Best Sds Drill for Masonry
Drilling into brick, block, or concrete requires a hammer action that a standard drill cannot deliver. An SDS drill uses a slotted drive system to deliver powerful, high-impact blows, making light work of masonry. We have analyzed specifications, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best SDS drills for masonry work.
Quick answer
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best overall SDS drill for masonry due to its balanced power, variable speed control, and reliable build. For budget-conscious users, the Ryobi R18SDS-0 offers cordless convenience and solid performance for occasional masonry drilling tasks.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch GBH 2-28 F
Excellent impact energy and variable speed for precise drilling.
| Product | Best For | Impact Energy | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GBH 2-28 F | Overall Best | 2.7 J | 4.7/5 | $$$ |
| DeWalt DCH273B | Cordless Power | 2.1 J | 4.5/5 | $$$ |
| Makita HR2475 | Lightweight Power | 2.6 J | 4.6/5 | $$ |
| Milwaukee 2712-20 | Heavy Duty | 3.0 J | 4.4/5 | $$$$ |
| Ryobi R18SDS-0 | Budget Cordless | 1.9 J | 4.2/5 | $ |
What is an SDS Drill and Why Do You Need One for Masonry?
An SDS drill uses a special chuck system that allows the bit to slide back and forth independently of the rotation. This mechanism creates a powerful hammering action that breaks up concrete and brick. Standard drills rely on a cam-action mechanism that is less efficient and can wear out quickly when used on masonry. SDS drills deliver higher impact energy, making them essential for drilling anchor holes, running conduit, or installing masonry fixings.
How We Chose the Best SDS Drills for Masonry
We evaluated each drill based on published impact energy, speed range, and build quality. Owner reviews from major retailers were aggregated to assess real-world durability and performance. Brand reliability and warranty terms were also factored into our rankings. We focused on models with at least a 2.0 J impact energy for effective masonry drilling.
What to Check Before Buying an SDS Drill for Masonry
Impact Energy (Joules): This is the key metric for masonry drilling. Higher joules mean more force per blow. For general DIY, 2.0 J to 2.5 J is sufficient. For heavy concrete work, look for 3.0 J or more.
Speed Control: Variable speed allows you to start a hole slowly to prevent bit wandering and then increase speed for faster drilling. A two-speed gearbox adds versatility for different materials.
Chuck Type: SDS-plus is the standard for most DIY and professional drills. SDS-max is for larger bits (over 1 inch) and heavier demolition work. Ensure your bits match the chuck type.
Corded vs. Cordless: Corded drills offer unlimited runtime and consistent power. Cordless drills offer portability but require a battery system and have limited runtime. For heavy masonry work, a corded model is often more reliable.
Vibration Control: Look for models with active vibration control (AVC) or a cushioned grip. This reduces user fatigue and improves control during prolonged use.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an SDS Drill
Buying too much power: A 5.0 J drill is overkill for drilling a few holes in brick. It will be heavier and more expensive. Match the impact energy to your typical task.
Ignoring the battery ecosystem: If you already own a battery system, a cordless SDS drill from the same brand is often the most cost-effective choice. This avoids buying new batteries and chargers.
Overlooking the chuck: Some SDS drills have a three-mode chuck (drill, hammer, chisel) which is useful for light chipping. If you only need drilling, a standard two-mode chuck is fine and often cheaper.
Bosch GBH 2-28 F
Best OverallPros
- Excellent variable speed control
- Low vibration with Vibration Control
- SDS-plus chuck for wide bit compatibility
Cons
- Corded limits portability
- No chisel mode
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is a corded SDS-plus drill that balances power and control. With 2.7 J of impact energy, it drills through brick and concrete blocks efficiently. The variable speed trigger and two-speed gearbox allow for precise starting and fast drilling. Owner reviews consistently praise its durability and low vibration levels, making it comfortable for longer jobs.
This model is ideal for users who need a reliable tool for frequent masonry drilling. It does not have a chisel function, so it is best for drilling tasks only. The corded design ensures consistent power, which is important for heavy concrete work. It is a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
DeWalt DCH273B
Best CordlessPros
- Powerful brushless motor
- Compact and lightweight
- Works with DeWalt 20V system
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Lower impact energy than corded models
The DeWalt DCH273B is a cordless SDS-plus drill that offers good power for its size. The brushless motor delivers 2.1 J of impact energy, which is sufficient for most masonry tasks. Its compact design makes it easy to use in tight spaces. Owner reviews highlight its reliable performance and compatibility with the extensive DeWalt 20V battery system.
