10 Best Cordless Drills With Variable Speed for Versatile DIY Projects in 2026

The best cordless drills with variable speed give you more control than single-speed models, helping you drive screws cleanly and drill through different materials with less guesswork.

We’ve compared 10 options ranging from compact beginner kits to higher-powered brushless drill drivers, focusing on speed control, chuck size, battery setup, torque, included accessories, and overall versatility.

Best 10 Cordless Drills with Variable Speed Picks for 2026

Best All-Around Kit – DEWALT DCD777D1 Brushless Drill Set

The DEWALT DCD777D1 is a practical choice if you want cordless drills with variable speed in a ready-to-use package. Its brushless motor, two-speed transmission, 1/2-inch chuck, and included 2.0Ah battery and charger suit common drilling and fastening tasks.

Best For: DIYers who want a complete, compact DEWALT kit for general home projects.

Pros:

• Brushless motor is designed to deliver more runtime than brushed models.
• Two speeds and up to 1,500 RPM provide control for drilling and driving.
• Includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, LED light, and three-year limited warranty.

Cons:

• The included battery is a smaller 2.0Ah capacity.
• At 5.1 pounds, it is heavier than the tool-only DEWALT model listed here.

With its compact 7.6-inch length, comfort grip, and delayed LED light, this kit balances portability and convenience well. It is especially appealing when you need the drill, battery, and charger together.

Best for Job Sites – Makita XFD10Z Variable-Speed Drill

The Makita XFD10Z is a strong option among cordless drills with variable speed for users who already own Makita 18V LXT batteries. Its mechanical two-speed transmission reaches 1,900 RPM, while the 480 in-lb maximum torque rating supports a broad range of drilling and fastening work.

Best For: Makita LXT users who need a durable tool-only drill for demanding project work.

Pros:

• Two-speed range of 0–600 and 0–1,900 RPM offers useful control.
• Makita-built four-pole motor provides up to 480 in-lb of maximum torque.
• XPT dust and water resistance, dual LEDs, and a rubberized grip suit job-site use.

Cons:

• Battery and charger are not included.
• Its chuck capacity is listed as 13 millimeters rather than a 1/2-inch specification.

At 2.9 pounds, the XFD10Z is relatively light for a high-torque drill. The tool-only format keeps the purchase focused, but it makes the most sense for shoppers already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform.

Best Budget Starter Set – COMOWARE 20V Drill and Bit Kit

The COMOWARE 20V drill is a convenient entry-level choice for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed. It combines two speed ranges, a 25+1-position clutch, a battery and fast charger, and a broad accessory kit for household drilling and driving.

Best For: Homeowners and beginners who want an affordable all-in-one DIY kit.

Pros:

• Two speeds from 0–350 and 0–1,300 RPM handle driving and drilling tasks.
• 25+1 clutch positions provide adjustable screw-driving control.
• Includes a 1.5Ah battery, charger, storage case, and assorted drill and driver bits.

Cons:

• The 1.5Ah battery is smaller than the 2.0Ah battery included with the DEWALT kit.
• The 3/8-inch chuck accepts less capacity than the 1/2-inch chucks on the DEWALT models.
• Its listed maximum speed and torque are lower than those of the Makita option.

The COMOWARE emphasizes convenience rather than heavy-duty performance. Its adjustable clutch, LED light, keyless chuck, and included accessories make it well suited to occasional repairs, furniture assembly, and light home improvement.

Best Tool-Only DEWALT – DEWALT DCD777B Brushless Drill

The DEWALT DCD777B is a compact tool-only pick for shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed and already owning DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. Its brushless motor, two-speed design, 1/2-inch chuck, and 1,600 RPM maximum speed cover routine drilling and fastening applications.

Best For: DEWALT 20V MAX owners who want a lightweight replacement or additional drill without another battery kit.

Pros:

• Brushless motor is designed to provide more runtime than brushed motors.
• Compact 7.52-inch design and 2.7-pound weight help in tight spaces.
• 1/2-inch chuck, two speeds, comfort grip, and delayed LED improve everyday usability.

Cons:

• Battery and charger are not included.
• It has fewer included accessories than the COMOWARE kit.

This model is a sensible way to expand a DEWALT 20V MAX collection while keeping weight down. Its tool-only configuration is less convenient for new users, but useful for anyone with compatible batteries on hand.

