🔧 Product Review
Best 18V Hammer Drills UK 2026 - 8 Compared for Brick & Concrete
Most cordless drills die the moment you point them at brick. The bit skates, the motor smells hot and you get a ragged hole nowhere near your mark. We compared eight cordless 18V hammer drills and SDS rotary hammers you can actually buy in the UK right now - from the £55 Black & Decker kit to the DeWalt 18V XR and the Bosch 18V SDS - to find which ones bite cleanly into brick, block and concrete, and which just make noise.
Key Takeaways
- DeWalt DCD778S2T 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill is the best overall battery hammer drill for UK makers - 65Nm torque and a proper hammer action for brick walls
- Bosch GBH 18V-26 F SDS Plus Rotary Hammer is the one to buy if you drill into concrete or blockwork every week - 2.6J of impact energy and an SDS chuck that never slips
- Makita DHP486Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill is the best brushless combi for most workshops, with an all-metal gear housing
- Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB 18V Hammer Drill is the best budget kit at around £55 with batteries and charger included
- Einhell TE-CD 18/40 Li-i is the cheapest way into a serious 18V battery platform at around £63
Suggested Reading: Best Cordless Drills UK 2026 for the full comparison, or 18V vs 12V drill guide if you are still deciding on voltage.
Quick Picks
Short on time? Here is the bottom line.
DeWalt DCD778S2T 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill
£179.99
Bosch GBH 18V-26 F SDS Plus Rotary Hammer
£299.99
Makita DHP486Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill
£109.99
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 Cordless Combi Drill
£94.99
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Hammer Drill
£129.99
Ryobi RPD18BL2-0 ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill
£64.99
Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB 18V Hammer Drill
£54.99
Einhell TE-CD 18/40 Li-i Power X-Change Drill
£62.95
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Rating | Power | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD778S2T 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill | £135.00 | 4.8/5 | 65Nm torque | Overall |
| Bosch GBH 18V-26 F SDS Plus Rotary Hammer | £284.94 | 4.8/5 | 2.6J impact | Masonry |
| Makita DHP486Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | £109.99 | 4.7/5 | Brushless motor | Combi Drill |
| Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 Cordless Combi Drill | £94.99 | 4.6/5 | 55Nm torque | All-Rounder |
| Milwaukee M18 Cordless Hammer Drill | £97.50 | 4.7/5 | 500 in-lbs torque | Heavy Duty |
| Ryobi RPD18BL2-0 ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill | £93.49 | 4.5/5 | 50Nm torque | Ecosystem |
| Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB 18V Hammer Drill | £59.99 | 4.4/5 | 18V | Budget Kit |
| Einhell TE-CD 18/40 Li-i Power X-Change Drill | £103.56 | 4.4/5 | 40Nm torque | Budget Platform |
In-Depth Reviews
DeWalt DCD778S2T 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill.
65Nm torque · 2-speed (0-550/0-2000 RPM) · 13mm keyless chuck · Brushless motor · 2x1.5Ah batteries · TSTAK kitbox
The DeWalt DCD778S2T sits at the sweet spot of the XR range - more power than the entry-level DCD776 but without the eye-watering price of the Flexvolt Advantage models. Its brushless motor delivers 65Nm of torque, enough to drive 150mm screws into hardwood or drill clean holes through 9-inch brick walls with the hammer function engaged.
The two-speed gearbox gives you control: slow speed for driving screws with precision, high speed for drilling. The hammer action on this one is genuinely useful - it chatters through soft brick and thermalite block without the drill bogging down, which is exactly what most UK DIYers need when hanging a radiator or fixing a shelf to a cavity wall.
Build quality is typical DeWalt: rubber overmoulding absorbs vibration, the metal gear casing handles drops, and the 13mm ratcheting chuck grips bits without slipping. The kit includes two 1.5Ah XR batteries that charge fully in under an hour. For most UK makers and tradespeople, this is the one to beat.
