Comparison:DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD996

The DeWalt 18V cordless drill drivers DCD796 and DCD996 are among the brand’s most popular models, combining power, compact design, and versatility. Although both belong to the XR range, they meet different needs depending on the type of user. The DCD796, lighter and more compact, is ideal for frequent DIYers or professionals looking for a tool that’s easy to handle and precise. The DCD996, more powerful and rugged, is better suited for heavy-duty use and demanding job sites.

DeWalt DCD796

Technical specifications

Maximum Torque : 70 Nm

Output Power : 460 W

Speeds : 2 (0-550 / 0-2000 RPM)

Blows per Minute (Hammer Mode) : 0-9 350 / 34 000

Masonry Drilling Capacity : 13 mm

Metal Drilling Capacity : 13 mm

Net Weight : 1,2 kg

Weight with Battery : 1,6 kg

Dimensions (L x H x D) : 190 x 203 x 67 mm

Clutch Settings : 15 positions

Number of Speeds : 2

LED Light : Yes

Integrated Accessories : Belt clip

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Lightweight (2.6 lbs bare / 3.5 lbs with battery), offering good handling
Compact design (7.5 in long), convenient in tight spaces
Maximum torque of 70 Nm, sufficient for most common tasks
15 clutch settings for precise adjustment based on material and screw type
Efficient hammer function for drilling into brick and other hard materials
Included 2.0 Ah Li-Ion battery, compatible with the 18V XR range
13 mm (½") all-metal keyless chuck, durable and easy to use
Integrated belt clip for added convenience

Weaknesses

Less powerful than the DCD996 (70 Nm vs. 95 Nm)
Limited runtime with the included 2.0 Ah battery for heavy-duty work
No 3rd speed, reducing versatility for demanding tasks
Basic LED, less effective than the lighting on the higher-end model
Metal drilling capacity limited to 13 mm (vs. 15 mm on the DCD996)

Indicative price

104$

Who is DeWalt DCD796 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD796 is a compact 18V hammer drill driver, designed to strike a balance between power, handling, and versatility. Lightweight and easy to operate, it’s well-suited for both frequent DIYers and professionals who need a tool that’s convenient to carry and reliable for everyday use.

DeWalt DCD996

Technical specifications

Maximum Torque : 95 Nm

Output Power : 820 W

Speeds : 3 (0-500 / 0-1500 / 0-2250 RPM)

Blows per Minute (Hammer Mode) : 0-8 600 / 25 500 / 38 250

Masonry Drilling Capacity : 13 mm

Metal Drilling Capacity : 15 mm

Net Weight : 1,7 kg

Weight with Battery : 2,1 kg

Dimensions (L x H x D) : 213 x 208 x 70 mm

Clutch Settings : 11 positions (electronic clutch)

Number of Speeds : 3

LED Light : Yes (base-mounted LED + integrated flashlight)

Integrated Accessories : Belt clip + magnetic bit holder

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Maximum torque of 95 Nm (+35% compared to the DCD796)
Output power of 820 W, nearly double that of the compact model
3 mechanical speeds providing greater versatility depending on the application
High impact rate (up to 38,250 bpm) for efficient masonry drilling
Larger metal drilling capacity (15 mm vs. 13 mm on the DCD796)
Advanced LED light positioned at the base, with flashlight function
13 mm all-metal ratcheting keyless chuck with automatic locking
Enhanced ergonomics: improved grip, steel belt clip, and magnetic bit holder
Rugged design, built for tough jobsite conditions

Weaknesses

Heavier weight (3.7 lbs bare / 4.6 lbs with battery), reducing handling comfort
Larger dimensions (8.4 in long), less convenient in tight spaces
Sold without battery, increasing the cost if you don’t already own the 18V XR platform
Fewer clutch settings (11 vs. 15 on the DCD796)
Less suitable for light or occasional use due to its price and high performance

Indicative price

164$

Who is DeWalt DCD996 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD996 is a premium 18V hammer drill driver, designed for heavy-duty and professional use. More powerful and durable than the DCD796, it stands out with its high performance, three-speed transmission, and enhanced ergonomics, built for demanding job sites.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD996

