One of the key features of a percussion drill is that they are mains powered. The types of material a percussion drill works well with are metal, wood and plastic. In addition to this because percussion drills also feature a hammer action, they can also drill concrete and brick.

Another name for a percussion drill is an impact drill. Percussion drills have similar features to combi drills, but with the main difference being that combi drills are cordless. It should be noted that percussion drills do not have an SDS tool holder function.