Drilling into brick or masonry requires the correct tools and drill bits. Using the wrong drill bit can cause slow drilling, damaged bits, or even cracked brick surfaces.
The best drill bit for brick and masonry is typically a carbide-tipped masonry drill bit, designed to withstand the abrasive nature of brick, mortar, and masonry materials.
In this guide, we’ll explain the best drill bits for brick and masonry, how they work, and how to choose the right one for your project.
If you’re looking for a complete overview of all drill bit types, see our guide on (Best Drill Bits for Every Material (2026 Complete Guide)).
Drill Bits for Brick and Masonry Comparison
Before choosing a drill bit, it helps to understand the most common options used for masonry drilling.
| Drill Bit Type | Best For | Material | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masonry Bit | Brick, block, mortar | Masonry | Carbide cutting tip |
| SDS Masonry Bit | Heavy masonry drilling | Concrete & brick | SDS shank for rotary hammer |
| Diamond Drill Bit | Tile and hard masonry | Fragile surfaces | Grinding action |
| Carbide Drill Bit | General masonry drilling | Brick and mortar | Heat resistant cutting edge |
For most home projects, carbide masonry drill bits are the best choice.
Best Drill Bits for Brick
Brick is softer than concrete but still requires a specialized drill bit designed for masonry materials.
Standard steel drill bits will quickly dull when drilling brick.
The best option is a carbide-tipped masonry drill bit, which is specifically designed to break apart masonry materials while drilling.
Key features of masonry drill bits include:
- hardened steel body
- carbide cutting tip
- spiral flutes for debris removal
- compatibility with hammer drills
These drill bits are widely used for installing:
- wall anchors
- shelves
- outdoor fixtures
- electrical boxes
If you’re drilling frequently into brick walls, a hammer drill will significantly improve drilling speed.
You can learn more about drill types in (Hammer Drill vs Rotary Hammer: What’s the Difference?).
Masonry Drill Bits vs Concrete Drill Bits
Many homeowners wonder whether brick requires a different drill bit than concrete.
In most cases, the same masonry drill bits can be used for both materials.
However, concrete is harder and may require:
- stronger carbide tips
- SDS drill bits
- rotary hammer drills
For deeper drilling into concrete surfaces, see (Best Drill Bit for Concrete (Masonry & SDS Bits Explained)).
You can also learn the differences in (Masonry Drill Bits vs Concrete Drill Bits).
Can You Drill Brick Without a Hammer Drill?
Yes, brick can sometimes be drilled using a standard drill, but it will take longer and require more effort.
A hammer drill is recommended because it combines:
- rotation
- hammering impact
This impact action helps break apart masonry materials more efficiently.
If you’re unsure whether a regular drill can handle masonry drilling, see (Can a Regular Drill Drill Into Concrete?).
Common Mistakes When Drilling Brick
Drilling brick is easier than drilling concrete, but several common mistakes can still cause problems.
Typical issues include:
Drilling too fast
High speeds generate heat and wear out masonry drill bits quickly.
Applying too much pressure
Excessive force can cause the drill bit to bind or break.
Using dull drill bits
Dull bits create friction and slow down drilling progress.
Using the wrong drill bit type
Standard metal drill bits are not designed for masonry materials.
If you notice drill bits overheating or breaking, see (Why Drill Bits Burn or Break (And How to Prevent It)).
Tips for Drilling Into Brick Safely
Following a few simple techniques will make masonry drilling easier and safer.
Start with a pilot hole
Smaller holes help guide the drill bit and improve accuracy.
Use moderate drill speed
Lower speeds prevent overheating.
Let the drill do the work
Avoid excessive pressure when drilling.
Clear dust frequently
Pull the drill bit out periodically to remove debris.
These techniques help extend drill bit life and improve drilling performance.
Choosing the Right Drill Bit Size
When drilling brick for anchors or mounting hardware, choosing the correct drill bit size is essential.
The drill bit size should match the anchor size recommended by the manufacturer.
For masonry anchors, the drill bit should typically match the exact diameter of the anchor.
Using the wrong size can cause loose anchors or cracked masonry.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best drill bit for brick and masonry ensures clean holes, faster drilling, and longer tool life.
Quick recap:
- Brick drilling requires carbide masonry drill bits
- Hammer drills improve drilling speed
- SDS bits are useful for heavy-duty drilling
- Proper drilling speed prevents overheating
Using the correct drill bit makes masonry projects much easier and safer.
If you’re exploring more drill bit options, see (Best Drill Bits for Every Material (2026 Complete Guide)).
Frequently Asked Questions About Brick and Masonry Drill Bits
Brick and Masonry Drill Bit FAQs
What is the best drill bit for brick and masonry?
The best drill bits for brick and masonry are carbide-tipped masonry drill bits. These bits are designed to cut through hard materials like brick, mortar, and stone while resisting wear and heat during drilling.
Can you drill into brick with a regular drill bit?
No. Standard wood or metal drill bits will dull quickly and struggle to penetrate brick. You should always use masonry drill bits with carbide tips, which are specifically designed for brick and stone.
Do you need a hammer drill to drill into brick?
A hammer drill is recommended when drilling into brick because the hammering action helps break the masonry material while the drill bit rotates. However, softer brick can sometimes be drilled with a regular drill and a masonry bit.
Should you drill into brick or mortar?
It is usually better to drill into mortar joints rather than brick. Mortar is softer and easier to repair if you need to remove anchors later, while drilling directly into brick can sometimes cause cracks.
What speed should you drill brick at?
Brick should be drilled at moderate speed with steady pressure. Let the hammer drill and masonry bit do the work rather than forcing the drill into the material.
Why does my masonry drill bit stop drilling?
Masonry drill bits may stop cutting if the bit becomes dull, overheats, or gets clogged with brick dust. Pulling the drill bit out occasionally to remove dust can help maintain drilling efficiency.
What drill bit size should you use for masonry anchors?
The drill bit size should match the diameter of the masonry anchor or wall plug you plan to install. For example, a 6 mm wall plug usually requires a 6 mm masonry drill bit.
Can masonry drill bits be used for concrete?
Yes. Many masonry drill bits can drill into brick, mortar, stone, and light concrete, although very hard concrete may require SDS drill bits and a rotary hammer drill.