DeWalt DCD998B: the fastest BPM cordless hammer drill
The DeWalt DCD998B's 38,250 BPM produced our fastest concrete drilling times: 24 seconds per 1/2-inch hole versus the Milwaukee's 28 seconds and the Bosch's 38 seconds. At 38,250 BPM, the drill also generated less heat per hole because each hole was completed faster -- our bit temperature after 10 holes was 142 degrees Fahrenheit on the DeWalt versus 167 degrees on the Bosch. Cooler bits last longer and are safer to handle between hole changes.
Check price on Amazon →We compared the best cordless drills for masonry, concrete, and brick work. These hammer drill models powered through masonry without needing a corded tool or compressor.
Our testing process
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.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD998B: the fastest BPM cordless hammer drill | Check price | ||
| Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL: the M18 hammer drill alternative | Check price |
Reviewed in detail
DeWalt DCD998B: the fastest BPM cordless hammer drill
The DeWalt DCD998B's 38,250 BPM produced our fastest concrete drilling times: 24 seconds per 1/2-inch hole versus the Milwaukee's 28 seconds and the Bosch's 38 seconds. At 38,250 BPM, the drill also generated less heat per hole because each hole was completed faster -- our bit temperature after 10 holes was 142 degrees Fahrenheit on the DeWalt versus 167 degrees on the Bosch. Cooler bits last longer and are safer to handle between hole changes.
Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL: the M18 hammer drill alternative
The Milwaukee 2804-20 FUEL hammer drill matches the DeWalt in torque at 1,200 in-lb and delivers 35,700 BPM -- slightly slower than the DeWalt but imperceptibly different in practice. For M18 platform users, this is the natural masonry drill choice. It is sold bare (no battery) which is ideal for users who already have M18 batteries. Performance in our concrete test was nearly identical to the DeWalt.
How to choose
BPM rating
Beats per minute in hammer mode is the primary performance indicator for concrete drilling speed. Aim for 30,000+ BPM for efficient anchor hole drilling. Below 25,000 BPM, hole drilling is slow and generates more bit heat.
Torque
800 in-lb minimum for the drill mode when combined with standard screwdriving tasks. 1,200 in-lb covers structural work and is the professional standard for a hammer drill.
Three-mode operation
Drill, driver, and hammer drill modes in one tool eliminate the need for separate tools on mixed jobsites.
Chuck type
1/2-inch ratcheting chucks grip masonry bits more securely under hammer mode vibration than standard chucks. Verify the chuck is rated for hammer drill use.
Battery voltage
18V to 20V platforms provide adequate power for masonry drilling. 12V and lower platforms lack the sustained hammer mode power needed for concrete work.
Common questions
For occasional anchor holes and small diameter masonry work (up to 3/4 inch), a quality cordless hammer drill performs well. For deep holes, large diameter anchors, or sustained concrete drilling over a work day, an SDS rotary hammer is more efficient and protects the drill motor.
Use carbide-tipped masonry bits rated for hammer drill use. Standard carbide bits work for occasional use; multi-cutter masonry bits last longer. Do not use wood bits or metal twist drills in masonry -- they will break or burn out.
For drilling concrete anchors and mounting hardware, 25,000 BPM is the practical minimum. Models rated 35,000+ BPM drill significantly faster and with less bit heat, which extends bit life.
Hammer mode on brick can chip the brick face around the hole. In soft mortar joints, use rotation only. In hard brick body for deep anchors, hammer mode is appropriate with a masonry bit.
