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DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

Compare 6 DEWALT 20V MAX SDS cordless alternatives by published specs. Find the right tool based on weight, impact energy, and chuck size.

By GaugeKit Editorial Team 6 min read

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The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Rotary Hammer delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy and includes vibration control for concrete drilling. If you need similar performance, comparing dewalt 20v max sds cordless alternatives helps you find the right spec match. These tools share the 20V platform and SDS chuck interface, making them direct options for masonry work.

You might choose a different pick for other reasons. Some models offer lighter weights or compact forms for tight spaces. Others prioritize dust control or general drilling versatility over specialized rotary hammering. This list includes 6 options selected because their published specifications overlap with the original tool. You can compare voltage, motor type, and weight to see which fits your job site best. Each entry provides the data you need to decide without guessing.

How alternatives compare to the DCH273B

DEWALT 20V MAX 1-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer

The DCH133B weighs 5 pounds, making it lighter than the 6.4-pound DCH273B. It features a 1-inch chuck and SDS-Plus interface for anchorage work. You lose the 2.1 Joules of impact energy found in the original tool. This model prioritizes lightweight handling for structural tasks over raw drilling power. If you need a dedicated rotary hammer for rod hanging or strut mounting, this pick reduces fatigue. It lacks the SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL system present in the DCH273B. Choose this if you value weight savings over maximum impact force and vibration dampening features.

DEWALT 20V XR Brushless Hammer Drill

The DCD996B uses a 1/2-inch chuck instead of the SDS interface found in the DCH273B. It weighs 4 pounds, significantly less than the 6.4-pound original. This tool offers a hammer drill function but lacks dedicated rotary hammer modes like chip removal. You gain versatility for wood and heavy-duty masonry drilling. The brushless motor provides efficient runtime. However, you lose the specific SDS compatibility required for certain masonry bits. Select this if you need a robust drill driver that handles tough jobs. It is ideal for professionals who prioritize chuck versatility and weight reduction over specialized rotary hammering capabilities.

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Compact Rotary Hammer

The DCH172B weighs 4.59 pounds, offering a lighter alternative to the 6.4-pound DCH273B. It features a brushless motor and SDS-Plus chuck for light to medium masonry tasks. This compact model omits the 2.1 Joules of impact energy found in the original. You gain portability and ease of use for overhead work. The tool includes vibration control for reduced user fatigue. It is ideal for rod hanging or cable tray mounting where weight matters. Choose this if you need a dedicated rotary hammer for lighter duties. It sacrifices raw power for a more manageable form factor and reduced physical strain during extended use.

DCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

The DCK rotary hammer features a brushless motor and SDS-Plus chuck for indoor drilling. It includes a dust collector for workspace cleanliness, a feature absent in the DCH273B. This tool prioritizes dust control over maximum impact force. You gain a cleaner working environment for indoor jobs. The model lacks the 2.1 Joules of impact energy found in the original. It is ideal for users who value cleanliness over raw drilling power. Select this if you need essential dust management for interior tasks. It sacrifices specialized vibration control and high-impact performance for improved air quality and reduced debris in your workspace.

DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill

The DCD999B uses a 1/2-inch chuck instead of the SDS interface found in the DCH273B. It weighs 3.54 pounds, significantly lighter than the 6.4-pound original. This tool offers three speed settings for general drilling with large bits. You lose the dedicated rotary hammer modes and 2.1 Joules of impact energy. It is ideal for users who prioritize chuck versatility and weight reduction. Select this if you need a powerful drill for general construction and occasional masonry work. It sacrifices specialized SDS compatibility and vibration control for a more versatile, lightweight design suitable for diverse drilling tasks.

DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hammer Drill

The DCD998B weighs 4.81 pounds, offering a lighter alternative to the 6.4-pound DCH273B. It features a 20V MAX platform for general drilling and light masonry tasks. This tool lacks the SDS interface and 2.1 Joules of impact energy found in the original. You gain versatility for general construction work. It is ideal for users who prioritize runtime and chuck durability over specialized rotary hammering capabilities. Choose this if you need a powerful drill for occasional masonry work. It sacrifices dedicated vibration control and SDS compatibility for a more robust, all-purpose design suitable for diverse job site requirements.

