ToolGuyd

Tool Reviews, New Tool Previews, Best Tool Guides, Tool Deals, and More!

  • New Tools
  • Reviews
  • Guides
    • Best Cordless Power Tool Brand
    • Tool Brands: Who Owns What?
    • Best Cordless Drills (New for 2019!)
    • Dewalt UWO Explained
    • Best Multi-Bit Screwdrivers
    • Best Cordless Impact Drivers (2015)
    • Best Cordless Circular Saws
    • Best Tape Measure
    • Best Cordless Oscillating Tools
    • Best EDC Gear
    • Best Multimeter
    • Best Precision Screwdrivers
    • Best Modular Tool Boxes
    • Ultimate Tool Gift Guide
  • Hand Tools
    • Bit Holders & Drivers
    • EDC, Pocket, & Multitools
    • Electrical Tools
    • Flashlights & Worklights
    • Knives
    • Mechanics’ Tools
    • Pliers
    • Screwdrivers
    • Sockets & Drive Tools
    • Wrenches
    • All Hand Tools
  • Power Tools
    • Accessories
    • Cordless
    • Drills & Drivers
    • Oscillating Tools
    • Saws
    • Woodworking Tools
    • All Power Tools
  • Brands
    • Bosch
    • Craftsman
    • Dewalt
    • Makita
    • Milwaukee
    • Milwaukee NPS19 Tools
    • Ryobi
    • All Brands
  • USA-Made
  • Deals
ToolGuyd > Power Tools > Cordless > Dewalt Updates 3 FlexVolt Cordless Power Tools (11/21/19)
Holiday 2019 Deal Guides: Home Depot Deals HD Cordless Promo Milwaukee Bosch Dewalt Makita Table Saws Deals, Tape Measure Deals, More Tool Deals
CYBER MONDAY 2019 DEALS: Home Depot Cordless Deals Acme Tools Coupon Amazon Cyber Monday

Dewalt Updates 3 FlexVolt Cordless Power Tools (11/21/19)

Nov 21, 2019 Stuart 20 Comments

If you buy something through our links, ToolGuyd might earn an affiliate commission.

Dewalt has recently announced updates to 3 different FlexVolt cordless power tools. The new FlexVolt tools are described as being enhanced, as they’re updates to 3 existing models rather than being all-new designs.

  • 7-1/4″ circular saw (DCS578)
  • Reciprocating saw (DCS389)
  • Angle grinder (DCG418)

These tools will feature performance improvements and new kit configurations.

Performance enhancements are achieved through higher-power motors, new software, and new controls. The kits will feature 9.0Ah batteries instead of 6.0Ah batteries.

Advertisement

The different in performance claims are described as being for when the 9.0Ah battery is used vs. when using the 6.0Ah battery.

Dewalt says:

Upgrades to these three tools continue the legacy of efficiency in heavy applications, with added power and long runtime. In other words, three of “our most powerful tools just got better”.

Dewalt FlexVolt Circular Saw DCS578

Dewalt DCS578 FlexVolt Cordless Circular Saw Kit

To start off, the new Dewalt FlexVolt DCS578 7-1/4″ circular saw is said to be up to 47% more powerful than its predecessor (DCS575).

Pricing: $249 for the bare tool (DCS578B), $299 kitted with (1) 9.0Ah battery (DCS578X1)
ETA: Spring 2020

  • 2456 UWO (unit watts out) – what’s UWO?
  • 5800 RPM
  • 7-1/4″ blade size
  • LED worklight
  • 2-9/16″ max depth of cut at 90°

Dewalt FlexVolt Reciprocating Saw DCS389

Dewalt DCS389 FlexVolt Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit

The new reciprocating saw is said to be up to 19% more powerful than the previous model (DCS388).

