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Dewalt is a well-known and long-established name in the world of power tools.
With some of the best cordless drills on the market frequently used by professionals, you can’t go far wrong with a Dewalt. The issue arises from the number of options available to customers.
If you’re wondering which one you should get you have come to the right place!
The following guide lists 5 of the best Dewalt drills currently available and examines each of their advantages and disadvantages in an attempt to make your decision an easy one.
Quick Picks
Here's 3 products we picked out that thought you would be interested in depending on your budget...
Best DEWALT Drills with Reviews
Here is a list of the best Dewalt drills we found [2024 Update]
1. DEWALT DCD997B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill
Pros
- Bluetooth capabilities allow you to track, manage, and customize the tool.
- Fully customizable speed
- Adjustable LED function
- Ideal for contractors & professionals
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not recommended for the casual user
Overview
The DEWALT 20V DCD997B is a unique drill in that it features integrated Bluetooth technology. Using your phone with the free Tool Connect app allows you to see several useful metrics such as battery life, temperature and no. of trigger pulls. The app also has a function that allows you to customize drill speed and LED brightness.
It has a4-speed gearbox with 3 customizable modes and 15 clutch settings. The LED light is customizable on the app so you have total control over brightness and delay.
The added technology features are great for self-employed laborer’s as it allows you to assign specific tools to certain job sites and keep track of them. You’ll never lose track of your tools again.
The DEWALT 20V DCD997B is a highly customizable and future proof hammer drill ideal for labor companies who need to keep track of their inventory of tools. It has been specifically designed to stay relevant in a society ever leaning towards the use of technology. Look past all fancy Bluetooth features and you’re still left with a powerful, durable and highly capable drill that will earn its worth.
2. DEWALT DCD991B 20V MAX XR Drill Driver
Pros
- Plenty of torque and power
- Three drill speed options
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Battery packs can become loose
- No no-board bit holder
Overview
The brushless motor of the Dewalt DCD991B delivers 820 UWO and up to 57% more run time over traditional brushed motors. A 3-speed, all-metal transmission allows for optimal drill speeds depending on the intended application. This further improves run times and application speeds.
A drill or impact driver wouldn’t get far without a durable chuck. The ½’’nitro-carburized metal chuck featured on the DCD991B certainly meets the criteria. It also has carbide inserts for increased bit gripping strength, especially at high power.
The LED function on the DCD991B stands out for its brightness and the spotlight mode which provides 20-minute shutoff for extended work in dark environments. It is located on the base of the drill so it is less likely to get obscured by your hand or other objects.
Along with the drill you get; 1 x belt hook and 1 x 360° side handle. The side handle rotates 360 degrees and is fully removeable to let you find the perfect grip.
Both professionals looking for a tough drill for the jobsite and homeowners looking to take on some projects of their own will be well taken care of by the Dewalt DCD991B.
3. Dewalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Cordless Compact Drill
Pros
- Excellent price
- Lightweight
- A pleasure to use
Cons
- No spare bit holder
- Oldest model on the list
Overview
The DeWALT DCD771C2 features a high-performance motor delivering 300 UWO of power and a high-speed transmission that delivers two speed settings of 0 – 450 & 0 – 1,500 RPM. This allows the user to match the level of performance to the application.
A ½’’ single sleeve ratcheting chuck offers tight bit gripping so you can focus on your work. There is also a super bright, built-in LED light positioned just above the trigger to illuminate dark workspaces.
Included with the drill are 2 x 20v Max compact lithium-ion battery packs, charger and a contractor bag for easy transportation. Does not feature a space bit holder and it is the oldest model on the list.
Despite being the oldest model of drill on this list, the DeWALT DCD771C2 is also the most affordable. Lightweight yet powerful, this is an excellent choice for non-professionals who need a reliable drill or impact driver for projects that arise around the house.
