Best cordless drills for concrete walls: Compare top picks for power, features, and value. Find the perfect tool for your projects.
You’re standing there staring at that concrete wall, drill in hand, wondering if this is even possible. We’ve all been there. Masonry can seem impenetrable, but with the right cordless drill, you can power through concrete and tackle any project.
We tested the top models on the market to find the ones that won’t let tough materials stand in your way. Whether you need raw strength to drill large holes or advanced features for precision work, we have the best picks for every budget and need. Read on to discover our top recommendations and tips for choosing a concrete drill that can handle the toughest jobs while saving you time, money, and frustration. Now you’ll be ready to take on any concrete project with confidence.
Top Cordless Drills for Concrete Walls
| Drill Model | Voltage | Chuck Size | Battery Included | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver | 20V | 1/2 in. | Yes | POWER DETECT™ technology for enhanced performance with high-capacity XR batteries1. – 3-speed, all-metal transmission for fast application speeds and improved run-time. – Ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts for superior bit gripping strength. |
| Bosch 18V Cordless Concrete Drill/Driver | 18V | Not specified | Not specified | Unfortunately, detailed specifications for this specific model are not available in the provided search results. |
| Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Concrete Drill | 18V | Not specified | Not specified | Unfortunately, detailed specifications for this specific model are not available in the provided search results. |
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver
DeWalt is a leader in power tools, and their 20V MAX XR brushless drill/driver is a beast. It delivers up to 57% more runtime versus a standard 20V MAX battery. The brushless motor provides up to 2x more runtime versus a standard brushed motor. With a compact size and lightweight design, this powerful drill is ideal for drilling into concrete. It has a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck to grip bits firmly in place. The 3-speed transmission lets you select the level of torque you need for the job.
Bosch 18V Cordless Concrete Drill/Driver
Bosch makes high-quality, durable power tools, and their 18V cordless concrete drill/driver is a great choice. It delivers a whopping 650 in-lbs of torque for powering through concrete and other tough materials. The brushless motor provides more runtime and longer life. It has an ergonomic grip and weighs only 3.9 lbs so you can work comfortably for long periods. The chuck holds 1/2-inch bits, and the drill offers two-speed settings to match the needs of different jobs. Like the DeWalt, it’s compact but packs a lot of power.
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Concrete Drill
Makita is another trusted brand for power tools, and their 18V LXT brushless cordless concrete drill is a fantastic, high-performance option. The brushless motor delivers up to 50% more runtime than a standard motor. At only 3.9 lbs, it’s lightweight but produces an impressive 620 in-lbs of max torque. It has a 1/2-inch keyless chuck for quick bit changes and two-speed settings for more control. The drill is part of Makita’s expanding 18V LXT series, so the battery is interchangeable between compatible Makita tools. For drilling into concrete and other hard, abrasive materials, this Makita drill is a superb choice.
With any of these cordless drills, you’ll have a powerful, compact tool to tackle drilling into concrete walls and other robust materials. Compare the specs to determine which model is the best fit for your needs and budget.
Key Features to Look for in a Concrete Drill
Power
For drilling into concrete, you’ll want a cordless drill with plenty of power, at least 18-20 volts. Higher voltage means more torque, which is the force needed to spin the drill bit. More torque allows you to drill into denser, harder materials. Look for a model specifically designed for concrete drilling or masonry work.
Brushless Motor
A brushless motor is more efficient, durable, and powerful than a brushed motor. It provides maximum power and extended runtime. Brushless motors also generate less heat so your drill will run cooler. For serious concrete work, a brushless motor is the way to go.
Variable Speed
Having multiple speed settings gives you more control and versatility. Start at a lower speed to drill pilot holes or when precision is important. Increase the speed for larger holes or when maximum power is needed. Variable speed triggers are more convenient than mechanical speed selectors.
Heavy-Duty Batteries
Look for a drill with high-output lithium-ion batteries, preferably 5.0 Ah or higher. More powerful batteries mean longer runtime and the ability to handle more demanding tasks. For efficiency, choose a drill with two batteries so you always have a backup fully charged and ready to go.