Best All-Around Pick – CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill/Driver Kit

The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a practical choice for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed for general drilling and fastening. Its two-speed gearbox, 1/2-inch chuck, LED light, and included battery and charger make it suitable for a range of household and workshop tasks.

Best For: General-purpose drilling and fastening where a larger chuck and two selectable speed ranges are useful.

Pros:

• Two-speed gearbox covers 0–350 and 0–1,500 RPM for application control.
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck supports fast bit changes.
• Includes a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery and charger with a stated 60-minute-or-less charge time.
• 280 unit watts out and an LED work light add practicality for demanding or dim work areas.

Cons:

• The kit includes one 1.3Ah battery.
• It is a basic drill/driver rather than a drill-and-impact-driver combo.

Choose this model if you want a straightforward variable-speed drill with a full-size chuck and the convenience of a battery and charger in the box. Its two-speed design gives it broader everyday usefulness than a single-speed beginner drill.

Best for Beginners – AVID POWER 20V DIY Drill Set

The AVID POWER 20V drill set is aimed at homeowners and first-time tool owners looking for cordless drills with variable speed for furniture assembly, wall mounting, and light repairs. Its compact design, adjustable torque settings, battery display, and included accessories emphasize ease of use.

Best For: Occasional DIY users who want a lightweight drill and a broad starter assortment of bits.

Pros:

• Variable speed up to 550 RPM and 15+1 torque settings help control screw driving.
• Lightweight 2.5-pound design includes a rubberized grip and LED light.
• 22-piece accessory set includes drill bits, driver bits, a flexible shaft, and an extension bar.
• Battery pack has a real-time charge-level display.

Cons:

• The 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than the chuck on the CRAFTSMAN options.
• The battery is proprietary to AVID POWER and should not be replaced with a larger-capacity or other-brand battery.
• It is not intended for concrete or masonry walls.

This set makes the most sense when convenience and manageable handling matter more than high-speed drilling. The included accessories and charge display reduce the need for additional purchases, while the torque settings help beginners avoid overdriving screws.

Best Combo Kit – CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill and Impact Set

The CRAFTSMAN V20 combo kit is a strong option for shoppers who want cordless drills with variable speed plus a dedicated impact driver. It pairs the CMCD700 drill/driver’s two-speed operation with a high-torque CMCF800 impact driver, two batteries, a charger, bits, a bag, and LED lighting on both tools.

Best For: DIYers and home workshops that need separate tools for controlled drilling and heavier fastening.

Pros:

• The drill/driver provides two speed ranges from 0–350 to 0–1,500 RPM.
• The impact driver delivers up to 1,460 inch-pounds of torque at 2,800 RPM with 3,100 BPM.
• Includes two 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries, a charger, storage bag, and two bits.
• Compact, contoured handles and LED lights support work in tight or dim spaces.

Cons:

• The complete set weighs 8.4 pounds according to the supplied specifications.
• It costs and stores more than a single drill/driver kit.

This is the most versatile choice of the three for users who regularly switch between drilling and demanding fastening. The second battery helps extend working time, while the separate impact driver avoids asking one tool to handle every task.

Best Overall Kit – PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill

For shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed, the PULITUO offers a useful combination of power, control, and included accessories. Its 20V motor, two-speed gearbox, and 21+1-position clutch cover everyday drilling and screwdriving tasks, while the two included batteries help keep projects moving.

Best For: Home users who want a versatile drill kit with two batteries and a broad accessory selection.

Pros:

• Two speed ranges, 0-400 and 0-1,500 RPM, provide control for delicate and faster tasks.
• 30 N.m maximum torque and 21+1 settings support adjustable screwdriving.
• Includes two 1.5 Ah lithium-ion batteries, charger, bits, extension bar, flexible shaft, and anchors.
• Built-in LED light helps illuminate dark or tight work areas.

Cons:

• The included batteries are relatively compact at 1.5 Ah each.
• Its 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than some full-size drill chucks.

The PULITUO is a practical all-in-one choice when variable-speed control and included accessories matter. Its two-battery setup is especially convenient for household projects, though heavier or longer jobs may require more frequent charging.

Best Compact Option – FADAKWALT 12V Variable-Speed Drill

The FADAKWALT is a compact option for shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed for routine household work. Its 12V motor delivers up to 180 in-lbs of torque, and the variable trigger reaches 650 RPM for controlled screwdriving and light drilling in wood, metal, and plastic.

