When it comes to drilling into brick, block, or concrete, choosing the right power tool is essential. Two of the most commonly used tools for masonry work are the hammer drill and the SDS drill. While they may look similar, they are designed for different levels of power, performance, and application.
Understanding the difference between a hammer drill and an SDS drill will help you choose the right tool for your DIY or professional project.
What Is a Hammer Drill?
A hammer drill combines rotational drilling with a rapid hammering action. This action helps break up masonry while the drill bit rotates, allowing it to drill into hard surfaces like brick and light concrete.
Key Features of Hammer Drills:
- Rotating and hammering motion
- Uses standard chuck (keyed or keyless)
- Suitable for brick, block, and light concrete
- Available in both corded and cordless models
- Ideal for DIY and home improvement projects
Best Uses for a Hammer Drill:
- Drilling holes in brick walls
- Installing wall plugs and fixings
- Light concrete drilling
- General household and renovation tasks
For most UK homeowners, a hammer drill is more than capable of handling occasional masonry work.
What Is an SDS Drill?
An SDS drill (Slotted Drive System) is designed for heavy-duty masonry and concrete drilling. Unlike a hammer drill, an SDS drill uses a piston-driven hammer mechanism, which delivers much higher impact energy.
SDS drills require SDS drill bits, which slide into the chuck and lock in place, allowing the bit to move back and forth freely for maximum impact.
Key Features of SDS Drills:
- Extremely powerful hammering action
- SDS chuck system (SDS Plus or SDS Max)
- Faster drilling through concrete and stone
- Often includes chiselling and rotary-only modes
- Designed for professional and trade use
Best Uses for an SDS Drill:
- Drilling large holes in concrete
- Heavy masonry and structural work
- Chiselling tiles, plaster, or concrete
- Construction and renovation projects
Because of their power and durability, SDS drills are widely used by builders, electricians, and contractors across the UK.
Hammer Drill vs SDS Drill: Key Differences
| Feature | Hammer Drill | SDS Drill |
|---|---|---|
| Power Level | Medium | High |
| Hammer Mechanism | Mechanical | Pneumatic |
| Drill Bits | Standard bits | SDS Plus / SDS Max |
| Best For | Brick & light concrete | Heavy concrete & stone |
| Chiselling Mode | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| User Type | DIY & home users | Professionals & heavy users |
Which Drill Should You Choose?
Choosing between a hammer drill and an SDS drill depends on how often and how intensely you work with masonry.
Choose a Hammer Drill If:
- You only drill into masonry occasionally
- You work mostly with brick or light concrete
- You need a versatile drill for home DIY
- You want a lighter and more affordable option
Choose an SDS Drill If:
- You regularly drill into solid concrete
- You need faster drilling with less effort
- You require chiselling or demolition features
- You work on professional or construction projects
Cordless vs Corded Options
Both hammer drills and SDS drills are available in corded and cordless models.
- Cordless drills offer portability and convenience for site work
- Corded drills provide consistent power for extended use
In the UK market, 18V cordless SDS drills are increasingly popular due to their improved battery technology and performance.
Final Thoughts
While both tools are designed for masonry, they serve different purposes. A hammer drill is perfect for light masonry and everyday DIY tasks, while an SDS drill is the go-to choice for heavy-duty concrete drilling and professional applications.
If you’re a homeowner tackling occasional jobs, a hammer drill will meet your needs. For demanding work and frequent use, investing in an SDS drill will save time, effort, and deliver better results.