Makita DHR242 vs DeWalt DCH273 UK: Which 18V SDS Drill to Buy?
The Makita DHR242 and DeWalt DCH273 are two of the most popular cordless 18V SDS-plus drills in the UK. They are very closely matched on paper, so the right choice usually comes down to which batteries you already own. Here is how DHR242 vs DCH273 compares.
Some links on this page are affiliate links, we may earn a commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
They are close. The DeWalt DCH273 has slightly more impact energy (2.1 J against 2.0 J) and a faster drilling speed. The Makita DHR242 has a slightly faster hammer rate. Both drill up to 24 mm in concrete and have three modes. Buy the one that matches the batteries you already own.
DHR242 vs DCH273 at a Glance
| Feature | Makita DHR242 | DeWalt DCH273 |
|---|---|---|
| Impact energy | 2.0 J | 2.1 J (EPTA) |
| No-load speed | 0 to 950 rpm | 0 to 1,100 rpm |
| Blows per minute | 0 to 4,700 | 0 to 4,600 |
| Max concrete capacity | 24 mm | 24 mm |
| Steel / wood capacity | 13 mm / 27 mm | Not compared |
| Modes | 3: rotation, hammer drilling, hammer only | 3: rotation, hammer drilling, hammer only |
| Length | 328 mm | Not compared |
| Weight | 2.7 kg body only (Makita NZ) | About 2.5 kg body only (UK listing) |
| Motor | Brushless | Brushless |
| Battery platform | Makita 18V LXT | DeWalt 18V XR |
The Key Differences
Power
DeWalt lists the DCH273 at 2.1 J of impact energy (EPTA) against Makita’s 2.0 J for the DHR242. That is a very small difference, and both are rated to drill up to 24 mm in concrete. For most fixing holes, anchors and cable runs, you will not feel much between them.
Speed and hammer rate
The DCH273 spins faster at up to 1,100 rpm against 950 rpm, which helps in softer masonry and when using it as a drill. The DHR242 has a slightly faster hammer rate at up to 4,700 blows per minute against 4,600.
Features
Both have three modes, brushless motors and SDS-plus chucks. Makita lists a torque limiter, brake, job light and a rubber joint that reduces vibration to the battery on the DHR242. If you want a quick-change chuck for normal drill bits, Makita sells the DHR243, see our DHR242 vs DHR243 comparison.
Battery platform
This usually decides it. If you already run Makita 18V LXT, the DHR242 makes sense. If you run DeWalt 18V XR, the DCH273 does. Both brands sell larger SDS drills if you regularly drill bigger holes.
The Two SDS Drills
1. Makita DHR242 (with 2 x 5.0Ah)
Best for Makita users2.0 J brushless SDS-plus rotary hammer with three modes, up to 4,700 bpm and 24 mm concrete capacity. This listing includes two 5.0Ah batteries.
2. DeWalt DCH273N (body only, with case)
Best for DeWalt users2.1 J brushless SDS-plus rotary hammer with three modes, up to 1,100 rpm and 24 mm concrete capacity. Body only with a case, no battery or charger.
Which Should You Buy?
- Already on Makita 18V LXT: DHR242.
- Already on DeWalt 18V XR: DCH273, and see our DeWalt battery guide.
- Electricians drilling lots of small holes for fixings: either is a good size for daily use.
- Still choosing a brand: see our DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more powerful, the Makita DHR242 or DeWalt DCH273?
On the makers’ figures the DCH273 has slightly more impact energy at 2.1 J against 2.0 J, and a faster top speed. The DHR242 has a slightly faster hammer rate. In use they are very similar.
How big a hole can the DHR242 and DCH273 drill in concrete?
Both are rated for up to 24 mm in concrete.
Do the DHR242 and DCH273 have a hammer-only mode?
Yes. Both have three modes: rotation only, hammer drilling, and hammer only for light chiselling.
Related Guides
- All Tool Comparisons UK
- Makita DHR242 vs DHR243 UK
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
- Best Combi Drills UK for Tradespeople
- DeWalt XR vs FlexVolt vs POWERSTACK UK
As an Amazon Associate, TradeStack HQ earns from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links, we may earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Product details are taken from manufacturer and Amazon UK listings as of November 2026.