Key Takeaways
- The 9096 XRP battery works with any DeWalt 20V charger, not only chargers labeled XRP.
- The DW9116 and DW9118 are the standard chargers sold with XRP batteries and charge them fastest.
- Older DeWalt 18V chargers will not work with 20V batteries, so check your charger's voltage before plugging in.
- Fast chargers like the DW9108 exist but cost more and are only worth buying if you use multiple batteries in rotation.
DeWalt 20V Chargers That Work With the 9096
The 9096 XRP battery will charge in any charger rated for DeWalt 20V lithium-ion batteries. The two chargers you will see most often are the DW9116 and DW9118. Both are compact, plug into a standard outlet, and come with most DeWalt 20V tool kits. The DW9116 charges a single battery in about 60 minutes, while the DW9118 has two charging slots and can charge two batteries at once in roughly the same time.
If you have an older DeWalt charger sitting in a drawer, check the label on the back. If it says 20V or 20-volt, it will work with your 9096. If it says 18V or 18-volt, it will not — the voltages are not compatible, and forcing it will damage the battery or charger.
The DW9108 is a faster option that charges a single battery in about 30 minutes, but it costs significantly more than the DW9116 or DW9118. Most people do not need it unless they rotate between multiple batteries throughout the day and cannot wait for a standard charger.
What the XRP Label Actually Means
XRP stands for "extreme runtime performance," which is DeWalt's marketing term for batteries with higher amp-hour ratings. A 9096 XRP holds more charge than a standard 20V battery, so it runs longer on a single charge. However, this does not mean it needs a special charger — the charging technology is the same across all DeWalt 20V lithium-ion batteries.
The confusion happens because DeWalt sells some kits with an XRP battery and a standard charger, and other kits with an XRP battery and a faster charger. The battery itself does not care which charger you use, as long as the charger is rated for 20V. A standard DW9116 will charge your 9096 XRP just fine, though it will take longer than a DW9108 would.
Charging Speed and Battery Condition
The time it takes to charge your 9096 depends on three things: the charger model, the battery's current charge level, and the battery's age. A DW9116 will charge a fully dead 9096 in about 60 minutes the first time you use it. If the battery is only partially drained, it will charge faster — sometimes in 30 to 40 minutes.
Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. A 9096 that is two or three years old may take longer to charge than a new one, even in the same charger. This is normal and does not mean the charger is broken. If your battery takes much longer than the stated time, or if the charger gets very hot, stop using it and replace the battery.
Chargers to Avoid
Do not use a charger labeled for 18V DeWalt batteries, even if it looks similar to your 20V charger. The voltage mismatch will not work and can damage both the battery and the charger. Similarly, do not use a charger made for a different brand — Makita, Milwaukee, or Ryobi chargers will not work with DeWalt batteries.
Avoid third-party chargers sold on online marketplaces unless they are explicitly rated for DeWalt 20V batteries and come from a seller with clear return policies. Cheap knock-off chargers can overcharge the battery, cause it to overheat, or fail to charge at all. Stick with DeWalt-branded chargers or chargers from established tool retailers.
Where to Buy a Replacement Charger
If you have lost your charger or need a second one, the DW9116 and DW9118 are sold at most hardware stores, home improvement retailers, and online marketplaces. A DW9116 typically costs between $30 and $50, depending on where you shop. The DW9118 (two-slot version) usually runs $50 to $80. Prices vary by region and retailer, so compare a few options before buying.
Check whether your local hardware store has a rental program. Some locations rent DeWalt chargers for a few dollars a day if you need one temporarily while waiting for a replacement to arrive. This can save money if you only need the charger for a short time.
Using Your Charger Safely
Always charge your 9096 in a dry location away from water, extreme heat, or direct sunlight. Chargers work best at room temperature — between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If you charge in a cold garage or hot shed, the process will take longer and may not complete fully.
Do not leave a fully charged battery in the charger for days at a time. Most modern DeWalt chargers shut off automatically when the battery is full, but removing the battery after charging is complete extends its lifespan. If you smell burning plastic or see smoke coming from the charger, unplug it immediately and do not use that charger again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 20V charger from another tool brand on my DeWalt 9096?
No. Battery connectors differ between brands, and the charger will not fit the battery even if the voltage matches. DeWalt chargers work only with DeWalt batteries. Forcing a different brand's charger onto your battery can damage both.
Will a 20V charger work on a 60V DeWalt battery?
No. The 60V batteries (sold with larger DeWalt tools) use a different connector and require their own chargers. A 20V charger will not fit a 60V battery, and vice versa.
Is it safe to charge the 9096 overnight?
Yes, modern DeWalt chargers have automatic shutoff and will not overcharge the battery. However, leaving a fully charged battery in the charger for extended periods can slightly reduce its long-term lifespan. Removing it after charging is complete is the safer choice.
What does it mean if my charger blinks red or shows a warning light?
A blinking red light usually means the battery is too hot or too cold to charge safely. Remove the battery, let it reach room temperature, and try again. If the light continues to blink after the battery has warmed up, the battery may be damaged and should be replaced.
Can I charge the 9096 in a car charger or portable power station?
Some portable power stations and car chargers have USB or 12V outputs, but these are not designed for DeWalt batteries. You need a charger with a DeWalt battery connector. Portable DeWalt chargers exist (like the DW9108), but they still plug into a standard outlet — there is no true car charger for the 9096.