This drill is best for users who need portability and already own DeWalt batteries. It is not as powerful as corded models, but it handles brick and block well. The absence of a chisel mode limits its versatility. It is a solid cordless option for DIYers and tradespeople who value convenience.
Makita HR2475
Best Lightweight PowerPros
- Very lightweight for its power
- Three-mode operation (drill, hammer, chisel)
- Low vibration
Cons
- No variable speed control
- Chisel mode is basic
The Makita HR2475 is a corded SDS-plus drill that packs 2.6 J of impact energy into a lightweight 5.1 lb body. It features a three-mode selector for drilling, hammer drilling, and chiseling. Owner reviews note its excellent build quality and low vibration levels. It is a popular choice for users who need a versatile tool for both drilling and light chipping.
This model is ideal for users who want a lightweight drill for overhead work. The lack of variable speed means you cannot control the speed for starting holes, which can lead to bit walking. The chisel mode is functional but not as refined as dedicated demolition tools. It remains a top contender for its power-to-weight ratio.
Milwaukee 2712-20
Best Heavy DutyPros
- High impact energy for concrete
- Durable metal gear housing
- Low vibration for its power
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- No chisel mode
The Milwaukee 2712-20 is a corded SDS-plus drill designed for heavy masonry work. It delivers 3.0 J of impact energy, making it suitable for drilling into reinforced concrete. The metal gear housing enhances durability. Owner reviews praise its power and reliability for demanding jobs. It is a favorite among professionals who need consistent performance.
This drill is best for users who frequently drill into hard concrete. Its weight makes it less suitable for overhead work. The lack of a chisel mode is a limitation, but it excels at pure drilling tasks. It is a robust tool built for longevity.
Ryobi R18SDS-0
Best Budget CordlessPros
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and compact
- Works with Ryobi 18V system
Cons
- Lower impact energy
- Battery and charger sold separately
The Ryobi R18SDS-0 is a cordless SDS-plus drill that offers good value for occasional masonry work. It delivers 1.9 J of impact energy, which is enough for brick and soft block. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. Owner reviews highlight its affordability and compatibility with the Ryobi 18V battery system.
This drill is best for DIY users who need a cordless option for light masonry tasks. It is not powerful enough for heavy concrete. The lack of a battery in the box means you need to factor in that cost. It is a sensible choice for users already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem.
FAQs
What is the difference between SDS and SDS-plus?
SDS-plus is the standard for smaller drills with a shank diameter of 10mm, while SDS-max is for larger drills with an 18mm shank. Most DIY and professional drills use SDS-plus.
Can I use a regular drill bit in an SDS drill?
No, SDS drills require SDS shank bits. Some models have a three-jaw chuck adapter for standard bits, but this is rare. Always use SDS bits for masonry.
What impact energy do I need for brick?
For brick and soft block, 2.0 J to 2.5 J is sufficient. For concrete, look for 2.5 J or more. Higher impact energy drills faster but is heavier.
Is a corded SDS drill better than cordless?
Corded drills offer unlimited runtime and consistent power, making them better for heavy or continuous work. Cordless drills offer portability but have limited runtime and slightly less power.
Can I use an SDS drill for chiseling?
Some SDS drills have a chisel mode that allows the bit to stop rotating and only hammer. These are suitable for light chipping but not heavy demolition.
What is the best brand for SDS drills?
Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee are the most reliable brands for SDS drills. They offer good build quality, warranty, and parts availability.
How do I reduce vibration when drilling?
Use a drill with active vibration control (AVC) and wear anti-vibration gloves. Ensure the bit is sharp and you are applying steady, even pressure.
What size SDS bit do I need for a standard anchor?
Most standard anchors for masonry use a 6mm or 8mm SDS bit. Always check the anchor manufacturer's recommended drill bit size.
Can I drill into reinforced concrete with an SDS drill?
Yes, but you need a drill with at least 2.5 J of impact energy and a carbide-tipped SDS bit. For rebar, you may need a specialized bit.
How long should an SDS drill last?
With proper maintenance, a quality SDS drill can last 5-10 years for DIY use and 2-5 years for professional use. Regular cleaning and brush replacement help extend its life.
Our verdict
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best overall SDS drill for masonry due to its excellent balance of power, control, and build quality. For those on a budget, the Ryobi R18SDS-0 offers a solid cordless option for light masonry tasks. Choose the Milwaukee 2712-20 if you need maximum impact energy for heavy concrete work.