Cordless rotary hammers - an overview of the best models and recommendations for choosing
Recently, advanced powerful and productive cordless rotary hammers with batteries that can successfully compete with network models have appeared on the market. It is much more convenient to use them, since the cables do not get tangled when moving, and the uninterrupted operation of the work process is ensured by the presence of several batteries: one is inserted into the instrument, and the second is charging at this time.
A few years ago, the battery versions were expensive, and they lagged far behind the network ones in performance. Today they cost almost as much as network models, they are almost inferior in performance to them, and superior in terms of ease of use.
Next, we will consider what types of cordless rotary hammers are, what to look for when choosing them, and also review the best models of such a tool.
Types of cordless rotary hammers
There are many modifications of cordless rotary hammers on sale, differing in shape, the principle of action of the percussion mechanism, the type of attachment of the equipment and other parameters. The hammer drill belongs to the category of hand tools, which the employee has to hold on his weight in his hands, so it is important to choose the most convenient model.
Variety of forms of perforators
All cordless rotary hammers in shape can be:
- straight, with a horizontal layout of the engine;
- L-shaped (L-shaped), with a vertical engine.
In direct rotary hammers, the engine and percussion mechanism are located horizontally.
Horizontal rotary hammer drill.
Vertical rotary hammers are more bulky, but more productive and last longer. This arrangement allowed designers to reduce the length of the device, while increasing the cooling area of the engine.
Vertical rotary hammer drill.
For living conditions, it is recommended to buy a compact and maneuverable tool of a straight form, and for professional purposes - a productive L-shaped.
Difference of perforators according to the principle of the impact mechanism
There are two types of percussion mechanism implementations in rotary hammers:
- mechanical;
- pneumatic.
Mechanical shock system based on an eccentric that actuates the lever spring, and that in turn moves the percussion device. Then the percussion device acts on the percussion device and transfers the impact to the rig of the hammer. Then the recoil energy of the percussion device is absorbed by the spring and amplified when the percussion device moves forward. With this type of percussion device, all rotary hammers with a horizontal engine layout are sold.
See the principle of the mechanical shock system in the video:
Pneumatic Impact System based on the operation of the piston, which moves in the cylinder compresses the air cushion and thereby moves another, free piston, which is located in front of it. As a result, the free piston moves forward and acts on the firing pin. After that, the working piston begins to move backward, and the free piston, having pushed off from the hammer, also begins to move backward.
At this time, the working piston begins to move forward, but the free piston is still moving towards the working piston, squeezing the air cushion between them. At a certain moment, the working piston reaches the upper limit and the free piston changes the direction of movement. In this case, the speed of the free piston increases many times due to the effect of high pressure.
In this way, an impact force is generated, which is transmitted to the rig of the hammer drill. The operation of this system does not depend on the pressure that the user exerts on the hammer. That is why manufacturers of rotary hammers do not recommend exerting excessive influence on the tool, as this can lead to breakage of both the tool and the entire device.
See the principle of the pneumatic shock system in the video:
Difference between punchers by type of attachment
Cordless rotary hammers can use one of two attachment systems - SDS PLUS or SDS MAX.
SDS-plus system.
The most common mounting option used in compact household rotary hammers. This fastening system is designed to fix drills capable of making holes up to 32 mm in diameter.
Shank snap SDS Plus.
SDS-max system.
This mounting system is equipped with professional models of cordless rotary hammers. The accessories for the SDS MAX fastening system have a larger diameter, and the drills allow you to drill holes up to 52 mm.
Shank snap SDS Max.
How to choose a cordless rotary hammer
You can make the right choice of a cordless drill after studying the main types of batteries, their features and technical parameters for different models.
How to determine the type of battery
Lithium-ion batteries (Li-Ion) characterized by high capacity with low weight. They do not have a memory effect, so the device can be charged at any time, without waiting until it is fully discharged. Charging time is short - from 30 minutes. This type of battery is best suited for the constant and intense load that is present in the work of the hammer drill.
Li-ion battery for rotary hammer.
Nickel Cadmium Batteries (Ni-Cd) have large dimensions and weight. But they are much cheaper than lithium-ion and can work at very low temperatures (up to -20 degrees C). The main disadvantage of these batteries is that they have a so-called memory effect.
