Comparison: DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD999

The two models compared, DeWalt DCD796 and DeWalt DCD999, hold a strategic position in the 18V drill/driver segment, where reliability isn’t up for debate whether you’re working occasionally or in heavy-duty conditions. At first glance they look close, almost interchangeable, yet behind the same yellow-and-black badge their behavior diverges clearly. The DCD796 leans toward compact size, precision, and quick response, while the DCD999 pushes high power and long-run endurance for demanding tasks where the tool must stay steady, consistent, and safe even under significant load.

DeWalt

DeWalt DCD796

4.3

259$

OUR #1 PICK

DeWalt

DeWalt DCD999

4.26

274$

OUR #1 PICK

Technical specifications

Max torque : 70 Nm

Output power : 460 W

No-load speeds : 0 - 550 / 0 - 2,000 rpm

Blows per minute : 0 - 9,350 / 0 - 34,000

Masonry drilling : 13 mm

Metal drilling : 13 mm

Wood drilling : -

Weight (bare tool) : 1.20 kg

Length : 190 mm

Height : 203 mm

Speed modes : 2

Motor tech : Brushless XR

LED lighting : Yes

Clutch settings : 15 positions

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Compact size: reduced length and lighter weight, ideal in tight spaces
Max torque of 70 Nm, providing a comfortable power reserve
Brushless XR motor: consistent performance and solid runtime
Two well-spaced speed ranges for controlled drilling and driving
13 mm all-metal keyless chuck, easy to operate
15 clutch settings for fine torque adjustment
Belt clip for quick transitions between tasks
Fully compatible with the entire DeWalt 18V XR lineup

Weaknesses

Limited performance on heavy-duty, repetitive large-diameter drilling
Runtime not as optimized compared to FLEXVOLT-boosted models
LED is functional but basic, no brightness adjustment or delay mode
Lower wood drilling capacity compared to newer, higher-end units

Who is DeWalt DCD796 suitable for?

The DCD796 is a compact 18V drill/driver designed to strike a solid balance between power, precision, and handling. Its lightweight build makes it easy to control, even during repetitive work or awkward positioning. Despite its small footprint, it still has enough punch to handle hard materials with hammer mode, while staying portable and convenient to carry.

Technical specifications

Max torque : 66 Nm

Output power : 1,219 W

No-load speeds : 0 - 500 / 1,500 / 2,250 rpm

Blows per minute : 38,250

Masonry drilling : 13 mm

Metal drilling : 15 mm

Wood drilling : 55 mm

Weight (bare tool) : 1.61 kg

Length : 213 mm

Height : 208 mm

Speed modes : 3

Motor tech : FLEXVOLT Advantage (54V boost)

LED lighting : Yes (brightness + delay settings)

Clutch settings : 11 positions

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Major power gain with 54V XR FLEXVOLT batteries (+42% compared to a standard XR pack)
Full metal 3-speed transmission, ideal for adapting to varied materials
Very high output power: 1,219 W, offering a strong margin for demanding applications
Upgraded LED with delay function, useful in dimly lit spaces
Nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts for superior durability
Increased drilling capacity in wood (55 mm) and metal (15 mm)
Extended side handle for improved control under high torque
Built-in magnetic zone to reduce bit and accessory drops

Weaknesses

Higher weight leads to quicker fatigue during long sessions
Longer and bulkier design, less comfortable in tight areas
Only 11 clutch settings, which limits fine torque adjustment
Full performance unlocked only with 54V batteries (extra cost and added weight)
Less maneuverable than a compact model like the DCD796

Who is DeWalt DCD999 suitable for?

The DCD999 stands as a high-performance 18V drill/driver, built for heavy workloads, sustained drilling, and environments where tool stability is critical under stress. Its standout feature is FLEXVOLT Advantage technology, which significantly boosts power when paired with a 54V battery. It’s a bulkier unit, but also far more durable, designed for users who push their equipment hard.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD999

Criteria	DCD796	DCD999	Verdict
Max torque	70 Nm	66 Nm	DCD796Slightly higher (+4 Nm)
Output power	460 W	1,219 W	DCD999Significantly more powerful (+165%)
No-load speeds	0 - 550 / 0 - 2,000 rpm	0 - 500 / 1,500 / 2,250 rpm	DCD999Offers 3-speed versatility
Blows per minute	0 - 9,350 / 0 - 34,000	38,250	DCD999Delivers more impacts at max speed
Masonry drilling	13 mm	13 mm	Tie
Metal drilling	13 mm	15 mm	DCD999+2 mm
Wood drilling	-	55 mm	DCD999Greater capacity
Weight (bare tool)	1.20 kg	1.61 kg	DCD796Lighter (−0.41 kg)
Length	190 mm	213 mm	DCD796Shorter (−23 mm)
Height	203 mm	208 mm	DCD796Slimmer profile
Speed modes	2	3	DCD999More adjustable
Motor tech	Brushless XR	FLEXVOLT Advantage (54V boost)	DCD999Stronger when paired with 54V packs
LED lighting	Yes	Yes (brightness + delay settings)	DCD999Upgraded LED
Clutch settings	15 positions	11 positions	DCD796More fine tuning

