The best cordless drills with variable speed make it easier to control fast fastening, delicate materials, and everyday drilling without managing a power cord. The 10 options in this roundup cover beginner-friendly kits, tool-only models, brushless drills, and combination sets.
Use the guide below to compare battery platforms, speed control, chuck size, included accessories, and overall value before choosing a drill for your projects.
Best 10 Cordless Drills with Variable Speed Picks for 2026
Reliable All-Rounder
DEWALT 20V Max XR Drill Driver
- 0–450 and 1,500 RPM two-speed transmission
- Includes battery and charger
- Compact design with a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck
Best For: Home repairs and everyday drilling and fastening
Jobsite-Ready Tool
Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Driver-Drill
- 0–600 and 0–1,900 RPM two-speed transmission
- 480 in-lb maximum torque
- XPT dust and water resistance with dual LEDs
Best For: Makita LXT users and demanding jobsite work
Compact Brushless Pick
CRAFTSMAN V20 BRUSHLESS RP Drill Driver
- 6.2-inch tool head for tight spaces
- Variable-speed trigger with up to 1,900 RPM
- Includes 2.0Ah battery and charger
Best For: Compact DIY drilling and fastening
Starter Kit Value
DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill Set
- Two speed ranges up to 1,350 RPM
- Two batteries and 30 accessories included
- 18+1 settings with a 3/8-inch keyless chuck
Best For: Beginners and light household DIY projects
Best All-Around Choice
CRAFTSMAN V20 Variable-Speed Drill
- Two-speed gearbox reaches up to 1,500 RPM
- 1/2-inch keyless chuck for fast bit changes
- Battery, charger, LED, and double-sided bit included
Best For: General home repairs, drilling, and fastening
Best for Beginners
- 0–550 RPM variable speed with 15+1 torque settings
- Lightweight 2.5-pound design with LED work light
- Includes 22 accessories, battery, and charger
Best For: Furniture assembly and light home DIY
Best Brushless Option
DEWALT 20V MAX Compact Drill Driver
- Brushless motor is designed for increased runtime
- Two-speed design reaches up to 1,500 RPM
- 2.0Ah battery, charger, 1/2-inch chuck, and LED included
Best For: Compact drilling and fastening within the DEWALT 20V MAX system
Best Kit Value
PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill Kit
- Two speed ranges up to 1,500 RPM
- 30 Nm torque with 21+1 settings
- Two batteries and 34-piece accessory kit
Best For: Homeowners building a versatile starter toolkit
Best Combo Kit
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill and Impact Driver
- Includes drill/driver and impact driver
- Compact tools with integrated LED lights
- Two batteries, charger, bag, and three-year warranty
Best For: DIYers who need dedicated drilling and impact driving tools
Reliable All-Rounder – DEWALT 20V Max XR Drill Driver
If you want cordless drills with variable speed for everyday drilling and fastening, the DEWALT DCD771C2 offers a practical two-speed setup. Its 0–450 and 1,500 RPM transmission, compact design, and included battery and charger make it a versatile choice for home projects and general repairs.
Best For: DIYers and homeowners who want a complete, compact drill kit for common drilling and fastening tasks.
Pros:
- Includes a battery and charger.
- Two-speed transmission supports slower fastening and faster drilling.
- Compact, lightweight design with an ergonomic handle.
- 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck provides firm bit grip.
Cons:
- Limited to two speed ranges rather than a wider multi-speed selection.
- Maximum speed is lower than some competing models in this roundup.
The DCD771C2 is a straightforward, well-equipped option when you need dependable variable-speed control without buying a separate battery and charger.
Jobsite-Ready Tool – Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Driver-Drill
Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2", Variable Speed
Check Price On AmazonThe Makita XFD10Z is one of the cordless drills with variable speed suited to demanding work areas. Its mechanical two-speed transmission reaches 1,900 RPM, while Extreme Protection Technology adds dust and water resistance for harsh jobsite conditions. This listing is tool-only, so a compatible battery and charger are required.
Best For: Makita LXT users and tradespeople who need a durable tool-only drill for jobsite drilling and fastening.
Pros:
- High 1,900 RPM maximum speed.
- 480 in-lb of maximum torque.
- Dust- and water-resistant XPT construction.
- Dual LED lights and a rubberized soft-grip handle improve usability.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- Only two speed ranges are provided.
Choose the XFD10Z if you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and value jobsite protection, strong torque, and a fast top speed over a complete starter kit.
Compact Brushless Pick – CRAFTSMAN V20 BRUSHLESS RP Drill Driver
For shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed in a compact package, the CRAFTSMAN CMCD714D1 combines a shorter 6.2-inch tool head with a brushless motor and variable-speed trigger. Its two-speed transmission reaches 1,900 RPM, and the kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger.
Best For: DIYers who need a compact drill for tight spaces, with brushless performance and a complete battery kit.
Pros:
- Short 6.2-inch tool head helps access tight areas.
- Brushless motor provides up to 40% more power than the cited comparison.
- Variable-speed trigger and two-speed transmission offer control.
- Includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, and built-in LED.
Cons:
- The included battery is 2.0Ah, which may require recharging during extended work.
- VERSATRACK clips and accessories are sold separately.
The CMCD714D1 stands out for tight-space work and convenience, especially if you want brushless technology without assembling a tool-only setup.
Starter Kit Value – DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill Set
The DEKOPRO DKCD20XL02G-AZ02-UL is a value-focused option among cordless drills with variable speed. Its 0–350 and 0–1,350 RPM ranges, 18+1 settings, two batteries, and included accessories make it convenient for furniture assembly, wall mounting, and light drilling in wood, metal, and plastic.
Best For: Beginners and home users who want a complete drill-and-accessory set for light DIY projects.
Pros:
- Includes two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger.
- 18+1 settings provide adjustable fastening control.
- Includes drill bits, screwdriver bits, nut drivers, and a magnetic bit holder.
- LED work light and keyless chuck support convenient use.
Cons:
- 1,350 RPM maximum speed is lower than the other listed drills.
- 3/8-inch chuck limits bit size compared with 1/2-inch-chuck models.
- Designed for wood and thin metal rather than heavier-duty drilling.
The DEKOPRO is an approachable starter kit with useful speed adjustment and plenty of included accessories, making it a sensible choice for routine household tasks.
Best All-Around Choice – CRAFTSMAN V20 Variable-Speed Drill
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch, Battery and Charger Included (CMCD700C1)
Check Price On AmazonThe CRAFTSMAN V20 is a practical pick among cordless drills with variable speed for general drilling and fastening. Its two-speed gearbox, 1/2-inch chuck, included battery and charger, and 280 unit watts of power make it suited to a range of home and workshop tasks.
Best For: Homeowners and DIY users who want a versatile drill/driver with a larger chuck and two selectable speed ranges.
Pros:
- Two-speed gearbox offers 0–350 and 0–1,500 RPM ranges for controlled fastening and drilling.
- 1/2-inch keyless chuck allows quick bit changes and accommodates larger bits.
- Includes a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery, charger, and double-sided bit.
- Built-in LED improves visibility in dark work areas.
Cons:
- The included battery is rated at 1.3Ah, which may provide less runtime than higher-capacity options.
- The kit has only two selectable speed ranges rather than a broader electronic speed range.
Choose this model if you want a straightforward, capable cordless drill with variable speed, a full-size chuck, and a relatively quick included-battery charging time of 60 minutes or less.
Best for Beginners – AVID POWER 20V DIY Drill Set
The AVID POWER 20V is one of the more approachable cordless drills with variable speed for occasional home projects. Its lightweight design, 15+1 torque settings, battery-level display, and 22 included accessories give beginners useful control for furniture assembly and everyday repairs.
Best For: First-time drill owners, occasional DIY users, furniture assembly, and light home maintenance.
Pros:
- Variable speed from 0–550 RPM supports controlled screw driving and light drilling.
- 15+1 torque settings help reduce screw stripping during delicate work.
- Lightweight 2.5-pound design and rubberized grip can reduce fatigue.
- Includes a battery, charger, 10 drill bits, 10 driver bits, flexible shaft, and extension bar.
Cons:
- 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than the 1/2-inch chucks on the other listed models.
- Not intended for concrete or masonry, drill bits over 25 mm, or heavy-duty work.
- Uses AVID POWER batteries only, according to the supplied notes.
This kit emphasizes ease of use and included accessories rather than high-speed drilling. It is a sensible option for light-duty projects where compact handling and torque adjustment matter more than maximum power.
Best Brushless Option – DEWALT 20V MAX Compact Drill Driver
The DEWALT DCD777D1 is a compact choice among cordless drills with variable speed, combining a brushless motor with a two-speed design. Its 1/2-inch chuck, 2.0Ah battery, ergonomic grip, and compact form suit users who need a capable drill for tight areas and routine drilling or fastening.
Best For: DIYers and tradespeople who value a compact brushless drill and already use DEWALT 20V MAX tools.
Pros:
- Brushless motor is designed to deliver more runtime than a brushed motor.
- Two-speed design reaches up to 1,500 RPM for drilling and fastening tasks.
- 1/2-inch chuck accommodates a broad range of common bits.
- Includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger, plus an LED with a 20-second trigger-release delay.
Cons:
- At 5.1 pounds, it is heavier than the listed AVID POWER model.
- Only two speed settings are specified, rather than a dedicated multi-speed selector.
- Best value may depend on whether you use other DEWALT 20V MAX tools.
With its brushless motor and larger 2.0Ah battery, this DEWALT is positioned for users who want longer-lasting performance and tool-platform compatibility in a compact drill-driver package.
Best Kit Value – PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill Kit
If you want cordless drills with variable speed for everyday home repairs, the PULITUO 20V drill offers two speed ranges, useful torque control, and two included batteries. Its 34-piece kit also covers common drilling and screwdriving tasks without requiring many extra accessories.
Best For: Homeowners who want a versatile starter kit with two batteries and a broad accessory selection.