- 65Nm torque handles even tough drilling
- Hammer action is genuinely effective on brick
- Brushless motor runs longer and cooler
- Kit comes with two batteries and TSTAK case
- 1.5Ah batteries are small for heavy masonry runs
- No belt hook included
Bosch GBH 18V-26 F SDS Plus Rotary Hammer.
2.6J impact energy · SDS Plus chuck · Brushless motor · 26mm concrete / 13mm steel / 30mm wood · Kickback Control · L-BOXX case · Body only
Here is the honest difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer: a hammer drill vibrates the bit, a rotary hammer punches it. If your masonry work is more than the occasional curtain rail, the Bosch GBH 18V-26 F is the tool that makes concrete drilling feel almost unfair.
It delivers 2.6 joules of impact energy through an SDS Plus chuck, which means the bit locks in with a click and never slips, no matter how hard you lean on it. The brushless motor drives up to 26mm holes in concrete and 30mm in wood, and the Kickback Control cuts power instantly if the bit snags - a genuine safety feature when you are drilling into reinforced concrete.
It also chisels: flick the mode selector and you can chase out mortar or chip off old tiles. Vibration Control keeps the handle noticeably calmer than cheaper rotary hammers, so you can work longer before your hands go numb. It comes body-only in an L-BOXX, so budget for Bosch Professional 18V batteries on top.
- SDS chuck means bits never slip
- 2.6J impact energy powers through concrete
- Kickback Control is a real safety win
- Doubles as a chisel for light demolition
- Expensive - body only at £299.99
- Batteries and charger cost extra
- Overkill if you only drill brick occasionally
Makita DHP486Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill.
Brushless motor · All-metal gear construction · 21 torque settings · 13mm keyless chuck · 2-speed · LED light · Body only
The Makita DHP486Z is a body-only purchase, which means you need existing 18V LXT batteries or the willingness to buy a starter kit. But if you are already on the Makita platform - or planning to be - this drill is a serious performer. The brushless motor is noticeably smoother than brushed alternatives, with better runtime per charge and less heat buildup under load.
What sets the DHP486 apart from cheaper models is the all-metal gear housing: drop it off a ladder and the gears stay meshed, while plastic-housed drills crack and fail. The 21 torque settings give fine control for screwdriving, and the hammer action handles masonry up to 13mm with the two-speed gearbox giving you 0-500 and 0-1900 RPM.
It is also one of the most comfortable drills to hold for extended periods, with a well-balanced grip even with a 5.0Ah battery attached. For UK makers who already own Makita LXT tools, this is the best brushless combi drill you can add to the drawer.
- All-metal gear housing is virtually indestructible
- Smooth brushless motor with excellent runtime
- Very comfortable grip for extended use
- Body only - needs existing LXT batteries
- No carry case included
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 Cordless Combi Drill.
55Nm torque · Brushless motor · RÖHM 13mm metal chuck · 2-speed · 1800 RPM · 20+1 torque settings · Body only
The Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 is the entry point into Bosch's blue (professional) range, and it punches well above its price tag. The headline feature is the RÖHM metal chuck - most drills at this price use a cheaper plastic-chuck alternative that wears out and wobbles after a year.
The metal RÖHM chuck stays true, giving cleaner holes and less bit slippage. The brushless motor delivers 55Nm of torque - slightly less than the DeWalt but more than enough for everyday drilling and screwdriving. Where the GSB 18V-55 really shines is dust and water protection: Bosch's Electronic Motor Protection (EMP) cuts power before overheating damages the windings, and the hammer action is smooth and predictable through soft brick.
It is a body-only tool, so factor in battery costs if you are starting fresh. Works with all Bosch Professional 18V batteries, including the new ProCore range.
- RÖHM metal chuck stays true for years
- Electronic Motor Protection prevents burnouts
- Great value for a Professional-range tool
- 55Nm less powerful than DeWalt or Milwaukee
- Body only - no battery or charger
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Hammer Drill.
