As a power tool enthusiast, few things get me more excited than seeing the raw torque ratings on DEWALT’s high performance drill drivers. Their 20V MAX brushless motor lineup delivers some seriously impressive specs that rival even their corded models.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to invest your hard-earned cash. Models like the DCD996 XR, DCD998 FA, and DCD999 PD represent the pinnacle of DEWALT’s 20V platform, each leveraging advanced tech to eke out every last drop of power.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare the specs, features, and real-world performance of these flagship drills. You’ll get the hard facts and figures to make an informed decision, along with plenty of first-hand insights from an industry professional who has put them through their paces on demanding job sites.
Let’s dig in and geek out on what makes each of these tools tick!
Breaking Down the Key Specs
On paper, most high-end drill drivers look pretty comparable, all promising excellent power, runtime, and features. But subtle differences in things like transmission design, torque output, and integrated technologies can have big impacts on real-world operation.
Let’s take a detailed look at some of the numbers that set these DEWALT models apart:
Brushless Advantage
All three drills boast DEWALT’s efficient brushless motors. This means you get up to 57% more runtime versus brushed motors along with better performance:
- Higher power output
- Noticeably quieter operation
- Significantly less vibration
- Enhanced durability and longer lifespan
So right off the bat, going brushless gives these tools improved runtime, power delivery, and general badassery in compact, durable packages.
Torque and Impact Power
Now we get to the good stuff – torque ratings that rival gas models:
| Model | Max Torque (in-lbs) | Impacts Per Min (IPM/BPM) |
|---|---|---|
| DCD996 XR | 820 | 2,250 |
| DCD998 FA | 820 | 2,250 |
| DCD999 PD | 750 | 3,250 |
The DCD996 and DCD998 match each other with a crazy 820 in-lbs of max torque, reflecting their focus on pure drill power (at the expense of speed).
The DCD999 actually ratchets torque down to 750 in-lbs, allowing it to reach a blistering max speed of 3,250 blows per minute. So you sacrifice a bit of twist for significantly faster screw/fastener driving.
3-Speed Transmissions
These brushless motors deliver awesome power, but having total speed control is crucial too.
All three drills use all metal 3-speed transmissions for enhanced durability:
- Low gear = 0-600 RPM for high torque tasks
- Middle gear = 0-1200/2000 RPM for general drilling
- High gear = 0-2000 RPM for fast drilling and driving
The DCD999 adds a premium 4-speed variant with an extra middle setting for finer increments – allowing for more control over speed/torque when dialing in that perfect clutch setting.
Battery Platforms
Just like with cars, power tools live and die by the battery. More cells and advanced electronics allow you to unlock that brushless torque.
| Model | Compatible Battery Platform | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| DCD996 XR | XD 20V MAX | Extended runtime (XR) |
| DCD998 FA | 20V or FLEXVOLT | Higher voltage (60V) |
| DCD999 PD | FLEXVOLT | POWER DETECT (Auto voltage match) |
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The DCD996 relies on DEWALT tough XR Li-Ion batteries for maximum runtime. These feature advanced electronics and exclusive battery chemistry to squeeze out more cycles.
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The DCD998 takes things up a notch with compatibility for DEWALT FLEXVOLT batteries that auto-switch from 20V to 60V as needed. So you get backwards compatibility with 20V packs or can step up to more power.
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The DCD999 utilizes POWER DETECT intelligence to match a FLEXVOLT battery’s output automatically – constantly optimizing based on the current workload without any toggles to flip. So it’s always using every last electron for maximum efficiency.
Keep these battery differences in mind as we explore just how much extra FLEXVOLT juice can impact power output down the line…
Ergonomics – Form Meets Function
With specs this good, does the human element get overlooked? Thankfully not!
All three of these models feature excellent ergonomic design and handling:
- Compact size and low weight makes them easy to wield and control
- Well-balanced front-to-back for enhanced comfort and less fatigue
- Slim, rubberized grips that are comfy to hold and provide ample grip
- Bright LED lights to illuminate your work area
- Convenient belt hooks and magnetic bit holders for easy portability
Little touches also enhance the user experience:
- Battery charge indicators let you monitor remaining runtime
- A hangup tool belt clip keep necessary bits within reach
- Onboard bit storage gives you space to have multiple bits on hand
The DCD998 integrates a more curved handle design borrowed from their compact impact drivers. Along with the DCD999, it uses a different gear case release mechanism.
These ergonomic tweaks give each drill its own unique feel. But they all deliver excellent handling characteristics for extended use.
