Best Drill Bit for Concrete in 2025 — Top Masonry Bits That Actually Work

Drilling into concrete requires a completely different bit than wood or metal — and using the wrong one will leave you with a dull bit and no hole. The best concrete drill bits are carbide-tipped masonry bits designed to withstand the hardness and abrasiveness of concrete, brick, and block. Here are the top picks for 2025.

What Makes a Good Concrete Drill Bit?

• Carbide tip: Tungsten carbide is the only material hard enough to cut concrete effectively
• Flute design: Spiral flutes clear dust from the hole as you drill
• Shank type: SDS-plus for hammer drills; round/hex shank for standard drills
• Size range: Match the bit to your anchor or fastener size

Do You Need a Hammer Drill for Concrete?

Yes — for most concrete drilling, a hammer drill is strongly recommended. A standard drill can work on soft concrete or brick with a masonry bit, but it's slow and wears out bits quickly. A hammer drill's percussion action breaks up the concrete as the bit rotates, making the job dramatically faster and easier.

#1 Best Concrete Drill Bit Set: DEWALT Masonry Drill Bit Set (DW5207)

The DEWALT DW5207 is a 7-piece carbide-tipped masonry bit set covering the most common sizes for home use (3/16" to 1/2"). DEWALT's percussion-ground carbide tips stay sharp longer and drill faster than standard masonry bits. Compatible with both standard drills and hammer drills.

• 7 pieces: 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2" + bonus size
• Carbide-tipped for long life
• Works with standard and hammer drills
• Ideal for concrete, brick, block, and mortar

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#2 Best All-Purpose Set Including Masonry: Amazon Basics 100-Piece Drill & Driver Bit Set

If you want one set that covers concrete along with wood, metal, and plastic, the Amazon Basics 100-piece set includes masonry bits alongside all other common types. Great value for homeowners who don't drill concrete frequently.

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Concrete Bit Size Guide

• 3/16": Small anchors, picture hooks in concrete
• 1/4": Standard wall anchors, most common size
• 3/8": Larger anchors, mounting brackets
• 1/2": Heavy-duty anchors, structural mounting

Rule: Match the bit diameter to the anchor diameter specified on the anchor packaging.

How to Drill Concrete Without a Hammer Drill

If you only have a standard drill:

1. Use a sharp carbide-tipped masonry bit
2. Set the drill to its lowest speed
3. Apply firm, steady pressure — don't force it
4. Clear dust frequently by pulling the bit out while spinning
5. Expect it to take 3–5x longer than with a hammer drill
6. Replace the bit if it stops making progress — it's dull

Tips for Drilling Concrete Successfully

• Mark your spot with a center punch to prevent the bit from wandering
• Start slow to establish the hole, then increase speed
• Clear dust every 15–20 seconds by pulling the bit out while spinning
• If you hit rebar, stop — you need a diamond core bit to get through it
• Wear safety goggles and a dust mask — concrete dust is a serious respiratory hazard

Our Verdict

For dedicated concrete drilling, the DEWALT DW5207 masonry bit set is the best choice — professional-grade carbide tips that stay sharp and drill fast. For occasional concrete work alongside other materials, the Amazon Basics 100-piece set covers all your bases in one affordable kit.