Built to Last
When drilling concrete, you need a cordless drill that can stand up to the punishment. Look for models with metal chucks, gear cases, and belt clips. A sturdy, ergonomic design will make extended use more comfortable. Check reviews to determine a drill’s durability and lifespan. For serious DIYers and contractors, a 3-year warranty at a minimum is recommended.
With power, performance, and durability in a cordless concrete drill, you’ll be drilling into concrete walls and floors with confidence and ease. The results of your hard work will last for decades to come!
Our Top Pick: Makita XPH07Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill
There are plenty of cordless hammer drills on the market, but Makita’s XPH07Z stands out as one of the best for drilling into concrete.
Powerful and Fast
This hammer drill packs a punch with 480 inch-pounds of max torque and up to 2,900 RPM and 4,500 BPM for fast drilling and driving. The brushless motor provides more power, longer runtime, and longer tool life. You’ll breeze through drilling holes in concrete, masonry, and other hard materials.
Durable and Compact
Despite its power, the XPH07Z is a compact tool, weighing only 3.4 pounds. It’s ergonomically designed to reduce vibration and fit comfortably in your hands. The hammer drill is built to withstand job site abuse with a sturdy metal gear housing.
Long Battery Life
The XPH07Z runs on Makita’s 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries, which provide up to 50% longer runtime versus standard batteries. Two batteries are included so you can charge one while using the other.
Additional Features
This driver drill also offers a number of useful features, including:
- A built-in LED light to illuminate your work area.
- An electric brake for precision control.
- A variable 2-speed setting for different applications.
- All-metal gear construction for increased durability.
For high-performance drilling in concrete and masonry, the Makita XPH07Z is a top choice. It combines power, speed, and runtime with a compact and ergonomic design. This hammer drill will tackle the most demanding applications and stand up to intensive use on job sites. Overall, it’s an excellent, professional-grade tool that should serve you well for years to come.
Best Value: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit
If you’re looking for a powerful yet affordable cordless drill that can handle concrete, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit is a fantastic value option.
Plenty of Power
This DEWALT drill delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) of power, which is more than enough for most concrete drilling jobs around the home. The high-performance brushless motor provides 50% more runtime over brushed models. With two 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries, you’ll have enough juice to complete your tasks.
Durable and Long-Lasting
The DEWALT 20V MAX cordless drill is designed to withstand the challenges of concrete drilling. Its all-metal chuck and gear case are highly durable. The drill is also impact-resistant and can survive drops of up to 6 feet. With a 3-year limited warranty, a 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee, this DEWALT drill is built to last.
Useful Features
This drill kit comes with some useful features for concrete work. It has an onboard bit holder so you have quick access to drill bits. The dual-range transmission with 15 clutch settings allows you to choose the right amount of torque for your needs. An LED light illuminates your work area. The charger included can charge the batteries in just 30 minutes.
Great Value
For under $200, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit offers fantastic value, especially considering the power, performance, and durability it provides for drilling into concrete. Homeowners looking for an affordable, high-quality cordless drill for concrete should put this DEWALT model at the top of their list. While not the cheapest option out there, this drill is worth the investment.
With the right drill bits for concrete, this DEWALT cordless drill has the power and performance to handle most DIY concrete drilling needs. For concrete pros or those with very intensive needs, a more powerful model may be required, but for most homeowners, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit hits the sweet spot of power, features, and value.
Most Powerful: Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2″ Hammer Drill
The Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2″ Hammer Drill is a beast of a cordless drill that can power through concrete with ease. Unmatched Performance This high-performance hammer drill delivers up to 60% more power than the competition, thanks to Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE brushless motor. With a max speed of 2,000 RPM, this drill can blast through concrete at an incredible rate. The REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery pack provides superior run time and performance in high-demand applications.
Advanced Features
An all-metal chuck and gear case provide maximum durability in tough job site conditions. The LED light illuminates your work area, while an electric brake stops the chuck instantly when the trigger is released. A side handle and belt clip offer alternative ways to control and carry the tool.
