DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 Honest Review

The DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 delivers an impressive 44 in-lbs of torque in powered mode, and that’s just the start of its exceptional features. The innovative 360-degree operation system eliminates the need to fumble with traditional forward and reverse buttons. This cordless screwdriver excels with six torque modes and powers through 680 screws on a single charge. The FlexDrive collar enables smooth transitions between manual and powered operation, offering up to 124 in-lbs of torque for demanding tasks. My extensive 30-day testing period has prepared me to reveal if this $79.99 tool truly deserves the DeWalt reputation.


Read some more Pro Tool Reviews at Tool Tested.


DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719: First Impressions and Specs

The DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 cordless screwdriver laid out with its included USB-C cable and 12-piece bit set, as reviewed on Tool Tested.
Everything included with the DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719: the tool, USB-C cable, and a versatile 12-bit set. | Image: Tool Tested

The DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 package arrived with a well-organized kit. Inside, I found the screwdriver, a USB-C charging cable, and 12 screwdriver bits. The bit set has Phillips (PH1, PH2, PH3), Slotted (3/16″, 1/4″), Torx (T8, T10, T15, T20, T25), and Square (SQ1, SQ2) options. This selection covers most household and professional tasks.


Price Disclaimer

If we mention prices on Tool Tested, please keep in mind that prices can go up or down based on factors such as location, store policies, and whether the purchase is online or from a physical store. Each seller may have their own pricing structure.

Another important factor to consider is that the price we mention is based on the date of our review. It is possible that we purchased the tool long before that date, or that you are reading this review a long time after it was published, meaning the price may have changed.

Affiliate Disclosure

Hi, everyone; this is a heads-up about affiliate links you might see here. Our only purpose in including them is to help you find products easily if you are interested. There is no pressure to buy from these links, but also note that if you buy the products from these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your trust is important to us!

Learn more by reading our Full Disclosure.


Unboxing Experience and What’s Included

DeWalt’s professional touch shows in the sturdy yet minimal packaging. This model comes with a built-in power system, unlike older versions that used separate batteries. A rubber retention insert keeps the bits secure and prevents rattling. The tool’s belt clip makes storage convenient during projects.

Key Specifications at a Glance

This compact tool packs impressive capabilities:

  • 4V MAX lithium-ion integrated battery (2Ah capacity)
  • Maximum powered torque: 44 in-lbs (5 Nm)
  • Manual finishing torque capability: 124 in-lbs (14 Nm)
  • No-load speed: 360 RPM
  • 6-stage torque adjustment
  • Charging time: 60 minutes via USB-C
  • Dimensions: 8.4 inches long
  • Weight: 0.7 pounds
  • Capacity: Up to 680 screws per charge

Build Quality and Ergonomics

A hand comfortably holding the DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 cordless screwdriver, showcasing its ergonomic grip design tested by Tool Tested.
The ergonomic design of the DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 ensures comfort during extended use. | Image: Tool Tested

This screwdriver is about an inch shorter than older DeWalt models. The steel chuck’s precise knurling gives it a solid, premium feel despite its compact size. A bi-material grip makes it comfortable to hold during long work sessions. The collet’s four LEDs eliminate shadows better than single-light designs.

How the FlexDrive Collar Works

The innovative FlexDrive collar system stands out. The collar moves to three positions: center (locked for manual use), clockwise (forward), and counterclockwise (reverse). The motor activates when I push the collar forward in either direction and stops when released. This clever design lets me operate it from any grip position – no need to move my hand to reach buttons.

Performance Testing: From Light-Duty to Heavy Tasks

My month of daily use with the DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 has put this tool through countless tasks. The 360 RPM no-load speed and adjustable torque settings worked great in many different situations.

Household Repairs and Furniture Assembly

The FLEXDRIVE really shined during furniture assembly. It breezed through three IKEA bookcases and a desk, handling all the cam locks and wood screws without breaking a sweat. The 6-stage torque adjustment kept me from over-tightening screws, which was especially helpful with particleboard. My arms felt much less tired compared to using manual screwdrivers. The tool’s compact size made cabinet hardware installation a breeze, letting me work easily around hinges and drawer pulls.

Electronics and Delicate Components

This tool wasn’t built specifically for sensitive electronics work, but it did a decent job with careful settings. The lowest torque setting worked well for RC builds and IT tasks. You need to be extra careful around electrical boards that don’t have reinforced screw holes. The four LED lights around the collet made a huge difference when working with tiny screws in dark spots, getting rid of those annoying shadows.

Automotive Applications

This screwdriver handled car interior work like a champ. The FlexDrive collar made quick direction changes simple while removing dashboard panels and installing aftermarket accessories. The 44 in-lbs of power worked great for most interior fasteners. Small spaces behind console panels were no match for this tool’s compact design.

Maximum Torque Tests with Larger Fasteners

The screwdriver’s limits became clear after testing it with bigger fasteners:

  • Power mode at 44 in-lbs handled #8 wood screws in soft pine without issues
  • Manual lock mode’s 124 in-lbs capacity took care of larger gage screws
  • Battery life lasted through about 680 operations with consistent performance

Torque adjustments played a key role – higher settings worked best for starting screws, while lower settings helped avoid stripping heads or damaging materials during final tightening.

Battery Life and Charging Experience

The DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719’s portability relies on its integrated battery system. My month-long testing involved tracking power usage on projects of all sizes to understand the screwdriver’s performance in real conditions.

Real-Life Battery Performance

Many cordless tools exaggerate their capabilities, but the FLEXDRIVE delivers exactly what it promises. DeWalt claims this tool can handle up to 680 screws per charge. This seemed too good to be true at first. My testing proved otherwise – the tool drove about 650 standard wood screws before needing a recharge. These numbers came surprisingly close to DeWalt’s claims.