Pros:
- Two variable-speed ranges from 0–400 and 0–1,500 RPM
- 30 Nm of torque with 21+1 settings for controlled fastening
- Includes two 1.5 Ah batteries, charger, bits, drivers, and accessories
- Built-in LED light helps illuminate dim or tight work areas
Cons:
- The 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than the 1/2-inch chuck on the DEWALT drill/driver
- Its included 1.5 Ah batteries have modest capacity for extended work
The PULITUO is a practical all-in-one option for light-to-moderate household projects. Its two speed settings and adjustable clutch provide useful control, while the second battery helps reduce downtime.
Best Combo Kit – DEWALT 20V MAX Drill and Impact Driver
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill and Impact Driver (DCK240C2) | Includes 2 Batteries, Charger and Bag (
Check Price On AmazonFor shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed alongside a dedicated impact tool, this DEWALT combo kit pairs a 20V MAX drill/driver with an impact driver. The compact tools, two batteries, LED work lights, and included bag make it suited to projects that involve both drilling and driving.
Best For: DIYers who need both a drill/driver and an impact driver for varied fastening work.
Pros:
- Combines a 1/2-inch drill/driver with a 1/4-inch impact driver
- Compact designs help with tight or difficult-to-reach areas
- Both tools include LED work lights with a 20-second delay
- Includes two lithium-ion batteries, charger, contractor bag, and a three-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The kit includes only six pieces, so it has fewer accessories than the other listed kits
- The supplied notes do not specify the drill/driver’s speed ranges
This is the strongest choice when a two-tool setup matters more than a large bit assortment. Its impact driver adds fastening capability, while the drill’s 1/2-inch chuck accommodates a broad range of bits.
Best for Simple Home Projects – BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Drill
The BLACK+DECKER LD120VA is a straightforward option for shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed for routine household tasks. It includes a 24-position clutch, soft-grip handle, battery, charger, and 30 accessories, making it convenient for basic drilling and screwdriving.
Best For: Casual DIY users who prioritize an approachable drill and a ready-to-use accessory set.
Pros:
- Two-speed design with a maximum listed speed of 750 RPM
- 24-position clutch helps limit stripping and overdriving
- Includes 30 drill, driving, nut-driver, and holder accessories
- Soft-grip handle and lightweight design support easier maneuvering
Cons:
- Only one battery is included
- Its 10 mm chuck and 750 RPM maximum speed are geared toward lighter-duty work
The LD120VA makes sense for assembling furniture, installing hardware, and handling other everyday home jobs. Its extensive accessory set and adjustable clutch add convenience, though users tackling larger or longer projects may prefer a kit with two batteries.
How We Picked These Cordless Drills with Variable Speed
We selected models that offer adjustable trigger control and at least two useful operating speeds, then compared their power systems, chuck sizes, torque settings, batteries, charging equipment, and included accessories. The list includes established tool brands alongside lower-cost kits for occasional household work.
Because product bundles can vary, check the exact listing for battery capacity, charger type, bit contents, and whether the tool is sold separately or as a complete kit. A tool-only drill may be a good value if you already own compatible batteries, but it can cost more overall for new users.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| General home repairs | 18V or 20V battery, two speeds, 1/2-inch chuck |
| Furniture and light DIY | Compact body, lower weight, clutch settings, included bits |
| Frequent projects | Brushless motor, larger battery options, established tool platform |
| Maximum versatility | Drill-and-impact-driver combo with two batteries |
| Lowest upfront cost | Complete kit with battery, charger, and basic accessories |
Key Buying Factors for Cordless Drills with Variable Speed
Speed and Torque Control
Variable speed lets you start screws slowly and increase speed for drilling. Two mechanical speed ranges are also useful: the lower range generally provides better control and torque, while the higher range is better for faster drilling. A multi-position clutch helps prevent stripped screw heads and damaged materials.
Battery Platform and Runtime
Battery voltage is only one part of performance. Amp-hour capacity affects runtime and weight, while brushless motors typically improve efficiency and durability. If you already use DEWALT, Makita, or CRAFTSMAN batteries, staying within that platform can reduce the cost of future tools.
Chuck, Comfort, and Accessories
A 1/2-inch keyless chuck accepts a broad range of drill bits and is useful for heavier household work. A 3/8-inch chuck can keep a compact drill lighter. Also consider grip comfort, LED lighting, belt clips, balance, and whether the kit includes useful bits rather than filler accessories.
Who Should Buy Which Cordless Drills with Variable Speed?
Choose a complete entry-level kit if you need a drill for occasional shelves, furniture, picture hanging, or small repairs. A compact model is preferable when you work in cabinets or tight spaces. For regular renovation, workshop, or outdoor projects, a brushless drill with a dependable battery ecosystem is usually the better long-term choice.
If you frequently switch between drilling and driving screws, a combo kit with an impact driver can save time and reduce bit changes. Finally, prioritize the battery system over a small difference in advertised torque: compatible batteries, replacement availability, warranty support, and charger quality often matter more over years of use.