Best Sds Drill Under £100
Finding a capable SDS drill on a budget used to mean settling for poor performance. We have analysed specifications, aggregated owner reviews from major retailers, and compared brand reliability to find the best SDS drill under £100 that delivers real hammering power without breaking the bank.
Quick answer
The Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE is our top pick for its proven reliability and consistent 2.7 J impact energy. For occasional DIY use, the Einhell TC-RH 900 offers surprising power at a lower price point. Both deliver genuine SDS-plus performance for masonry drilling under £100.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE
Reliable 2.7 J impact energy with Vario-Lock positioning.
| Product | Best For | Impact Energy | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE | Overall Performance | 2.7 J | 4.6 / 5 | Check |
| Einhell TC-RH 900 | Budget Value | 2.2 J | 4.3 / 5 | Check |
| DeWalt D25013K | Lightweight Use | 2.1 J | 4.4 / 5 | Check |
| Stanley STHR272KS | Basic DIY | 1.9 J | 4.0 / 5 | Check |
| Draper 650W SDS | Entry Level | 1.8 J | 3.9 / 5 | Check |
Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE
Best OverallPros
- Vario-Lock for chisel positioning
- Low vibration handle
- Constant Electronic control
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Plastic carry case feels basic
The Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE is a workhorse that consistently receives high marks from owners on retail sites. Its 2.7 J impact energy allows it to drill into concrete and brick with authority, while the Vario-Lock feature lets you rotate the chisel to 36 positions for controlled chipping work. The built-in clutch helps prevent the tool from twisting if the bit jams.
Owner reviews highlight its durability over years of use, with many noting it handles heavy renovation tasks without issue. The 800 W motor runs smoothly under load, and the vibration control system reduces fatigue during extended drilling sessions. It is a tight fit under £100 but often dips below that threshold during sales events.
Einhell TC-RH 900
Best Budget ValuePros
- Very affordable price point
- High 900 W motor power
- Includes chisel and depth stop
Cons
- Heavier and less refined
- Higher vibration levels reported
The Einhell TC-RH 900 is a strong contender for DIYers on a strict budget. With a 900 W motor and 2.2 J impact energy, it can handle most home masonry tasks including drilling into brick, block, and light concrete. The SDS-plus chuck allows quick bit changes without tools, and the included chisel makes light chipping work possible.
Owner reviews note that it performs well for occasional use but lacks the polish of premium brands. Some users report higher vibration levels during extended use, and the plastic housing feels less robust than the Bosch. However, for the price, it delivers acceptable performance for hanging shelves, fixing fences, or installing wall anchors.
DeWalt D25013K
Best LightweightPros
- Lightweight at 2.3 kg
- Compact design for tight spaces
- DeWalt brand reliability
Cons
- Lower impact energy than Bosch
- No chisel rotation feature
The DeWalt D25013K is the lightest SDS drill in this roundup, making it ideal for overhead drilling or working in confined spaces. Its 2.1 J impact energy is sufficient for standard masonry work, and the 750 W motor provides consistent power. The compact design allows easier access between studs and joists.
Owner reviews praise its comfortable grip and reduced fatigue during longer tasks. Some users note that it struggles with denser concrete compared to heavier models, but for general DIY drilling into brick and block, it performs well. The lack of a chisel rotation function limits its versatility for chipping work.
Stanley STHR272KS
Best for Basic DIYPros
- Very low price point
- Includes 3 drill bits and chisel
- Stanley brand recognition
Cons
- Lower impact energy limits concrete work
- Build quality feels basic
The Stanley STHR272KS is an entry-level SDS drill designed for light DIY tasks such as drilling into brick for shelves or curtain poles. With 1.9 J impact energy and a 720 W motor, it handles soft masonry adequately but struggles with reinforced concrete. The included accessory kit adds value for first-time buyers.
Owner reviews indicate it is a good starter tool for occasional use, but it is not built for heavy or frequent work. Some users report the chuck mechanism can be stiff initially, and the vibration levels are higher than more expensive models. It is a functional option for the price but not one for demanding projects.
