New Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Delivers Smart Tech, Performance, and Value
Bosch has been a big player in the world of impact wrenches and drivers for years, even going so far as to combine the two tools with the hybrid 18V Freak. The latest Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver (GRD18V-215) is an upgrade from the more basic GDR18V-1800. I’m going to explore the key details so you can decide if it deserves a spot in your tool collection.
Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Performance
- No-Load Speed: 2100 RPM (low), 3300 (high)
- Impact Rate: 3000 IPM (low), 3800 IPM (high)
- Max Torque: 1900 in-lbs
- Collet: 1/4 in.
Speed and Power
This model is an upgrade from its predecessor, the GDR18V-1800, adding new speed and Auto modes into the mix. At its heart, the Bosch GDR18V-215 is powered by a brushless motor and sports two speed modes that churn out up to 3,300 RPMs, 1,900 in-lbs of torque, and a max impact rate of 3,800 IPM.
These aren’t the fastest speeds we’ve seen from Bosch impact drivers, but the advanced speed and auto mode controls elevate this tool above its more basic counterparts.
Mode Selection
Looking down at the foot of the tool, you’ll find the control panel that includes two standard modes and two Auto modes.
The Auto Slow Down mode reduces the tool’s speed once it senses increased resistance while securing fasteners into metal. It’s great when you’re setting self-tapping screws and want to avoid shearing off the heads.
The Auto Shut Off is designed for driving wood screws and automatically stops the tool once the fastener is fully seated. This helps you prevent overdriving and damage to the material you’re working with.
Both auto modes only function in the forward direction.
Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Design Notes
- Model: Bosch GDR18V-215
- Power Source: Bosch 18V battery
- Weight: 2.4 lbs (bare tool), 3.1 lbs (with kitted 2.0Ah battery)
- Head Length: 5 in.
- Tool Height: 9.4 in. (with 2.0Ah battery)
Size and Weight
The Bosch GDR18V-215 weighs 2.4 pounds as a bare tool, 3.1 pounds with the kitted 2.0Ah battery, and 9.4 inches tall with the same battery. Its overall weight is very well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver without excess wrist fatigue.
The grip and tool body are draped with a generous amount of rubber overmolding, including around the collet.
Tri-LED Work Light
One of our favorite design upgrades on this tool is that Bosch equipped this tool with three LEDs that surround the collet. We’ve found this design is much more effective than the more traditional foot-mounted style.
Additional Features
- One-handed bit insertion
- 2-position belt hook
- Compatible with all Bosch 18V batteries
Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Quick Comparison
| GDR18V-1800 | GDR18V-1950 | GDR18V-215 (new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Max Torque | 1800 in-lbs | 1950 in-lbs | 1900 in-lbs |
| Impact Rate | 4000 IPM | 4000 IPM | 3800 IPM |
| Bare Weight | 2.3 lbs | 3 lbs | 2.4 lbs |
| Price | $179 (kit) | $179 (bare tool) | $149 (kit) |
Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Price
The Bosch GDR18V-215 retails for $129 as a bare tool and $149 as a kit that includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, and a storage bag. Bosch backs this impact driver with a 5-year limited warranty.
That’s a compelling price, especially for a Pro-grade tool with a generous warranty period.
The Bottom Line
The Bosch GDR18V-215 18V Brushless Impact Driver is a solid step forward from the previous GDR18V-1800 model. It offers improved speed settings, advanced auto modes, and a more refined design that’s both durable and stylish. While it’s not going to challenge the high-performance leaders, its price makes a strong case for both Pros and serious DIYers who need a dependable tool to get the job done right.
