Comparison:DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD995

In DeWalt’s XR 18V lineup, two hammer drill drivers stand out: the DCD996 and the DCD995. These cordless models meet the needs of both professionals and demanding DIYers. Power, durability, and versatility are all there, but certain technical differences can guide the choice depending on the intended use, heavy-duty work in concrete, intensive screwdriving, wood drilling, or occasional tasks. This comparison helps determine which of these two 18V drills is best suited to each need.

DeWalt DCD996

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V

Max Torque : 95 Nm

No-Load Speed (RPM) : 0-500 / 1500 / 2250

Impact Rate (bpm) : 8600 / 25,500 / 38,250

Drilling Capacity (Wood) : 55 mm

Drilling Capacity (Metal) : 15 mm

Drilling Capacity (Masonry) : 13 mm

Clutch Settings : 11 positions (electronic clutch)

Weight (with battery) : 2.1 kg

Length : 213 mm

LED Lighting : 3 modes with spotlight function

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

95 Nm torque, suitable for demanding tasks
Impact rate up to 38,250 bpm, effective on hard concrete
Drilling capacity of 55 mm in wood and 15 mm in metal
Durable 3-speed all-metal transmission
3-mode LED lighting with spotlight function
Ergonomic handle for improved comfort

Weaknesses

Fewer clutch settings (11 positions) compared to the DCD995
Lower masonry capacity (13 mm vs. 16 mm for the DCD995)
Often sold without battery or charger

Indicative price

159$

Who is DeWalt DCD996 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD996 is an 18V XR hammer drill driver designed for intensive applications. It stands out with its high power and versatility on wood, metal, and concrete.

DeWalt DCD995

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V

Max Torque : 80 Nm

No-Load Speed (RPM) : 0-450 / 1300 / 2000

Impact Rate (bpm) : 7650 / 22,100 / 34,000

Drilling Capacity (Wood) : 50 mm

Drilling Capacity (Metal) : 13 mm

Drilling Capacity (Masonry) : 16 mm

Clutch Settings : 22 positions

Weight (with battery) : 2.13 kg

Length : 213 mm

LED Lighting : LED with 20s delay

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

80 Nm torque, suitable for most applications
22 clutch settings for precise screwdriving
Good masonry capacity (16 mm, higher than the DCD996)
LED with 20-second delay
Ergonomic handle providing comfort and control
Balanced weight (2.13 kg) for extended use
Frequently offered with battery and charger included

Weaknesses

15 Nm lower torque compared to the DCD996
Lower maximum impact rate (34,000 bpm)
More limited drilling capacity in wood (50 mm) and metal (13 mm)
Less advanced transmission compared to the DCD996

Indicative price

299$

Who is DeWalt DCD995 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD995 is an 18V XR hammer drill driver. While not as recent as the DCD996, it remains a powerful and reliable tool, well-suited for regular drilling and driving tasks, offering a solid balance between performance and precision.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD995

Criteria	DCD996	DCD995	Verdict
Voltage	18 V	18 V	Tie
Max Torque	95 Nm	80 Nm	DCD996More powerful (+15 Nm)
No-Load Speed (RPM)	0-500 / 1500 / 2250	0-450 / 1300 / 2000	DCD996Slightly faster
Impact Rate (bpm)	8600 / 25,500 / 38,250	7650 / 22,100 / 34,000	DCD996Higher impact rate
Drilling Capacity (Wood)	55 mm	50 mm	DCD996Better capacity (+5 mm)
Drilling Capacity (Metal)	15 mm	13 mm	DCD996Better capacity (+2 mm)
Drilling Capacity (Masonry)	13 mm	16 mm	DCD995Better capacity (+3 mm)
Clutch Settings	11 positions (electronic clutch)	22 positions	DCD995More precision
Weight (with battery)	2.1 kg	2.13 kg	Tie
Length	213 mm	213 mm	Tie
LED Lighting	3 modes with spotlight function	LED with 20s delay	DCD996More versatile

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD996

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

For DeWalt DCD995

DeWALT N375868 Deflector

DeWALT 45-piece bit set

DeWALT T-STAK Toolbox

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD995

He uses his tools daily, often on job sites involving reinforced concrete, drilling into brick, and driving screws into metal structures.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD996?

Julien used the DCD996 to assemble a metal partition and drill several anchors into concrete. The power is immediately noticeable: the high torque drives screws effortlessly, and the impact rate makes drilling through tough spots easier. The multi-mode LED provides excellent lighting in dark spaces. After several hours, however, the weight starts to become noticeable, especially when working overhead.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD995?

With the DCD995, Julien drove boards onto a wooden frame and drilled metal supports. The tool feels more comfortable to handle over extended periods, with good balance. The numerous clutch settings help prevent damaging soft wood. On concrete, it’s still effective but requires more time than the DCD996. The LED is useful, though the lack of adjustable modes slightly limits its practicality.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD996

4.48/5

Power & Torque

94%

Versatility (wood, metal, concrete)

92%

Ergonomics & Comfort

88%

Value for Money

85%

★★★★★

Marc D.

Used on job sites every day, it has never let me down. The power is impressive and the multi-level LED is very handy indoors. A bit heavy at the end of the day, but it makes the work more efficient.

★★★★★

Sophie L.

For my renovation projects, it handles everything with ease, even concrete. Battery life mostly depends on the pack, but the tool itself is reliable and solid. Only downside: it’s often sold without a battery.

★★★★★

Hugo P.

Great tool, strong torque and effective settings. I would have liked more clutch positions for screwdriving, but overall it saves a lot of time.

DeWalt DCD995

4.41/5

Power & Torque

86%

Versatility (wood, metal, concrete)

88%

Ergonomics & Comfort

90%

Value for Money

89%

★★★★★

Claire M.

I use it regularly for home projects. Easier to handle than other models, and the numerous clutch settings help prevent damaging screws. A solid choice for versatile use.

★★★★★

Julien R.

As a tradesman, I find it reliable and robust. The masonry capacity is a real advantage for my work. The LED lighting is practical and it feels comfortable in hand.

★★★★★

Nadia T.

For occasional use, it’s more than enough. I especially appreciate the comfort of the grip and the precision when screwdriving. A little less powerful than the DCD996, but very satisfying overall.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the DeWalt DCD996 and the DCD995?

The DCD996 delivers more power (95 Nm vs. 80 Nm), a higher impact rate, and a 3-mode LED, while the DCD995 offers 22 clutch settings and better masonry capacity.

Is the DeWalt DCD996 suitable for drilling into concrete?

Yes. With a maximum impact rate of 38,250 bpm, it is designed to drill efficiently into concrete and hard materials when used with the appropriate bits.

Which drill is best for versatile home use?

The DCD995 is well-suited for DIYers looking for precision and versatility thanks to its numerous clutch settings. The DCD996 is better for demanding jobs requiring more power.

Is the DeWalt DCD995 still a good choice compared to the DCD996?

Yes. The DCD995 remains highly capable for most common tasks and is a solid alternative for those who value precision and comfort.

Are both models compatible with DeWalt 18V XR batteries?

Yes, both the DCD996 and the DCD995 are fully compatible with all DeWalt 18V XR batteries.