1-1/4 MX-98 Drill Review
Our verdict
The MX-98 is a 13-amp, 1100 RPM corded rotary hammer priced at $59.99 with a 4.0-star rating across 100 reviews , it delivers maximum corded amperage at the lowest price in the 13-amp class, though the rating is the most modest in this rotary hammer group.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Budget buyers who specifically need 13-amp corded power and can accept a lower satisfaction rating in exchange for the lowest 13-amp price in the category
Skip if
Owner satisfaction rating matters most; at 4.0 stars across 100 reviews the MX-98 trails higher-rated 13-amp alternatives and several lower-amperage competitors
- Power Source Corded Electric
- Voltage 110 Volts
- Amps 13 Amps
- Speed 1100 RPM
- Weight 12.13 Pounds
- Priced 58% below the category median ($144.32 across 49 tracked models)
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.0/5
4.0 average across 100 owner ratings
-
Popularity0.7/5
100 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
At $59.99, the MX-98 delivers 13 amps of corded power on 110V AC at 1100 RPM, making it the most affordable 13-amp rotary hammer in this product group. The high amperage and respectable RPM figure mean the spec sheet looks strong at this price.
However, the 4.0-star average across 100 reviews is the lowest rating in this rotary hammer lineup. While 4.0 stars still clears the 3.8-star quality threshold, the gap to 4.5 to 4.7-star competitors is noticeable. Buyers with 50 purchases per month also represent lower demand than most alternatives, which may reflect mixed real-world experience versus the spec sheet promise.
At 12.13 pounds, the MX-98 is one of the heavier tools in the category. The combination of high amperage, heavy build, and 110V input is suited for demanding concrete work, but buyers who value reliability track records should note the rating context.
Pros
- 13-amp motor is maximum standard corded power for a rotary hammer in this price tier
- 1100 RPM combines well with 13 amps for capable concrete and masonry drilling
- Priced at $59.99, the most affordable 13-amp rotary hammer in this category
- Runs on 110V AC for compatibility with standard North American circuits
Cons
- 4.0-star rating across 100 reviews is the lowest in this rotary hammer group
- At 12.13 pounds it is among the heaviest models in the category, increasing user fatigue
- Lower monthly demand of 50 units suggests the market is less confident than in higher-rated alternatives
Specifications
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Amps | 13 Amps |
| Speed | 1100 RPM |
| Weight | 12.13 Pounds |
Performance notes
The MX-98 runs on 110V at 13 amps and reaches 1100 RPM. At 12.13 pounds it is a heavy, full-size corded rotary hammer built for stationary or supported drilling rather than overhead or maneuvering-intensive work. The full 13-amp draw should be run on a dedicated 15-amp circuit to avoid nuisance tripping.
What buyers say
Owners who reviewed the MX-98 rate it 4.0 stars across 100 reviews. The spec sheet draws initial interest at the price, but a portion of buyers appear to have unmet expectations, reflected in the rating landing lower than most competitors with similar or lower amperage. Common praise centers on the 13-amp power; common complaints are not explicitly detailed in the available data but likely relate to build quality or durability at this price.
More from 1-1/4
Similar power tools and workshop machinery to consider
Frequently asked questions
Why is the MX-98 rated lower than other 13-amp rotary hammers in this category?
Based on the available data, the MX-98 averages 4.0 stars across 100 reviews while other 13-amp models reach 4.5 to 4.6 stars. The exact reasons for the gap are not itemized in the published data, but the pattern suggests some owners experienced inconsistency relative to expectations at the price.
Is the MX-98 suitable for extended professional use?
The 13-amp motor and 1100 RPM support demanding work, but the 4.0-star owner rating and lower monthly demand relative to alternatives suggest checking higher-rated 13-amp options if reliability over sustained professional use is the priority.