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

A variable-speed cordless drill gives you better control for everything from driving small screws to drilling through wood, plastic, and light metal. The right model can make routine repairs faster while reducing stripped screws and damaged materials.

We compared 10 popular 20V and 18V options across power, chuck size, speed settings, clutch control, battery equipment, and included accessories to help you choose a practical fit for your projects.

Best 10 Cordless Drills with Variable Speed Picks for 2026

Best Budget Starter – AVID POWER 20V DIY Drill Set

The AVID POWER 20V drill is a practical entry point for shoppers seeking cordless drills with variable speed for occasional home projects. Its 0-550 RPM variable-speed trigger, 15+1 torque settings, compact design, and included accessories make it suited to furniture assembly, wall mounting, and general repairs.

Best For: Homeowners, beginners, and occasional DIY users who want a ready-to-use kit.

Pros:

• Includes a battery, charger, and 22 drill and driver accessories.
• Variable speed and 15+1 torque settings help control screw driving and drilling.
• Lightweight 2.5-pound body includes an LED light and rubberized grip.

Cons:

• Uses AVID POWER batteries only.
• Not intended for concrete or masonry walls.
• Charger and battery care require following the supplied maintenance guidance.

Choose this model when convenience and included accessories matter more than high-speed or heavy-duty performance. Its modest speed and torque are better matched to light household work than demanding construction tasks.

Best Job-Site Ready Option – Makita XFD10Z 18V Drill

The Makita XFD10Z is a tool-only option for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed for more demanding drilling and fastening. Its 2-speed mechanical transmission covers 0-600 and 0-1,900 RPM, while the 480 in-lb motor, 1/2-inch chuck, and XPT protection suit a range of job-site applications.

Best For: Makita 18V LXT users who already have batteries and need a durable driver-drill body.

Pros:

• Two speed ranges provide low-speed control and faster drilling performance.
• Makita-built 4-pole motor delivers up to 480 in-lb of torque.
• XPT is designed to improve dust and water resistance in harsh conditions.
• Dual LED lights and a rubberized grip support work-area visibility and comfort.

Cons:

• Battery and charger are not included.
• It is less convenient for shoppers starting a cordless tool collection.

This is a strong fit for users already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform. The two-speed design offers broader control than a single-speed drill, while the tool-only format can reduce duplication for existing owners.

Best Complete Brushless Kit – DEWALT DCD777D1 20V Drill

The DEWALT DCD777D1 combines a brushless motor with two-speed control, making it a versatile choice among cordless drills with variable speed. Its compact body, 1/2-inch chuck, 2.0Ah battery, charger, and LED light give homeowners a complete setup for drilling and fastening in tight or dim spaces.

Best For: DIYers who want a complete DEWALT 20V MAX kit with brushless efficiency.

Pros:

• Brushless motor is designed to provide more runtime than a brushed motor.
• Two-speed operation reaches up to 1,500 RPM.
• Compact, lightweight design and comfort grip support control in tight areas.
• Includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger, plus a three-year limited warranty.

Cons:

• The included battery has a 2.0Ah capacity.
• Its listed maximum speed is lower than some high-speed competitors.

For shoppers building a DEWALT 20V MAX collection, this kit balances portability and everyday capability. It is a sensible all-around choice when a battery and charger are needed and heavy-duty specialty features are not the priority.

Best High-Torque Value – Litheli 20V Brushless Drill

The Litheli 20V brushless drill stands out among cordless drills with variable speed for its 530 in-lb maximum torque and 0-500/0-2,000 RPM settings. Its 17+1 clutch positions, 1/2-inch keyless chuck, and lightweight 2.65-pound body give users both low-speed fastening control and faster drilling capability.

Best For: DIY users who want high torque, dual-speed control, and a lightweight drill for wood, metal, or masonry tasks.

Pros:

• Brushless motor provides high torque with less maintenance.
• Dual speed ranges reach up to 2,000 RPM.
• 17+1 clutch settings help limit over-tightening.
• Includes a 2.0Ah battery with USB power-bank functionality.

Cons:

• Charger is not included and is sold separately.
• Runtime varies by material and drilling intensity.
• The stated no-load runtime is up to 20 minutes.

This model makes sense when maximum listed torque and high-speed flexibility are priorities. Confirm that you have or purchase the compatible charger, since the included battery does not make the package ready to use on its own.