#ProductBest forPrice
1DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Rotary Hammer Best overallConcrete drilling with vibration control
2DEWALT 20V MAX 1-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer Best premiumlightweight concrete drilling and anchorage
3DEWALT 20V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Best drill driverHeavy-duty masonry and wood drilling
4DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Compact Rotary Hammer Best budgetLightweight masonry work with vibration control
5DCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Best 5 inchindoor drilling with dust control
6DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill Also greatGeneral drilling with large bits
7DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hammer Drill Also greatGeneral drilling and light masonry tasks
1Best overall
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Rotary Hammer

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Rotary Hammer

Best for: Concrete drilling with vibration control

Impact Energy
2.1 Joules
Chuck Type
SDS
Operating Modes
Drill, Hammer Drill, or Chip
Voltage
20V MAX
Motor Type
Brushless
Power Source
Cordless

This cordless rotary hammer delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling. The brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism ensure efficient runtime. SHOCKS Active Vibration Control reduces handle vibration. You can switch between Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip modes using the rotating dial. It weighs 6.4 pounds and measures 13 inches long. This tool suits users needing reliable SDS performance in a compact form.

Pros
  • 2.1 Joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling
  • Brushless motor for efficient performance and runtime
  • SHOCKS Active Vibration Control reduces handle vibration
  • Three application modes: Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip
Cons
  • Lower impact energy at 2.1 Joules compared to higher-end rotary hammers
  • Heavier build at 6.4 pounds compared to lighter drill drivers
Good fit if
  • You need to drill into concrete or masonry frequently
  • You want vibration reduction for extended use
  • You require multiple drilling modes in one tool
Skip if
  • You only need to drill into wood or metal
  • You prefer a lighter tool under 5 pounds
  • You need more than 2.1 Joules of impact energy

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer fits users who need reliable concrete drilling with reduced vibration. It is ideal for rod hanging or strut mounting where SDS bits are required.

2Best premium
DEWALT 20V MAX 1-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer

DEWALT 20V MAX 1-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer

Best for: lightweight concrete drilling and anchorage

Impact Energy
2.6 J
Chuck Type
SDS Plus
Drilling Capacity
1"
Operating Modes
Drill, hammer drill, chip
Voltage
20V
Motor Type
Brushless

This DEWALT DCH133B is a 20V MAX SDS Plus rotary hammer designed for concrete drilling. It delivers 2.6 Joules of impact energy and features a brushless motor for efficient runtime. The tool includes three application modes: drill, hammer drill, and chip. Weighing 5 pounds, it offers a lightweight design for structural connections and beam anchorage. It is sold as a bare tool, requiring a separate battery.

Pros
  • 2.6 Joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling
  • Brushless motor for improved efficiency and runtime
  • Three application modes: drill, hammer drill, and chip
  • Lightweight 5-pound design for overhead or one-handed use
Cons
  • Lower impact energy of 2.6 Joules compared to higher-power alternatives
  • Heavier 5-pound build than standard hammer drill drivers
  • Limited to 1-inch drilling capacity in concrete
Good fit if
  • You need a lightweight rotary hammer for structural connections
  • You already own 20V MAX batteries for this platform
  • You require three specific drilling modes for varied masonry work
Skip if
  • You need to drill holes larger than 1 inch
  • You prefer a tool with a higher impact energy rating
  • You want a complete kit with battery and charger included

Verdict: DEWALT DCH133B 20V SDS Rotary Hammer fits professionals who need a dedicated, lightweight rotary hammer for anchorage and structural work on the 20V MAX platform.