The memory effect is the loss of battery capacity and, as a consequence, its shorter use in the intervals between recharges. To avoid what, such a battery is sent for storage completely discharged to zero, and its charging is carried out only when the battery is completely dead.
Ni-Cd battery for rotary hammer.
Comparison of lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium batteries:
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li-ion | Ni-cd | |||||||
| The number of charge and discharge cycles | 600 | 1000 | ||||||
| Ability to charge quickly | 30 minutes - 2 hours | 4-8 hours | ||||||
| Cost | cost up to 50% of the tool itself | cheap | ||||||
| Full power tool response | low rates | good performance | ||||||
| The effect of memorizing the charge level | not | there is | ||||||
| Self discharge | 3-5% per month | 10% per month | ||||||
| Dimensions | smaller | large | ||||||
| Work in the cold | do not tolerate low temperatures | can work | ||||||
| Full time | must be charged in advance | tolerate well | ||||||
If you do not have to work in sub-zero temperatures, then it is best to give preference to lithium-ion batteries.
What battery parameters should be considered and what do they mean
When choosing a tool, the voltage and capacity of the battery must be taken into account.
Battery voltage
This parameter is one of the main ones and affects the duration of use of the battery.The voltage can be from 10.8 to 54 V. Since a rotary hammer requires a large amount of energy to operate, for intense, powerful, productive work, a voltage of at least 18 V. is needed. Battery voltage affects the period during which the battery can maintain maximum tool power.
Battery capacity
The duration of the device operation on one battery charge depends on the capacity. Capacity is measured in A * h, it can be from 1.3 to 5 A * H. The higher this indicator, the longer the battery life.
The higher the voltage and capacitance parameters specified in the description of the battery, the greater the weight and cost of the tool.
What parameters of the punch you need to consider
Punch Weight
The weight of the drill with different models can be from 1 to 8 kg. The weight of cordless rotary hammers is directly related to power: the more the tool weighs, the more powerful it is. Easy punch is easier to use in tight spaces and drilling at a height (ceiling). It is because of the large dependence of the power of the punch on the power characteristics of the battery, powerful cordless punchers are not widely used.
Energy (power) impact
Impact energy is measured in Joules (J), in cordless perforators it can be from 1.3 to 6 J. This is one of the most important parameters that you should pay attention to when buying a tool. The simplest models capable of performing standard tasks of drilling small and shallow holes have an impact force of 1.3 J. The higher this indicator, the more effectively the device copes with drilling and chiselling of hard stone, concrete, and brick surfaces.
Cartridge rotation speed
Shows the number of spindle revolutions per minute (rpm). As a rule, this indicator is lower for battery models than for network models. But if it reaches 2500 rpm, then such devices can compete in drilling speed with a hammer operating from the network. If the device is supposed to be used for drilling holes, then this indicator is not so important, since this does not affect the drilling speed, and small turns are enough to remove concrete chips.
Additional functions
The word “additional” in the designation of the functions of devices in this category does not mean “less important”. Additional functions (reverse, auto-adjusting the speed, highlighting the working area, depth gauge for drilling, the presence of 2 batteries in the kit) make the tool as convenient as possible, which is ultimately the main task of any tool manufacturer.
Reverse
Reverse (from Latin versus - against, reverse) - the function of the reverse rotation of the snap. In the case of drilling superhard structures of stone, concrete, it is necessary. When the drill gets stuck in the concrete or sticks in it, then turning on the rotation in the opposite direction will help to quickly and without significant effort remove the equipment from the material, and then continue the process.
Electronic speed control
The number of spindle revolutions per minute affects the ability to drill materials of different densities. Automatic tuning means that the tool itself turns on a certain number of revolutions depending on the hardness of the material and the load the drill has encountered. Manual tuning means changing the pressure on the start button.
LED backlight
The backlight is convenient for objects and in places where there is insufficient lighting. Before buying, it is recommended to check how convenient it is made, where the light flux is directed. A correctly installed diode should shine at the drilling point.
Correct punch light.
