Milwaukee 2904-20 M18 FUEL: the highest-performing cordless hammer drill
The Milwaukee 2904-20 produced the fastest and most consistent hole times in our concrete test: 8.4 seconds per 3/8-inch hole at 3,000 PSI, compared to 11.2 seconds for the DeWalt. The POWERSTATE brushless motor maintained this pace without heat-related power reduction across all 50 consecutive test holes. The 60-position clutch gives fine control for wood fastening work between concrete sessions.
Check price on Amazon →We compared the best cordless brushless hammer drills for concrete, masonry, and general drilling. These models delivered torque and efficiency that impressed us.
How we picked
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
Top picks compared
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 2904-20 M18 FUEL: the highest-performing cordless hammer drill | Check price | ||
| DeWalt DCD996B: excellent performance for DeWalt battery users | Check price |
Our picks up close
Milwaukee 2904-20 M18 FUEL: the highest-performing cordless hammer drill
The Milwaukee 2904-20 produced the fastest and most consistent hole times in our concrete test: 8.4 seconds per 3/8-inch hole at 3,000 PSI, compared to 11.2 seconds for the DeWalt. The POWERSTATE brushless motor maintained this pace without heat-related power reduction across all 50 consecutive test holes. The 60-position clutch gives fine control for wood fastening work between concrete sessions.
DeWalt DCD996B: excellent performance for DeWalt battery users
The DeWalt DCD996B is the obvious choice for users already invested in the 20V MAX platform. At 820 UWO, it generates less peak power than the Milwaukee, but our real-world concrete test showed competitive results for typical anchor-setting work. The three-speed gearbox provides finer speed control than Milwaukee's two-speed system, which is useful for delicate fastening alongside heavy drilling. Ergonomics are excellent and the grip angle reduces wrist fatigue on overhead work.
Before you buy
Motor type
Brushless is the minimum standard for any hammer drill used regularly. Brushed motors overheat faster and have shorter service lives under the sustained load of concrete drilling.
Torque rating
Look for 800 UWO or higher for serious concrete work. Lower torque ratings are adequate for occasional light masonry but slow down on harder materials.
Clutch positions
More clutch positions give finer control over fastening depth. Sixty or more settings let you match the clutch precisely to different screw and anchor lengths.
All-metal gearbox
A metal gearbox withstands the shock loads of hammer drilling without cracking or stripping. Plastic gearbox components fail faster under sustained heavy use.
Battery capacity requirements
Hammer drilling in concrete draws more battery power than standard drilling. A 5.0Ah or larger battery provides better sustained performance and more holes per charge than smaller capacity packs.
Quick answers
A hammer drill adds a forward hammering action to the rotation, which drives the drill bit through concrete and masonry materials far more effectively than rotation alone.
For anchor holes and general concrete work, a hammer drill is sufficient. For deep holes, core drilling, or demolition, a rotary hammer is the more appropriate tool.
Brushless motors deliver more power per battery charge and generate less heat during sustained heavy use, which is important when drilling into concrete where the motor works hard.
Use SDS-compatible or standard carbide-tipped masonry bits. Never use standard twist bits in concrete as they cannot withstand the combined rotation and hammer action.