Best For: Light-duty home repairs and users who prioritize a compact, comfortable drill.

Pros:

• Compact, lightweight design with a rubber grip supports one-handed use.
• 21+1 torque settings help reduce stripped screws and overdriving.
• Includes a battery, charger, flexible shaft, extension bar, bits, and screw-anchor set.
• LED light and electric brake add convenience during detailed work.

Cons:

• Its 12V platform and 180 in-lbs of torque are less powerful than the 20V options here.
• The listed maximum speed is 650 RPM, limiting faster drilling applications.
• Only one battery is included.

This FADAKWALT makes sense for occasional repairs, furniture assembly, and other light tasks where maneuverability matters more than high output. Choose a higher-voltage model for demanding or extended drilling.

Best for Battery Monitoring – ACDelco 20V Variable-Speed Drill

The ACDelco ARD20137P combines a 20V platform with two variable-speed ranges, making it a strong fit for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed. Its 0-400 and 0-1,300 RPM settings support controlled fastening and general drilling, while the battery’s real-time level display makes charge monitoring easier.

Best For: Users who want a 20V drill with substantial listed torque and an onboard battery-level indicator.

Pros:

• Two-speed operation provides 0-400 and 0-1,300 RPM ranges.
• Rated for 400 in-lbs of torque for demanding fastening tasks.
• 20V, 1.5 Ah lithium-ion battery includes a real-time charge-level display.
• Keyless chuck and included battery and charger simplify setup.

Cons:

• Only one battery is included.
• The accessory package is less extensive than the larger PULITUO kit.
• The supplied specifications list inconsistent speed and speed-count fields, so buyers should verify detailed specifications before purchase.

The ACDelco stands out for its torque rating and battery-status display. It is a sensible choice for users who value power feedback and a 20V platform, provided the more limited included accessories meet their needs.

How We Picked the Best Cordless Drills with Variable Speed

We evaluated these drills by looking at the features that matter most in everyday use: adjustable speed ranges, torque control, chuck capacity, battery and charger inclusion, ergonomics, available accessories, and compatibility with an existing tool battery platform. We also considered whether each model is better suited to light household repairs, furniture assembly, maintenance, or more demanding drilling and driving.

A variable-speed trigger is useful, but it is only part of the equation. Two-speed gearboxes, clutch settings, brushless motors, battery capacity, and included bits can make a substantial difference in how confidently a drill handles a project.

Quick Comparison

Best For	What to Look For
General home repairs	20V drill, 1/2-inch chuck, adjustable clutch, included battery
Furniture and light DIY	Compact design, lower-speed control, comfortable grip
Frequent or demanding work	Brushless motor, two-speed gearbox, larger battery options
Maximum starter value	Battery, charger, bits, case, and useful accessory selection
Existing tool-platform owners	Tool-only model compatible with batteries you already own

Key Buying Factors for Cordless Drills with Variable Speed

Speed and Torque Control

Look for a variable-speed trigger plus a clutch with multiple settings. Low speed is better for controlled screwdriving and avoiding stripped fasteners, while high speed is useful for drilling holes. A two-speed gearbox provides more predictable control than trigger modulation alone.

Chuck Size and Motor Type

A 1/2-inch chuck accepts a wider range of larger bits and is a practical choice for general-purpose work. A 3/8-inch chuck can be lighter and adequate for smaller projects. Brushless motors usually offer improved efficiency, runtime, and durability, though brushed models can provide better upfront value.

Battery, Weight, and Included Equipment

Check whether the drill includes a battery and charger or is sold tool-only. Higher amp-hour batteries generally run longer but add weight. Starter kits with bits and carrying bags may be more convenient, while platform-compatible tool-only models make sense if you already own matching batteries.

Who Should Buy Which Cordless Drills with Variable Speed?

Choose a compact 12V or lightweight 20V kit for occasional repairs, assembly, shelving, and beginner projects. A standard 20V drill with a 1/2-inch chuck is the most versatile choice for homeowners who want one tool for routine drilling and screwdriving. Choose a brushless two-speed model if you work frequently, drill harder materials, or want better long-term efficiency.

If you regularly drive many fasteners, a drill-and-impact-driver combo can be more convenient than a drill alone. Finally, prioritize battery compatibility over small specification differences when you already own tools from a platform; sharing batteries can save money and reduce clutter.