3Best drill driver
DEWALT 20V XR Brushless Hammer Drill

DEWALT 20V XR Brushless Hammer Drill

Best for: Heavy-duty masonry and wood drilling

Voltage
20V
Motor Type
Brushless
Chuck Size
1/2 Inch
Included Tools
Drill Driver, Hammer Drill
Power Source
Cordless
Configuration
Bare Tool

This is a 20V MAX XR cordless hammer drill driver with a brushless motor and a 1/2-inch metal chuck. It weighs 4 pounds and measures 10 by 4 by 8 inches. The three-speed design and 3-mode LED light make it useful for varied tasks. You will appreciate the nitro-carburized chuck for strong bit grip. It suits users who need a heavy-duty tool for drilling into masonry or wood.

Pros
  • Brushless motor for extended runtime
  • 1/2-inch ratcheting metal chuck
  • 3-mode LED with spotlight function
  • 3-speed gear selection
Cons
  • 4-pound weight is heavier than compact drills
  • 1/2-inch chuck limits small bit usage
  • Tool-only configuration requires separate battery
Good fit if
  • You need a brushless hammer drill for masonry
  • You prefer a metal chuck for durability
  • You already own 20V MAX batteries
Skip if
  • You require an SDS rotary hammer
  • You want a lighter compact drill
  • You need a kit with batteries included

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Driver fits professionals who need a robust 20V tool with a 1/2-inch chuck for tough drilling jobs.

4Best budget
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Compact Rotary Hammer

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Compact Rotary Hammer

Best for: Lightweight masonry work with vibration control

Impact Energy
1.4 joules
Chuck Type
SDS Plus
Drilling Capacity
5/8 in.
Operating Modes
drill and hammer drill
Voltage
20V MAX
Motor Type
Brushless

This DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus rotary hammer delivers 1.4 joules of impact energy for fast concrete drilling. It features a brushless motor and SHOCKS vibration control to reduce handle fatigue. The tool weighs 4.59 pounds and drills up to 5/8 inch. It suits users needing lightweight performance for rod hanging or strut mounting. You get efficient runtime and OSHA compliance with the right dust extractor.

Pros
  • 1.4 joules of impact energy for concrete
  • SHOCKS active vibration control system
  • Brushless motor for efficient runtime
  • Lightweight 4.59 pound design
Cons
  • Lower 1.4 joule impact energy compared to heavier rotary hammers
  • Smaller 5/8 inch drilling capacity limits large anchor work
  • Heavier 4.59 pound build than compact drill drivers
Good fit if
  • You need vibration reduction for extended overhead work
  • You require SDS Plus compatibility for masonry
  • You prioritize lightweight handling for ceiling tasks
Skip if
  • You need to drill larger than 5/8 inch holes
  • You require high-impact energy for heavy demolition
  • You prefer a hammer drill over a rotary hammer

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer fits users who need vibration control and SDS Plus compatibility for light to medium masonry tasks. It is ideal for rod hanging or strut mounting where weight matters.

5Best 5 inch
DCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

DCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

Best for: indoor drilling with dust control

Impact Energy
2.8J
Chuck Type
SDS Plus
Operating Modes
drill, rotary hammer, demolition
Voltage
20V
Motor Type
Brushless
Impact Rate
5100 BPM

This DCK rotary hammer features a brushless motor delivering 2.8J of impact energy at 5100 BPM. It includes a 15 in³ dust collection box for cleaner indoor work. The tool offers drill, rotary hammer, and demolition modes. It comes with a 6.0Ah battery and fast charger. You get an ergonomic design with vibration reduction. This pick suits users needing dust control alongside standard SDS Plus performance.

