Comparison:Makita HR2470 vs HR2630

When you talk about Makita rotary hammers, two models keep coming up in workshops and on job sites: the Makita HR2470 and the Makita HR2630. Both are well-known SDS-Plus tools, praised for their reliability, rugged build, and unbeatable value for the money. But between these two workhorses, which one should you go for? The HR2470, a trusted classic famous for its long lifespan, or the HR2630, a refreshed version with a bit more muscle?

Makita HR2470

Technical specifications

Rated Power : 780 W

Impact Energy : 2,4 J

Max No-Load Speed : 0 - 1100 rpm

Max Impact Rate : 0 - 4500 bpm

Max Concrete Drilling Diameter : 24 mm

Max Wood Drilling Diameter : 32 mm

Max Steel Drilling Diameter : 13 mm

Max TCT Core Bit Diameter : 54 mm

Cable Length : 4,0 m

Weight (without cable) : 2,6 kg

Dimensions (L × W × H) : 370 x 84 x 214 mm

Sound Level (Lwa) : 100 dB(A)

Operating Modes : 3 modes (drilling, hammer drilling, chiseling)

Torque Limiter : No

Variable Speed : No

Ergonomics / Grip : Soft Grip

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Solid, proven build designed for heavy-duty use
Manageable weight (2.6 kg / 5.7 lbs), making long work sessions easier
Efficient impact mechanism delivering 2.4 joules of energy
Very good balance between power and handling
Long 4 m (13 ft) cord providing plenty of freedom of movement
Easy to repair, with Makita parts widely available over the long term

Weaknesses

No variable speed control, making fine adjustments less precise
No torque limiter if the bit gets stuck
Relatively loud (100 dB(A))
Grip is less ergonomic than on newer models
An aging design compared to innovations in the latest product lines

Indicative price

149$

Who is Makita HR2470 suitable for?

The Makita HR2470 is a tough, reliable SDS-Plus rotary hammer, known for its long lifespan and easy maintenance. It’s a widely proven model, found just as often in workshops as on construction sites, valued more for its consistency than for any cutting-edge features.

Makita HR2630

Technical specifications

Rated Power : 800 W

Impact Energy : 2,4 J

Max No-Load Speed : 0 - 1200 rpm

Max Impact Rate : 0 - 4600 bpm

Max Concrete Drilling Diameter : 26 mm

Max Wood Drilling Diameter : 32 mm

Max Steel Drilling Diameter : 13 mm

Max TCT Core Bit Diameter : 68 mm

Cable Length : 4,0 m

Weight (without cable) : 2,8 kg

Dimensions (L × W × H) : 361 x 77 x 209 mm

Sound Level (Lwa) : 101 dB(A)

Operating Modes : 3 modes (drilling, hammer drilling, chiseling)

Torque Limiter : Yes

Variable Speed : Yes

Ergonomics / Grip : Full rubber coating

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Higher power (800 W), giving a slight efficiency boost in harder materials
Built-in variable speed control for more precise drilling
Torque limiter to prevent jerks and protect the user if the bit jams
Fully rubber-coated handle for better stability and reduced fatigue
Concrete drilling capacity up to 26 mm, higher than the HR2470
Compatible with hole saws up to 68 mm, offering greater versatility
Reinforced internal design for demanding professional use

Weaknesses

Slightly heavier (2.8 kg / 6.2 lbs)
Noise level a bit higher (101 dB(A))
Typically costs about $15–$20 more depending on the retailer
Only modest improvements in impact power despite the upgraded range
Slight loss of balance during extended horizontal drilling

Indicative price

139$

Who is Makita HR2630 suitable for?

The Makita HR2630 builds on the HR2470’s solid foundations but adds several improvements that make it more comfortable and safer to use. It’s aimed at both professionals and demanding DIYers who want a precise, dependable tool with a slightly more modern design.

Comparison table: Makita HR2470 vs HR2630

Criteria	HR2470	HR2630	Verdict
Rated Power	780 W	800 W	HR2630+2.5% more power
Impact Energy	2,4 J	2,4 J	Tie
Max No-Load Speed	0 - 1100 rpm	0 - 1200 rpm	HR2630Slightly faster (+9%)
Max Impact Rate	0 - 4500 bpm	0 - 4600 bpm	HR2630Slightly higher
Max Concrete Drilling Diameter	24 mm	26 mm	HR2630Greater concrete capacity (+2 mm)
Max Wood Drilling Diameter	32 mm	32 mm	Tie
Max Steel Drilling Diameter	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Max TCT Core Bit Diameter	54 mm	68 mm	HR2630Better compatibility with larger core bits
Cable Length	4,0 m	4,0 m	Tie
Weight (without cable)	2,6 kg	2,8 kg	HR2470Lighter (-200 g)
Dimensions (L × W × H)	370 x 84 x 214 mm	361 x 77 x 209 mm	HR2630Slightly more compact
Sound Level (Lwa)	100 dB(A)	101 dB(A)	HR2470Quieter
Operating Modes	3 modes (drilling, hammer drilling, chiseling)	3 modes (drilling, hammer drilling, chiseling)	Tie
Torque Limiter	No	Yes	HR2630Better user safety
Variable Speed	No	Yes	HR2630More precise control
Ergonomics / Grip	Soft Grip	Full rubber coating	HR2630Better vibration absorption