500 in-lbs torque · 4-pole frameless motor · 0-450/0-1800 RPM · 13mm metal chuck · All-metal gearbox · Body only
Milwaukee's M18 range is built for the toughest job sites, and this hammer drill delivers exactly what the brand is known for: brute force and durability. The 4-pole frameless motor uses rare-earth magnets for longer life and better power density, and the all-metal gearbox can handle continuous drilling into reinforced concrete without complaining.
The two-speed mechanical transmission gives you 450 RPM for high-torque screwdriving and 1800 RPM for drilling, with the hammer function shifting into a solid mechanical percussion that keeps biting through brick and block. It is not the lightest drill on this list, but the weight is well-distributed and the rubberised grip stays comfortable even with one-handed use.
The metal chuck is a full 13mm ratcheting type that will not let bits slip under load. Body only - expect to pay more for M18 batteries and charger, but the platform covers everything from saws to lights to vacs.
- 4-pole frameless motor is incredibly durable
- All-metal gearbox handles heavy use
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
- Heavier than competitors
- M18 batteries and charger cost extra
Ryobi RPD18BL2-0 ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill.
50Nm torque · Brushless motor · 13mm keyless chuck · 2-speed · LED light · Body only · ONE+ compatible with 260+ tools
The Ryobi ONE+ platform is the smartest play for home DIYers and weekend makers. With over 260 tools sharing the same battery system - everything from nail guns to pressure washers to fans - buying into Ryobi means your first battery purchase opens up a whole workshop.
The RPD18BL2-0 is their latest brushless combi drill, offering 50Nm of torque: plenty for drilling into timber, metal, and soft masonry, with a hammer function that handles brick well enough for occasional fixings. The brushless motor means better runtime and longer tool life compared to the older brushed Ryobi drills.
It is a body-only tool, but Ryobi starter kits with two batteries and a charger start around £80, making the total cost of entry lower than any other major brand. The grip is chunky and comfortable, the LED light actually illuminates the work area, and the 13mm keyless chuck holds bits securely.
- Cheapest entry to a major battery ecosystem
- 260+ tools share the same ONE+ battery
- Brushless motor at a budget price
- Body only - starter kit sold separately
- 50Nm torque is adequate but not class-leading
Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB 18V Hammer Drill.
18V · 2-speed gearbox · 13mm keyless chuck · Hammer function · 2x1.5Ah batteries · Charger · Kitbox included
Not everyone needs a £180 DeWalt. If your drilling is limited to flat-pack furniture, curtain rails, picture hooks, and the occasional shelf bracket, the Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB does everything you need for a fraction of the price. It comes as a complete kit: drill, two 1.5Ah batteries, charger, and a sturdy kitbox.
The two-speed gearbox gives you control for different tasks, and the hammer function handles drilling into brick and concrete - something many budget drills skip entirely. The 13mm keyless chuck is easy to operate one-handed, and the LED work light actually makes a difference in dark cupboards.
It is not built for heavy daily use - the plastic gear housing will not survive a drop from height - but for the average UK homeowner, it is genuinely all the drill you need.
- Complete kit with 2 batteries, charger and case
- Hammer function at a budget price
- Good enough for 90% of home DIY tasks
- Plastic gearbox - will not survive drops
- Not for heavy daily trade use
Einhell TE-CD 18/40 Li-i Power X-Change Drill.
40Nm torque · 2-speed gearbox · 13mm keyless chuck · Hammer function · LED light · 1x2.0Ah battery & charger included · Power X-Change (250+ tools)
Einhell's Power X-Change is the budget maker's gateway into a serious 18V system, and the TE-CD 18/40 Li-i is the drill that starts it. For around £63 you get the drill, a 2.0Ah battery, a charger, and a carry case - everything you need on day one.