Best Overall Power – CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver

The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a practical choice among cordless drills with variable speed for general drilling and fastening. Its two-speed gearbox, 280 unit watts out, 1/2-inch chuck, and included battery and charger make it suitable for a range of home and workshop tasks.

Best For: DIYers who want a higher-capacity chuck and solid everyday performance.

Pros:

• Two-speed gearbox supports controlled fastening and drilling.
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck makes bit changes quick and easy.
• Includes a 20V MAX lithium battery, charger, LED light, and double-sided bit.
• Backed by a 3-year limited warranty.

Cons:

• The included battery is rated at 1.3Ah.
• It is a basic drill/driver rather than a specialized hammer drill.

Choose this model if you value a larger chuck and stronger stated output over an extensive accessory bundle. The two-speed design gives it useful flexibility for routine projects.

Best Compact Kit – WORKPRO 20V Pink Cordless Drill Set

The WORKPRO 20V drill is a lightweight option among cordless drills with variable speed, offering two speed ranges from 0–400 and 0–1,500 rpm. Its 21+1-position clutch, 203 in-lb of torque, and included bits make it well suited to home maintenance and repair work.

Best For: Home users who want a compact, ready-to-use kit with an accessory assortment.

Pros:

• Variable two-speed settings provide control for different tasks.
• 21+1 torque positions help fine-tune screwdriving.
• Includes a 1.5Ah battery, charger, tool bag, drill bits, and driver bits.
• Soft-grip handle and LED light support comfortable work in dim areas.

Cons:

• The 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than the CRAFTSMAN model’s 1/2-inch chuck.
• The carbon-brush motor may produce sparks, especially during startup.

This WORKPRO kit is appealing when convenience and included accessories matter more than maximum chuck capacity. Its variable speeds and adjustable clutch suit common assembly and repair tasks.

Best Accessory Bundle – VIWKO 20V Cordless Drill Set

The VIWKO 20V set combines variable speed with a 25+1-position torque system and a broad 56-piece accessory collection. It is designed for everyday home projects such as furniture assembly, shelf installation, and drilling in materials including wood, plastic, ceramic, and metal.

Best For: Home project beginners who want one drill kit with many accessories.

Pros:

• 25+1 torque settings and up to 370 in-lb of stated torque support controlled fastening.
• Includes a 2.0Ah power pack and charger.
• 56 accessories include drill bits, driver bits, screws, anchors, nut drivers, and extensions.
• Ergonomic rubber-wrapped handle and LED light improve usability.

Cons:

• Its listed maximum speed is 850 rpm, lower than the other two drills.
• The 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than a 1/2-inch chuck.
• The supplied notes do not list a manufacturer warranty.

The VIWKO stands out for its included accessories and extensive torque adjustment. It is a convenient starter kit, though users needing faster drilling may prefer a model with a higher maximum speed.

Best with Extra Features – PULITUO 20V Variable-Speed Drill Kit

If you need cordless drills with variable speed for everyday repairs, the PULITUO 20V drill offers two speed ranges, adjustable torque, and a broad accessory selection. Its 0–400 and 0–1500 RPM settings help you switch between controlled screw driving and faster drilling.

Best For: Homeowners and beginners who want a ready-to-use drill kit with two batteries and common accessories.

Pros:

• Two speed settings provide useful control for driving and drilling.
• Includes two 1.5Ah lithium-ion batteries, charger, and a 34-piece accessory kit.
• 21+1 torque settings and up to 30Nm of torque support more precise fastening.
• Built-in LED helps illuminate dark or confined work areas.

Cons:

• Its 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than many general-purpose drill chucks.
• The included batteries are 1.5Ah, so heavier jobs may require more frequent charging.

With two batteries and a useful selection of bits, this PULITUO kit is a practical entry-level choice. It is especially appealing when convenience and basic household versatility matter more than maximum capacity.

Best for Longer Runtime – DCA 20V Variable-Speed Drill Set

Among cordless drills with variable speed, the DCA ADJZ2035 stands out for its 2.0Ah battery and higher stated torque. Its 0–400 and 0–1500 RPM transmission lets you select a slower driving speed or a faster drilling setting for different DIY tasks.

