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Nothing stops a masonry project faster than a standard drill that just spins its bit against a brick wall. You need a tool that delivers a hammering blow as it turns — that is where a dedicated drill for brick changes the game, turning a frustrating hour into a quick ten-minute job.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you are hanging shelves on a brick wall or drilling anchor holes in a concrete foundation, finding the right drill for brick means matching the tool’s impact energy, power delivery, and chuck type to the job at hand — not just grabbing the first hammer drill you see.
Quick Picks
- Berserker 1-1/8″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill 26FA — Best Overall
- DOVAMAN RH15A 1-9/16″ SDS Rotary Hammer Drill — Most Powerful
- RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver – PBLHM101B — Best Cordless
- DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Brushless Hammer Drill — Compact Power
- SKIL 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill – HD182001 — Budget Champion
- Bosch 1191VSRK 120-Volt 1/2-Inch Single-Speed Hammer Drill — Light & Balanced
- DEWALT Hammer Drill, 1/2-Inch, 7.8-Amp (DW511) — Trusted Classic
How To Choose The Best Drill for Brick
Picking the right drill for brick is simpler once you know the three things that separate a masonry tool from a wood-boring one: hammer mechanism, power delivery, and bit retention. Here is what to look for.
Hammer Drill vs. Rotary Hammer: Know the Difference
A standard hammer drill uses a cam-action mechanism that delivers a rapid, low-impact vibration — fine for occasional brick or block work. A rotary hammer, by contrast, uses a piston-driven air-cushion system that delivers far more impact energy per blow (measured in Joules or ft-lbs). For deep holes in hard concrete or repeated drilling, a rotary hammer (often using SDS-Plus bits) is noticeably faster and less fatiguing.
Power Delivery: Corded vs. Cordless
Corded drills offer continuous, full power without battery decay — important for drilling multiple holes in dense material where the motor works hard. Cordless drills offer portability and convenience for quick jobs, but you need a high-capacity battery to match corded performance, especially for brick or concrete. Look at the amperage rating on corded models (7 Amps and above is a solid starting point) and the voltage/cell count on cordless ones.
Chuck Type and Bit Retention
A standard 1/2-inch keyed chuck holds round-shank masonry bits and is common on hammer drills. An SDS-Plus chuck uses a slotted bit system that locks in without a key, transfers impact energy more efficiently, and allows the bit to slide slightly in the chuck to enhance the hammering action. For serious concrete work, SDS-Plus is the standard; for occasional brick drilling, a keyed chuck works fine.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Power (Amps) | Weight | Chuck Type | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berserker 26FA | Heavy concrete drilling | 9 Amps | 9.5 Pounds | SDS-Plus | Amazon |
| DOVAMAN RH15A | Demolition / chiseling | 12.5 Amps | 12.3 Pounds | SDS-Plus | Amazon |
| RYOBI PBLHM101B | Cordless versatility | 18V (cordless) | — | 1/2 in. Ratcheting Metal | Amazon |
| DEWALT DCD799B | Tight-space masonry | 20V (cordless) | 2.5 Pounds | 1/2 in. Ratcheting | Amazon |
| SKIL HD182001 | Budget brick work | 7.5 Amps | 5.23 Pounds | 1/2 in. Keyed | Amazon |
| Bosch 1191VSRK | Light masonry / versatility | 7 Amps | 4.1 Pounds | 1/2 in. Keyed | Amazon |
| DEWALT DW511 | General hammer drilling | 7.8 Amps | 4.3 Pounds | 1/2 in. Keyed | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Berserker 1-1/8″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill 26FA
The corded rotary hammer that chews through old concrete like soft butter.
If your brick or concrete drilling goes beyond a few shallow anchors, this is the tool that saves you time and arm fatigue. The Berserker delivers a serious 3.3 ft-lbs (4.5 Joules) of impact energy from its 1,050-watt, 9-Amp motor — buyers report it “drilled thru 60 year old concrete with no effort,” which is the kind of real-world feedback that separates a rotary hammer from a standard hammer drill. At 9.5 pounds, it is noticeably heavier than the compact DEWALT DCD799B (which weighs just 2.5 pounds), but that weight is the price of the piston-driven impact mechanism that makes concrete drilling swift.
It operates in three modes: rotation only, hammering with rotation, and hammering only — so you can use it as a standard drill or as a light jackhammer for tile removal. The SDS-Plus chuck means tool-free bit changes, and the overload clutch protects your wrists if the bit snags. One thing to note: the kit includes three SDS-Plus drill bits (1/2″, 3/8″, 5/16″), plus a flat and point chisel, depth gauge, and a carrying case — a full package that adds to its value. The main trade-off is that this is strictly for SDS-Plus bits, not standard round-shank bits, so if you already own a large collection of regular masonry bits, you will need to swap them out.
