Best DeWalt hammer drills

Top pick: DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCD1007. It's the most capable cordless hammer drill here — high speed and hammer rate, plenty of power, and still around 4 lbs bare — so it handles concrete anchors, brick and everyday wood/metal work without reaching for a corded tool. Best all-rounder for a serious DIYer or a pro who wants one drill to do most jobs.

Who the others suit:

• DCD798B (20V MAX brushless): the value choice for home projects and light masonry; brushless motor, 1/2" chuck, no frills.
• DCD805B (20V compact): the smallest and lightest of the 20V brushless group — good for overhead work and tight spots, and for anyone already on 20V batteries.
• DCD795D2 kit: a compact XR kit with batteries included, handy if you're starting from nothing.
• Xtreme 12V DCD706: tiny and light for cabinet work and small holes; not the one for heavy concrete.
• Corded 1/2" VSR pistol-grip: for sustained drilling in masonry where you have power nearby and don't want to think about batteries.
• D25333 SDS-plus rotary hammer: the right tool if concrete is the main job rather than an occasional hole.

Check the battery platform you're already on before choosing — bare tools assume you own chargers and packs.