Pros
  • Built-in 15 in³ dust collection box captures dust at the source
  • 750W brushless motor delivers 2.8J impact energy
  • Includes 6.0Ah 20V MAX battery and 1.5-hour fast charger
  • Switches between drill, rotary hammer, and demolition modes
  • DVR vibration reduction system minimizes fatigue
Cons
  • 2.8J impact energy is lower than the 5-inch stroke competitors
  • Heavier build due to the integrated dust collection system
  • Single 6.0Ah battery capacity limits extended runtime compared to higher Ah options
Good fit if
  • You need dust extraction for indoor concrete or tile work
  • You want a complete kit with a 6.0Ah battery included
  • You require three operating modes for versatile task handling
Skip if
  • You need higher impact energy for heavy demolition
  • You prefer a lighter tool without integrated dust collection
  • You already own high-capacity batteries and want a bare tool

Verdict: DCK 20V Brushless Rotary Hammer with Dust Collector provides essential dust control for clean indoor jobs. It fits users who prioritize workspace cleanliness over maximum impact force.

6Also great
DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill

DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill

Best for: General drilling with large bits

Voltage
20V MAX*
Chuck Size
1/2 Inch
Included Tools
Hammer Drill
Power Source
Cordless
Configuration
Bare Tool
Set Type
Tool Only

The DEWALT FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE 20V MAX Hammer Drill (DCD999B) is a cordless tool featuring a 1/2-inch chuck. It weighs 3.54 pounds and measures 12.1 inches in length. This model offers three speed settings for varied tasks. It suits users needing a robust drill driver with a larger chuck capacity for bigger bits.

Pros
  • 1/2-inch chuck size for larger bits
  • Three speed settings for control
  • 20V MAX power source
  • Compact 12.1-inch length
Cons
  • Heavier at 3.54 pounds than many competitors
  • Single speed range limits fine-tuning compared to multi-mode rotary hammers
Good fit if
  • You need a 1/2-inch chuck for larger drill bits
  • You prefer a tool with three distinct speed settings
  • You want a cordless hammer drill from a trusted brand
Skip if
  • You require an SDS chuck for masonry drilling
  • You need a lighter tool under 3 pounds
  • You are looking for a dedicated rotary hammer with dust collection

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill fits users who prioritize a 1/2-inch chuck and three speed settings over the specialized SDS interface found in other list items.

7Also great
DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hammer Drill

DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hammer Drill

Best for: General drilling and light masonry tasks

Voltage
20V MAX
Motor Type
brushless
Included Tools
Hammer Drill
Power Source
Cordless
Configuration
Bare Tool
Set Type
Tool Only

This is a cordless hammer drill designed for drilling in masonry materials. It features a brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more run time than brushed models. The tool includes three speeds and an all-metal transmission to optimize application speeds. Weighing 4.81 pounds, it offers a heavy-duty 1/2-inch metal chuck. It suits users who need reliable performance for tough drilling tasks without the bulk of a dedicated rotary hammer.

Pros
  • Brushless motor provides up to 57% more run time
  • Three-speed settings optimize tool-to-task performance
  • Heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting metal chuck with carbide inserts
  • 3-mode LED with 20-minute shutoff for dark spaces
Cons
  • Weighs 4.81 pounds, which is heavier than some lighter alternatives
  • Lacks the dedicated SDS rotary hammer mechanism for masonry
  • Single 1/2-inch chuck limits bit compatibility compared to multi-chuck systems
Good fit if
  • You need a versatile drill for wood and light masonry
  • You value extended run time from a brushless motor
  • You prefer a standard 1/2-inch chuck for general bits
Skip if
  • You require heavy-duty concrete drilling with an SDS system
  • You need a tool specifically designed for rotary hammering
  • You want a lighter weight tool under 4 pounds

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill fits users who need a powerful, versatile drill for general construction and occasional masonry work. It is ideal for those who prioritize run time and chuck durability over specialized rotary hammering capabilities.