Draper 650W SDS
Best Entry LevelPros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight design
- Simple operation
Cons
- Low impact energy
- Limited power for concrete
The Draper 650W SDS drill is the most affordable option in this roundup, aimed at absolute beginners or those with a single small project. Its 1.8 J impact energy and 650 W motor are suitable for drilling into brick and soft stone, but it will struggle with hard concrete or larger diameter holes. The SDS-plus chuck provides easy bit changes.
Owner reviews suggest it is adequate for very occasional use, such as putting up a few shelves or fixing a garden wall. However, many users note that it lacks the power and durability for regular renovation work. It is a budget tool that meets the minimum requirements for an SDS drill but offers no frills.
What to Look for in an SDS Drill Under £100
Impact energy is the most important specification for an SDS drill. It determines how effectively the tool can break through concrete and masonry. Look for at least 2.0 J for general DIY work. Higher impact energy means faster drilling in hard materials.
Motor power, measured in watts, influences how well the drill maintains speed under load. A 750 W to 900 W motor is typical in this price range. Weight is also a factor, heavier drills often have more power but cause more fatigue during overhead work. Vibration control features reduce hand and arm strain.
SDS-plus is the standard chuck system for this class of drill. It allows quick bit changes and provides secure bit retention. Some models include a rotation stop for chiseling, which adds versatility for light demolition work. Check for included accessories like bits and depth stops.
What to Check Before Buying
Verify the impact energy rating from the manufacturer. Some budget models list peak power rather than sustained impact energy. Check the warranty period, Bosch typically offers 2 years, while budget brands may offer only 1 year. Read owner reviews on retailer sites for real-world feedback on durability and vibration.
Consider the availability of spare parts and accessories. Brands like Bosch and DeWalt have wide support networks. Ensure the drill comes with a carry case for storage and transport. Compare the weight, a difference of 0.5 kg can be significant during extended use.
Mistakes to Avoid
Do not buy based on wattage alone. A 900 W motor with low impact energy will drill slower than a 750 W model with higher impact energy. Avoid drills without a depth stop for consistent hole depths. Do not assume all SDS drills can chisel, check for a rotation stop feature if you need that function.
Do not ignore vibration ratings. Higher vibration levels cause more fatigue and potential long-term injury. Avoid the cheapest models if you plan to drill into concrete regularly, they lack the power and durability for that work. Do not forget to factor in the cost of bits, SDS-plus bits can be more expensive than standard ones.
FAQs
What is the best SDS drill under £100?
The Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE is the best overall due to its 2.7 J impact energy and reliable build quality.
Can I use an SDS drill as a regular drill?
Yes, most SDS drills have a rotary-only mode for drilling wood and metal without hammer action.
What is the difference between SDS and SDS-plus?
SDS-plus is the standard for smaller drills under £100, offering a 10 mm shank diameter and good bit retention.
How much impact energy do I need for concrete?
For standard concrete, 2.0 J to 2.5 J is sufficient. For reinforced concrete, look for 2.5 J or more.
Are budget SDS drills worth buying?
Yes, for light DIY use. Brands like Einhell and Stanley offer adequate performance for occasional masonry drilling.
What is the warranty on these drills?
Bosch and DeWalt typically offer 2 years, while budget brands like Einhell and Draper offer 1 to 2 years.
Can I use SDS bits in a normal drill?
No, SDS bits require an SDS chuck. You cannot use them in a standard three-jaw chuck.
Which SDS drill is lightest under £100?
The DeWalt D25013K is the lightest at 2.3 kg, making it ideal for overhead drilling.
Do I need a chisel function?
Only if you plan to do light chipping work like removing tiles or chasing walls. Most budget models lack this.
What size holes can these drills make?
Most SDS drills under £100 can drill up to 26 mm in concrete and 13 mm in steel with the right bits.
Is a corded SDS drill better than cordless?
For the same budget, corded drills offer more power and run time. Cordless models under £100 lack sufficient power.
How do I reduce vibration when drilling?
Use a drill with vibration control, maintain sharp bits, and apply steady pressure without forcing the tool.
Our verdict
The Bosch GBH 2-26 DRE is the best SDS drill under £100 for its reliable 2.7 J impact energy, Vario-Lock feature, and strong brand support. For budget-conscious buyers, the Einhell TC-RH 900 offers good value with its 2.2 J impact energy at a lower price, though it is heavier and less refined. Choose the Bosch for regular masonry work, or the Einhell for occasional DIY tasks.