Impact drill vs rotary hammer: which one for concrete?
Both drill into concrete, but they work very differently. Here is when to choose each.
Walk into any hardware store in Sri Lanka and you will see both. They look similar, but the way they hit the wall is completely different.
Impact (hammer) drill
An impact drill uses two ridged plates that rattle against each other. It is fast in brick and light concrete for small holes — wall plugs, curtain rails, fan hooks. Models like the Makita HP1630 and Bosch GSB 550 are everyday favourites.
Rotary hammer
A rotary hammer uses a piston to drive the bit forward with real force. It drills concrete slabs and beams far faster, handles bigger holes, and many models can chisel off tiles and plaster. Look for SDS-plus models such as the Makita HR2470, Bosch GBH 2-24 DRE or Ingco RH10508.
Which should you buy?
If you mostly fix things to brick walls, an impact drill is enough. If you are a mason, electrician, plumber or contractor working in reinforced concrete, buy a rotary hammer — your arms will thank you.
Need to break concrete?
For floors, slabs and heavy chasing, step up to a demolition hammer like the Bosch GSH 500 or Makita HM0870C.