Pricing: $249 for the bare tool (DCS389B), $299 kitted with (1) 9.0Ah battery (DCS389X1)
ETA: Spring 2020

  • 1874 UWO
  • 3000 SPM no-load
  • 1-1/8″ stroke length
  • Keyless blade clamp
  • LED worklight

Dewalt FlexVolt Angle Grinder DCG418

Dewalt DCG418 FlexVolt Cordless Angle Grinder Kit

Dewalt says the new FlexVolt grinder will be up to 30% more powerful than the original model, DCG414.

Pricing: $249 for the bare tool (DCG418B), $299 kitted with (1) 9.0Ah battery (DCG418X1)
ETA: Spring 2020

  • 4-1/2″ to 6″ wheel size
  • 2300 UWO
  • 13A power
  • 9000 RPM no-load
  • Kickback brake E-clutch

Discussion

What’s not to like about a bump-up in performance?

Looking at pricing, the current Dewalt FlexVolt 60V Max circular saw, DCS575, sells for $159 for the bare tool, and the 1-battery kit is $299.

I’m hoping that the bare tool pricing will soften a little bit. $249? That’s a bit steep; maybe the street pricing will be lower. Or, maybe the bare tool pricing will be high for a bit to ensure the current/predecessor models continue to sell. The 1-battery kits being priced at $299 is quite good, as it gives you more performance and a larger battery without a price hike. It does look like you get a different charger than FlexVolt tools are currently kitted with, at least for the 1-battery kits.

The press photos, shown above, show a 2-battery kit configuration that looks to have the same yellow-colored fast charger as other current FlexVolt kits.

Dewakt FlexVolt Circular Saw Kit DCS578X1

Looking at Dewalt marketing images, the new FlexVolt tools will be kitted with a new DCB1106 6A charger in the 1-battery kits, and a DCB118 8A charger in the 2-battery kits. But, that new 6A charger also says it can charge 20V Max (and FlexVolt) and 12V Max batteries. The 8A fast charger can only charge 20V Max (and FlexVolt) batteries.

So, with the 1-battery FlexVolt kits, it looks like you get a slightly slower but more versatile charger, and a higher capacity battery. The 9Ah battery doesn’t just have 50% more charge capacity than FlexVolt 6.0Ah batteries, it also features larger form factor cells, which presumably provides a performance boost as well.

The newly updated FlexVolt cordless power tools can be operated with 6.0Ah FlexVolt batteries, but it seems that they’re really designed with the 9.0Ah batteries in mind.

Dewalt has been known to make rolling changes to their power tool designs, but I suppose performance enhancements and new kit configurations required new model numbers to avoid confusion.

Can you believe that Dewalt first launched their FlexVolt system in 2016? They’ve expanded the line with a couple new tools in the 3-1/2 years since the line was first announced. I wonder what other new FlexVolt cordless power tools or equipment might be in store for 2020.

Related posts:

Dewalt ToughBox Piano BoxAll of the New Dewalt Tools From Their 2017 Media Event New Dewalt Cordless Woodworking Tools - Router Jigsaws and SanderNew Dewalt Cordless Woodworking Tools: Router, Sander, Jigsaws Ridgid 18V Octane Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating SawNew Ridgid 18V Brushless Cordless Power Tools, Coming Soon Makita XGT Cordless Power Tool Battery BL4025Meet the New Makita XGT 40V Cordless Power Tool System

Sections: Cordless, DealGuyd, Grinders & Sanders, New Tools, Saws Tags: Dewalt DCG418, Dewalt DCS389, Dewalt DCS578, Dewalt FlexVoltMore from: Dewalt

« Buy a Milwaukee M12 Fuel Surge or Installation Drill/Driver, Get a Free 6.0Ah Battery (H2019)
HOT Deal: Milwaukee M12 Cordless Inflator and Compact Charger + Power Source Bundle (11/21/19) »

20 Comments

  1. loup68 says

    Nov 21, 2019 at 10:12 am

    They really need to redesign their very poorly executed flex-volt chain saw!
    I have wanted to purchase one but the bar clamping system is horrible.
    I would really like to see it have two threaded studs with retaining nuts.
    Forget about tool less clamping, give me something secure! loup68

    Reply
    • Big Richard says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 10:23 am

      For what the saw is, a homeowner occasional use saw, the tool less tensioning system is more than adequate. I like it on smaller saws and the Flexvolt has been a great light duty saw for me. My Stihl MS251, which is my medium duty saw, also has the tool less chain tensioner, have had zero issues. Now my MS391 is a different animal and on that saw I need my dual studs.

