Finding the best cordless drill for masonry isn’t always straightforward. Masonry materials—like concrete, brick, and stone—demand a drill that delivers high torque, strong hammer action, and long battery life. But here’s the catch: not every cordless drill is built for these heavy-duty jobs.
So, what should you look for? Keep reading…
Many users start their search with general options like the best cordless drill, while others consider tools strong enough for automotive work such as the best cordless drill for removing lug nuts. These categories help you understand torque capabilities, but masonry drilling has its own requirements. And guess what? The right model can dramatically increase your efficiency and drilling accuracy.
In this review, you’ll discover what sets a true masonry-ready cordless drill apart—and how to choose one that won’t let you down when you’re facing tough materials.
Our Top Picks
Best Compact Pick: DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
The DEWALT DCD771C2 stands out for users who want a compact, easy-to-handle drill without sacrificing everyday performance. Its 300 UWO motor gives enough power for general home projects, and the two-speed transmission (0–450 / 0–1500 RPM) allows smooth switching between control-driven fastening and faster drilling. The 1/2-inch chuck accommodates common bit sizes, while the overall 20V platform keeps it compatible with other DEWALT tools. At just 1.3Ah per battery, runtime is modest, but having two batteries helps reduce downtime. Its metal and plastic construction feels sturdy, and the lightweight frame makes long sessions or overhead work less tiring.
From a customer perspective, the drill’s simplicity and comfort are usually the biggest wins. Many appreciate how well it fits into tight spaces and how consistently it handles wood, metal, and household repairs. However, users tackling denser materials often notice the torque limit and wish for longer-lasting batteries.
Overall, the DCD771C2 offers strong value for everyday DIY work—reliable, compact, and powerful enough for most home tasks. It’s not a heavy-duty beast, but its efficiency, ease of use, and dependable performance make it a solid all-around pick in its price range.
Best Brushless Value: 20V Cordless Brushless Power Drill Set
Built around a brushless motor, this INSPIRITECH 20V drill set targets users who want longer tool life, smoother operation, and better efficiency than entry-level brushed models. Its 3/8-inch single-sleeve keyless chuck keeps bit changes quick and secure, and the two included 1.5Ah batteries pair well with the fast one-hour charger to reduce downtime. With dual speeds (0–450 / 0–1500 RPM) and 21+1 torque settings, the drill adapts easily between light fastening and controlled drilling on softer materials. At just 2.49 lbs, it’s comfortable for extended use, helped by an ergonomic rubberized grip. The built-in LED light and the bundled accessory kit—bits, extensions, screws, and a tool bag—make the package feel complete for new DIYers.
From a customer point of view, the brushless motor and full kit are major selling points. Users often highlight how smooth and quiet the drill feels, along with how convenient it is to have every accessory ready out of the box. On the flip side, its lower torque and modest drilling capacity mean it’s better suited for light to medium household tasks rather than demanding builds.
Overall, this drill delivers strong value for beginners or casual DIY users. It emphasizes comfort, versatility, and long-term motor durability, making it a solid pick for everyday home projects—just not a heavy-duty workhorse.
Best Compact SDS: DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill
Designed for concrete-focused tasks, the DEWALT DCH273B stands out as a compact SDS rotary hammer that delivers serious impact energy without the bulk of larger corded tools. Its 2.1 joules of impact force enables fast, efficient drilling in concrete, making it suitable for anchors, seismic attachments, cable trays, and similar installs. The SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system meaningfully reduces vibration at the handles, helping users stay comfortable during extended work. A brushless motor paired with a German-engineered mechanism adds durability and smooth runtime, while the rotating dial makes switching between drilling, hammer drilling, and chipping straightforward. With 1100 RPM and 2800 BPM performance, it offers enough speed for most medium-duty masonry tasks while keeping the footprint manageable.
From a customer standpoint, its lightweight feel and reduced vibration tend to be the biggest wins. Many users appreciate how it cuts fatigue when drilling multiple holes in concrete overhead or in tight spaces. The limitation is that it comes as a bare tool and isn’t intended for heavy demolition; buyers often note that fully demanding chipping work calls for a larger SDS-Plus or SDS-Max alternative.
Overall, the DCH273B is a high-value performer for pros and serious DIYers who need a portable, efficient concrete drilling solution. It balances power, comfort, and precision exceptionally well for its class, delivering reliable results across a wide range of jobsite applications.
FAQs
Are cordless drills powerful enough for masonry?
Yes—but only certain models. Standard cordless drills often struggle with dense materials, leading to overheating, slow progress, or damaged bits. For masonry, you need a cordless drill with hammer-drill functionality, high torque output, and a long-lasting lithium-ion battery. These hammer drills deliver rapid impacts (measured in BPM—blows per minute) that help the bit break through dense material efficiently. Modern 18V and 20V Max systems from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita offer enough power for light-to-medium concrete work when paired with the right carbide-tipped masonry bits.
What is the best drill for masonry drilling?
The best drill for masonry drilling is typically a cordless hammer drill designed with high torque, strong impact energy, and multiple speed settings. For heavier work, models with brushless motors are preferred because they deliver higher efficiency, better durability, and cooler operation. Tools such as the DeWalt 20V Max XR Hammer Drill, Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hammer Drill, and Makita XPH14Z consistently receive high recommendations for their power, BPM performance, and runtime. If you expect to drill into reinforced concrete, an SDS-Plus rotary hammer is even better—but for versatility and portability, a premium cordless hammer drill is ideal.
Can a 20V cordless drill go through concrete?
Yes, a 20V cordless hammer drill can go through concrete—especially if it has a brushless motor, high-performance gearbox, and at least 1,000–1,200 in-lbs of torque. It’s important to use quality carbide masonry bits and let the hammer mechanism do the work without forcing the tool. While a 20V drill can handle small to medium holes in concrete or block, it may still struggle with deep or wide holes in fully cured, high-density concrete. For those cases, stepping up to an SDS-Plus rotary hammer is the better choice.
What is the highest rated cordless drill?
Highest-rated cordless drills typically come from premium brands known for durability and power. Current top performers often include:
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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hammer Drill – Known for class-leading torque and outstanding build quality.
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DeWalt 20V Max XR Hammer Drill – Praised for balance, runtime, and reliability.
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Makita XPH14Z – Often highlighted for speed, compactness, and excellent hammer performance.
These models consistently score high in power tests, user reviews, and professional evaluations due to their performance in tough materials like masonry.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cordless drill for masonry comes down to power, hammer performance, and battery efficiency. A quality brushless hammer drill can handle concrete, brick, and stone with confidence—especially when paired with the right bits. Whether you're tackling occasional home projects or frequent job-site work, investing in a capable masonry-ready cordless drill ensures faster drilling, cleaner holes, and long-term reliability.
