Which Is Better: Rotary Hammer SDS or a Regular Hammer Drill?

SDS Drills Are More Powerful

Rotary hammer SDS drills provide a more powerful action than standard hammer drills and can accept larger drill bits. This makes them ideal for large heavy duty jobs, like drilling concrete or brick and, which is why they are often used by construction professionals.

Regular Hammer Drills Are Cheaper

Regular hammer drills tend to be cheaper than the SDS variants. The associated drill bits also cost less, because they do not have to withstand the higher impact load of an SDS type drill.

Bottom Line

If you need to drill concrete, brick or need to use your drill everyday the rotary SDS Hammer type is probably the better choice. If you only use your drill for DIY projects around the home from time to time, the extra cost of the SDS may not be justifiable and a standard rotary hammer is probably adequate.

References

• SDS Hammer Drill: What is an SDS Hammer Drill?
• Ultimate Handyman: Power Drills
• Technology Student: SDS (Special Direct System) Drills