Criteria	DCD796	DCD996	Verdict
Maximum Torque	70 Nm	95 Nm	DCD99635% more powerful
Output Power	460 W	820 W	DCD996Nearly double the power
Speeds	2 (0-550 / 0-2000 RPM)	3 (0-500 / 0-1500 / 0-2250 RPM)	DCD996More settings and higher max speed
Blows per Minute (Hammer Mode)	0-9 350 / 34 000	0-8 600 / 25 500 / 38 250	DCD996Higher maximum impact rate
Masonry Drilling Capacity	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Metal Drilling Capacity	13 mm	15 mm	DCD996+2 mm capacity
Net Weight	1,2 kg	1,7 kg	DCD79630% lighter
Weight with Battery	1,6 kg	2,1 kg	DCD796Easier to handle
Dimensions (L x H x D)	190 x 203 x 67 mm	213 x 208 x 70 mm	DCD796More compact
Clutch Settings	15 positions	11 positions (electronic clutch)	DCD796More adjustment levels
Number of Speeds	2	3	DCD996One extra gear
LED Light	Yes	Yes (base-mounted LED + integrated flashlight)	DCD996More advanced lighting
Integrated Accessories	Belt clip	Belt clip + magnetic bit holder	DCD996Better ergonomics

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD796

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

DEWALT DCB118 Rapid Charger

For DeWalt DCD996

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD996

Julien has been working on renovation sites for fifteen years. He uses his drills daily to set anchors, drill into brick walls, and assemble metal structures.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD796?

He starts his day installing a suspended ceiling. Right away, he appreciates the tool’s light weight: when working overhead, it causes less fatigue, especially during repeated screwdriving above his head. Its compact size also makes it easier to work in corners, where a bulkier drill would get in the way. On the other hand, when he moves on to masonry, he quickly feels the drill’s limits: sometimes he has to push harder to get a clean hole, especially with larger bits.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD996?

In the afternoon, he switches to the DCD996 to secure rails into a load-bearing wall. The difference in power is obvious: the drill goes through brick effortlessly, even with a 13 mm bit. The high impact rate speeds up the job, though the extra weight becomes noticeable after a while. For series screwdriving, the tool is a bit more tiring to handle, but it still feels safe and solid in hand. Julien particularly likes the base-mounted LED light, which illuminates the work area well in the dimly lit room.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD796

4.14/5

Power

74%

Compactness & Handling

89%

Versatility

82%

Value for Money

86%

★★★★★

Marc D.

Good drill—lightweight and easy to handle. I mostly use it for home projects, and it does the job perfectly. Battery life could be a bit better, but for regular use it’s spot on.

★★★★★

Sophie L.

Very compact, it fits everywhere—even in corners. The clutch adjustment is precise, which is great for assembling furniture without damaging screws. Ideal for someone who does DIY often.

★★★★★

Antoine P.

I use it alongside other tools on my job sites. It’s less powerful than the DCD996, but its light weight is a real plus when working overhead for long periods.

DeWalt DCD996

4.18/5

Power

96%

Compactness & Handling

71%

Versatility

91%

Value for Money

77%

★★★★★

Julien R.

Impressive power—nothing like my old drill. Drilling into brick is effortless. However, it is a bit heavy, so it takes some getting used to.

★★★★★

Claire M.

Sturdy and reliable—you can tell it’s built to last. I use it every day in my trade, and the three-speed gearbox is a real advantage. Small drawback: no battery included.

★★★★★

Nicolas V.

Great drill for professional use, it handles heavy-duty work without a problem. The LED light is handy in dark areas. A bit pricey if it’s just for occasional DIY.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the DeWalt DCD796 and the DCD996?

The DCD796 is more compact and lightweight, while the DCD996 delivers greater power, three mechanical speeds, and superior LED lighting. The former is better suited for regular and versatile use, while the latter is built for heavy-duty tasks.

Is the DeWalt DCD996 more powerful than the DCD796?

Yes. The DCD996 delivers 95 Nm of torque and 820 W of power, compared to 70 Nm and 460 W for the DCD796. This makes it better suited for tough materials and demanding job sites.

Which 18V drill driver should I choose for household use?

For domestic or everyday tasks, the DCD796 is more than sufficient. It offers a great blend of compactness, lightweight handling, and adequate power—and it typically comes with a battery included.

Which DeWalt drill is best for heavy professional use?

The DCD996 is recommended for intensive work thanks to its high torque, nearly double the power, three-speed transmission, and advanced lighting. It’s built to withstand demanding job sites.

Are DeWalt XR 18V batteries compatible between the DCD796 and the DCD996?

Yes. Both models belong to the XR 18V range and use the same Li-Ion batteries. A battery purchased for one can be used with the other.