Comparison:DeWalt DCD791 vs DCD800

In the world of power tools, DeWalt’s 18V drill drivers are among the most popular choices for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. This comparison highlights two of the brand’s flagship models: the DCD791 and the DCD800. Compact, powerful, and ergonomic, each one meets different needs depending on usage intensity. The first is well-suited for demanding homeowners and tradespeople handling regular tasks, while the second is designed for professionals seeking higher torque for heavy-duty applications.

DeWalt DCD791

Technical specifications

Max torque : 70 Nm

Output power : 460 W

No-load speed : 0-550 / 2000 rpm

Torque settings : 15 positions

Wood drilling : 40 mm

Metal drilling : 13 mm

Length : 175 mm

Net weight : 1.3 kg

LED lighting : Fixed

Battery compatibility : 10.8 V / 14.4 V / 18 V XR

Ergonomics : Reinforced grip

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

XR (eXtreme Runtime) technology for improved energy efficiency
Multi-voltage compatibility (10.8V, 14.4V, and 18V XR)
Compact length (175 mm), ideal for confined areas
Ergonomic grip for a comfortable hold
Lightweight design (1.3 kg), convenient for extended use

Weaknesses

Maximum torque of 70 Nm, less suitable for heavy-duty applications
Slightly less powerful than the DCD800 (460 W vs. 500 W)
Fixed LED light, not very practical in dark work environments

Indicative price

126$

Who is DeWalt DCD791 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD791 is an 18V compact drill driver designed to balance runtime and comfort. Its XR brushless motor delivers optimized efficiency, while the reduced size makes it easier to work in tight spaces.

DeWalt DCD800

Technical specifications

Max torque : 90 Nm

Output power : 500 W

No-load speed : 0-650 / 2000 rpm

Torque settings : 15 positions

Wood drilling : 40 mm

Metal drilling : 13 mm

Length : 161 mm

Net weight : 1.28 kg

LED lighting : Pivoting

Battery compatibility : 18 V XR only

Ergonomics : Handle + clip + bit holder

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Maximum torque of 90 Nm, +28% compared to the DCD791
500 W power output, suitable for tough materials
Compact size at 161 mm, 14 mm shorter than the DCD791
Adjustable LED light for better visibility in dark areas
Sturdy belt clip and magnetic bit holder, convenient on the jobsite
Lightweight design (1.28 kg), comfortable for extended use

Weaknesses

Not compatible with older 10.8V and 14.4V batteries
Typically more expensive than the DCD791
Power can be excessive for light or occasional work

Indicative price

167$

Who is DeWalt DCD800 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD800 is a next-generation 18V drill driver, engineered to deliver more power in an even more compact design. Built for demanding tasks, it combines high torque with notable ergonomic improvements.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD791 vs DCD800

Criteria	DCD791	DCD800	Verdict
Max torque	70 Nm	90 Nm	DCD800+28% more powerful
Output power	460 W	500 W	DCD800+9% more efficient
No-load speed	0-550 / 2000 rpm	0-650 / 2000 rpm	DCD800Better speed in 1st gear
Torque settings	15 positions	15 positions	Tie
Wood drilling	40 mm	40 mm	Tie
Metal drilling	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Length	175 mm	161 mm	DCD80014 mm more compact
Net weight	1.3 kg	1.28 kg	TieNegligible difference
LED lighting	Fixed	Pivoting	DCD800Improved visibility
Battery compatibility	10.8 V / 14.4 V / 18 V XR	18 V XR only	DCD791More versatile
Ergonomics	Reinforced grip	Handle + clip + bit holder	DCD800

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD791

Dewalt XR 18V Battery DCB182-XJ

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

For DeWalt DCD800

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD791 vs DCD800

Accustomed to interior renovation work, he uses a drill driver both for assembling wooden structures and for fastening into metal.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD791?

Thomas spent a morning assembling solid wood cabinets. The drill felt well-balanced and easy to handle with one hand, even during extended screwing tasks. Its light weight became an advantage over time, and the ergonomic grip reduced fatigue. For thin metal, the power was sufficient, but on thicker pieces, the tool quickly reached its limits.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD800?

In the afternoon, he tested the DCD800 on metal fastenings and denser panels. The higher torque was immediately noticeable: screws went in effortlessly, even in demanding materials. The compact size also made it easier to work in tight spaces, such as under a staircase. On the other hand, the extra power required more control to avoid over-tightening. After several hours of use, Thomas confirmed the overall comfort thanks to its manageable weight, and found the pivoting light particularly useful in poorly lit areas.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD791

4.33/5

Power / Torque

79%

Compactness / Handling

84%

Versatility (types of jobs, battery compatibility)

92%

Value for Money

92%

★★★★★

Marc L.

Good drill, compact and pleasant to use. I mostly use it for home projects, and the battery life is more than enough. Too bad the LED is a bit basic.

★★★★★

Sophie G.

I do a lot of small jobs in wood and metal, and this drill suits me perfectly. Lightweight, well-balanced, and compatible with my older batteries, that’s a real plus.

★★★★★

Antoine D.

For regular use, it does the job. The torque is decent but sometimes a bit limited on tougher materials. Excellent ergonomics.

DeWalt DCD800

4.38/5

Power / Torque

96%

Compactness / Handling

89%

Versatility (types of jobs, battery compatibility)

83%

Value for Money

83%

★★★★★

Julien M.

Used on construction sites, it’s impressive in terms of power. You can really feel the 90 Nm torque. The compact design is very handy in tight spaces.

★★★★★

Claire P.

Very good tool, but a bit pricey compared to the DCD791. The pivoting LED is a real advantage, especially in dark areas.

★★★★★

Hassan R.

I replaced my old model with the DCD800 and don’t regret it. More power and a better grip, ideal for daily professional use.

Questions? We have the answers!

What is the difference between the DeWalt DCD791 and the DCD800?

The DCD791 focuses on versatility and multi-voltage compatibility (10.8V, 14.4V, and 18V), while the DCD800 stands out with higher torque (90 Nm) and a more compact size (161 mm).

Which 18V drill driver should you choose for home use?

The DeWalt DCD791 is generally better suited for homeowners and regular DIYers thanks to its balance of power, runtime, and handling.

Is the DCD800 more powerful than the DCD791?

Yes, the DCD800 delivers 90 Nm of torque compared to 70 Nm for the DCD791, about 28% more power.

Do the DCD791 and DCD800 use the same batteries?

The DCD791 is compatible with XR 10.8V, 14.4V, and 18V batteries, while the DCD800 only works with XR 18V batteries.

Which drill is more compact between the DCD791 and the DCD800?

The DCD800 is the more compact model, with a length of 161 mm versus 175 mm for the DCD791, making it easier to use in tight spaces.