Drilling depth limiter
Depth adjustment is necessary to limit the entry of the drill into the material, especially when delicate work and drilling thin materials.The limiter stops the drill inlet when the hole depth reaches the parameters set by the user.
Depth limiter.
Two batteries included
The presence of two batteries in the kit is an indispensable function for professional builders or home craftsmen who plan to perform a significant amount of drilling on concrete or brick. While the device runs on one battery, the second is put on charge. After the life of the first battery is exhausted, it is quickly changed to a charged one, without wasting time or stopping the work.
Rotary hammer with two batteries.
Hammers are designed to perform quite complex operations - drilling and drilling holes in very hard reinforced concrete, stone, brick structures. Therefore, the speed and quality of work, the amount of effort expended, the convenience of using the tool depend on the correct choice of model. Knowledge of the technical features of different models, the ability to navigate in the characteristics will allow you to choose a battery-powered rotary hammer suitable for power, functions and price.
Next, we review the best models of cordless rotary hammers.
The selection of goods was carried out on the basis of reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and trademarks and do not call for the purchase of certain products. The article is for informational purposes only.
Best 12 Volt cordless rotary hammers
Among the best models working on 12 B batteries, we distinguished two models: AEG BBH 12 LI -401C and Bosch Uneo 12.
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEG BBH 12 LI - 401C | Bosch Uneo 12 | |||||||
| Impact Strength, J | 0,9 | 1,2 | ||||||
| Impact rate, bpm | 0 - 5350 | 0 - 4800 | ||||||
| Spindle speed, rpm | 0 - 800 | 0 - 900 | ||||||
| Battery type | Li-ion | Li-ion | ||||||
| Battery capacity, A * h | 4 | 2.5 | ||||||
| Number of Batteries Included | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Weight, kg | 1.8 | 1.2 | ||||||
AEG BBH 12 LI - 401C
It belongs to the class of punchers characterized by a small impact force (0.9 J) and spindle speed (800 rpm). It can work in two modes - drilling and hammer drilling.
+ Pros AEG BBH 12 LI - 401C
- Powerful, but it works delicately.
- With a small weight gives a strong blow.
- Lightweight, so the hand does not get tired.
- The course is smooth, without jerking.
- There is a bright backlight.
- Ergonomic.
- Capture convenient.
- The handle is rubberized, does not slip in the hand.
- There is an additional battery.
- Charges fast.
- Cons AEG BBH 12 LI - 401C
- Only two modes - drilling plus drilling with chiselling.
- Charging after turning on makes an unpleasant sound, albeit quiet.
Conclusion. Consumers are positioning AEG BBH 12 LI -401C as the absolute leader among the technology of its category. He has no equal in power and impact power, given its lightness and work on 12-volt batteries. This is an indispensable thing for delicate and accurate drilling of holes in the wall where repairs are made, installation of plumbing or pipe holders on the walls in a fully finished bathroom or toilet.
Bosch Uneo 12
This model belongs to the 3-in-1 category (hammer drill, screwdriver, drill), has three modes. The compact small punch is easy to hold in your hand. He copes with all the functions, works well with hard materials. The weight of the device is only 1.2 kg, and the impact force is 0.5 J.
+ Pros of Bosch Uneo 12
- Compact, convenient for use at home.
- It copes with difficult tasks well - it bores porcelain tiles, concrete, and brick well.
- Cons of Bosch Uneo 12
- Equipped only with special drills. Special drills for it are not sold in all stores.
- There is only one battery in the kit.
Conclusion. The Bosch Uneo 12 puncher perfectly performs all operations and is suitable for solving small household tasks.
Best 18 Volt cordless rotary hammers
 |  |  |  |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWALT DCH133N | Bosch GBH 180-LI | Makita DHR242RFE | DeWALT DCH 273 P2 | Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact | |||||||
| Impact Strength, J | 2.6 | 1.7 | 2.4 | 2.1 | 1 | ||||||
| Impact rate, bpm | 0 - 5500 | 0 - 4550 | 0 - 4700 | 0 - 4600 | 0 - 4950 | ||||||
| Spindle speed, rpm | 0 - 1500 | 0 - 1800 | 0 - 950 | 0 - 1100 | 0 - 1050 | ||||||
| Battery type | Li-ion | Li-ion | Li-ion | Li-ion | Li-ion | ||||||
| Battery capacity, A * h | - | 4 | 3 | 5 | 1.5 | ||||||
| Number of Batteries Included | - | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | ||||||
| Weight, kg | 2.27 | 3.2 | 3.3 | 3.1 | 2.1 | ||||||
DeWALT DCH133N
Belongs to the category of powerful and light punchers with three modes and impact force of 2.6 J.The tool is well characterized by users who put it into practice. It features a high speed of passage of the drill, the ability to drill solid materials, it works for a long time.