4. DEWALT DCD791B 20V MAX XR Cordless Drill Driver
Pros
- Compact & Lightweight
- Comes with bit holder and belt hook
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Chuck will need to be manually tightened on occasion
Overview
The Dewalt DCD791B drill / impact driver is rated for 460-unit watts out of power and has a two-speed transmission that offers speeds of 0 – 550 and 0 – 2,000 RPM. There are 15 clutch settings for precise application.
Compact and lightweight design with an ergonomic handle makes it ideal for use in tight and hard to reach spaces. Combined with the 3-mode lighting function with spotlight mode, there will never be an area too small or environment too dark for you to work in.
A belt hook is included. Battery and charger sold separately. The metal ratcheting chuck is ½’’ and offers reliable bit gripping strength although it will need to be manually tightened on occasion.
The Dewalt DCD791B is perfect for homeowners that are on the lookout for a compact and lightweight drill that will fit into every nook and cranny around their home. There isn’t area too awkward for the DCD791B to get to work.
5. DEWALT DCD980M2 20V MAX Drill / Impact Driver
Pros
- Durable and stable design
- Holds its power well
- Comes with an extra grip for a more secure hold
Cons
- Heavier than other drills on the list
- LED light could be angled better
- No bit clip
Overview
Dewalt DCD980M2 features a powerful motor that delivers a maximum of 535 UWO. The all-metal transmission has three speed settings that range up to 2,000 RPM. The chuck size is ½’’ and includes carbide inserts to grip bits tight at the highest speeds.
It has 22 adjustable torque positions so you can match the performance with whatever application you throw its way.
It comes with 2 x 20v Max XR premium lithium-ion batteries, 1 x charger, 1 x 360-degree side handle and a kit box. Heavier than other drills on the list which might not make it practical for some, especially on longer projects.
With a range of settings for varying jobs types, the Dewalt DCD980M2 will fit right in-to any DIYers collection of tools. It also comes with a handful of essential accessories along with DeWalt’s standard 3-year limited warranty so you can buy with confidence.
Should you Upgrade to the New Line of DeWalt XR?
If you didn’t know, the Dewalt XR range is DeWalt’s most up to date line of cordless power drills. XR essentially stands for eXtreme Runtime. Before we look at whether they are worthwhile, let us explore what they offer.
The Benefits of Dewalt XR Cordless Tools
As the term XR or ‘extreme run time’ suggests all tools in the Dewalt XR range feature brushless motors for up to 57% more runtime over standard brushed motors. Brushless motors also mean greater efficiency and cooler performance leading to increase drilling lifespan.
The XR range can all be powered by the same high capacity battery that offers 33% more capacity than standard 18v MAX batteries. This means you can work for longer between charges.
All drills in the XR range feature all-metal gear casings, transmission and chuck with carbide inserts for added bit traction and reduced wear. On the performance side they provide 3 speed settings ranging up to 2,000 RPM for fast application, no matter the job. Finally, they all share a balanced design from front to back and ergonomic handle for ease of use for even the most inexperienced users.
So, back to the question at hand, should you upgrade to a Dewalt XR drill?
Well it depends…
If you are contractor / professional then you’ll then doubt you will want to upgrade and you’ll appreciate the latest technology. If however, you’re a casual home DIYer then you’re probably better off sticking to an older model and getting better value for your money – as it’s unlikely you’ll benefit from the latest features.
Wrapping it up
The 5 Dewalt drills featured on this list/guide represent the best Dewalt drills currently on offer and are the result of many hours or research and evaluation. Our decision was based on criteria we felt a drill must meet. It must deliver sufficient power for a range of tasks, it must be user-friendly and it should
As a result, our top picks goes to the DEWALT 20V DCD997B hammer drill. The addition of Bluetooth technology and the free Tools Connect app make this drill truly futureproof. However, look past the fancy tech and it still offers all the features you’d expect from a high-quality drill. The Dewalt DCD997B is sure to become a mainstay in your collection and serve you for many years to come!
Other drill guides
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Corded drills – top rated overall
Cordless hammer drills – top rated overall
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