What makes it a powerhouse
- 9-Amp motor delivers 4.5 Joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling
- Three-mode operation (drill, hammer drill, chisel) adds versatility
- Overload clutch and aluminum housing boost durability
One limit to know
- SDS-Plus chuck means existing round-shank bits are not compatible without an adapter
- At 9.5 pounds, it is heavy for overhead work compared to lighter hammer drills
Best for heavy masonry: If you regularly drill into concrete, brick, or block and want a tool that powers through without bogging down, this is your pick.
Skip if: You only need occasional shallow holes in brick and want to keep using standard round-shank bits — a lighter hammer drill would be simpler.
2. DOVAMAN RH15A 1-9/16″ SDS Rotary Hammer Drill
The 12.5-Amp brute that turns concrete drilling into a quick, easy operation.
When you need to drill the largest holes through reinforced concrete or break up tile and mortar, this DOVAMAN rotary hammer brings the heaviest punch on this list. Its 12.5-Amp motor produces 5.2 ft-lbs (7 Joules) of impact energy, versus the Berserker’s 4.5 Joules, and delivers up to 4,350 blows per minute. That extra power translates directly into speed: owners mention it “drills concrete quickly,” though they note cheap masonry bits can mushroom under the force, so investing in quality SDS-Plus bits is wise.
This model offers four functions: chiseling (hammer only), hammer drill, drill only, and chisel position adjustment — making it truly demolition-capable. It includes vibration damping technology (VDT) to reduce fatigue, a safety clutch to prevent motor overload, and a 360-degree adjustable auxiliary handle. At 12.3 pounds (bare machine), it is the heaviest pick here, which makes it stable during use but tiring for overhead work. The kit arrives with three SDS-Plus drill bits, two chisels, an SDS-Plus adaptor, a dust collector, and a carrying case — everything you need to start immediately.
Why the power matters
- 12.5-Amp motor with 7 Joules of impact energy drills concrete faster than any other pick here
- Four-function mode (including chisel position adjustment) adds demolition versatility
- Vibration control and safety clutch improve comfort and safety
One honest trade-off
- At 12.3 pounds (bare), it is heavy — not ideal for one-handed or overhead use
- Some customers note the auxiliary handle does not tighten as securely as expected
Reach for this when: You need the fastest concrete penetration and also want chiseling capability for light demolition — the extra power shortens job time noticeably vs. a standard hammer drill.
Look elsewhere if: Portability and weight are your primary concerns, or your brick work is limited to a few shallow holes — this tool is built for serious jobs, not quick fixes.
3. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver – PBLHM101B
The cordless all-rounder that drills through brick without tethering you to an outlet.
For homeowners and DIYers who already own RYOBI ONE+ batteries, this brushless hammer drill is a natural fit — it delivers up to 45% faster hammer drilling than the standard ONE+ model, according to the manufacturer, with a top speed of 2,100 RPM. Buyers confirm it “drills holes in concrete like it’s supposed to,” and one reviewer used it to mount a flagpole into brick after their regular drill failed. The 2-speed gearbox lets you switch between high-torque low-speed driving and rapid drilling, and the 24-position clutch prevents overdriving screws in softer materials.
What sets this apart from the DEWALT DCD799B is its wood drilling capacity: 2 inches, while the DEWALT’s wood spec is unspecified, and the Berserker is rated for 1.25 inches, meaning it handles larger hole saws and spade bits with ease. The 1/2-inch ratcheting metal chuck holds bits securely without a key. The trade-off is that you need to supply your own 18V ONE+ battery and charger, which adds to the initial cost if you are not already in the RYOBI ecosystem. It is not as powerful for solid concrete as the corded rotary hammers above, but for brick, block, and general drilling, it is remarkably capable.
What makes it a great value
- Brushless motor extends runtime and delivers up to 45% faster hammer drilling
- 2-inch wood drilling capacity handles larger bits than most hammer drills
- 24-position clutch gives precise control for screw-driving and prevents stripping
One thing to consider
- Battery and charger sold separately — adds upfront cost if you are new to the ONE+ system
- Not as powerful for dense concrete as corded rotary hammers like the Berserker or DOVAMAN
Best for the cordless owner: If you already have RYOBI ONE+ batteries and need a drill that handles brick, wood, and metal without dragging a cord, this is the smart upgrade.
Consider the corded option if: You are drilling more than a dozen holes in concrete — the continuous power of a corded rotary hammer will finish the job faster without battery anxiety.
4. DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Brushless Hammer Drill
The featherweight that squeezes into tight spaces without sacrificing masonry punch.
