DeWalt power detection technology marks the brand's entry into advanced 20V Max tools
DeWalt Power Detect technology adds electronic sensors that detect the battery you're using and adjust power accordingly. These tools are normally compatible with all of today's 20V Max and FlexVolt batteries, and they get a power boost when you pair them with DeWalt's premium 8.0Ah or FlexVolt battery packs.
DeWalt's foray into the premium tool space puts it in a similar position to Bosch's Core18V, Milwaukee High Output, and Ridgid Octane tools. They took advantage of the higher power potential of the 21700 Li-ion cells and designed improved electronics packages to provide higher power for 18V or 20V Max tools.
In fact, many of these tools replace the need for a separate 36V system, making the more popular 18V/20V Max series even more versatile.
The DeWalt Power Detect tool achieves this with upgraded brushless motors and components that allow more current to flow and electronics to sense and control it.
What if I use another DeWalt 20V Max battery?
You get the power advantage when you use DeWalt's 8.0Ah battery, but you can also use other 20V Max battery packs. When you go this route, you'll get performance much closer to current XR brushless tools.
If you have FlexVolt batteries on hand, you can also use them for a power boost. Considering that the 8.0Ah battery is the same size and weight as DeWalt's 20V Max 6.0Ah battery pack, we think most people will choose it over the bulky FlexVolt pack.
By the way, the kit options for the Power Detect tool all come with 8.0Ah batteries.
DeWalt DCS574 Circular Saw – $279 Kit
Compared to the DEWALT DCS570, the DEWALT power detection circular saw has a 54% increase in power. This is one of our favorite DeWalt circular saws because of the balance of size, performance, and price. Increasing power levels to 1300+ unit watts at 5500 RPM is very attractive.
DeWalt DCS368 Reciprocating Saw – $279 Kit
Using an 8.0Ah battery increases the power of the DeWalt Power Detect Reciprocating Saw by 44% to 1300+ unit watts, more than the same saw with a 5.0Ah battery pack.
Unfortunately, it looks like they're still passing on track action and a more advanced vibration control system.
DeWalt DCG415 Angle Grinder – $279 Kit
The DeWalt Power Detect angle grinder is a 5-inch model that puts out 1350 unit watts — 40 percent more than the DCG413. It revs up to 9000 RPM and is secured with recoil brakes and an electronic clutch.
DeWalt DCD998 Hammer Drill – $279 Kit
Get 29% more power with the DeWalt Power Detect Hammer Drill compared to the DCD996, to 1050 unit watts. Its 3-speed transmission lets you drill at 450, 1300 or 2000 RPM.
Hammer Drill also offers a combo kit with a brushless impact driver for $399 (DCD299D1W1).