Best For: DIY users who prioritize longer battery runtime, stronger torque, and a lightweight drill body.

Pros:

• 2.0Ah battery is specified to provide more runtime than a 1.5Ah battery.
• 354 in-lbs of stated torque and an 18+1 clutch support controlled fastening.
• Pure copper motor, ventilation, and overload resistance are designed for demanding use.
• Includes a flexible shaft extension, LED light, charger, and 21 bits.

Cons:

• Only one battery is included, so backup runtime requires recharging pauses.
• The kit uses a 3/8-inch chuck and includes fewer accessories than some larger kits.

The DCA combines a compact 2.8-pound design with a larger battery and substantial torque claims. It is a strong fit for users who want a more capable everyday drill without moving to a heavier platform.

Best Simple Pick – 20V Variable-Speed Drill with 72-Piece Kit

This 20V drill is a versatile option for shoppers comparing cordless drills with variable speed and extensive accessories. Its 0–550 and 0–1550 RPM settings cover slower screw driving and faster hole drilling, while the 18+3 clutch and 40Nm maximum torque provide adjustable control.

Best For: Home projects and users who want a broad assortment of fastening, drilling, and wall-anchor accessories in one case.

Pros:

• Two variable-speed ranges offer separate settings for driving and drilling.
• 18+3 clutch positions and 40Nm torque help limit overdriving and stripping.
• Includes a carrying case, 1.5Ah battery, one-hour charger, belt hook, and extensive accessories.
• Keyless metal chuck and LED work light add everyday convenience.

Cons:

• The included battery is 1.5Ah, which may provide less runtime than larger-capacity options.
• The extensive accessory assortment may be more than needed for occasional basic repairs.
• Its listed weight is 3.4 pounds, making it heavier than some compact alternatives.

The standout feature here is the breadth of the bundle: it is designed to cover many common household fastening and drilling needs from the outset. Consider it when accessory variety and a carrying case are more important than the lightest possible setup.

How We Picked the Best Cordless Drills with Variable Speed

We focused on features that make a drill useful in everyday work rather than relying on advertised power alone. Each pick was evaluated for variable-speed control, battery platform, chuck design, clutch or torque settings, included battery and charger, handling, and overall kit value.

The selection includes compact drills for assembly and light repairs, higher-capacity options for frequent DIY use, and kits with accessories that can be useful for new homeowners. Brushless models may offer improved efficiency and longer motor life, while brushed drills can provide strong value for occasional projects.

Quick Comparison

Best For	What to Look For
Basic home repairs	Included battery, charger, LED light, and adjustable clutch
Furniture assembly	Low-speed control, compact design, and many clutch settings
Frequent DIY projects	Higher-capacity battery, comfortable grip, and durable chuck
Drilling larger holes	Two-speed gearbox, 1/2-inch chuck, and higher torque
Best kit value	Multiple batteries, accessories, and a carrying case

Key Buying Factors for Cordless Drills with Variable Speed

Speed Control and Gear Range

A trigger with variable speed lets you start slowly and increase power as needed. A two-speed gearbox adds another layer of control: the low range is better for driving screws and producing torque, while the high range is suited to faster drilling.

Chuck Size and Type

A 3/8-inch keyless chuck is adequate for most household tasks and keeps the tool compact. A 1/2-inch chuck accepts larger bits and is often preferable for demanding drilling. Keyless designs make bit changes quick, but a well-made chuck should still hold bits securely.

Clutch, Torque, and Battery

More clutch positions make it easier to match driving force to the fastener and material. Battery capacity affects runtime and weight: compact packs are easier to handle, while larger packs reduce charging interruptions. Confirm that the kit includes a battery and charger if you are not already invested in the platform.

Comfort and Included Equipment

Look for a balanced body, grippy handle, built-in LED, and manageable weight. Accessory kits can be convenient, but drill-bit quality varies, so prioritize the tool, battery system, and warranty over a large accessory count.

Who Should Buy Which Cordless Drills with Variable Speed?

Choose a compact 3/8-inch model for light repairs, shelves, hardware, and furniture assembly. A 1/2-inch drill with a two-speed gearbox is a better fit for larger bits, repeated drilling, and heavier DIY work. Brushless options make sense for frequent users who value efficiency and durability, while a complete battery-and-accessory kit is often the most economical choice for first-time buyers.