Recommended accessories

For Makita HR2470

Makpac Case 2

Depth stop

Suction adapter

For Makita HR2630

Makpac Case 2

Depth stop

Suction adapter

Real-life test: Makita HR2470 vs HR2630

Julien spends his days restoring old houses in the Tarn region. That morning, he has to drill about ten 14 mm holes into a load-bearing reinforced concrete wall, then anchor threaded rods to secure a steel beam. Two Makita machines sit on the workbench: the HR2470 and the HR2630. Same SDS-Plus bit, same job, same cold coffee on the windowsill.

Experience with the Makita HR2470?

From the very first holes, Julien gets back into his groove. The tool vibrates a bit, but stays stable. It starts sharply, no fuss, just raw power. Over time, his wrists start to feel it, especially when drilling overhead, but the torque stays well under control. After twenty minutes of work, the drill is warm, the noise steady but predictable. Julien sums it up: “It’s rough, but it gets the job done.”

Experience with the Makita HR2630?

When he switches to the HR2630, the difference is obvious right away on the trigger: smoother, more progressive. The variable speed lets him adjust without thinking, and the torque limiter stops the jolts when the bit catches a stone. The grip feels softer, mainly thanks to the rubber coating that absorbs vibrations. After running through the same set of holes, Julien notices he’s less tired and more consistent in his movements. He smiles: “It’s like driving the same car, but now you’ve got ABS and power steering.”

User reviews

Makita HR2470

4.18/5

Power & Drilling Performance

88%

Comfort & Ergonomics

82%

Safety & Control

75%

Value for Money

90%

★★★★★

Marc A.

I’ve been using the HR2470 for more than five years, and honestly, it takes everything without flinching. It has never overheated, even after full days drilling into concrete. Not the quietest, but solid the real deal.

★★★★★

Claire P.

I use it for home projects, mostly to mount shelves or drill into load-bearing walls. It’s a bit heavy on the arms, but very stable and easy to control.

★★★★★

Yann L.

Good tool, tough, but the lack of variable speed is noticeable when you want a clean hole in softer materials. Other than that, it’s classic Makita: reliable and precise.

Makita HR2630

4.5/5

Power & Drilling Performance

92%

Comfort & Ergonomics

90%

Safety & Control

93%

Value for Money

85%

★★★★★

Sébastien R.

I switched from the HR2470 to the HR2630, and the difference is obvious right away. The variable speed and torque limiter are a real plus for safety and comfort. Very well balanced in the hand.

★★★★★

Lucie M.

I do a lot of drilling in stone and concrete. The HR2630 is precise, a bit heavier than I expected, but it vibrates less and keeps up with the pace.

★★★★★

Hassan T.

I use it almost every day. The long cord, speed control, and steady power are great. Only minor drawback: it gets a bit loud over time, but that’s secondary considering the quality of the work it delivers.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the Makita HR2470 and the HR2630?

The HR2630 is a direct evolution of the HR2470, featuring a slightly more powerful motor (800 W vs. 780 W), a torque limiter for increased safety, variable speed control, and improved ergonomics. Overall performance is similar, but the HR2630 is more modern and more precise.

Is the Makita HR2630 worth the price difference?

Yes, if you’re looking for a tool that’s more comfortable and safer in the long run. The price gap (about $15–$20) is justified by the variable speed control, torque limiter, and rubber-coated handle. For heavy or frequent use, it’s the better investment.

Can you use the same SDS-Plus bits on both models?

Absolutely. Both rotary hammers use the SDS-Plus system, which is compatible with the same standard bits, chisels, and accessories from Makita or other brands.

Which Makita rotary hammer should you choose for home use?

The HR2470 is more than enough for drilling into concrete or brick around the house. It’s reliable, lightweight, and easy to maintain. The HR2630 is better suited for those who frequently renovate or need more precise drilling.

What is the average lifespan of a Makita rotary hammer?

With regular maintenance (cleaning, greasing, checking the carbon brushes), a Makita rotary hammer can last more than 10 years with moderate use. These models are built to withstand thousands of hours of work.

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