Makita DHR242 vs DHR243 UK: Is the Quick Change Chuck Worth It?
The Makita DHR242 and DHR243 are the same 18V LXT brushless SDS-plus rotary hammer underneath. The difference is the chuck. Here is how DHR242 vs DHR243 compares, and whether the DHR243’s quick change chuck is worth paying for.
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Buy the DHR243 if you often switch between SDS bits and normal round or hex-shank drill bits, as its quick change chuck lets you swap the SDS chuck for a keyless chuck in seconds. Buy the DHR242 if you only use SDS-plus bits, as it is slightly shorter and lighter, and usually cheaper.
DHR242 vs DHR243 at a Glance
| Feature | Makita DHR242 | Makita DHR243 |
|---|---|---|
| Chuck | SDS-plus | Quick change: SDS-plus plus a keyless drill chuck |
| Impact energy | 2.0 J | 2.0 J |
| No-load speed | 0 to 950 rpm | 0 to 950 rpm |
| Blows per minute | 0 to 4,700 | 0 to 4,700 |
| Capacity: concrete / steel / wood | 24 / 13 / 27 mm | 24 / 13 / 27 mm |
| Modes | 3 | 3 |
| Overall length (manual) | 328 mm | 353 mm |
| Net weight (manual) | 3.3 kg | 3.4 kg |
| Battery platform | Makita 18V LXT | Makita 18V LXT |
The Key Differences
The quick change chuck
The DHR243 comes with a quick change chuck system, so you can pull off the SDS-plus chuck and fit a keyless chuck for normal drill bits and hole saws without a separate adaptor. That saves carrying a separate drill for some jobs. The DHR242 has a fixed SDS-plus chuck, so you would need an SDS-to-standard chuck adaptor for round-shank bits.
Size and weight
Makita’s manual lists the DHR242 at 328 mm long and the DHR243 at 353 mm, because of the quick change chuck. Net weight is listed as 3.3 kg and 3.4 kg. The difference is small, but the DHR242 is a little easier to handle in tight spots.
Everything else is the same
Both have 2.0 J of impact energy, up to 950 rpm and 4,700 blows per minute, three modes, and drill up to 24 mm in concrete, 13 mm in steel and 27 mm in wood. Both run on any Makita 18V LXT battery.
The Two Makita SDS Drills
1. Makita DHR243 (kit)
Best if you use normal drill bits tooBrushless SDS-plus rotary hammer with quick change chuck, 2.0 J, three modes and 24 mm concrete capacity. This kit includes one 5.0Ah battery, a charger and a case.
2. Makita DHR242 (with 2 x 5.0Ah)
Best if you only use SDS bitsBrushless SDS-plus rotary hammer, 2.0 J, three modes and 24 mm concrete capacity, slightly shorter than the DHR243. This listing includes two 5.0Ah batteries.
Which Should You Buy?
- Electricians and plumbers who swap between SDS and normal bits: DHR243.
- Builders and groundworkers using SDS bits all day: DHR242.
- Comparing with DeWalt: see our Makita DHR242 vs DeWalt DCH273 comparison.
- Need a combi drill as well: see our Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Makita DHR242 and DHR243?
The DHR243 has a quick change chuck that swaps between SDS-plus and a keyless drill chuck. Otherwise they share the same motor, 2.0 J impact energy, speeds and capacities. The DHR243 is slightly longer and heavier.
Can the DHR242 use normal drill bits?
Not directly. It has an SDS-plus chuck, so you need an SDS-plus to keyless chuck adaptor for round or hex-shank bits. The DHR243 includes a keyless chuck as part of its quick change system.
Do the DHR242 and DHR243 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both run on any Makita 18V LXT battery.
Related Guides
- All Tool Comparisons UK
- Makita DHR242 vs DeWalt DCH273 UK
- Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 UK
- Makita DTD153 vs DTD173 UK
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
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