The best cordless drills with variable speed give you more control than a single-speed model, helping you drive screws carefully, drill clean holes, and adapt to different materials. This roundup compares 10 popular options across power levels, battery systems, included accessories, and price points.
Whether you need a compact drill for household repairs or a brushless tool for demanding projects, use the guide below to narrow your choices by performance, runtime, ergonomics, and overall value.
Best 10 Cordless Drills with Variable Speed Picks for 2026
Best All-Around Pick
DEWALT 20V Max XR Drill Driver
- Two-speed range up to 1,500 RPM
- Compact design with 1/2-inch chuck
- Battery and charger included
Best For: Versatile household and workshop drilling
Best for Jobsite Conditions
Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Driver-Drill
- Two-speed variable range up to 1,900 RPM
- XPT dust and water resistance
- Tool-only LXT platform design
Best For: Existing Makita LXT users and tougher work areas
Best Compact Brushless Kit
CRAFTSMAN V20 BRUSHLESS RP Drill Driver
- 6.2-inch head for tight spaces
- Brushless motor with up to 1,900 RPM
- 2.0Ah battery and charger included
Best For: DIYers needing a compact ready-to-use kit
Best Budget DIY Kit
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set
- 15+1 torque settings for control
- Lightweight 2.5-pound design
- Battery, charger, and 22 accessories
Best For: Beginners and occasional home repairs
Best Overall
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver Set
- Brushless motor for longer potential runtime
- Two speeds up to 1,500 rpm
- Battery, charger, and 3-year warranty included
Best For: DIY users wanting a complete, compact drill kit
Best Torque
Litheli 20V Brushless Variable-Speed Drill
- 530 in-lb maximum torque
- 0–500 and 0–2,000 rpm speed ranges
- Lightweight 2.65-pound design
Best For: DIY work requiring strong torque and flexible speed control
Best Value Kit
CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill/Driver Kit
- Two-speed variable-speed gearbox
- Battery and charger included
- 1/2-inch keyless chuck and LED light
Best For: Occasional DIY users seeking a complete starter kit
Best Professional Pick
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver
- Two-speed range up to 2,000 rpm
- 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck
- Tool-only professional platform
Best For: Professionals and serious DIYers with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
Best Complete Starter Kit
PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill Kit
- Two speed settings up to 1,500 rpm
- Two 1.5 Ah batteries included
- 34-piece accessory kit with charger
Best For: Beginners and homeowners handling general projects
Best Accessory Bundle
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Drill Kit
- 100-piece drilling and driving kit
- 24-position clutch for control
- Battery and charger included
Best For: Home users who want a ready-to-use accessory bundle
Best All-Around Pick – DEWALT 20V Max XR Drill Driver
The DEWALT DCD771C2 is a practical choice among cordless drills with variable speed for general drilling and fastening. Its two-speed transmission, 300 UWO motor, compact build, and included battery-and-charger kit suit a broad range of household and workshop tasks.
Best For: DIYers who want a versatile, ready-to-use drill for wood, metal, and everyday fastening.
Pros:
- Two speeds from 0–450 and 0–1,500 RPM support drilling and fastening.
- Compact, lightweight design helps in tight areas.
- Includes battery and charger.
- 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck provides firm bit grip.
Cons:
- Its two-speed setup offers less adjustment than a drill with a continuously variable speed range.
- The included battery is rated at 1.3Ah.
With a useful speed range, comfortable handle, and complete kit, this DEWALT is a balanced option when you need one drill for varied home projects.
Best for Jobsite Conditions – 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 brings useful variable-speed control to a durable cordless drill platform. Its mechanical two-speed transmission reaches 1,900 RPM, while XPT dust and water resistance and dual LED lights make it suited to demanding work areas.
Best For: LXT users and jobsite-oriented buyers who already own compatible batteries and chargers.
Pros:
- Variable-speed operation with ranges of 0–600 and 0–1,900 RPM.
- Makita-built four-pole motor delivers up to 480 in-lb of torque.
- XPT is engineered for increased dust and water resistance.
- Dual LED lights with afterglow illuminate the work area.
Cons:
- Tool-only purchase does not include a battery or charger.
- Its 13mm chuck is smaller than the 1/2-inch chucks on some competing models.
This Makita is a strong fit for users invested in the 18V LXT system, especially where lighting and added environmental protection matter.
Best Compact Brushless Kit – CRAFTSMAN V20 BRUSHLESS RP Drill Driver
The CRAFTSMAN CMCD714D1 is a compact option among cordless drills with variable speed, combining a brushless motor with a variable-speed trigger and two-speed transmission. The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger, making it ready for drilling and fastening tasks.
Best For: DIY users who want a shorter drill head, brushless performance, and a complete kit.
Pros:
- 6.2-inch tool head is designed for tight spaces.
- Brushless motor provides up to 40% more power than the stated comparison baseline.
- Variable-speed trigger and two-speed transmission reach up to 1,900 RPM.
- Includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, and built-in LED.
