If you're looking for the best SDS drill bits for masonry or concrete work, you've likely come across two terms: SDS Plus and SDS Max. Both systems are used with rotary hammers for heavy-duty drilling, but they have key differences that are worth knowing before choosing.
In this quick guide, we explain the difference between SDS Plus and SDS Max, the uses of each, and which one is best for your project.
🔹 What is an SDS hammer?
A rotary hammer drill is the most powerful version of the traditional hammer drill. Thanks to its SDS system, it allows you to drill, chisel, and demolish concrete with less effort and greater speed.
There are two main types of drill bits: SDS Plus and SDS Max. The choice depends on the size of the hole you want to drill and the power you need.
🔹 Difference between SDS Plus and SDS Max
The main difference is in the shank diameter and the power of the tool.
✅ SDS Plus – Ideal for medium jobs
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10 mm shank
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Two open and two closed slots, with locking balls
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Lighter and easier to handle
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Drill bits available from 4 mm to 30 mm in diameter and lengths from 110 mm to 1500 mm
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Perfect for small/medium holes, electrical installations, fixings and advanced DIY work
✅ SDS Max – Designed for heavy jobs
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More robust 18 mm shank
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Three open slots with locking segment
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Bigger and more powerful hammers
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Drill bits from 13 mm to 44 mm in diameter and lengths from 300 mm to 530 mm
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Chisels for chiselling, digging and demolition are also available.
Perfect for large drilling, demolition and demanding concrete work
📊 Quick Comparative SDS Plus vs SDS Max
| Characteristics | SDS Plus | SDS Max |
|---|---|---|
| Shank diameter | 10 mm | 18 mm |
| Drill size | Ø 4 mm – 30 mm | Ø 13 mm – 44 mm |
| Drill length | 110 mm – 1500 mm | 300 mm – 530 mm |
| Fixing | 2 open slots + 2 closed slots, with locking balls | 3 open slots, with locking segments |
| Tool weight | Lighter and manageable | More robust and powerful |
| Recommended uses | Small and medium holes in concrete | Large drilling and demolition |
| Power level | Medium | High |
Advantages of SDS system
Improved percussion drilling performance
Quick and easy one-handed bit change
Quick and easy one-handed bit change
Some models allow “rotation stop” mode to use chisels
Disadvantages of the SDS system
They can only be used in SDS chucks
Less precision in centering
More complex manufacturing (which makes some drill bits more expensive)
Which drill bit should I choose?
For small to medium-sized projects (installations, concrete fixings, advanced DIY) → choose SDS Plus.
For demanding jobs or demolition (opening large holes, chipping, large diameter drilling) → an SDS Max is better.
If you work on both types of projects, there are adapters that allow you to use SDS Plus bits in an SDS Max hammer.
🔹 Origin of the term SDS
The term SDS has several interpretations:
“Slotted Drive System”.
The German version: “Steck, dreh, sitzt” which means “to insert, to turn, to adjust”.
According to Bosch, its creator, SDS was also known as “Special Direct System.”
🔹 Conclusion y recomendation
In short, SDS Plus is the ideal choice for small holes and medium-sized projects, while SDS Max is the best choice for heavy-duty work and demolition.
At Almuco, we offer SDS Plus and SDS Max hammers, drill bits, and core bits in various sizes.
👉 If you're not sure which one you need, contact us and we'll help you choose the perfect tool at the best price.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about SDS Plus and SDS Max
🔹 What is the difference between SDS Plus and SDS Max?
The main difference is in the shank diameter and hammer power. SDS Plus (10 mm) is lighter and is used for small and medium-sized holes, while SDS Max (18 mm) is more robust and is used for heavy-duty and demolition work.
🔹 Which SDS drill bit do I need for concrete?
If you're drilling small holes or installing plugs and fasteners, an SDS Plus drill bit will work. For large holes or demolition, an SDS Max drill bit is recommended.
🔹 Can I use SDS Plus bits in an SDS Max hammer?
Yes, with an SDS Max to SDS Plus adapter, you can use smaller bits on larger hammers. However, it's not the most efficient for heavy-duty jobs.
🔹 What does SDS mean on drill bits?
SDS stands for “Slotted Drive System.” It is also interpreted as the German phrase “Steck, dreh, sitzt,” which means “insert, turn, fit.” Bosch was the manufacturer that popularized it on the market.
🔹 What sizes are SDS Plus and SDS Max drill bits?
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SDS Plus: from 4 mm to 30 mm diameter and lengths from 110 mm to 1500 mm.
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SDS Max: from 13 mm to 44 mm diameter and lengths from 300 mm to 530 mm.