      Reply
      • Bill says

        Nov 21, 2019 at 11:44 am

        Agreed. I have owned the DCCS670 60v Max 16″ chainsaw for several years now and it has performed quite well. I am also the diy, weekend warrior type user, and for that it works great. Not just a little light limb trimming either. I’ve cut down a few trees ranging from 10-14″ trunk size and the saw was able to handle them all. You might not want to start a logging operation with one but the simplicity of an electric chainsaw for occasional use is hard to beat.

        Reply
    • Mark says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 12:59 pm

      Check out the new versions. It’s still tool-less with one stud, but in the center there is a standard 8mm hex key cutout. This lets you normally use it with the clamp hand tight, but crank down on it with an Allen key for heavy applications.

      Reply
    • John Fal says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 1:59 pm

      Right on loup68!
      With a better bolt on chain tensioner and a normal oil fill cap and I’d be in 100%
      Also they need a new weed eater power head, one that works with MTD attachments. Then I would put the rest of my Ryobi stuff in a yard sale.

      Reply
  2. Kenneth Stephens says

    Nov 21, 2019 at 10:30 am

    I have a buddy that’s looking to get into a 18v line. I showed him the makita deal for $299 but he really likes the look of the ryobi stuff, the price, and the tools in the lineup. What do you think is the best ryobi buy for right now/Black Friday

    Reply
    • Stuart says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 10:51 am

      I haven’t seen the Home Depot deals yet.

      With Ryobi, I’d avoid the sub-$99 stuff and look closely at the larger combo kits.

      For instance, if you want a Ryobi circular saw, check the blade size. Check the chuck size on their drill special buys – you want 1/2″ and not 3/8″.

      Reply
    • Clay says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 1:35 pm

      As someone who has used alot of Ryobi over the years, I highly recommend the brushless tools over the brushed.

      Reply
    • TonyT says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 2:18 pm

      As someone who has 3 systems (Ryobi, Makita LXT, Bosch 12V), I highly recommend having Ryobi as one of your systems for all the affordable, unusual tools. And sometimes the Ryobi factory outlet (Direct Tools Outlet) has incredible deals (but watch it – sometimes they’re more $$ than HD!)

      Reply
      • Fm2176 says

        Nov 21, 2019 at 6:17 pm

        This! I bought into Ryobi after already owning the DeWalt Max series of tools (8, 12, 20, 60, 120), M18, and Ridgid 18v. Some of Ryobi’s offerings are simply unavailable in other brands.

        Reply
  3. Kizzle says

    Nov 21, 2019 at 10:35 am

    New recip saw have orbital?

    Reply
    • Big Richard says

      Nov 21, 2019 at 10:48 am

      No, unfortunately not. More power is always good, but orbital action would’ve been better.

      Reply
      • Corey Moore says

        Nov 21, 2019 at 11:26 am

        I’d pick it up if it had the 4 way blade clamp, but some small boost to power isn’t gonna give me a reason to move from my Gen 1 fv recip. It’s a plenty capable saw as is, just don’t know why they didn’t include one of their better features when they made the fv.

        Reply
      • Kizzle says

        Nov 21, 2019 at 2:39 pm

        Exactly. You can give it tons of torque and make the blade reciprocate more times a minute, but orbital action would have been a much better improvement. Once you use an orbital reciprocating saw on wood, you’ll never want to go back. No more rocking the saw to clear the cutting path.

        Reply
  4. ToolGuyDan says

    Nov 21, 2019 at 11:42 am

    How does the new circ stack up to the DCS520B on a spec-for-spec basis? Is the new one track-compatible?

