SDS vs SDS Plus vs SDS Max | What Is Right For You?

SDS-Plus vs. SDS-Max - The SDS system has been used in Europe for a long time and has made it way over to the USA.  People still question the differences between the different style slotted bit connection system.  The name SDS comes from the German "Stecken – Drehen – Sichern" (Insert – Twist – Secure).  In German-speaking countries, the back-formation "Spannen durch System" (Clamping System) is used, though Bosch uses "Special Direct System" for international purposes.  The SDS system was designed by Bosch in 1975.  The SDS chuck system was the original with SDS Plus being an improvement on the original SDS system, but remains compatible with SDS bits, and is now the most commonly seen on the market.  SDS Max is designed for the heaviest masonry work and is not with SDS/SDS+ bits. The difference in the bit is in the size, not necessarily in how each connects.  While all three are shaped slightly different, the size is what separates the SDS+ from the SDS Max.   SDS and SDS plus are 10 mm diameter - and interchangeable.  SDS Max is 18 mm in diameter.  That might not sound like much of a difference, but it is significant. SDS & SDS Plus SDS is about phased out and SDS Plus is what you will see in most stores.  Both are used with carbide drill bits from 5/32” to 1-1/8” and thin wall carbide core bits up to 4”.  There are also several types of smaller chipping and chiseling bits that work extremely well with standard SDS Rotary Hammers.  In the big box stores, you will often...