Comparison: DeWalt DCD708 vs DCD709

In the fiercely competitive 18V drill/driver market, two DEWALT models stand out: the DCD708 compact, feather-light and the DCD709, which layers in a hammer function to broaden its reach. At first glance, they could pass for twins; in practice, their purposes diverge. Some users demand a nimble tool to maneuver inside cramped spaces, while others need a machine tough enough to bite into harder, more stubborn materials.

DeWalt

DeWalt DCD708

4.02

159$

OUR #1 PICK

DeWalt

DeWalt DCD709

4.35

239$

OUR #1 PICK

Technical specifications

Main function : Drill/driver

Max torque : 65 Nm

No-load speed : 0 - 450 / 0 - 1650 rpm

Blows per minute (BPM) : -

Output power : 340 W

Tool length : 160 mm

Weight : 1.1 kg

Chuck capacity : 1.5 - 13 mm

Metal drilling : 13 mm

Masonry drilling : -

Clutch settings : 15 positions

Variable speed : Yes

LED light : Yes, base-mounted

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Ultra-compact form: only 160 mm in length
Low weight (1.1 kg) reduces fatigue during extended use
Brushless motor delivers solid performance for its size
65 Nm max torque suitable for common applications
2-speed metal transmission
15 clutch settings for easy material adjustment
Built-in LED for dark areas
Straightforward handling, ideal for users with minimal equipment

Weaknesses

No hammer function
Battery not included depending on kit
More limited drilling capacity than the DCD709 (no masonry drilling)
LED is less advanced than on the DCD709 (no delay feature)

Who is DeWalt DCD708 suitable for?

The DCD708 is a compact 18V drill/driver designed for tight workspaces or for those who need a lightweight everyday tool. Its reduced size and brushless motor make it a versatile option for standard drilling and driving tasks.

Technical specifications

Main function : Hammer drill/driver

Max torque : 65 Nm

No-load speed : 0 - 450 / 0 - 1650 rpm

Blows per minute (BPM) : 0 - 7,650 / 0 - 28,057 BPM

Output power : 340 W

Tool length : 173 - 175 mm

Weight : 1.2 kg

Chuck capacity : 1.5 - 13 mm

Metal drilling : 13 mm

Masonry drilling : 13 mm

Clutch settings : 15 positions

Variable speed : Yes

LED light : Yes, with delay

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Hammer mode for masonry drilling (up to 13 mm)
Greater drilling capacity in wood (30 mm)
LED with delay for more precise work-area lighting
Typical kits include 2 Ah and 4 Ah batteries
2-speed metal gearbox with 65 Nm torque
Broader versatility for users working across multiple materials
Refined ergonomics with a more comfortable grip
Still relatively compact (≈173–175 mm)

Weaknesses

Slightly longer body than the DCD708
A bit heavier (1.2 kg)
Generally higher price due to hammer feature and battery inclusions
Less relevant for users who never need to drill masonry

Who is DeWalt DCD709 suitable for?

The DCD709 builds on the DCD708’s foundation, adding a hammer function to expand its capabilities. It remains compact for its category while offering greater drilling range and, in most kits, a more complete battery setup.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD708 vs DCD709

Criteria	DCD708	DCD709	Verdict
Main function	Drill/driver	Hammer drill/driver	DCD709Hammer mode
Max torque	65 Nm	65 Nm	Tie
No-load speed	0 - 450 / 0 - 1650 rpm	0 - 450 / 0 - 1650 rpm	Tie
Blows per minute (BPM)	-	0 - 7,650 / 0 - 28,057 BPM	DCD709Hammer
Output power	340 W	340 W	Tie
Tool length	160 mm	173 - 175 mm	DCD708≈ 10% more compact
Weight	1.1 kg	1.2 kg	DCD708≈ 8% lighter
Chuck capacity	1.5 - 13 mm	1.5 - 13 mm	Tie
Metal drilling	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Masonry drilling	-	13 mm	DCD709
Clutch settings	15 positions	15 positions	Tie
Variable speed	Yes	Yes	Tie
LED light	Yes, base-mounted	Yes, with delay	DCD709

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD708

Dewalt XR 18V Battery DCB182-XJ

37-piece screwdriver bit set FLEXTORQ DEWALT DT70732T-QZ

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

For DeWalt DCD709

Dewalt XR 18V Battery DCB182-XJ

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD708 vs DCD709

He works on small renovation jobs: shelving installs, carpentry adjustments, light masonry fixes. A typical day mixes driving screws, some wood drilling, and occasionally a tougher wall. He tested both models over a full morning three hours of work in an old apartment where no wall is ever truly straight.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD708?