Specifications side by side

SpecDEWALT 20V MAX SDS Cordless Rotary HammerDEWALT 20V MAX 1-Inch Cordless Rotary HammerDEWALT 20V XR Brushless Hammer DrillDEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Compact Rotary HammerDCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary HammerDEWALT 20V MAX FLEXVOLT Hammer DrillDEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hammer Drill
Impact Energy2.1 Joules2.6 J–1.4 joules2.8J––
Chuck TypeSDSSDS Plus–SDS PlusSDS Plus––
Drilling Capacity–1"–5/8 in.–––
Operating ModesDrill, Hammer Drill, or ChipDrill, hammer drill, chip–drill and hammer drilldrill, rotary hammer, demolition––
Voltage20V MAX20V20V20V MAX20V20V MAX*20V MAX
Motor TypeBrushlessBrushlessBrushlessBrushlessBrushless–brushless
Impact Rate––––5100 BPM––
Chuck Size–1 Inch1/2 Inch––1/2 Inch–
Included ToolsHammer DrillHammer DrillDrill Driver, Hammer DrillHammer DrillHammer DrillHammer DrillHammer Drill
Power SourceCordlessCordlessCordlessCordlessCordlessCordlessCordless
Form Factor–––Compact–––
ConfigurationBare ToolBare ToolBare ToolBare ToolBare ToolBare ToolBare Tool
Wheel Diameter––––5 Inch––
Set TypeTool OnlyTool OnlyTool OnlyTool OnlyTool OnlyTool OnlyTool Only
Dimensions13 × 4.2 × 8.6 inches16.2 × 9 × 4 inches4 × 10 × 8 inches11.4 × 8.54 × 10.7 inches10 × 3 × 6 inches12.1 × 8.78 × 4.02 inches12 × 8.7 × 4.06 inches
Weight6.4 pounds5 pounds4 pounds4.59 pounds–3.54 pounds4.81 pounds
SizeOne SizeOne SizeOne SizeOne SizeTool OnlyOne SizeOne Size
ColorMultiYeifMultiBlack, Yellow–MultiYellow
ModelDCH273BDCH133BDCD996BDCH172BKRHDE20V-26-01DCD999BDCD998B

Frequently asked questions

Which DEWALT 20V MAX SDS rotary hammer is the lightest option?

The DEWALT DCH133B is the lightest choice at 5 pounds. It features a 1-inch chuck and an SDS-Plus interface. This weight makes it ideal for overhead anchorage work. The DCH172B is also lightweight at 4.59 pounds. Both models prioritize ease of handling for structural tasks.

Can I use standard drill bits with these SDS rotary hammers?

No, SDS rotary hammers require SDS-Plus bits. Models like the DCH273B, DCH133B, and DCH172B use this specific chuck type. If you need to use standard twist bits, consider the DCD996B or DCD999B. These tools feature a 1/2-inch chuck instead of an SDS interface.

What is the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer?

Rotary hammers like the DCH273B use an SDS chuck for specialized concrete drilling. They deliver higher impact energy for masonry. Hammer drills like the DCD998B use a standard chuck. They are better for general construction and light masonry. The DCD996B offers a 1/2-inch chuck for heavy-duty wood and masonry.

Which tool is best for indoor drilling with dust control?

The DCK 20V Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer includes a dust collector. It is designed for clean indoor jobs. This tool prioritizes workspace cleanliness over maximum impact force. It uses a brushless motor and SDS-Plus chuck. This makes it suitable for users who need to minimize dust during drilling.

Does the DCD999B have multiple speed settings?

Yes, the DEWALT DCD999B offers three speed settings. It features a 1/2-inch chuck for general drilling with large bits. This model is lighter than many rotary hammers at 3.54 pounds. It prioritizes versatility over the specialized SDS interface found in dedicated rotary hammers.

Are all these tools sold as bare tools?

Yes, all listed models are sold as bare tools. This means they do not include batteries or chargers. You will need to pair them with compatible 20V MAX batteries. This configuration allows you to use existing power sources from your DEWALT 20V MAX system.

Which DEWALT tool is best for heavy-duty masonry?

The DCD996B is rated for heavy-duty masonry and wood drilling. It features a 1/2-inch chuck and a brushless motor. Weighing 4 pounds, it is robust for tough jobs. The DCH273B is also suitable for concrete drilling with vibration control. It weighs 6.4 pounds for stability.

See also

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