If you work in cramped attics, tight stud bays, or anywhere a full-size drill physically will not fit, this DEWALT is purpose-built for that pain point. Its tool head length is just 6.49 inches — the shortest 20V MAX hammer drill DEWALT makes — and the entire tool weighs 2.5 pounds, versus the Berserker rotary hammer at 9.5 pounds. Yet it delivers up to 552 unit watts out (UWO) and 28,050 beats per minute, which reviewers point out makes “running holes in concrete smooth.” The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck provides high bit retention so your masonry bit stays put under the hammering action.
Compared to the RYOBI PBLHM101B, this DEWALT is physically smaller and lighter, but its metal drilling capacity is 0.4 inches versus RYOBI’s 0.5 inches, meaning it is marginally less suited for larger metal bits. The compact size also means the motor produces less raw torque than a full-size hammer drill, so for very hard concrete or large-diameter holes, it will work harder than a corded option. But for drilling brick walls for shelf brackets or running smaller conduit holes, this tool’s portability and balance make it an easy daily driver.
Why the size wins
- 6.49-inch head length fits in tight spaces where no other hammer drill will go
- Weighs just 2.5 pounds — comfortable for extended overhead use
- Brushless motor and up to 28,050 BPM deliver solid masonry performance in a small package
One honest caveat
- 20V battery platform means less sustained power than corded drills for dense concrete
- 0.4-inch metal drilling capacity is slightly lower than the RYOBI PBLHM101B’s 0.5-inch
Reach for this if: You need a cordless hammer drill that disappears into your toolbox and handles brick and concrete in tight spaces — this is the most portable option here.
Think twice if: Your primary use is drilling dozens of deep holes in hard concrete — a corded rotary hammer will finish faster and with less strain on the tool.
5. SKIL 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill – HD182001
The corded workhorse that drilled 4-inch holes in aggregate concrete at a fraction of the cost.
SKIL has a reputation for building practical tools that do not break the bank, and this hammer drill embodies that. Its 7.5-Amp motor is not as powerful as the 9-Amp Berserker, but shoppers say it “drilled 4″ holes in aggregate concrete in ~10 sec each” — a concrete real-world performance that rivals drills costing more. The 2-in-1 function lets you switch between drilling and hammer drilling with a simple change, and the 1/2-inch heavy-duty keyed chuck accepts large-diameter bits for heavy work.
At 5.23 pounds, it is heavier than the Bosch and DEWALT corded options, but lighter than the rotary hammers. The side assist handle and soft-grip handle improve control during demanding jobs. One reviewer noted the drill draws enough current that a heavy-duty extension cord is recommended — a practical tip for anyone using it far from an outlet. The main limitation is that it uses a keyed chuck, which means changing bits takes a few extra seconds compared to SDS-Plus or ratcheting chucks, but for the price, it is a minor inconvenience.
What makes it a steal
- 7.5-Amp motor drills 4-inch holes in aggregate concrete in about 10 seconds each
- 2-in-1 design switches between drilling and hammer drilling easily
- Side handle and soft grip improve control and comfort during heavy use
One limitation to note
- Keyed chuck is slower to change bits than SDS-Plus or keyless chucks
- Draws high current — requires a heavy-duty extension cord for best performance
Best for the budget-conscious builder: If you need a reliable corded hammer drill for brick and concrete work without spending on premium features, this SKIL delivers the performance where it counts.
Look elsewhere if: You want tool-free bit changes or need the extra impact energy of a rotary hammer for dense concrete — this is a traditional hammer drill, not a piston-driven rotary.
6. Bosch 1191VSRK 120-Volt 1/2-Inch Single-Speed Hammer Drill
The precise, lightweight corded hammer drill that balances power with day-long comfort.
Bosch is known for ergonomic tool design, and this 7-Amp hammer drill reflects that. At just 4.1 pounds, it is a full pound lighter than the SKIL and over 5 pounds lighter than the Berserker — noticeable when you are drilling a series of holes overhead or at awkward angles. Buyers report it “worked great to drill 1/2″ holes in cement” and one reviewer replaced a dead Craftsman with it, drilling 20 holes in a foundation without issue. The 360-degree auxiliary handle and built-in quick-release depth gauge give you a wide range of grip positions and precise depth control.
The single-speed design simplifies operation: just select rotation only or hammer drill mode and pull the trigger. However, this is not a tool for heavy-duty continuous use — one buyer mentioned it overheated after 4 holes in hard concrete and recommended cooling breaks. That makes it best suited for softer masonry, brick, and block rather than reinforced foundation work.
Why the lightness matters
- 4.1-pound weight reduces fatigue during extended or overhead drilling sessions
- 360-degree auxiliary handle and depth gauge provide excellent control and precision
- Compact design with high performance-to-weight ratio in its class
One honest trade-off
- 7-Amp motor less powerful for dense concrete — may overheat with heavy continuous use
- Single-speed design lacks a low-gear high-torque option for large-diameter bits
Best for the all-day DIYer: If you value a lightweight, balanced tool that handles brick and block comfortably without wearing you out, the Bosch is a joy to use.
