DCD996 vs DCD998: Which Dewalt Drill Should You Choose?

When it comes to cordless drills, Dewalt is one of the most reliable brands on the market. Two of their most popular models are the DCD996 and DCD998, both of which offer powerful performance and durability. But how do you choose between them? In this article, I will compare the DCD996 vs DCD998 to help you make an informed decision.

The Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998 are both top-of-the-line cordless drills that offer impressive power and performance. The DCD996 is known for its high torque output, while the DCD998 is designed with a more efficient brushless motor. But there are other factors to consider as well, such as design, ergonomics, and durability. In the following sections, I will take a closer look at these two models to help you decide which one is right for you.

Key Takeaways

• The Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998 are both powerful cordless drills with unique features and benefits.
• The DCD996 offers higher torque output, while the DCD998 has a more efficient brushless motor.
• When choosing between these two models, consider factors such as design, ergonomics, and durability.

Overview of DCD996 and DCD998

As a professional power tool user, I have had the opportunity to work with both the DEWALT DCD996 and DCD998 cordless drills. Both drills are built with a brushless motor, which is known for its durability and efficiency. The brushless motor also provides more power and longer runtime, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.

The DEWALT DCD996 is a powerful hammer drill that delivers an impressive 1,540 in LBS torque, making it one of the most powerful hammer drills on the market. It also features a 3-speed transmission that offers faster speeds and more torque. The 3-mode LED light provides more light, making it easier to work in low-light environments.

On the other hand, the DEWALT DCD998 is an upgraded version of the DCD996. It features a high-performance brushless motor that delivers 29% more power compared to the DCD996. The DCD998 also comes with two 20V MAX XR Lithium-ion batteries, which charge faster and last longer than the DCD996 batteries.

In terms of features, the DCD998 and the DCD996 have impressive handy ones. For instance, DCD998 comes with two batteries, making it easier to work for longer hours, while the DCD996 comes with a clip belt that makes working hands-free possible.

Overall, both drills are excellent choices for professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts. The DCD998 is an upgraded version of the DCD996 and offers more power, better battery life, and faster charging. However, the DCD996 is still a reliable and powerful drill that can handle most drilling and driving tasks with ease.

Design and Ergonomics

When it comes to cordless drills, the design and ergonomics play a crucial role in determining the user’s experience. In this section, I will compare the design and ergonomics of the Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998.

Size and Weight

The first and most noticeable difference between the DCD996 and DCD998 is their size and weight. The DCD998 is slightly heavier than the DCD996, weighing in at 4.2 lbs compared to the DCD996’s 4.7 lbs. However, the difference in weight is not significant, and both drills are relatively lightweight compared to other models in their class.

In terms of size, the DCD998 is slightly longer than the DCD996, measuring 8.4 inches compared to the DCD996’s 8.1 inches. The DCD998 is also slightly wider and taller than the DCD996. However, the difference in size is minimal, and both drills are compact and easy to handle.

Grip and Comfort

Both the DCD996 and DCD998 feature a comfortable grip that provides a secure and non-slip hold. The grip is made of rubber, which helps to absorb shock and reduce fatigue during prolonged use.

However, the DCD998 has an advantage over the DCD996 when it comes to comfort. The DCD998 features an improved handle design that provides better balance and control. The handle is also slightly larger, which makes it easier to grip and reduces hand fatigue.

Illumination Features

Both the DCD996 and DCD998 feature an LED light that illuminates the work area. However, the DCD998 has an advantage over the DCD996 when it comes to illumination features. The DCD998 features a 3-mode LED that provides better visibility in low light conditions. The 3-mode LED allows the user to adjust the brightness and direction of the light, which is useful when working in tight spaces or dark corners.

Overall, while the DCD996 and DCD998 have similar designs and ergonomics, the DCD998 has some improvements that make it a more comfortable and versatile tool to use.

Performance and Power

When it comes to power and performance, the DeWalt DCD996 and DCD998 are both top-of-the-line cordless drills. Let’s take a closer look at how they compare in terms of torque, speed, brushless motors, and battery power management.

Torque and Speed

The DeWalt DCD996 has a maximum torque of 820 UWO (Unit Watts Out) and can reach speeds of up to 2,250 RPM (Rotations Per Minute). On the other hand, the DeWalt DCD998 is even more powerful, with a maximum torque of 999 UWO and a top speed of 2,000 RPM. This means that the DCD998 has a 29% increase in power over the DCD996.

Brushless Motors

Both the DCD996 and DCD998 feature brushless motors, which provide several benefits over traditional brushed motors. Brushless motors are more efficient, generate less heat, and require less maintenance. They also tend to last longer and provide more power.

