DEWALT DCD996B
Score: 92/100
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill
Score: 90/100Rankings
The DEWALT DCD996B is a compact, brushless 20V MAX XR hammer drill driver designed for heavy-duty performance in confined spaces. It features a 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck and an integrated hammer mode, offering up to 40% more power than previous models. While the tool-only design requires separate battery purchases, its robust build and professional-grade torque make it a preferred choice for contractors.
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1/2" Hammer Drill is the most compact and lightweight hammer drill in its 12V class, featuring a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence. It delivers high torque and speed in a subcompact form factor, making it ideal for tight spaces and all-day use by tradespeople. Best suited for professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs who need a lightweight, compact drill for overhead, confined, or all-day use without fatigue.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
20 Vbest | 12 V | |
2,100 in-lbsbest | 400 in-lbs | |
0.5 inbest | 0.5 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.81 kg | 0.998 kgbest |
2,000 RPMbest | 1,700 RPM | |
— | 17 positionsbest | |
3 speedsbest | 2 speeds | |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(5) | ||
Voltage (V) | 20 V | 12 V |
Max Torque (in-lbs) | 2100 in-lbs | 400 in-lbs |
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Clutch Settings (positions) | positions | 17 positions |
Speed Settings (speeds) | 3 speeds | 2 speeds |
Battery & Runtime(1) | ||
Battery Type | Lithium Ion | Lithium-Ion |
Design & Ergonomics(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.81 kg | 0.998 kg |
Chuck Type | Metal Ratcheting | Keyless |
Overall Length (in) | 4.0 in | 6.0 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the DCD996B for delivering top-tier performance, robust kickback control, and exceptional compactness. Experts highlight the brushless motor's efficiency and the utility of the hammer mode for masonry.
Everyday users and contractors report high satisfaction with the drill's power and reliability for heavy-duty tasks. Common praise includes the ease of use in tight spaces and the extended runtime provided by the brushless motor.
Choose DEWALT XR for superior power and torque in compact designs compared to Milwaukee.
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Milwaukee M12 FUEL Hammer Drill as the most capable 12V hammer drill on the market, highlighting its class-leading compactness, power, and balance. Experts specifically commend its unrivaled performance, durability due to all-metal construction, and the widest application range in the high-speed subcompact category, noting that it complements impact drivers well for versatile bit usage.
Everyday users commonly praise the tool's portability, low fatigue, and surprising power for its size, particularly noting its effectiveness in wood, metal, and masonry. Recurring themes include appreciation for the LED light and variable trigger, but complaints focus on the need for precise clutch adjustment to avoid over-speeding in delicate tasks and a desire for more torque in very tough materials.