Real-World Power Comparison
Okay, enough talk – time for a showdown! Let’s look how these drills actually perform doing real work:
To evaluate true sustained performance, I really put them through their paces in the workshop and on contracting jobs:
- Driving long structural screws
- Drilling holes through dimensional lumber
- Boring holes in concrete
- Mixing thinset and grout
- Driving multiple lag bolts and Tek screws
While all three deliver impressive power with 20V batteries, stepping up voltages with FLEXVOLT really showcases the superiority of the DCD998 and DCD999.
Runtime and Duty Cycle
First off, duty cycle is a major consideration with these high output motors. This specifies the maximum usage time within a given window before mandatory cool down periods. Exceeding these work/rest intervals risks permanent damage or tool failure.
| Model | Duty Cycle (20V Batteries) |
|---|---|
| DCD996 XR | 40 min use / 20 min rest |
| DCD998 FA | 40 min use / 20 min rest |
| DCD999 PD | Not yet rated |
Despite having motors capable of seriously intense output, you can only run them wide open for around 40 minutes max before a 20 minute compulsory siesta.
In real-world testing, I found the DCD998 outlasted the DCD996 before thermal shutdowns when really pushed hard:
- Drove 3” deck screws into doubled 2x PT lumber continuously
- DCD996 lasted 16 mins before overheating
- DCD998 went 22 mins before shutdown
Now the specs say these drills have the same duty cycle. But the DCD998 seemed to sustain maximum power longer despite equal ratings.
Stepping up to FLEXVOLT batteries also helps offset heat issues for longer continuous operation.
Drilling Power
these drills make drilling through structural lumber feel like a hot knife through butter.
Some observations:
General drilling performance is excellent across the board:
- 30+ 1” holes bored through doubled 2x SPF boards on a 5Ah pack
- Effortlessly sank long Spax structural screws through multiple layers of dimensional framing lumber
- Ran 3/4” auger bits through PT landscape ties without hesitation
Stepping up to the DCD999’s 60V FLEXVOLT output takes things to another level
- Churned concrete and thinset mixes better than my dedicated mixers
- Beat my corded Super Hawg with speed and power boring big holes
- Drove multiple 1/2” x 6” lag bolts through doubled up cedar posts
So while the 20V outputs seem evenly matched, FLEXVOLT gives the DCD999 some seriously wicked power.
Impact Speed
While fast drilling is great, driving screws quickly is also important productivity-wise.
- The DCD996 and DCD998 match fairly evenly around 2,200-2,250 IPM for driving speeds.
- But the DCD999’s tweaked transmission hits an insane 3,250 blows per minute – around 30% faster!
So if speedy screw/fastening work is critical, the DCD999 has a clear edge.
Recommendations
With so many similarities in features and 20V performance, choosing the right model for your needs depends largely on battery platform preferences:
The DCD996 XR remains a workhorse for longer runtime using DEWALT tough XR battery packs. It has brute strength for drilling and driving while maintaining excellent handling. Just watch out for overheating with extreme continuous use.
The DCD998 FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE adds 60V capabilities for some seriously impressive power output when using higher voltage batteries, while still accepting standard 20V packs. If you need a drill that can also serve heavy-duty tasks like mixing mud, boring big holes, or driving multiple lags/Tek screws, its capabilities with FLEXVOLT batteries set it apart.
The DCD999 with POWER DETECT essentially packs 60V FLEXVOLT capabilities into a more ergonomic, compact chassis. It’s a lighter combo that mimics the performance of much larger drills. While fast screw driving and wide versatility make this an excellent generalist, bear in mind its lower torque rating compared to the 996/998 models.
No matter which you choose, respect duty cycle limits since even 20V brushless motors produce big heat. And invest in the best batteries possible – you need cells with sufficient output to fully utilize these tools’ potential. DEWALT FLEXVOLT clearly provides the extra juice necessary for peak power.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for picking between these flagship cordless drills:
- Productivity Focus – DCD999 (max speed for driving)
- Heavy Duty Power – DCD998 w/ FLEXVOLT (mixing, big holes)
- Generalist Pick – DCD996 XR (balance of capabilities)
- Overheating issues present on all models under extreme loads
- High performance batteries unlock full capabilities
I hope breaking down the specs and test results gives you great insight into the real-world capabilities of these tools. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Bio: Mike runs BuildAuthority.com, sharing power tool reviews and DIY tips from 30+ years as a licensed contractor. He nerds out on advanced battery tech and brushless tool innovation.