Best Sds Drill Under £200
Finding a powerful SDS drill that doesn't break the bank is a common challenge for DIYers and tradespeople alike. We've analysed the market to find the best SDS drills under £200, balancing hammer action, build quality, and battery ecosystem value.
Quick answer
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best overall SDS drill under £200, offering a perfect blend of power, low vibration, and reliable build quality. For budget-conscious buyers needing a corded option for occasional use, the Einhell TC-RH 900 is the best value pick.
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 2-28 F
Best all-rounder with low vibration and SDS-plus system.
| Product | Best For | Impact Energy | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GBH 2-28 F | Overall | 2.7 J | 4.7/5 | Under £200 |
| DeWalt DCH273 | Cordless Power | 2.1 J | 4.5/5 | Under £200 |
| Makita HR2470 | Lightweight | 2.6 J | 4.6/5 | Under £200 |
| Einhell TC-RH 900 | Budget Corded | 2.8 J | 4.3/5 | Under £200 |
| Ryobi R18SDS-0 | Entry Cordless | 1.7 J | 4.4/5 | Under £200 |
Bosch GBH 2-28 F
Best OverallPros
- Low vibration technology reduces fatigue
- Reliable Bosch build quality and warranty
- Variable speed for precise control
Cons
- Corded only, limits mobility
- No carrying case included
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is a professional-grade corded SDS drill that consistently receives high marks from owners for its smooth operation and durability. Its 900W motor delivers a solid 2.7 J of impact energy, making it effective for drilling into concrete and brick without excessive vibration.
Owner reviews from major retailers highlight the tool's low vibration system as a standout feature, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. The SDS-plus chuck allows for quick bit changes, and the variable speed trigger offers good control. While it lacks a carrying case, its overall performance and reliability make it the top choice under £200.
DeWalt DCH273
Best CordlessPros
- Excellent battery ecosystem with DeWalt
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Compact design for tight spaces
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Lower impact energy than corded models
The DeWalt DCH273 is a brushless cordless SDS drill that offers good portability for users already invested in the DeWalt 18V system. Its 2.1 J impact energy is sufficient for most DIY and light trade tasks, such as drilling into brick or blockwork.
Owner feedback praises its compact size and runtime, especially with higher-capacity batteries. The brushless motor provides longer run times and better durability compared to brushed alternatives. However, the tool-only price means you need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger, which can push the total over £200 if you are starting from scratch.
Makita HR2470
Best LightweightPros
- Lightest corded model at 2.6 kg
- Good impact energy for its weight
- Makita build quality and reliability
Cons
- Slightly less powerful than Bosch
- Vibration levels higher than Bosch
The Makita HR2470 is a lightweight corded SDS drill that prioritises ease of use without sacrificing too much power. At just 2.6 kg, it is one of the lightest models in its class, making it ideal for overhead drilling or extended use.
Owner reviews frequently mention its comfortable grip and manageable weight, which reduces fatigue. The 2.6 J impact energy is respectable for a drill of this size, handling most masonry tasks well. While it does not have the low vibration technology of the Bosch, its lighter weight helps compensate. It is a strong choice for users who value portability.
Einhell TC-RH 900
Best Budget CordedPros
- Highest impact energy at 2.8 J
- Lowest price in the roundup
- Includes carry case and accessories
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than competitors
- Higher vibration levels reported
The Einhell TC-RH 900 is a budget-friendly corded SDS drill that offers impressive power for its price. With 2.8 J of impact energy, it matches or exceeds more expensive models, making it a strong performer for drilling into concrete and masonry.
Owner reviews note that it is a heavy tool at 3.8 kg, which can be tiring for prolonged use. Vibration levels are also higher than premium brands, which is expected at this price point. However, it comes with a carry case and a set of basic bits, adding value. It is a sensible choice for DIYers on a tight budget who need raw power for occasional heavy jobs.
Ryobi R18SDS-0
Best Entry CordlessPros
- Affordable entry into cordless SDS
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Compatible with Ryobi One+ ecosystem
Cons
- Low impact energy for tough concrete
- Battery and charger sold separately
The Ryobi R18SDS-0 is an entry-level cordless SDS drill designed for light masonry work and DIY tasks. Its 1.7 J impact energy is lower than corded models, but it offers the convenience of cordless operation for quick jobs around the home.
Owner reviews highlight its lightweight design and ease of use, making it a good option for drilling into brick or soft block. It is part of the Ryobi One+ system, which is popular for its wide range of tools. However, it struggles with dense concrete or prolonged heavy use. It is best suited for users who already own Ryobi batteries and need a basic SDS function.
What to Check Before Buying an SDS Drill Under £200
When choosing an SDS drill under £200, the first factor to consider is impact energy, measured in Joules (J). A higher Joule rating means more power for drilling into hard materials like reinforced concrete. For most DIY tasks, 2.0 J to 2.8 J is sufficient.
Next, evaluate the type of chuck. SDS-plus is the standard for drills in this price range and offers quick bit changes and good bit retention. Weight is also important: lighter models (under 3 kg) are easier to handle for overhead work, while heavier models often provide more power.
Finally, decide between corded and cordless. Corded drills offer consistent power and are generally cheaper, but they limit mobility. Cordless drills offer freedom of movement but require investment in batteries and chargers, which can affect overall cost.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is buying a cordless SDS drill without considering the battery ecosystem. If you do not already own batteries from a specific brand, the total cost can exceed your budget. Always check if the drill is sold as a kit or tool-only.
Another error is overlooking vibration control. High vibration levels can cause fatigue and reduce accuracy. Look for models with low vibration technology, especially if you plan to use the drill for extended periods.
FAQs
What is the best SDS drill under £200 for concrete?
The Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the best for concrete due to its 2.7 J impact energy and low vibration system.
Are cordless SDS drills under £200 any good?
Yes, but they have lower impact energy than corded models, making them better for light masonry tasks.
What is the difference between SDS and SDS-plus?
SDS-plus is the standard for smaller drills, offering a 10mm shank diameter and good bit retention for DIY and trade use.
Can I use an SDS drill for normal drilling?
Yes, most SDS drills have a rotation-only mode for drilling wood or metal, but they are heavier than standard drills.
How much impact energy do I need for brick?
For brick, 2.0 J to 2.5 J is sufficient, while reinforced concrete requires at least 2.5 J.
Is the Einhell TC-RH 900 reliable?
It is reliable for occasional DIY use, but its higher vibration and weight make it less suitable for daily professional work.
What is the lightest SDS drill under £200?
The Makita HR2470 is the lightest corded model at 2.6 kg, making it ideal for overhead drilling.
Do I need a brushless motor in an SDS drill?
Brushless motors are more efficient and durable, but they are more common in cordless models like the DeWalt DCH273.
Can I use an SDS drill with a standard chuck?
No, SDS drills use a special SDS chuck. Some models offer adapters for standard bits, but this is not recommended for heavy use.
What warranty do these drills come with?
Most brands like Bosch and Makita offer a 1-year warranty, with some extending to 2 years upon registration.
Our verdict
For the best overall SDS drill under £200, the Bosch GBH 2-28 F is the clear winner with its balance of power, low vibration, and build quality. If you need a budget-friendly corded option for occasional use, the Einhell TC-RH 900 offers the best value with high impact energy at a low price.