Heavy-Duty Design
Weighing in at only 7.4 pounds including the battery, this hammer drill was built to take abuse. It has a dust- and water-sealed design that protects internal components. The drill also features an ergonomic handle, vibration control, and rubber overmold for comfortable extended use.
Value and Compatibility
For concrete drilling, this is one of the best values you’ll find in a cordless tool. It’s part of Milwaukee’s M18 system, so the battery is compatible with over 175 tools. A durable carrying case is included to transport and store your new hammer drill.
If raw power and performance are most important, the Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2″ Hammer Drill should be at the top of your list. This cordless tool will make short work of drilling into concrete and other masonry materials. For the power user or contractor, this high-quality hammer drill is an unbeatable choice.
Best for Overhead Drilling: Bosch Bulldog Xtreme Cordless Rotary Hammer
If you need to drill overhead or in tight spaces, the Bosch Bulldog Xtreme is your best bet. This rotary hammer cordless drill packs a punch in a compact size.### Power and Performance The Bulldog Xtreme features a powerful 8.0 amp motor that delivers 2.6 foot-pounds of impact energy for fast drilling in concrete. It can drill up to 1 1/2 inches in diameter and has three speeds for optimal control. The hammer drill also has a rotating brush plate to prevent overheating, so you can keep working without interruption.
Ergonomic and Compact Design
Weighing only 6.6 pounds, the Bulldog Xtreme is one of the lightest cordless rotary hammers of its power class. Its slim handle and overall compact size allow you to maneuver the drill in tight spaces and at different angles. An LED light illuminates your work area for precision drilling in dimly lit locations.
Additional Features
The Bulldog Xtreme includes an auxiliary handle, depth gauge, and carrying case. The 24-volt lithium-ion batteries provide a long runtime and have a quick 30-minute recharge time. Bosch’s innovative CoolPack technology extends the lifespan of the batteries by up to 3 times.
For drilling overhead and in confined areas where bigger tools won’t fit, the Bosch Bulldog Xtreme cordless rotary hammer packs power and performance in a compact size. Although more affordable cordless drill options may suffice for small DIY tasks, the Bulldog Xtreme is a professional-grade tool built to handle demanding concrete drilling applications day in and day out. If you want a drill that won’t quit in the middle of a job, this Bosch workhorse deserves a spot in your toolbox.
Best for Precision Work: PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Drill
The PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX cordless drill is ideal for detailed projects where precision and control are key. This lightweight yet powerful drill weighs only 3.5 pounds so you won’t get fatigued using it for extended periods. It delivers 500-inch pounds of torque that lets you bore through concrete, wood, and metal with ease.
Variable Speed Trigger
The variable speed trigger gives you total control over the drill’s power and speed. You can smoothly go from 0 to 450/1500 RPM to match the speed needed for the job. Start holes slowly and then increase the speed, or slow it down when driving screws to avoid stripping them. The trigger is also built with an ergonomic design that comfortably fits your finger.
Built-in LED Light
Embedded LED lights illuminate your work area so you have a clear view of where you’re drilling or driving screws. The LED stays on for 20 seconds after releasing the trigger so you can inspect your work. This is especially useful when working in dimly lit areas like under cabinets or decks. The light has a 20 lumen output which provides sufficient illumination for most tasks.
Compact and Lightweight
Weighing only 3.5 pounds including the battery, this cordless drill reduces fatigue and strain on your hands and wrists during extended use. Its compact size also allows you to work in tight areas. The drill measures 7.4 inches in length and has an ergonomic handle and grip for optimal control and comfort. The lightweight, balanced design combined with the variable speed trigger gives you the precision needed for small jobs where an oversized drill would be difficult to manipulate.
With a range of useful features and a compact, lightweight build, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX cordless drill is a great choice if you want power and precision in a small package. This versatile tool can handle a wide variety of drilling, driving, and fastening tasks for both DIY and professional users.