+ Pros of DeWALT DCH133N
- High power.
- Convenient D-handle, made in accordance with all the rules of ergonomics. With intensive drilling, the hand does not get tired.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Reasonable price.
- Vibration during operation is weak.
- Cons DeWALT DCH133N
- Some users have complaints about switching the reverse button - it plays, does not always work quickly, it is difficult to fix in the middle position.
Conclusion. An excellent tool for drilling reinforced concrete structures, which is not inferior in power to the network one. Thanks to well-thought-out ergonomics and light weight, it is convenient to work with. There are almost no negative reviews on the model - the vast majority of masters are satisfied with the quality, power, convenience of the DeWALT DCH133N.
Bosch GBH 180-LI
The impact energy of the punch is 1.7 J, which is enough for small and medium jobs. The maximum diameter of the drill is 20 mm, which allows you to make holes for the anchor for hanging heavy structures. Speed - up to 1800 rpm, it can be adjusted to perform drilling / drilling delicately.
+ Pros of Bosch GBH 180-LI
- By power and weight (2.6 kg) it does not differ much from an electric perforator.
- Productive.
- There is a backlight.
- Sophisticated ergonomic design - easy and pleasant to use.
- A good battery - the battery lasts for a long time.
- Cons Bosch GBH 180-LI
- Dust accumulates in the battery cartridge.
- Some complain of damage to the electronics.
Conclusion. Bosch GBH 180-LI copes well with drilling holes in solid building materials - concrete, tile, brick. The model is durable and productive. It has proven itself in the implementation of installation and dismantling work: drilling holes or chipping tiles, preparing an object for installing ventilation systems, wiring.
Makita DHR242RFE
Makita DHR242RFE is a fairly powerful and convenient model with a shock force of 2.4 J. It comes with 2 batteries, a charger, a side handle. The frequency of strokes (per minute) is up to 4700, revolutions - 950.
+ Pros of Makita DHR242RFE
- A powerful and productive model that completely replaces an electric hammer drill of a similar class.
- Ergonomic body.
- The duration of the tool’s working cycle is sufficient to carry out the necessary drilling and drilling operations in the required volume.
- Compact, lightweight, easy to use device.
- Cons Makita DHR242RFE
- No backlight.
- There is no hook for attaching the case.
- Noisy when turned on.
- Boers enter the cartridge with difficulty.
- Too voluminous and uncomfortable case.
Conclusion. The model is characterized by users as productive and powerful, justifying its price. The strength and number of beats per minute are sufficient for professional construction and repair work. Using a powerful tool is easy - its weight is relatively small, the handle is ergonomic and rubberized with a comfortable grip.
DeWALT DCH 273 P2
The DeWALT DCH 273 P2 brushless rotary hammer has three operating modes. Designed for drilling holes in solid structures, impact drilling, chiselling. Manufacturers claim that on one battery charge, the tool is able to make 90 holes with a depth of 80 mm with a drill with a diameter of 10 mm in a reinforced concrete wall. The impact force is 2.1 J, the impact frequency (per minute) is 4600, and the maximum spindle speed is 1100.
+ Pros of DeWALT DCH 273 P2
- Light weight - 3.1 kg.
- The center of gravity is optimally balanced, so it’s convenient to use the model.
- It is convenient to work in a limited space, to drill holes on the ceiling.
- The brushless motor enables continuous operation by saving battery power.
- There is protection against jamming.
- Weak vibration.
- Excellent response speed to user manipulation - it stops instantly when a button is pressed.
- Cons DeWALT DCH 273 P2
- The reverse switch does not work well enough.
- There is no dust extraction system.
