We rated the DeWalt DCD980L2 Drill/Driver as our 3rd best 18v and professional cordless drill with an overall rating of 9.3. This tool is DeWalt’s newest Li-Ion high performance 20v max drill. Even though it is listed as a 20v max, it has a nominal voltage of 18 and thus we consider it in the same class as other 18v models.
The overall performance of this model is very solid. It has 535 UWO of torque, which is above average. (Note that DeWalt uses Unit Watts Out to measure torque, whereas all other manufacturers use inch-pounds.) It is hard to compare UWO to in-lbs, but this drill has less torque than some of the other top high performance models offered by other brands.
One advantage of the DCD980L2 is its 3-speed all metal transmission with 22 clutch settings, which gives the user lots of adjustment for the optimum settings for drilling or driving tasks. It also features an all metal chuck with carbide inserts to provide more gripping power so your bits aren’t coming loose or slipping. Other handy features of this model include the 360° auxiliary handle and a LED light that stays lit for 20 seconds after you release the trigger.
It comes with two 3.0Ah batteries that provide plenty of battery life. The only problem is that there is no fuel gauge to determine how much battery life is left. The batteries don’t help this unit in the weight department as it is a bit heavier than average for a premium cordless drill at 5.2 lbs.
The weight and a lack of power compared to some other premium performance 18v drills are the only real negatives for this DeWalt. However, the good news is that it is priced at around $240 which is slightly cheaper than similar models from other brands.
We do recommend this model for professional and serious DIY use.
| Specs | 18v Class Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.3 | |
| Manufacturer | DeWalt | |
| Model | DCD980L2 | |
| Style | High Performance Cordless Drill | |
| Voltage | 20v max | |
| Weight | 5.2 lbs | 4.5 lbs |
| Max Torque | 535 UWO | 490 in-lbs |
| Max Speed | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Variable Speed | 3-SPEED | |
| Reversable | Yes | |
| Chuck Size | 1/2″ | |
| Chuck Type | Keyless, Ratcheting | |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | |
| Charge Rating | 3.0Ah | 1.8 Ah |
| Charge Time | 60 min | 45 min |
| Batteries Included | 2 | |
| Work Light | LED | |
| Extra Handle | Yes | |
| Fuel Guage | No | |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
| Price | Check Price | $212.99 |