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD796

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DT71563-QZ Drill and Bit Set

DEWALT DCB118 Rapid Charger

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 DCD796 vs DCD999

Refurbishing a small old apartment, installing a metal frame, drilling into brick, mounting cleats, repetitive fastening for a dropped ceiling.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD796?

Marc starts with the ceiling cleats. The DCD796’s compact size immediately makes his life easier: less weight at arm’s length, smoother movements, and those 15 clutch settings save him from burying the screws too deep. When he moves on to brick to secure the frame, the drill holds its ground as long as he doesn’t push it beyond reason. Clean holes, steady pace, but you have to let it breathe a bit to keep the rhythm consistent. In cramped corners, it shines; in heavier passages, it just asks for a touch of patience.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD999?

He runs the exact same sequence with the DCD999, and the difference is instant. On solid brick, speed and stability are on another level: it cuts through in seconds, with zero sign of struggle. The side handle genuinely helps keep control, especially when torque spikes. Overhead work, however, hits differently fatigue kicks in much sooner. It’s longer, heavier, and there’s no hiding it. But the moment he steps up bit diameter or drives harder, that power reserve becomes a clear advantage, making the job smoother by sheer force.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD796

4.3/5

Power & Performance

82%

Handling & Comfort

90%

Versatility

84%

Weight-to-Power Ratio

88%

"I use it for small projects around the house, and honestly, it feels great in the hand. The controlled weight makes a real difference when I’m working overhead. I only wish the light were a bit stronger."

Achat vérifié

Elise M.

★★★★★

"A genuinely pleasant drill to handle day after day. The torque is more than enough for my renovation work, and the clutch settings are extremely practical. No complaints on accuracy."

Achat vérifié

Julien R.

★★★★★

"For something this compact, it hits harder than expected. Maneuverability is excellent, even in tight corners. When the drilling gets heavier, you can feel it reaching its limits—but that’s to be expected."

Achat vérifié

Samir L.

★★★★★

DeWalt DCD999

4.26/5

Power & Performance

95%

Handling & Comfort

74%

Versatility

92%

Weight-to-Power Ratio

80%

"I work a lot on older structures, and the DCD999 doesn’t flinch. The power with a FLEXVOLT battery changes the game, especially in solid brick. A bit on the heavy side, sure, but that weight equals stability."

Achat vérifié

Laura P.

★★★★★

"I use it on site, and it survives long days without complaint. The three speeds really let you match the material. Just know: you’ll feel it in your wrist when the day runs long."

Achat vérifié

Maxime T.

★★★★★

"Excellent tool for heavy drilling jobs. The reinforced chuck feels built for punishment, and the delayed work light is smart when you're inside. This is absolutely a pro-leaning machine."

Achat vérifié

Didier F.

★★★★★

Questions? We have the answers!

Is the DeWalt DCD796 enough for regular work?

Yes. It keeps up surprisingly well with repetitive driving, everyday drilling, and standard renovation jobs. Its lighter build really helps when you’re working overhead or switching tasks nonstop, and its 70 Nm torque rating covers what most homeowners and even many maintenance techs run into.

What truly sets the DeWalt DCD999 apart from the DCD796?

The DCD999 plays in a different league: higher output, a motor tuned for FLEXVOLT packs, and a 3-speed transmission that doesn’t flinch when things get tough. It’s engineered for hard materials, large bits, and situations where the drill must stay composed even when pushed to its limits.

Is the DCD999 compatible with standard 18V batteries?

Yes, it runs on XR 18V packs just fine. But its full potential shows when you pair it with a 54V XR FLEXVOLT battery – power jumps noticeably, and the drill feels like it finally stretches its legs.

Which DeWalt drill/driver is the easiest to handle?

The DCD796 wins that round: shorter, lighter, and far easier to maneuver at arm’s length for long sessions. The DCD999, by comparison, is bulkier and heavier, you feel it instantly.

Which one should you choose for heavy-duty site work?

For demanding materials, large drill diameters, and day-in, day-out abuse, the DCD999 offers far more breathing room. The DCD796 holds its own, but it simply isn’t built to soak up that level of strain every single day.

Other similar comparisons

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The DeWalt DCD999 for only

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