Comparison:DeWalt DCD778 vs DCD796

The 18V DeWalt drill drivers are among the most popular tools for demanding DIYers and professionals alike. Two models stand out in particular: the DeWalt DCD778 and the DeWalt DCD796. Both part of the XR range, they combine power, endurance, and user comfort, yet they cater to slightly different needs. The DCD778 focuses on versatility and accessibility, making it ideal for everyday tasks and home projects. The DCD796, more compact and powerful, is designed for users who need a high-performance tool for intensive or professional use.

DeWalt DCD778

Technical specifications

Voltage / Battery : 18 V - 1.5 Ah Li-Ion

Max Torque (hard) : 65 Nm

Max Torque (soft) : 26 Nm

No-Load Speed (rpm) : 0–500 / 1750

Impact Rate (bpm) : 0–500 / 1750

Weight (without battery) : 1.52 kg

Length : Around 200 mm

Chuck : 13 mm metal

Speeds : 2 mechanical speeds

Torque Settings : 15 positions

LED Light : Yes (standard)

Gearbox : 2-speed metal

Battery Life : 1.5 Ah (x2 batteries)

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

65 Nm torque, sufficient for most household and semi-professional tasks
Two-speed metal gearbox for enhanced durability
15 torque settings for precise screwdriving depending on material
Includes two 1.5 Ah batteries with fast charger
Built-in LED light for better visibility in dark areas
Balanced, ergonomic design with Soft Grip handle for comfortable use
Sturdy T-STAK case included for easy transport and storage

Weaknesses

Low-capacity batteries (1.5 Ah) limit runtime during extended use
Slightly heavier than some comparable models (1.52 kg without battery)
Less suitable for intensive work or very hard materials
Lower speed and impact rate than the DCD796
Lower speed and impact rate than the DCD796

Indicative price

199$

Who is DeWalt DCD778 suitable for?

Compact and durable, the DeWalt DCD778 is a versatile 18V drill driver suitable for regular DIY work as well as light professional use. It combines solid power with easy operation and long-lasting performance, thanks to its reliable design and metal gearbox.

DeWalt DCD796

Technical specifications

Voltage / Battery : 18 V - 2 Ah Li-Ion

Max Torque (hard) : 70 Nm

Max Torque (soft) : 27 Nm

No-Load Speed (rpm) : 0–550 / 2000

Impact Rate (bpm) : 0–9,350 / 34,000

Weight (without battery) : 1.2 kg

Length : 190 mm

Chuck : 13 mm all-metal keyless

Speeds : 2 mechanical speeds

Torque Settings : 15 positions

LED Light : Yes (high intensity)

Gearbox : Reinforced metal

Battery Life : 2 Ah (x2 batteries)

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

High torque of 70 Nm, above the average for its category
Maximum speed of 2,000 rpm and impact rate up to 34,000 bpm, allowing efficient drilling in all materials (wood, metal, masonry)
Compact size (190 mm) and lightweight design (1.2 kg) make it ideal for overhead work or tight spaces
2 Ah battery provides better runtime than the DCD778
High-intensity LED light, effective in low-light areas
All-metal keyless chuck ensures secure bit holding
Integrated belt clip for practical use on-site
XR (eXtreme Runtime) technology for optimal durability and energy efficiency

Weaknesses

Higher price than the DCD778 (about +20% to +30%)
Limited battery life during heavy-duty use despite the 2 Ah capacity
Slight vibrations noticeable at full power
Less suitable for occasional users who wouldn’t fully utilize its potential

Indicative price

259$

Who is DeWalt DCD796 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD796 is a high-end 18V drill driver from the XR range, designed for professionals and demanding DIYers. Compact, lightweight, and highly efficient, it offers an excellent balance between power and maneuverability, perfect for intensive work and precision tasks.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD778 vs DCD796

Criteria	DCD778	DCD796	Verdict
Voltage / Battery	18 V - 1.5 Ah Li-Ion	18 V - 2 Ah Li-Ion	Tie
Max Torque (hard)	65 Nm	70 Nm	DCD796More powerful (+5 Nm)
Max Torque (soft)	26 Nm	27 Nm	Tie
No-Load Speed (rpm)	0–500 / 1750	0–550 / 2000	DCD796Faster (+14%)
Impact Rate (bpm)	0–500 / 1750	0–9,350 / 34,000	DCD796Clearly superior
Weight (without battery)	1.52 kg	1.2 kg	DCD796Lighter (–20%)
Length	Around 200 mm	190 mm	DCD796More compact
Chuck	13 mm metal	13 mm all-metal keyless	Tie
Speeds	2 mechanical speeds	2 mechanical speeds	Tie
Torque Settings	15 positions	15 positions	Tie
LED Light	Yes (standard)	Yes (high intensity)	DCD796Better in low-light conditions
Gearbox	2-speed metal	Reinforced metal	DCD796Better durability
Battery Life	1.5 Ah (x2 batteries)	2 Ah (x2 batteries)	DCD796Better autonomy (+30%)

