When your job involves drilling through concrete, busting up tile, or driving anchors into masonry, a regular drill just won’t cut it. That’s where a rotary hammer comes in. And in 2024, you don’t need to be tethered to a cord to get serious power. The best cordless rotary hammer drills combine impact force, runtime, and control—all without being tied to an outlet.
If you’re a contractor, remodeler, or serious DIYer, a cordless rotary hammer can be a game-changer. It makes tight spaces easier to access, works fast, and eliminates the hassle of dragging cords through dusty, half-built job sites. Here are the best cordless rotary hammers that actually deliver on power, comfort, and durability.
Top Pick: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/8″ SDS Plus Rotary Hammer (2914-20)
Price: Around $400 tool-only
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The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2914-20 is the gold standard for cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammers. It delivers up to 3.6 foot-pounds of impact energy, which is impressive for its size and class. With Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence, it runs cooler, drills faster, and protects itself from overloads.
It’s designed with anti-vibration technology, a solid side handle, and multiple modes (drill, hammer, chisel) so you can tackle anything from concrete anchors to demo work. Paired with a high output 6.0Ah or 12.0Ah M18 battery, it goes for hours without fading.
Runner Up: DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCH273B SDS Plus Rotary Hammer
Price: Around $280 tool-only
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The DCH273B is DEWALT’s most popular 20V rotary hammer. It delivers 2.1 joules (about 1.55 ft-lbs) of impact energy, which is perfect for light to medium concrete work. It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver on ladders, overhead, or in tight corners.
The brushless motor and shock-absorbing handle make it more comfortable for all-day use. It won’t match Milwaukee in brute force, but for remodelers and general contractors, it’s a versatile and affordable option.
Most Powerful: Makita XRH07PTU 36V (18V x2) SDS-Max Rotary Hammer
Price: Around $750 (kit with batteries & charger)
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Need to go big? The Makita XRH07PTU is one of the most powerful cordless rotary hammers on the market. It uses two 18V batteries to deliver 8.4 ft-lbs of impact energy—comparable to corded SDS-Max units.
This is what you bring to a job where core drilling, demolition, and heavy chipping are on the menu. It’s heavier than SDS-Plus tools, but the AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) helps absorb the shock. It also includes AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) for pairing with Makita dust extractors.
Best for Compact Jobs: Bosch GBH18V-26DK15 18V EC Brushless SDS Plus Kit
Price: Around $500 (with battery & charger)
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If you need something lighter but still serious, Bosch’s GBH18V-26 delivers 1.9 ft-lbs of energy with solid runtime. The ergonomic L-shape, brushless motor, and included Core18V battery give it plenty of punch without the bulk.
It also features KickBack Control and built-in active vibration damping. This is a go-to tool for electricians, plumbers, or HVAC techs who need power in a tight footprint.
What to Look for in a Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill
- Impact Energy: Measured in joules or ft-lbs. More power = faster drilling in harder materials.
- Battery Runtime: Look for kits with high-capacity packs (6Ah+). Lower-capacity packs drain fast during heavy use.
- Vibration Control: AVT, SHOCKS, or similar systems make a huge difference during extended use.
- Weight & Balance: Compact tools help on ladders and overhead. Bigger ones offer more torque but wear you out faster.
- Modes: Drill only, hammer-drill, and chisel modes add versatility.
Final Thoughts
Cordless rotary hammer drills have come a long way—and the best ones today can outperform corded models in real-world jobs. Whether you need brute demolition force or precision anchor drilling, there’s a battery-powered beast ready to work.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2914-20 is the most well-rounded performer, while the Makita XRH07PTU delivers unmatched power. For lighter jobs, DEWALT and Bosch pack plenty of punch without overkill. Whichever you choose, cordless means less downtime, more freedom, and a cleaner setup every time.