Short answer: use masonry bits (with a flat carbide tip) for brick, block and concrete; HSS bits (sharp, shiny or black) for metal; wood bits (with a centre point or flat paddle) for timber; and SDS-plus bits only in rotary hammers.
Quick comparison
| Bit type | How to recognise it | Use for | Hammer mode? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masonry | Wide, flat carbide tip that looks like an arrowhead | Brick, block, concrete, stone | Yes (impact drill) |
| HSS (metal) | Sharp cone-shaped point, smooth spiral | Steel, iron, aluminium, plastic | No |
| Wood (brad point) | Small sharp centre spike with two spurs | Clean holes in wood and MDF | No |
| Flat (spade) wood | Flat paddle with a point | Large, fast holes in wood | No |
| SDS-plus | Grooved shank that locks into a rotary hammer | Concrete and stone with a rotary hammer | Yes (rotary hammer) |
Masonry bits
The carbide tip is designed to chip away hard material while the drill hammers. Use hammer mode and moderate speed, and pull the bit out occasionally to clear the dust.
If you drill concrete a lot, a rotary hammer with SDS-plus bits is much faster; see Drill vs Rotary Hammer.
HSS bits for metal
HSS (high-speed steel) bits cut steel, iron, aluminium and plastic. For metal: switch hammer mode off, use a slower speed for bigger holes, make a small dent with a centre punch first, and add a drop of cutting oil on steel.
Wood bits
Brad-point bits make clean, accurate holes because the centre spike stops the bit wandering. Flat (spade) bits make big holes quickly for cables and pipes.
5 Pcs Wood Drill Bits Set 3X61,4X75,5X86,6X93,8X117 - TOTALView product →
13 Pcs Flat Wood Drill Bits Set - TOTALView product →
Not sure? Get a mixed set
A mixed set with metal, masonry and wood bits covers almost every job at home.
What about tiles?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are harder than they look. Use a tile or diamond bit, start without hammer mode so you don’t crack the tile, and stick masking tape on the spot to stop the bit sliding. Switch to a masonry bit and hammer mode once you are through the tile and into the wall.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use a masonry bit on metal?
No. Masonry bits are blunt by design and will just rub and overheat on metal. Use an HSS bit.
Can I use normal masonry bits in a rotary hammer?
Not directly. Rotary hammers need SDS-plus bits; round-shank bits need a chuck adapter and should be used without hammer action.
Why does my bit get hot and stop cutting?
Usually the speed is too high, the wrong bit is being used, or the bit is blunt. Slow down, use the right bit type and clear the dust or chips often.