Battery and Power Management

The DeWalt DCD996 and DCD998 are both compatible with DeWalt’s 20V MAX batteries, including the 5.0Ah battery. The DCD998 also features DeWalt’s Power Detect technology, which automatically adjusts the power output based on the type of attachment being used. This means that the DCD998 can provide even more power when using larger attachments, such as hole saws or spade bits.

In conclusion, both the DeWalt DCD996 and DCD998 are powerful cordless drills with brushless motors and lithium-ion battery compatibility. However, the DCD998 provides 29% more power than the DCD996, making it the more powerful option.

Durability and Construction

When it comes to power tools, durability and construction are critical factors to consider. In terms of the Dewalt DCD996 vs DCD998, both drills are built with high-quality materials and designed to withstand heavy-duty use.

Chuck and Transmission

The Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998 both come with an all-metal transmission, which is a significant upgrade from previous models. This feature ensures that the drill can handle high torque applications and can last longer than other drills with plastic transmissions.

The nitro-carburized metal chuck on the Dewalt DCD998 is another upgrade that sets it apart from the DCD996. This feature provides a more durable and longer-lasting chuck that can withstand heavy use. The DCD996 also comes with a metal chuck, but it is not nitro-carburized like the DCD998.

Material and Build Quality

The build quality of both drills is excellent, and they are both designed to withstand the rigors of a construction worker’s daily use. The Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998 are both made with high-quality materials that are built to last.

The manufacturing of both drills is of the highest quality, and they are both designed to withstand heavy use. The Dewalt DCD998 is slightly heavier than the DCD996, but this is due to the improved chuck and transmission.

Overall, both the Dewalt DCD996 and DCD998 are durable and well-constructed drills that are built to last. The all-metal transmission and metal chuck on both drills ensure that they can handle heavy-duty use and last for years.

Additional Features and Benefits

Speed Settings and Control

When it comes to speed settings and control, both the DCD996 and DCD998 have a 3-speed transmission that allows for better control and precision. However, the DCD998 has a spotlight mode that provides better visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier to work in darker environments.

Hammer Drill Functionality

Both the DCD996 and DCD998 are hammer drills, which means they are designed for drilling through tough materials like concrete and masonry. However, the DCD998 has a higher power output and can deliver up to 29% more power than the DCD996, making it better suited for heavy-duty tasks.

Flexvolt Advantage

The Flexvolt Advantage is a feature that is only available on the DCD998. It allows the drill to automatically adjust its power output based on the task at hand, providing better performance and longer battery life. Additionally, the DCD998 is compatible with Flexvolt batteries, which means you can use it with other Flexvolt tools for added convenience.

Overall, both the DCD996 and DCD998 are powerful and versatile drills that are designed for precision, accuracy, and control. While the DCD998 has some additional features and benefits that make it better suited for heavy-duty tasks, both drills are excellent choices for anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in specifications between the DCD996 and DCD998?

The DCD998 has a more powerful brushless motor that delivers 29% more power than the DCD996. The DCD998 also has a 3-speed transmission, whereas the DCD996 has a 2-speed transmission. Additionally, the DCD998 has a new E-Clutch system that provides increased control and safety.

How does the DCD998’s power compare to the DCD996 in terms of torque?

The DCD998 has a maximum torque of 1240 in-lbs, which is higher than the DCD996’s maximum torque of 820 in-lbs. This means that the DCD998 can handle tougher tasks with ease, making it a great choice for professionals.

What are the performance improvements in the DCD998 over the DCD996?

The DCD998 has several performance improvements over the DCD996. These include a more powerful motor, a 3-speed transmission, and a new E-Clutch system that provides increased control and safety. The DCD998 also has improved ergonomics, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

Are there any significant design changes between the DCD996 and the DCD998?

The DCD998 has a similar design to the DCD996, but it has some improvements in ergonomics and functionality. For example, the DCD998 has a new chuck design that allows for easier one-handed bit changes, and it also has an improved LED light that illuminates the work area more effectively.

Which drill, the DCD996 or DCD998, offers better value for professional use?

The answer to this question depends on the specific needs of the user. The DCD998 is more expensive than the DCD996, but it has several performance improvements that may justify the higher price for some professionals. However, for those who do not need the extra power and features of the DCD998, the DCD996 may offer better value.

What advancements does the DCD998 have that might justify an upgrade from the DCD996?

The DCD998 has several advancements that may justify an upgrade from the DCD996. These include a more powerful motor, a 3-speed transmission, and a new E-Clutch system that provides increased control and safety. The DCD998 also has improved ergonomics and functionality, making it a more comfortable and efficient tool to use.