The 40Nm of torque is modest next to the DeWalt or Makita, but it is plenty for furniture assembly, drilling timber and plasterboard, and light masonry with the hammer function. What makes this the best budget platform pick is what comes next: Einhell's Power X-Change family covers more than 250 tools, from angle grinders to leaf blowers, all sharing the same batteries.
It is not a tool for trade work - the plastic housing and brushed motor show the cost-cutting - but for a first drill that grows into a full battery ecosystem without breaking the bank, it is hard to beat.
- Complete kit under £70 with battery and charger
- Power X-Change covers 250+ tools
- Hammer function included at this price
- 40Nm torque limits heavy masonry work
- Brushed motor - less efficient than brushless
How to Choose the Best Battery Hammer Drill for You
Hammer Drill vs Rotary Hammer: Know the Difference
This is the question that catches most buyers out. A hammer drill (or combi drill with hammer function) uses two toothed discs that vibrate the chuck while the bit rotates - fine for drilling 6-8mm holes in soft brick and thermalite block. A rotary hammer (SDS) uses an electro-pneumatic piston to physically punch the bit into the material, with an SDS chuck that locks the bit in place.
If your masonry work is occasional fixings, a hammer drill is enough. If you drill into concrete, solid brick, or block walls regularly, buy the rotary hammer. That is why both appear on this list.
Brushless or Brushed Motor
Brushless motors are more efficient - they deliver more runtime per charge, generate less heat, and last longer because there are no brushes to wear out. The price gap has narrowed to the point where brushless combi drills start around £60-70 body only. Unless your budget is very tight, go brushless. The two budget picks here (Black & Decker and Einhell) are brushed, which is the trade-off you accept at that price point.
Chuck and SDS: What You Need to Know
A combi drill uses a 13mm keyless chuck that accepts any round-shank bit. An SDS Plus chuck accepts only SDS bits, which have grooved shanks that lock with a click. SDS bits never slip under load, which is why rotary hammers use them. If you buy an SDS rotary hammer as your only drill, you need a separate chuck adapter or a second drill for everyday round-shank bits - one more reason most UK makers keep a combi drill as their daily driver.
Torque: How Much Do You Need?
For light DIY (flat-pack furniture, curtain rails, picture hooks): 30-40Nm is plenty. For regular drilling into brick, driving large screws, or using hole saws: aim for 50-65Nm. For heavy trade use: 65Nm+ with hammer function. For concrete: forget torque numbers and buy an SDS rotary hammer with at least 2J of impact energy.
Battery Ecosystem: The Hidden Cost
The drill is only the start. Once you buy into a battery platform - DeWalt XR, Makita LXT, Ryobi ONE+, Milwaukee M18, Bosch Professional, or Einhell Power X-Change - you are committed, because batteries and chargers often cost more than the tool itself. Ryobi ONE+ and Einhell Power X-Change are the most affordable ecosystems. DeWalt and Makita batteries cost more but last longer and hold more charge over years of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
After comparing eight of the best battery hammer drills available in the UK, one clear winner emerges for most makers: the DeWalt DCD778S2T 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill. It balances power (65Nm), build quality, battery ecosystem, and price better than anything else on the market.
If your masonry work is serious - concrete, solid brick, block walls - skip the combi drill debate entirely and buy the Bosch GBH 18V-26 F SDS Plus Rotary Hammer. The SDS chuck and 2.6J of impact energy turn concrete drilling into a five-second job.
If you are on a tight budget, the Black & Decker BCD700S1K-GB 18V Hammer Drill is genuinely good value for light DIY - and comes with everything you need in one box.
For makers planning to build a full tool collection, the Ryobi RPD18BL2-0 ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill offers the best ecosystem value, with 260+ tools sharing the same ONE+ batteries.
Whichever you choose, buy the best drill your budget allows - a good hammer drill lasts a decade, and a bad one makes every project harder than it needs to be.
James Walker
Writer
James compares power tools, hand tools and workshop kit. He has a fully equipped home workshop and has been building furniture for over 12 years.
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026 · Evidence-based review · Contains affiliate links