Concrete drill bits take a beating. The carbide tip has to fracture rock-hard aggregate thousands of times per hole, and cheap bits dull out after just a few uses. Quality bits with properly shaped carbide tips, optimized flute geometry, and good heat dissipation hold their edge through dozens of holes and keep the drilling fast and accurate. These five options cover everything from budget masonry sets to professional SDS-Plus bits for demanding applications.
| Product | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DW5207 SDS-Plus Bit Set | SDS rotary hammer work | 4.8/5 |
| Bosch HCBG700 SDS-Plus Bit Set | Multi-diameter set | 4.7/5 |
| Makita B-61690 Masonry Bit Set | Keyed chuck drills | 4.6/5 |
| Milwaukee 48-20-7480 SDS-Plus Bits | Single-size value packs | 4.7/5 |
| COMOWARE Masonry Drill Bit Set | Budget DIY set | 4.3/5 |
DEWALT DW5207 SDS-Plus Bit Set — Best Overall SDS-Plus Set
DEWALT’s 7-piece SDS-Plus set covers the most common anchor and fastener hole sizes from 3/16 inch to 3/4 inch. The bits use a 2-cutter carbide tip for fast penetration and a full-length flute for efficient debris removal. DEWALT’s SDS-Plus shank fits all standard SDS-Plus rotary hammers regardless of brand. The bits maintain sharpness well under extended use in standard concrete. The carrying case keeps sizes organized on site. For homeowners and contractors who need a reliable multi-size set for routine anchor and fastener work in concrete and masonry, this is the most practical starting kit.
Bosch HCBG700 SDS-Plus Bit Set — Best Multi-Diameter Kit
Bosch’s 7-piece SDS-Plus set includes sizes from 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch with an innovative 4-cutter carbide head on the larger bits. The four-cutter design increases cutting contact and produces cleaner, rounder holes with less deviation on hard aggregate. The bits also feature a proprietary dust removal groove that pulls debris out faster, reducing heat buildup and prolonging bit life. Bosch bits are made in Germany with consistent carbide quality. If your work involves drilling into reinforced concrete or hard aggregate frequently, the four-cutter design justifies the slightly higher price over standard two-cutter bits.
Makita B-61690 Masonry Bit Set — Best for Keyed Chuck Drills
Makita’s standard masonry bit set is designed for use in regular keyed or keyless hammer drills, not SDS-Plus chucks. The bits use a tungsten carbide tip pressed into the steel shank and cover sizes from 3/16 inch to 5/8 inch. They perform well in standard concrete with a hammer drill, though they will dull faster than SDS-Plus bits in hard aggregate. For homeowners who own a regular drill/driver with a hammer mode and occasionally need to set anchors in standard block or brick, this set is appropriately priced and widely available. Not for use in SDS-Plus chucks.
Milwaukee 48-20-7480 SDS-Plus Bits — Best Single-Size Value Packs
Milwaukee sells SDS-Plus bits in multi-packs of the same size, which is ideal when you repeatedly drill the same anchor hole throughout a project. The bits use a 4-cutter carbide head and an optimized helical flute that Milwaukee calls the “4-Cutter” technology. For contractors installing large numbers of a single anchor type, buying a pack of five or ten identical bits is more economical than repeatedly repurchasing individual bits from a set. The carbide quality is consistent and the bits last well in both standard and hard concrete. Check the specific size pack before ordering.
COMOWARE Masonry Drill Bit Set — Best Budget DIY Option
COMOWARE’s masonry set provides a wide range of sizes at an entry-level price, covering 5/32 inch to 5/8 inch in an 8-piece kit. The carbide tips are adequate for occasional DIY use in standard concrete, brick, and block. They will not perform as well as DEWALT or Bosch bits in hard aggregate or under sustained use, but for infrequent projects like mounting a TV bracket or installing a grab bar, they do the job. The labeled carrying case makes size identification easy. For homeowners who rarely drill concrete and want a versatile set without committing to premium pricing, this is a reasonable starting point.
How to Choose Concrete Drill Bits
The first decision is shank type: SDS-Plus for rotary hammers, standard round shank for hammer drills. Never try to force SDS bits into a keyed chuck. Match the bit diameter to the anchor specification — anchor manufacturers publish the required hole diameter and depth for each anchor size. For hard or reinforced concrete, choose four-cutter carbide heads over two-cutter designs. If you drill the same hole size repeatedly, buy packs of single-size bits for economy. Keep bits cool by pulling them back out during deep holes to clear debris and avoid overheating the carbide tip, which permanently softens it.
For the best drills to pair with these bits, see /articles/best-concrete-drill. If your project also involves cutting concrete, our /articles/best-concrete-cutter guide covers the top saw and grinder options. Visit /methodology to understand how we evaluate tools.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SDS-Plus and SDS-Max drill bits?+
SDS-Plus bits have a smaller shank diameter and are used with 1/2-inch to 1-5/8-inch rotary hammers for light to medium concrete work. SDS-Max bits have a larger shank and are designed for heavy-duty rotary hammers used for holes above 1-1/2 inches in hard or reinforced concrete. Most residential and light commercial rotary hammers use SDS-Plus. Check your hammer's chuck specification before purchasing bits.
How do I know when a concrete drill bit needs to be replaced?+
A worn concrete drill bit takes noticeably longer to make the same hole, produces more heat, and may wander off the mark more easily. The carbide tip at the end will appear rounded or chipped rather than sharp and defined. Drilling more than two or three times longer than when the bit was new is a clear signal to replace it. Continuing to use a worn bit risks overheating the motor and burning out the tool.