Conclusion. DeWALT DCH 273 P2 is characterized by users as a model that even surpasses network analogues of the same class in technical specifications. There are almost no equal devices for installing rough electrics. Suitable for construction and repair of exterior and interior. According to user reviews, two charged batteries last for 24 hours of periodic drilling / drilling.
Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact
Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact is a dual-mode model (drilling, drilling), lightweight (weight 2.1 kg) with low impact force (1 J). Frequency of blows up to 4950 beats / min., Revolutions - 1050 rpm. Equipped with two 1.5 A * h lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries.
+ Pros of Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact
- There is built-in ventilation that protects the device from overheating.
- Convenient location of the power button and reverse next to the handle.
- The handle is closed, holds well in the hand, it is comfortable to use, given the small weight of the unit.
- There is a backlight - you can work in a room where there is no light.
- Cons Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact
- There are no clips for attaching the case to the belt.
- High price.
- Due to the light weight, a tangible impact on the shoulder.
Conclusion. According to the reviews of owners who have been using this model for more than a year, it has proven itself to be excellent. Drills holes (with a diameter of 6 to 12 mm, a depth of up to 300 mm) and conducts drilling quickly in any material - silicate and red brick, concrete. Due to its lightness, compactness and ergonomics, the Bosch GBH 18 V-LI Compact rotary hammer is suitable for working in difficult conditions and at height.
Best 54 Volt cordless rotary hammers
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWALT DCH333NT | DeWALT DCH481N | |||||||
| Impact Strength, J | 3.5 | 6 | ||||||
| Impact rate, bpm | 0 - 4480 | 3150 | ||||||
| Spindle speed, rpm | 0 - 1000 | 540 | ||||||
| Battery type | Li-ion | Li-ion | ||||||
| Battery Included |  |
|
||||||
DeWALT DCH333NT
DeWALT DCH333NT is a three-mode model with a shock force of 3.5 J, a frequency of bpm 4480, a sufficiently high spindle speed - up to 1000 rpm. There is a backlight installed exactly in the place where it is needed, as well as a depth gauge for drilling. The design is thoughtful, ergonomic, convenient to use.
+ Pros of DeWALT DCH333NT
- Excellent power - 3.5 J, good performance. This rotary hammer successfully competes with network models of a similar class.
- Strong case, unpretentiousness in operation.
- Great build quality.
- Anti-vibration handle that dampens vibration almost completely.
- Thoughtful balancing, ergonomic design - work easily and comfortably.
- The battery charges very quickly - in 3 hours.
- Cons DeWALT DCH333NT
- Without dust removal system.
- There is a backlash of the drill.
- High price.
- Weight is 3.7 kg, so the tool is not very convenient to use for drilling holes in the ceiling base.
Conclusion. Powerful DeWALT DCH333NT is suitable for all types of construction and repair of interior and exterior works, electrical installation, drilling of reinforced concrete structures. A feature of the model is the possibility of its use as a professional and household tool. The reliability of the punch is increased: the manufacturer gives a guarantee for this tool for 3 years, which in itself is rare.
DeWALT DCH481N
The rotary hammer has a countless motor and is designed to operate in 3 modes: simple drilling, hammer drilling and chiselling. Powerful impact force - 6 J, frequency - 3150 beats / min, spindle rotation speed - 540 rpm. The power source is a 54 V XR FLEXVOLT battery. The battery and charger are not included with the drill. Significant weight - 8 kg.
+ Pros of DeWALT DCH481N
- A very powerful tool.
- Quickly makes large diameter holes.
- Soft recoil with high power and considerable weight.
- There is anti-vibration, and it is not the handle that is set on it, but the entire case, which ensures a comfortable mode of use.
- All openings are covered, therefore they are not blocked by dust.
- Cons DeWALT DCH481N
- Heavy (8 kg).
- High price.
Conclusion. This is a professional-class model - durable, reliable, powerful. Such a tool can perform complex construction operations: drilling a foundation, reinforced concrete reinforced walls under power anchors. For a day, two 6 Ah batteries are enough.The design is well thought out by the developers, made soundly. The manufacturer gives a guarantee for DeWALT DCH481N 3 years.
