Comparison:DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD999

DeWalt XR 18V hammer drill drivers are known for their power, durability, and versatility. Two models stand out: the DeWalt DCD996, an XRP drill designed for heavy-duty work, and the DeWalt DCD999, from the XR Advantage range, compatible with 54V FLEXVOLT batteries for extra power. This comparison highlights the key differences between these two cordless drills to help you choose the model best suited for your needs, whether for professional use or demanding DIY projects.

DeWalt DCD996

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18V XR

Output power : 820 W

Max torque : 95 Nm

Speeds : 0–500 / 0–1500 / 0–2250 rpm

Impact rate : 0–8600 / 25,500 / 38,250 bpm

Drilling capacity (wood) : 55 mm

Drilling capacity (metal) : 15 mm

Drilling capacity (concrete) : 13 mm

Weight without battery : 1.7 kg

Weight with battery : 2.1 kg

LED light : 3-position LED

Chuck : 13 mm ratcheting metal

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

High torque of 95 Nm with 18V XR battery
820 W output power, suitable for wood, metal, and concrete
Heavy-duty 3-speed all-metal transmission
3-position LED light for precise illumination
Ergonomic design with improved grip
13 mm metal chuck with automatic locking

Weaknesses

Not compatible with 54V FLEXVOLT batteries
Slightly heavier than the DCD999
Lower torque compared to newer FLEXVOLT-equipped models

Indicative price

159$

Who is DeWalt DCD996 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD996 is an 18V XR hammer drill driver from the XRP range, designed for heavy-duty tasks. It delivers power, durability, and user comfort, making it suitable for both demanding DIYers and professionals.

DeWalt DCD999

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18V XR + FLEXVOLT 54V compatible

Output power : 1219 W

Max torque : 66 Nm (112 Nm with FLEXVOLT)

Speeds : 0–500 / 0–1500 / 0–2250 rpm

Impact rate : 0–8600 / 25,500 / 38,250 bpm

Drilling capacity (wood) : 55 mm

Drilling capacity (metal) : 15 mm

Drilling capacity (concrete) : 13 mm

Weight without battery : 1.61 kg

Weight with battery : ≈1.9 kg (depending on battery)

LED light : LED with delay feature

Chuck : 13 mm reinforced metal, carbide inserts

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

XR Advantage technology: +42% power with 54V FLEXVOLT battery
Maximum torque up to 112 Nm with 54V 6Ah battery
1219 W output power, higher than the DCD996
Reinforced metal chuck with carbide inserts
Lighter design (1.61 kg without battery) for improved comfort
Heavy-duty 3-speed all-metal transmission
Integrated LED with delay feature for optimized lighting

Weaknesses

Torque limited to 66 Nm in standard use with 18V XR battery
Requires a FLEXVOLT battery to reach full potential
Higher price than the DCD996 with similar configuration

Indicative price

274$

Who is DeWalt DCD999 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD999 is a hammer drill driver from the XR Advantage range. Compatible with 18V XR batteries, it stands out thanks to its ability to leverage FLEXVOLT 54V technology, delivering a significant power boost for demanding applications. Designed for heavy-duty jobsite use, it is the most powerful model in the XR lineup.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD999

Criteria	DCD996	DCD999	Verdict
Voltage	18V XR	18V XR + FLEXVOLT 54V compatible	DCD999Versatility
Output power	820 W	1219 W	DCD999+48% power
Max torque	95 Nm	66 Nm (112 Nm with FLEXVOLT)	DCD999Advantage DCD999 with FLEXVOLT, otherwise DCD996
Speeds	0–500 / 0–1500 / 0–2250 rpm	0–500 / 0–1500 / 0–2250 rpm	Tie
Impact rate	0–8600 / 25,500 / 38,250 bpm	0–8600 / 25,500 / 38,250 bpm	Tie
Drilling capacity (wood)	55 mm	55 mm	Tie
Drilling capacity (metal)	15 mm	15 mm	Tie
Drilling capacity (concrete)	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Weight without battery	1.7 kg	1.61 kg	DCD999≈5% lighter
Weight with battery	2.1 kg	≈1.9 kg (depending on battery)	DCD999Lighter
LED light	3-position LED	LED with delay feature	TieDifferent functionalities
Chuck	13 mm ratcheting metal	13 mm reinforced metal, carbide inserts	DCD999More robust

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD996

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

For DeWalt DCD999

Wood, metal, and concrete drill bit set DEWALT DT70702-QZ

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

Additional handle DEWALT DCD999

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD999

Light framework fastening and drilling holes in a cinder block wall to install expansion anchors. Use of both drills during a full workday, about 3 hours of cumulative runtime per machine.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD996?

With the DCD996 equipped with a 5Ah XR battery, the available torque makes it easy to drive lag screws into wood. The drill reacts quickly, and the variable-speed trigger provides good control. On cinder block, the hammer action is effective, but after around thirty holes, the weight starts to be noticeable, especially with the battery attached. Still, the tool remains reliable and consistent, with little heating even after prolonged use.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD999?

With the DCD999 and a 6Ah FLEXVOLT battery, the difference is clear. Startup feels snappier, and the power reserve is close to that of a corded tool. Drilling into concrete is faster and requires less pressure. Battery life drops more quickly in intensive mode, but the tool is slightly lighter and better balanced, which reduces fatigue at the end of the day.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD996

4.27/5

Power & torque

86%

Ergonomics & comfort

81%

Versatility

83%

Value for money

92%

★★★★★

Marc D.

I use the DCD996 for my home renovations and it has never let me down. The torque is really impressive and the LED light is handy in dark areas.

★★★★★

Sophie L.

Very good drill, sturdy and comfortable to hold. A bit heavy after long use, but the power more than makes up for it.

★★★★★

Julien P.

Regular use on wood and metal, no reliability issues. Too bad it’s not compatible with FLEXVOLT batteries, but it still performs very well.

DeWalt DCD999

4.38/5

Power & torque

94%

Ergonomics & comfort

89%

Versatility

95%

Value for money

73%

★★★★★

Anthony M.

As a tradesman, I was looking for a drill that could rival a corded one. With the DCD999 and a FLEXVOLT battery, it really feels like that.

★★★★★

Claire B.

The lighter weight is appreciated and the grip is comfortable. With a standard 18V battery it’s still powerful, but you can tell it performs best with FLEXVOLT.

★★★★★

Nicolas G.

Good battery life and solid performance on the jobsite. The price is a bit high, but justified for pros who want extra power reserves.

Questions? We have the answers!

What is the difference between the DeWalt DCD996 and the DCD999?

The DCD996 is a powerful and reliable 18V XR drill, while the DCD999 features XR Advantage technology, allowing it to use 54V FLEXVOLT batteries for increased power.

Is the DeWalt DCD996 sufficient for professional use?

Yes. With 95 Nm of torque and 820 W of power, it covers most applications in wood, metal, and concrete, including professional use.

Is the DeWalt DCD999 compatible with all DeWalt 18V batteries?

Yes. It works with standard 18V XR batteries, but delivers its full potential when paired with a 54V FLEXVOLT battery.

Which model is best for heavy-duty concrete work?

The DCD999, combined with a FLEXVOLT battery, is better suited for intensive concrete applications thanks to its higher power and torque.

Is the higher price of the DCD999 justified?

While it is more expensive, it delivers additional power, improved ergonomics, and greater versatility through FLEXVOLT compatibility, making it a strong asset for intensive professional use.