Guide
Hammer drill vs SDS drill: what is the real difference?
A plain UK guide to choosing between a hammer drill and SDS drill for masonry, concrete and repeated fixing work.
Quick answer
A hammer drill can cope with small holes in softer masonry. SDS drills use a different chuck and hammer action, so they are usually the better hire choice for concrete, dense brick, lintels and repeated holes.
Typical example
If a curtain rail needs six small holes in brick, a good hammer drill may work. If the bit barely advances in concrete, or you need anchor holes across a slab, SDS+ is usually the sensible class to compare.
Checks before hire
- SDS bits are not the same as normal smooth-shank masonry bits.
- Hole diameter, depth and quantity matter more than the word “concrete” alone.
- Dense concrete, overhead work and repeated holes push the job towards SDS and dust control.
When to stop
- Do not keep forcing a stalled bit. Stop for detector checks if you hit metal, services, lintel/rebar signs or unexpected voids.
Turn it into a hire card
Use the matching planner to turn this note into a practical kit class, consumables list, PPE checks and copyable handoff summary.
Open the Concrete drill chooser