a top performer.
FAQs
What does SDS stand for in drills?
SDS stands for Slotted Drive System, a chuck design that allows bits to slide and lock securely for hammering action.
Can I use an SDS drill for wood or metal?
Yes, most SDS drills have a rotary-only mode that works with standard drill bits using an adapter.
What is the difference between SDS and SDS-plus?
SDS-plus is the most common standard for home drills, offering a 10mm shank diameter, while SDS-max is larger for heavy demolition tools.
How much impact energy do I need for home use?
For drilling into brick and concrete, 2.0 to 3.0 Joules is sufficient for most home projects.
Is a corded or cordless SDS drill better for home use?
Corded drills offer consistent power for longer tasks, while cordless models provide portability for outdoor work.
Can I use an SDS drill as a jackhammer?
Some SDS drills have a chisel mode for light demolition, but they are not as powerful as dedicated jackhammers.
Do I need a special bit for an SDS drill?
Yes, SDS drills require SDS-plus shank bits, which are widely available for masonry and drilling tasks.
How do I maintain an SDS drill?
Keep the chuck clean and lubricated, and check the carbon brushes on corded models periodically for wear.
What is the best brand for home SDS drills?
Bosch, DeWalt, and Makita are top brands for reliability and support, with Ryobi offering budget-friendly options.
Can I drill into reinforced concrete with an SDS drill?
Yes, with at least 2.5 Joules of impact energy and a quality carbide bit, you can drill into reinforced concrete.
Our verdict
For most home users, the Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best overall SDS drill due to its powerful 2.7 Joules, low vibration, and versatile three-mode operation. If you need a cordless option on a budget, the Ryobi RHS18-0 offers good value for light tasks, especially if you already own Ryobi batteries.