DEWALT POWER DETECT 20V XR Brushless 5″ Angle Grinder Review DCG415W1

The DEWALT 20V XR Brushless 5″ Angle Grinder with POWER DETECT Technology (Model DCG415) has up to 40% more power than its predecessor (Model DCG413) in use with a 5.0Ah battery.  This new DEWALT Angle Grinder achieves over 1350 UWO, has a no-load speed of 9000 RPM, and features a Spindle Lock, Kickback Brake, and E-Clutch.

DEWALT’s secret to the new power is newly developed electronics in tools called POWER DETECT Technology that can identify the battery the tool is paired with and adjust power output accordingly.  This technology helps the battery and tool mate up to perform the best.  For example, this Angle Grinder will know the difference between the capabilities of the 8.0Ah XR battery and the 5.0Ah XR battery and adjust the power of the tool accordingly.  If you are thinking that most tools do this already, that is not true.  Most tools will perform slightly better with a higher power battery attached, but they will not significantly increase the power of the tool like the new POWER DETECT tools will.  The POWER DETECT will also lower the power of the tool to save batteries that will not supply the full load-bearing capabilities.

For reference, RIDGID has a similar, but not as sophisticated, set up with the OCTANE tools they produce.  In order for those tools to get the most power, they need to be paired with OCTANE batteries.

DEWALT is promoting this as a huge step forward for commercial contractor applications.  The job site is where premium power, performance, runtime, and productivity are required. The new DEWALT POWER DETECT tools also feature upgraded motors and components compared to their predecessors. These upgrades, combined with battery pack identification, provide a premium capability for the professional user and continue the expansion of the cordless job site.

To compare this new 20-volt angle grinder to some of the best on the market, we have to use DEWALT’s UWO (Unit Watt Output) standards.  The new POWER DETECT model is rated for 1350 UWO while the top of the line DEWALT FlexVolt 60-volt angle grinder is rated for 1700 UWO.  Compared to the prior models, the new 20-volt line is creeping up on power and going to compete with their larger FlexVolt brothers at some point.

As technology grows, smaller and more powerful tools will be made.  In some cases, the need for higher volt batteries will diminish and the properly sized tool will rule the job site.  We will not always need a drill with an 8.0Ah battery, but when we need serious corded power, we can pull out these new powerful tools and get the job done.

These tools are available now.  Each tool will come standard with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.