Consider a rotary hammer if: Your primary job is drilling deep holes in hard concrete or reinforced structures — the extra impact energy is worth the weight.
7. DEWALT Hammer Drill, 1/2-Inch, 7.8-Amp (DW511)
The proven corded drill that trades a few ounces of weight for reliable, repeatable masonry power.
DEWALT’s DW511 is a straight-ahead hammer drill with a 7.8-Amp motor and a dual-mode selector for drilling or hammer drilling. It drills into brick “easily” for high-load anchors, owners mention, and one reviewer used it to drill 50 holes (1/5″ diameter) in a tough stump in 5 minutes — showing it is capable beyond just masonry work. At 4.3 pounds, it is marginally heavier than the Bosch (4.1 pounds) but still light enough for comfortable extended use, and its 1.5-inch wood drilling capacity gives it versatility for general construction tasks.
What sets this apart from the SKIL HD182001 is the brand reputation and the 7.8-Amp motor (vs. 7.5 Amps). The included 360-degree side handle with depth rod offers greater control and depth accuracy. However, one owner reported an initial burning oil smell during first use and prolonged heat after running it hard — a common characteristic of new corded tools but worth knowing. Another reviewer said it overheats quickly with larger masonry bits, so it is best for smaller-diameter holes or with patience and breaks for deeper drilling. It is a solid workhorse, not a demolition tool.
Why it earns trust
- 7.8-Amp motor provides reliable power for drilling into brick, block, and wood
- Lightweight design (4.3 pounds) with 360-degree side handle for good control
- 1.5-inch wood drilling capacity adds versatility for general DIY tasks
One consideration
- May overheat with larger masonry bits or heavy continuous use — requires cooling breaks
- Some customers note a burning smell during first use, which is normal but notable
Reach for this if: You want a reliable, mid-priced corded hammer drill from a trusted brand for general brick drilling and DIY tasks — it handles the job without fuss.
skip it if: You need to drill large-diameter holes in dense concrete repeatedly — a rotary hammer or more powerful hammer drill will do it faster and with less heat buildup.
Understanding the Specs
Impact Energy (Joules / ft-lbs)
This is the single most important number for a drill for brick. Impact energy measures how much force each hammer blow delivers. Rotary hammers typically rate this in Joules (or ft-lbs) — higher numbers mean faster drilling in dense materials. For brick, 2-3 Joules is adequate; for reinforced concrete, 4-7 Joules makes a noticeable difference in speed and effort. Standard hammer drills do not usually publish this spec because their cam-action mechanism delivers much lower impact force.
Amperage and Power
For corded drills, amperage (Amps) tells you the electrical current the motor can draw — higher Amps generally mean more torque and sustained power under load. A 7-Amp hammer drill is fine for brick and block; a 9-Amp or 12.5-Amp rotary hammer is better for concrete. For cordless drills, voltage (18V or 20V MAX) and unit watts out (UWO) give a comparable measure of peak power, but battery capacity (Ah) determines runtime under heavy load.
Blows Per Minute (BPM)
BPM measures how fast the hammer mechanism strikes. In a rotary hammer, higher BPM combined with high impact energy means faster drilling. In a standard hammer drill, BPM is typically much higher (25,000-50,000 BPM) but each blow is far weaker. This is why rotary hammers with lower BPM (4,000-5,000 BPM) drill concrete faster than a hammer drill with 30,000 BPM — the individual blows carry much more energy.
Chuck Type and Bit Compatibility
The chuck determines which bits you can use. A 1/2-inch keyed chuck accepts standard round-shank masonry bits — common and inexpensive, but slower to change bits. An SDS-Plus chuck accepts bits with a special slotted shank that locks in without a key, transfers impact energy more efficiently, and allows the bit to slide slightly during hammering. For any serious concrete work, SDS-Plus is the professional standard. A ratcheting chuck (found on some cordless hammer drills) provides good bit retention without a key.
FAQ
Can I use a regular drill for brick?
What is the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer?
Can a cordless hammer drill handle brick?
What size drill bit should I use for brick anchors?
Do I need an SDS-Plus drill for brick?
How do I stop brick dust when drilling indoors?
Can a hammer drill chip or crack brick?
How long should a hammer drill last for home use?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the best drill for brick is the Berserker 26FA because it combines powerful 9-Amp rotary hammer performance, 4.5 Joules of impact energy, and a versatile three-mode design at a mid-range price that undercuts many competitors. If you need the ultimate portable option and already own RYOBI batteries, grab the RYOBI PBLHM101B. And for the hardest concrete drilling or light demolition, nothing on this list beats the DOVAMAN RH15A with its 12.5-Amp motor and 7 Joules of impact energy.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Gardening Beyond earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.