Thomas started by installing two shelves in a narrow kitchen. The DCD708’s compact size clearly helped: at 160 mm, it slips between a cabinet and a conduit with no struggle. The tool stays steady, the weight is practically unnoticeable after an hour of driving screws, and the 65 Nm torque is enough for long screws in MDF. He notes, however, that when facing a denser wall, the drill reaches its limit: without hammer mode, there’s no point forcing it. For wood and standard fastening, though, it felt smooth and pleasant almost “invisible” in the hand.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD709?

For the second half of the test, Thomas had to mount a TV bracket on a light masonry wall. Here, the DCD709 took over, and the difference was immediate: hammer mode does the job without causing excessive vibration. It’s slightly longer and a bit heavier not a real issue, but you feel it more when working overhead or with arms extended. The delayed LED helped him pinpoint drilling spots in a dim corner of the living room. On wood, it behaves like the 708, maybe a touch more stable thanks to the improved grip. By the end of the morning, he had gone through two batteries, but the 4 Ah pack lasted longer than expected.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD708

4.02/5

Power / Torque

85%

Versatility (materials, applications)

70%

Compactness / Ergonomics

92%

Battery life / Endurance

75%

"I mostly use it for small jobs around the house. The form factor is super convenient—it fits everywhere without tiring your arm. I just wish the kit I bought had a longer-lasting battery."

Achat vérifié

Marc T.

★★★★★

"Good grip and more than enough torque for furniture assembly and basic drilling. But without hammer mode, I quickly hit the limit for a couple of hard-wall tasks."

Achat vérifié

Sonia L.

★★★★★

"In building maintenance, I mainly look for compact and reliable tools. It does exactly what I need and the 2 Ah pack lasts through a typical workday."

Achat vérifié

Jérôme P.

★★★★★

DeWalt DCD709

4.35/5

Power / Torque

85%

Versatility (materials, applications)

90%

Compactness / Ergonomics

85%

Battery life / Endurance

88%

"The hammer mode has saved me multiple times. The tool stays light and pleasant to handle, even when working on walls for a while. The delayed LED is a nice little bonus."

Achat vérifié

Nadia F.

★★★★★

"I’m a tradesman and use it almost every day. Torque is solid and the versatility is real. Only note: slightly heavier than the 708, but nothing problematic."

Achat vérifié

Alexandre G.

★★★★★

"Good performance in light masonry, but I expected a bit more runtime. Luckily, the two batteries in the kit balance it out. Overall, I’m satisfied."

Achat vérifié

Luc M.

★★★★★

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the DEWALT DCD708 and the DCD709?

The DCD708 is a compact drill/driver without hammer mode, while the DCD709 adds hammer action for masonry. Both deliver the same torque (65 Nm), but the DCD709 covers a wider range of applications.

Is the DEWALT DCD709 more powerful than the DCD708?

No, both models share the same maximum torque. The key distinction is the hammer function, which allows the DCD709 to handle harder materials.

Which model should I choose for regular home use?

For everyday drilling and driving, the DCD708 is more than sufficient thanks to its lightweight, compact build. The DCD709 becomes worthwhile if masonry work is expected.

Can the DCD708 drill into concrete?

No, it doesn’t feature hammer mode. For light masonry, the DCD709 is the more suitable option.

Which model offers better runtime?

The DCD709 typically includes both 4 Ah and 2 Ah batteries in kit form. The DCD708 depends on the selected kit and may come without a battery.

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