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD778

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

Additional battery DEWALT DCB183 18V 2.0 Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

For DeWalt DCD796

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

DEWALT DCB118 Rapid Charger

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD778 vs DCD796

He spends his days moving between workshops and job sites, alternating between screwing, drilling, and finishing work on solid wood and metal. What he looks for above all is a reliable, precise tool capable of working for hours on end without weakening.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD778?

Jean-Luc tests the DCD778 on an interior fitting project. Over the course of a full morning, he drills 25 mm oak panels and installs a series of hinges. The drill feels solid in hand, its weight well-balanced, and the variable-speed trigger allows for precise control. For deep screws, the 65 Nm torque handles the job effortlessly, though the battery starts to show its limits after about an hour and a half of continuous use. The gear change is smooth, the LED light adequately illuminates the workspace, though it could be brighter in darker corners.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD796?

The next day, Jean-Luc performs the same tasks using the DCD796. The difference is immediate: the tool feels more compact and lighter, reducing fatigue over time. On the same oak panels, the higher speed (2,000 rpm) delivers cleaner penetration, and the impact mode makes a clear difference when drilling into brick or aerated concrete. The keyless chuck allows for quick bit changes without wasting time. After two hours of continuous work, the battery is still going strong, and the brighter LED perfectly lights up the area. The noise level is slightly higher, but the overall sense of control remains excellent.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD778

4.25/5

Power and Performance

84%

Ergonomics and Handling

86%

Battery Life and Endurance

78%

Value for Money

92%

★★★★★

Julien M.

Weekend DIYer, I’ve been using the DCD778 for a few months to assemble furniture and drill into wood. It’s sturdy, well-balanced, and powerful enough for all home tasks. The only downside: the 1.5 Ah batteries drain a bit quickly during heavier jobs.

★★★★★

Sophie D.

I bought it to renovate an entire room. Excellent grip, not too heavy, and very precise. The T-STAK case is handy for storage, and the value for money seems unbeatable.

★★★★★

Michel L.

I use it regularly in my workshop for small drilling jobs in metal and wood. Nothing to complain about in terms of reliability, it really shows DeWalt quality. I just wish the battery lasted a bit longer.

DeWalt DCD796

4.43/5

Power and Performance

93%

Ergonomics and Handling

91%

Battery Life and Endurance

88%

Value for Money

83%

★★★★★

Nadia P.

I work in maintenance, and this drill is with me every day. Lightweight, very powerful, and the LED light really brightens dark areas. A true ally on the job site.

★★★★★

Franck R.

The DCD796 is a little powerhouse. It drills through masonry effortlessly and remains comfortable even after hours of use. The price is a bit high, but it’s worth it.

★★★★★

Alexandre T.

I replaced my old model with this one to gain more power and runtime. Mission accomplished. The only drawback: at full load, it vibrates a bit more than expected, but nothing serious.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the DeWalt DCD778 and the DCD796?

The main difference lies in power and speed: the DCD796 delivers 70 Nm of torque and up to 2,000 rpm, compared to 65 Nm and 1,750 rpm for the DCD778. It’s also more compact and lighter, making it better suited for professional use.

Which DeWalt drill is best for home use?

For regular household use, the DeWalt DCD778 offers an excellent balance between performance and price. It’s more than sufficient for screwdriving and drilling in wood, metal, or light concrete.

Is the DCD796 worth the extra cost?

Yes, if you need a faster, more compact, and longer-lasting drill, especially for intensive jobs. Otherwise, the DCD778 remains the more economical and adequate choice for standard use.

Are DeWalt XR batteries compatible between the DCD778 and DCD796?

Yes. Both models use DeWalt’s 18V XR system, ensuring full compatibility with the same batteries and chargers.

Which DeWalt 18V drill is best for masonry work?

The DeWalt DCD796, with its 34,000 blows per minute impact rate, performs better when drilling into brick, concrete, and other hard materials.