Cons:
- At 4.4 pounds, it is heavier than some compact drill options.
- VERSATRACK clips and accessories are sold separately.
The compact head and brushless motor make this CRAFTSMAN appealing for cramped areas, while the included battery and charger add convenience for new tool buyers.
Best Budget DIY Kit – AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set
The AVID POWER ACD316 is a beginner-friendly choice among cordless drills with variable speed, offering a 0–550 RPM range and 15+1 torque settings for controlled screwdriving and light drilling. Its battery display and included accessories make it convenient for occasional home projects.
Best For: Homeowners and first-time users handling furniture assembly, wall mounting, and light repairs.
Pros:
- 15+1 torque settings help control screwdriving force.
- Lightweight 2.5-pound design reduces fatigue.
- Includes a battery, charger, and 22 drill and driver accessories.
- Battery level display and built-in LED improve convenience.
Cons:
- 550 RPM maximum speed is lower than the other drills in this roundup.
- It is not intended for concrete or masonry walls.
- The drill only accepts AVID POWER batteries, according to the supplied notes.
For occasional DIY work, this AVID POWER kit emphasizes ease of use and accessory value rather than high-speed or heavy-duty drilling performance.
Best Overall – DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver Set
The DEWALT DCD777D1 is a practical choice for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed. Its brushless motor, two-speed gearbox, 1/2-inch chuck, and included 2.0Ah battery make it well suited to general drilling and fastening around the home or workshop.
Best For: DIY users who want a compact, well-balanced drill with a battery and charger included.
Pros:
- Brushless motor is designed to provide more runtime than a brushed motor.
- Two-speed design reaches up to 1,500 rpm for adaptable drilling and fastening.
- Compact, lightweight body includes an ergonomic grip and LED light with a 20-second delay.
Cons:
- The included battery has a 2.0Ah capacity, which may limit runtime during demanding work.
- Its listed maximum drilling capacity is 1/2 inch in wood and metal.
With its included battery, charger, brushless motor, and three-year limited warranty, this DEWALT kit offers a balanced setup for everyday projects. It is a strong fit for buyers who value tool control and a compact design.
Best Torque – Litheli 20V Brushless Variable-Speed Drill
The Litheli 20V drill stands out among cordless drills with variable speed for its 530 in-lb maximum torque and selectable 0–500 or 0–2,000 rpm ranges. Its 17+1 clutch settings provide more adjustment for fastening, while the brushless motor supports efficient operation.
Best For: DIY and home-improvement users who want high stated torque, broad speed control, and a lightweight drill.
Pros:
- 530 in-lb maximum torque and 17+1 clutch settings support controlled fastening.
- Two variable-speed ranges cover slower precision work and faster drilling.
- Lightweight 2.65-pound body includes an anti-slip grip and LED light.
Cons:
- Charger is not included and is sold separately.
- The supplied notes list up to 20 minutes of no-load runtime, depending on use.
This Litheli model offers the highest listed torque and speed range of the three drills, along with a 2.0Ah battery and USB power-bank function. The separate charger requirement is the main purchasing consideration.
Best Value Kit – CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill/Driver Kit
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch, Battery and Charger Included (CMCD700C1)
Check Price On AmazonThe CRAFTSMAN CMCD700C1 is a straightforward option for shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed and a complete starter kit. It combines a two-speed gearbox, 1/2-inch keyless chuck, LED light, 1.3Ah battery, and charger for general drilling and fastening tasks.
Best For: Homeowners and occasional DIY users who want an affordable all-in-one kit with a fast-charging battery.
Pros:
- Two-speed gearbox provides 0–350 and 0–1,500 rpm ranges for fastening and drilling.
- Battery and charger are included, with the charger rated for 60 minutes or less on the included battery.
- 1/2-inch keyless chuck enables quick bit changes, and the LED improves visibility.
Cons:
- The included battery is 1.3Ah, smaller than the batteries supplied with the other listed kits.
- Its high-performance motor is rated at 280 unit watts out, below the listed output of the DEWALT and Litheli models.
This CRAFTSMAN kit covers the essentials without requiring separate battery or charger purchases. Its smaller battery makes it more suitable for lighter-duty projects and occasional use than extended demanding work.
Best Professional Pick – DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver
DEWALT 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver (Tool Only) (DCD801B) battery powered
Check Price On AmazonFor demanding jobs, the DEWALT DCD801B is a strong choice among cordless drills with variable speed. Its two-speed transmission, variable-speed trigger, 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck, and brushless motor are designed for control, bit retention, and high-output drilling and driving. This is a tool-only purchase, so a compatible 20V MAX battery and charger are needed.
Best For: Professionals and serious DIYers who already use DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and need a powerful drill/driver.
Pros:
- Two-speed range from 0-650 to 0-2,000 rpm supports delicate and faster applications.
- 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck provides secure bit retention.
- Brushless design, adjustable 70-lumen LED, and up to 175 holes per charge support productivity.
- ANTI-ROTATION System can shut the tool down when excessive rotational motion is detected.
