Comparison:DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD991

18V DeWalt XR Brushless drills are among the most popular models used by both professionals and experienced DIYers. Two standouts in the range are the DeWalt DCD996 and the DeWalt DCD991. Both are durable, powerful, and equipped with a three-speed all-metal transmission, yet they serve different needs depending on work frequency, drilling materials, and the level of comfort required. This comparison highlights their key features to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.

DeWalt DCD996

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V

Motor : Brushless

Max torque : 95 Nm

Max no-load speed : 2,250 rpm

Mechanical speeds : 3

Hammer mode : Yes (up to 38,250 bpm)

Drilling capacity wood : 55 mm

Drilling capacity metal : 15 mm

Drilling capacity masonry : 13 mm

Output power : 820 W

Weight with battery : 2.1 kg

Chuck : 13 mm keyless

LED lighting : Base-mounted LED, delay after trigger release

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

High torque of 95 Nm for demanding applications
3-speed transmission for different materials
Hammer mode (up to 38,250 bpm) for concrete and brick
Higher speed than the DCD991 (+12.5%)
Built-in LED with flashlight function
Competitive weight (2.1 kg with battery) for its class

Weaknesses

Heavier for extended use compared to a compact model
Runtime depends on XR batteries (sold separately)
Less flexible lighting than the DCD991 (fixed base-mounted LED)

Indicative price

164$

Who is DeWalt DCD996 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD996 is an 18V brushless drill/driver built for heavy-duty work. Its hammer function makes it highly effective on masonry while delivering power, durability, and versatility. It’s suitable for both professionals and frequent DIYers.

DeWalt DCD991

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V

Motor : Brushless

Max torque : 95 Nm

Max no-load speed : 2,000 rpm

Mechanical speeds : 3

Hammer mode : No

Drilling capacity wood : 55 mm

Drilling capacity metal : 15 mm

Drilling capacity masonry : 13 mm

Output power : 820 W

Weight with battery : 2.1 kg

Chuck : 13 mm keyless

LED lighting : 3-position LED, 20-min delay

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

95 Nm torque, same as the DCD996, suitable for heavy-duty use
Durable 3-speed all-metal transmission
3-mode LED with 20-minute delay for adjustable, extended lighting
13 mm keyless ratcheting chuck with auto-lock for quick bit changes
Enhanced ergonomics: improved grip, belt hook, and handy bit holder
Streamlined and efficient for wood, metal, and fastening tasks without unnecessary extras

Weaknesses

No hammer mode, making it less suitable for masonry
Lower top speed than the DCD996 (2,000 rpm vs. 2,250 rpm)
Similar weight to the DCD996, so not necessarily easier to handle
Often sold as a bare tool (without battery or charger), increasing upfront cost

Indicative price

194$

Who is DeWalt DCD991 suitable for?

The DeWalt DCD991 is a premium 18V brushless drill/driver designed for precision and user comfort. Geared more toward woodworking and metalworking, it stands out with its advanced LED lighting system and refined ergonomics.

Comparison table: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD991

Criteria	DCD996	DCD991	Verdict
Voltage	18 V	18 V	Tie
Motor	Brushless	Brushless	Tie
Max torque	95 Nm	95 Nm	Tie
Max no-load speed	2,250 rpm	2,000 rpm	DCD996+12.5%
Mechanical speeds	3	3	Tie
Hammer mode	Yes (up to 38,250 bpm)	No	DCD996Masonry versatility
Drilling capacity wood	55 mm	55 mm	Tie
Drilling capacity metal	15 mm	15 mm	Tie
Drilling capacity masonry	13 mm	13 mm	TieWithout hammer mode
Output power	820 W	820 W	Tie
Weight with battery	2.1 kg	2.1 kg	Tie
Chuck	13 mm keyless	13 mm keyless	Tie
LED lighting	Base-mounted LED, delay after trigger release	3-position LED, 20-min delay	DCD991More settings

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DCD996

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

For DeWalt DCD991

DEWALT DCB184 Battery 18V 5Ah

DEWALT DCB115 Charger

DEWALT DT70731 Drill and Bit Set

Real-life test: DeWalt DCD996 vs DCD991

He uses a drill/driver daily on job sites: drilling into concrete, driving anchors, and assembling metal structures.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD996?

Antoine spent an entire morning working with the DCD996 on a load-bearing concrete wall. The hammer mode proved highly effective: the drill cut through easily, even with large-diameter bits. The power is clear, speed remains steady, and the high torque inspires confidence. After about an hour of continuous use, however, he noticed the weight straining his forearm, especially during prolonged overhead drilling. The built-in LED was useful, but finer brightness adjustment would have been appreciated.

Experience with the DeWalt DCD991?

Antoine then switched to the DCD991 for drilling and fastening in wood and steel. The tool felt comfortable in hand, the grip provided good stability, and the trigger responded precisely. The lack of hammer mode wasn’t an issue in this context, and the adjustable LED with long delay proved handy in dark areas. The slightly lower speed compared to the DCD996 was noticeable during tougher drilling, but the ease of use and overall balance more than made up for it.

User reviews

DeWalt DCD996

4.48/5

Power

95%

Compactness & Ergonomics

82%

Versatility (materials & applications)

94%

Value for Money

88%

★★★★★

Marc D.

I’ve been using this drill on-site for several months, mainly for concrete drilling. The hammer mode works great and the torque is impressive. A bit heavy in hand after a full day, but the power is definitely there.

★★★★★

Sophie L.

For my renovation projects, the DCD996 has been very helpful. It handles wood and brick with no problem. Only downside: the battery drains quickly when pushed hard, so having two batteries is a must.

★★★★★

Julien R.

Good ergonomics, comfortable grip, and the LED is handy in dark areas. I would have liked a more flexible lighting adjustment like on the DCD991, but in terms of versatility, it’s hard to beat.

DeWalt DCD991

4.32/5

Power

92%

Compactness & Ergonomics

85%

Versatility (materials & applications)

79%

Value for Money

90%

★★★★★

Nathalie P.

I mainly use it for assembling furniture and occasional wood drilling. Very pleasant to handle, and the adjustable LED is a real plus in poorly lit rooms.

★★★★★

Olivier T.

Reliable tool for regular use, especially in metalwork. No hammer mode so it’s limited for masonry, but otherwise smooth and precise.

★★★★★

Karim B.

The tool is solid and the chuck locks perfectly. I would have liked a bit more speed like on the DCD996, but for my work as an electrician, it’s more than enough.

Questions? We have the answers!

What is the difference between the DeWalt DCD996 and the DCD991?

The main difference lies in the hammer function: the DCD996 includes it (up to 38,250 bpm), making it suitable for masonry drilling. The DCD991 does not have this feature and is therefore limited to wood and metal work.

Is the DeWalt DCD996 more powerful than the DCD991?

Both models deliver the same maximum torque of 95 Nm and an output power of 820 W. However, the DCD996 offers a slightly higher speed (2,250 rpm vs. 2,000 rpm), which can provide a performance edge.

Which DeWalt drill/driver is best for heavy professional use?

For versatile use including masonry, the DCD996 is the better choice thanks to its hammer mode. For tasks mainly focused on wood and metal, with advanced LED lighting, the DCD991 is a reliable alternative.

Is the DCD991 lighter than the DCD996?

No, both weigh around 2.1 kg with the battery, with no significant difference in handling.

Are the DCD996 and DCD991 compatible with DeWalt XR 18V batteries?

Yes, both belong to the XR 18V range and work with all DeWalt XR Lithium-Ion batteries.