Introduction
Kobalt’s latest 24V cordless tools have just been released at Lowe’s, featuring advancements in power and size. In this review, we will explore the key differences, target audience, and performance of the Kobalt 24V Cordless Hammer Drill and its drill driver counterpart.
Kobalt 24V Cordless Hammer Drill Performance
Kobalt offers two lines of tools at Lowe’s: the high-value Standard line and the high-performance XTR line. The new tools are replacing the standard production line.
Old and New
Let’s briefly compare the updated hammer drills with their previous versions:
| KHD 524B-03 | KHD 124B-03 (next generation) | |
|---|---|---|
| No-load speed | 0-550/0-2,000 rpm | 0-550/0-2,000 rpm |
| Maximum Hammer Rate | 26,000 times/min | 32,000 times/min |
| Clutch setting | twenty four | twenty four |
| Maximum torque | 650 in-lbs | 850 in-lbs |
| Chuck size | 1/2 inch | 1/2 inch |
Now, let’s examine the specifications of the drill driver:
| KDD 524B-03 | KDD 124B-03 (next generation) | |
|---|---|---|
| No-load speed | 0-550/0-2,000 rpm | 0-550/0-2,000 rpm |
| Clutch setting | twenty four | twenty four |
| Maximum torque | 650 in-lbs | 850 in-lbs |
| Chuck size | 1/2 inch | 1/2 inch |
Comparing the two generations, there are only two notable changes, but they are significant. The Kobalt 24V Cordless Hammer Drill and Drill Driver now provide an additional 200 inch-pounds of torque, representing a 30% increase. Just a few years ago, 850 in-lbs was the highest torque achievable by any brushless pro-grade drill.
Another improvement is seen in the hammer drill, with its blow rate increasing from 24,000 BPM to 32,000 BPM, a 23% boost that should result in significantly faster concrete drilling.
During our testing phase, we will conduct comparative tests on these tools and update this review with the results.
Kobalt 24V Cordless Hammer Drill Design Notes
In addition to enhanced performance, Kobalt has also focused on reducing the dimensions of its drill bits and rotary hammer bits. Here’s how the measurements compare for the hammer drill:
| KHD 524B-03 | KHD 124B-03 (next generation) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8.1 inches | 7.1 inches |
| Bare weight | 3.3 lbs | 3.1 lbs |
| Weight w/4.0Ah | 5.0 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
And here’s the comparison for the drill driver:
| KDD 524B-03 | KDD 124B-03 (next generation) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 7.5 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Bare weight | 3.1 lbs | 2.9 lbs |
| Weight w/4.0Ah | 4.8 lbs | 4.6 lbs |
Additional highlights of these tools include:
- 2-speed gearbox
- 24 clutch positions
- Split Mode Selector Collar
- Full Metal Jacobs Keyless Ratchet Chuck
- Double-sided belt clip
- Foot-operated LED lights
One of the advantages of these drills is that they offer improved performance without a drastic increase in price. A drill kit with a 2.0Ah battery is priced at $139, while the bare hammer drill is available for $129.
As these tools have just been released, we will keep an eye out for any other bare tool or suite options that may become available.
Regardless, Kobalt provides a 5-year warranty for the tools and a 3-year warranty for the batteries.
The Bottom Line
The next generation of Kobalt 24V cordless hammer drills and drill drivers deliver enhanced torque and a more compact design. These improvements come with a minimal price increase, making them an excellent choice for value-conscious professionals. While the Kobalt tools are designed for serious DIYers and prosumers, their performance and affordability are sure to appeal to a wide range of users.
Specifications
Kobalt 24V Cordless Drill Driver
- Model: Kobalt KDD 124B-03
- Maximum speed: 2000 RPM
- Number of clutch settings: 24
- Maximum Chuck Size: 1/2″
- Chuck Type: Keyless
- Maximum Torque: 850 in-lbs
- Warranty: 5 years (tool); 3 years (battery)
Kobalt 24V Cordless Hammer Drill
- Model: Kobalt KHD 124B-03
- Maximum speed: 2000 RPM
- Maximum beats per minute: 32,000 BPM
- Number of clutch settings: 24
- Maximum Chuck Size: 1/2″
- Chuck Type: Keyless
- Maximum Torque: 850 in-lbs
- Warranty: 5 years (tool); 3 years (battery)