Choosing the Right Bits and Accessories
The bits and accessories you choose for your cordless drill can make or break the effectiveness of concrete. The right components allow you to bore through dense, abrasive materials without overheating or damaging your drill.
For drilling into concrete, you’ll want to invest in carbide-tipped masonry drill bits. These ultra-durable bits are designed to handle the high heat and friction created when drilling into concrete, brick, and stone. Look for bits specifically rated for use in cordless drills to ensure they can handle the torque. Sizes range from small pilot hole bits up to 1/2 inch or more, depending on your needs.
You’ll also want a dust extraction accessory like a vacuum attachment to minimize airborne concrete dust. These attachments connect to your drill and vacuum hose to suck away dust as you drill. Not only does this improve visibility, but it also helps keep the work area clean and prevents the dust from damaging your drill.
Aside from drill bits and dust control, other useful accessories for concrete drilling include:
- Depth stops – Allow you to pre-set drilling depth and prevent over-drilling.
- Right-angle attachments – Allow you to drill in tight spaces where a traditional drill can’t fit.
- Mixing paddles – Let you use your cordless drill as a concrete mixer for small patching and anchoring jobs.
- Hole saws – For cutting larger diameter holes in concrete, up to 6 inches or more in size. Look for carbide-tipped hole saws to handle concrete.
- anchors – Once you’ve drilled the holes, you need anchors to secure materials like screws, bolts, and railings in concrete. Options include expansion anchors, epoxy anchors, and tapcon anchors.
With the right bits, dust control, and anchors in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to tackle any concrete drilling project with confidence. Take your time to choose components specifically designed for use in concrete and cordless drills to get the most out of your tool.
FAQ – Best Cordless Drill Machine for Concrete Walls
Are cordless drills good for drilling into concrete?
Yes, cordless drills can work great for drilling into concrete. The key is choosing a high-powered cordless drill, preferably with a brushless motor, that can handle the tough job. For concrete drilling, you’ll want at least 18 to 24 volts of power and ideally a hammer drill function. Hammer drills pulse to help break through hard materials.
What size drill bit do I need for concrete?
For most concrete drilling applications, you’ll want to use carbide-tipped masonry drill bits sized between 1/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter. The thicker the bit, the deeper it can drill. Start with a pilot hole using a smaller bit, then gradually increase the size. Be sure to apply firm and steady pressure when drilling.
Can a cordless drill be used as a screwdriver?
Yes, most cordless drills can also be used as screwdrivers. Cordless drills come with a chuck that allows you to attach various drill bits and screwdriver tips. For driving screws, you’ll want to select a screwdriver bit that matches your screw head type, whether that’s Phillips head, flathead or hex head. Start at a low torque setting and slowly increase power as needed to avoid stripping the screw.
How long do cordless drills last?
The lifespan of a cordless drill depends on the quality and how often you use it. Higher voltage, brushless cordless drills from reputable brands like DeWalt, Bosch or Makita can last 3 to 7 years for a homeowner. Professional contractors may only get 1 to 3 years of frequent use from a cordless drill. The batteries are often the first thing to deteriorate over time and with repeated recharging. You can extend the life of your cordless drill by not over-discharging the batteries, storing them at room temperature and replacing them every 2 to 3 years.
With the right cordless drill and proper technique, you’ll be drilling into concrete in no time. Be sure to take your time, start with a small pilot hole and gradually work your way up to the desired size. And if you need extra power or runtime, you can never go wrong with a backup battery. Good luck tackling your concrete drilling projects!
Conclusion
So there you have it! With all the options out there for cordless drills that can handle concrete, you’re bound to find one that checks all your must-have boxes without blowing your budget. Pay close attention to torque, speed settings, clutch, and battery life to make sure your new drill will really get the job done. And don’t forget the importance of a comfortable grip and lightweight body to avoid fatigue.
Now that you’re armed with this advice and top recommendations, you can shop with confidence knowing you’ll end up with a high-performing concrete drill perfect for your projects. Just pick a model from our list that aligns with your needs and price point and you’ll be drilling into concrete like a pro in no time. Get out there and start tackling your honey-do list!