    Reply
  5. Andreas says

    Nov 21, 2019 at 4:38 pm

    Hopefully this updated circular saw doesn’t catch on fire like the old ones did.

    Reply
  6. Rendered Insane says

    Nov 22, 2019 at 3:59 am

    Sounds like they are trying to rehash/refresh a now ageing line.
    Having to use a 9ah to get the higher power seems counter intuitive to me…i use the 6ah to keep the weight down on these already heavy tools! 9ah is just too much.
    Ill stick with the Gen 1 for now.

    Reply
  7. MattF says

    Nov 22, 2019 at 7:39 am

    They really need to come out with dust shrouds designed for the Flexvolt grinder.

    Reply
  8. Nathan says

    Nov 22, 2019 at 9:12 am

    hope the gen one circ saw comes up on fire sale. Thanks for the update.

    Reply
  9. John says

    Nov 24, 2019 at 9:01 am

    They should make a flexvolt drill/driver/ hammer drill. Something with more uwo’s.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Newsletter

Sign up to receive the latest tool news.

ToolGuyd Forum

Recent Comments

  • Vards Uzvards on Rate this New Craftsman Holiday 2019 Homeowner Tool Set from Lowe’s: “These two items together make a more reasonable toolkit, IMO. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RR6FWXV/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KKGXFF5/ Total is less than two dollars higher ($100.80),…”
  • ktash on Rate this New Craftsman Holiday 2019 Homeowner Tool Set from Lowe’s: “I'd go with the Ryobi set at link above. The craftsman set has a bunch of strange things that don't…”
  • Seth on It’s Back: Crazy Black Friday 2019 Deal: Dewalt DWE7480 Table Saw for $229!!: “Back to $229. Ordered today around 1:30 pm and am getting it tomorrow. Super excited about it!! Wish it had…”
  • ktash on Lee Valley 2019 Cyber Monday Sale (12/2/19): “PS I meant to say that it arrived today. Very quick shipping!”
  • ktash on Lee Valley 2019 Cyber Monday Sale (12/2/19): “Got a low angle smoother. I was tempted by the low angle Jack, but trying to stay within a budget…”
  • Andrew on This Dewalt 6-Gallon Air Compressor is on Sale (12/5/19): “Good safety feature but on my dewalt it just ends up emptying my tank all the time. Was going to…”

Recent Posts

  • It's Back: Crazy Black Friday 2019 Deal: Dewalt DWE7480 Table Saw for $229!!
  • HOT Deal: Dewalt 20V Max 5.0Ah Battery 2-Pack for $100, Lowest Price this Year!
  • Rate this New Craftsman Holiday 2019 Homeowner Tool Set from Lowe's
  • Deal of the Day: Buy Select Milwaukee M12 Cordless Power Tools, Get a FREE Battery and Charger (12/5/19)
  • This Dewalt 6-Gallon Air Compressor is on Sale (12/5/19)
  • Deal of the Day: Milwaukee M12 Cordless Power Tool Kits $79-$99 (12/4/19)
  • Deal of the Day: Felo Wood-Handled Screwdriver Set for $20 (12/3/19)
  • MORE Home Depot Cordless Power Tool Deals of the Day (12/3/19)
ToolGuyd New Tool Reviews Image

New Tool Reviews

Buying Guides

  • Best Cordless Drills
  • Best Cordless Impact Drivers
  • Best Cordless Multi-Tools
  • Cordless Power Tool Brands
  • Modular Tool Storage Systems
  • Ultimate Tool Gift & Upgrade Guide
ToolGuyd Knife Reviews Image

Knife Reviews

ToolGuyd Multi-Tool Reviews Image

Multi-Tool Reviews

ToolGuyd LED Flashlight and Worklight Reviews Image

LED Light Reviews

  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Stores
  • Videos
  • Gear
  • AMZN Deal Finder
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Disclosure