Cons:
- Tool-only package does not include a battery or charger.
- Its professional-focused features may be more than needed for occasional household tasks.
The DCD801B stands out for power, speed control, and jobsite-focused features. Choose it if you value DEWALT ecosystem compatibility and a larger chuck; look elsewhere if you need a complete starter kit.
Best Complete Starter Kit – PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill Kit
The PULITUO 20V drill is a practical option among cordless drills with variable speed for home projects. It offers two speed settings, 21+1 torque positions, two 1.5 Ah batteries, and a 34-piece accessory kit, giving beginners the basic equipment needed for drilling and driving without buying extras immediately.
Best For: Homeowners and beginners who want a complete, budget-oriented drill kit for general drilling and screwdriving.
Pros:
- Two batteries help keep the drill available between charges.
- Two speed settings, from 0-400 to 0-1,500 rpm, provide application flexibility.
- 21+1 torque settings help control screwdriving force and reduce over-tightening.
- Includes a charger, drill, and 34-piece assortment of bits and accessories.
Cons:
- The 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than the 1/2-inch chuck on heavier-duty models.
- The included batteries are rated at 1.5 Ah, which may limit runtime on extended jobs.
- Its 30 Nm torque rating is better suited to home tasks than the most demanding work.
With two batteries and plenty of accessories, the PULITUO emphasizes convenience and value. Its adjustable speed and torque make it approachable for everyday projects, while the smaller chuck and modest battery capacity indicate a home-use focus.
Best Accessory Bundle – BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Drill Kit
The BLACK+DECKER BDC120VA100 combines a 20V drill/driver with a 100-piece accessory collection, making it a convenient choice among cordless drills with variable speed for household repairs. Its 24-position clutch, soft-grip handle, included battery and charger, and POWERCONNECT compatibility support straightforward drilling and driving around the home.
Best For: Home users who want one ready-to-use drill kit with a broad selection of bits, sockets, and drivers.
Pros:
- Includes a 20V MAX battery and charger, so it is ready to use out of the box.
- 24-position clutch offers useful control for fastening tasks.
- 100-piece kit includes drill bits, driver bits, nut drivers, sockets, and a storage case.
- POWERCONNECT battery can be used with compatible BLACK+DECKER tools.
Cons:
- The included battery is rated at 1.5 Ah.
- The 10 mm chuck is smaller than the 1/2-inch chuck found on larger drill/drivers.
- The supplied details list different speed figures, so shoppers should verify the product specifications before purchase.
This kit’s main advantage is breadth: it supplies the drill, power source, charger, and accessories in one package. It is a sensible household option when convenience matters more than maximum torque or heavy-duty capacity.
How We Picked These Cordless Drills with Variable Speed
We focused on drills that offer adjustable speed control, a keyless chuck, useful clutch settings, and a battery platform suitable for the intended workload. We also considered motor design, chuck size, included batteries and chargers, ergonomics, accessory bundles, and the needs of both occasional DIY users and frequent tool users.
The selection includes compact homeowner kits, brushless models, tool-only options for existing battery owners, and complete packages with bits or sockets. Specifications and included components can vary by seller, so confirm the package contents before ordering.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Basic home repairs | Compact size, simple controls, and a complete battery kit |
| Furniture assembly and light woodworking | Low-speed control, clutch settings, and a comfortable grip |
| Frequent DIY projects | Brushless motor, stronger chuck, and a larger battery platform |
| Heavy drilling and driving | Higher torque, 1/2-inch chuck, durable construction, and spare batteries |
| Accessory value | Included bits, sockets, case, charger, and multiple batteries |
Key Buying Factors for Cordless Drills with Variable Speed
Speed Range and Trigger Control
Two-speed gearboxes typically provide a slower range for driving screws and a faster range for drilling. A responsive variable-speed trigger is equally important because it lets you start slowly, reduce stripped screw heads, and improve accuracy near delicate surfaces.
Motor and Torque
Brushless motors generally offer improved efficiency, runtime, and durability, while brushed models can be a better value for occasional use. Torque settings help match the tool to the task: lower settings protect small fasteners, and higher settings handle larger screws or tougher materials.
Chuck, Battery, and Comfort
A 1/2-inch chuck accommodates larger bits and is useful for demanding work; a 3/8-inch chuck can keep a compact drill lighter. Check whether the kit includes a battery and charger, and consider battery capacity if you work for long periods. Weight, balance, grip texture, LED lighting, and belt hooks also affect day-to-day usability.
Who Should Buy Which Cordless Drills with Variable Speed?
Choose a complete entry-level kit if you mainly handle shelves, hardware, furniture, and occasional repairs. A brushless drill is the better long-term choice for frequent DIY work, repeated drilling, or users who already own compatible batteries. Select a tool-only model when you are invested in the same battery ecosystem and want to avoid buying another charger. For varied household tasks, an accessory-rich kit can deliver strong convenience, while demanding woodworking or construction projects call for higher torque, a 1/2-inch chuck, and at least one spare battery.