The tool’s consistent performance stands out from the competition. Most battery-powered tools lose torque as their charge depletes. The FLEXDRIVE managed to keep steady power until its battery dropped to the final 10%. Only then did I notice it slowing down a bit.

The integrated 2Ah lithium-ion battery brings both benefits and drawbacks. Its sealed design makes the tool light and compact. But as many users point out, you can’t swap batteries when power runs low.

USB-C Charging Speed Tests

DeWalt claims a 60-minute charging time. Here’s how different charging methods performed in my tests:

Charging SourceComplete Charge Time
20W USB-C Charger59 minutes
Laptop USB-C Port92 minutes
Power Bank (15W)65 minutes

The LED battery indicator lights proved really helpful. Four indicator lights made it easy to check remaining power levels.

The tool’s ability to drive around 680 screws per charge works great for weekend DIY projects. Professional users can expect 2-3 days of moderate use before needing a recharge. Quick 60-minute charging helps minimize downtime, especially if you time your lunch breaks right.

Comparing to Other DeWalt Cordless Screwdrivers

After taking a deep dive into the FLEXDRIVE, I wanted to see how it stacks up against DeWalt’s other screwdriver options. The DWHT66719 sits at an interesting spot in DeWalt’s lineup, with clear pros and cons compared to its siblings.

FLEXDRIVE vs. DeWalt Gyroscopic Screwdriver

The FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 takes a different path from DeWalt’s previous gyroscopic models like the 8V MAX DCF680N2. Customer feedback led DeWalt to switch to a collar-based control system instead of the gyroscopic motion sensing in older models. The FLEXDRIVE’s 4V power output (44 in-lbs) doesn’t match the 8V MAX’s capability. The 8V gyroscopic models are mostly found on the used market now and pack more power but can’t match the FLEXDRIVE’s easy-to-use 360° operation. Users loved the gyroscopic models in tight spaces where they couldn’t move much, and the FLEXDRIVE’s sliding collar still works great in these spots.

How It Stacks Up Against DeWalt’s 20V Options

The gap between the FLEXDRIVE and DeWalt’s 20V lineup is huge. The 20V DeWalt drivers deliver more torque and usually let you control the speed. Pros who need to handle heavy-duty jobs will still need the 20V lineup. The FLEXDRIVE really shows its worth in precision tasks where 20V tools might be too bulky or powerful. At 8.4 inches long and weighing 0.7 pounds, it moves around tight spaces much better than any 20V option.

Value Proposition Against Other DeWalt Models

At $79.99, the FLEXDRIVE sits between simple screwdrivers and pro-grade tools. Some users thought this was too much, especially since the 8V lineup comes with two batteries and a charger. All the same, the FLEXDRIVE’s USB-C charging and compact size are unique advantages. Pros looking for a backup tool or homeowners who want DeWalt quality without buying into a bigger system might love the FLEXDRIVE. The biggest problem for trade pros is you can’t swap out the batteries, which limits its use during full workdays.

Pros and Cons After 30 Days of Daily Use

My daily use of the DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 has made it essential in my tool collection. A month of hands-on experience showed me its great strengths and a few limitations worth sharing.

What I Loved About the DWHT66719

The innovative FlexDrive collar system really works well. You can operate the tool from any position around the handle (360°), which saves you from fumbling for buttons. Its compact design fits perfectly in the tight spaces and my tool pouch – it’s about the same size as a manual screwdriver.

The torque control system’s 6 distinct settings give you lots of options. The lower settings work great with delicate components and help prevent stripping or damage. Four LEDs around the collet light up your workspace better than single-LED designs, so you won’t see any shadows.

The battery lives up to what DeWalt promises, handling about 680 screws per charge. USB-C charging takes just 60 minutes and lets you use regular cables instead of special chargers.

Areas That Could Be Improved

The built-in battery makes the tool look sleek but comes with a downside. You can’t swap in a fresh battery when it dies mid-job. This could be a real issue if you need the tool running all day.

The fixed speed of 360 RPM doesn’t give you the control that some other models offer. You might notice this limitation during precise work that needs very slow turning.

The $79.99 price tag puts it above simple electric screwdrivers, which might seem high for a tool with a built-in battery. The torque ring’s placement at the back end could also work better ergonomically.

Who Should Buy This Tool

This tool works best for professionals who need a reliable backup screwdriver or anyone doing regular assembly work. It shines during furniture assembly, cabinet installations, and medium-duty house repairs.

Technicians working on electronics or car repairs will find the compact size and torque control helpful, even with the speed limits. DIY fans will love its versatility and DeWalt’s solid construction.

If you need maximum power or all-day use, DeWalt’s 20V lineup might serve you better, since the FLEXDRIVE’s built-in battery and 44 in-lbs torque isn’t enough for heavy-duty jobs.

Conclusion

The DeWalt FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 has become an essential part of my daily toolkit after testing it for 30 days. This screwdriver won’t replace heavy-duty 20V tools, yet it strikes a perfect balance between power and precision that works great for household projects and professional tasks.

I love the FlexDrive collar system. It eliminates the hassle of pressing buttons when you work in tight spaces. The screwdriver packs impressive power in a compact frame, delivering 44 in-lbs of powered torque. You can even crank up to 124 in-lbs manually when you need extra force.

The built-in battery might not suit continuous professional work, but it charges quickly via USB-C. You can drive more than 650 screws on a single charge, which works well for most users. At $79.99, this DeWalt tool offers great value given its build quality and versatility.

My extensive testing shows this screwdriver shines as a primary tool for DIY enthusiasts or a reliable backup for professionals who need precision on the go. The FLEXDRIVE DWHT66719 proves DeWalt keeps pushing boundaries with new ideas while delivering their signature quality and durability.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *