Bosch GDS18V-330C Offers an Impact Wrench for Pros Craving Something Smarter
We recently wrapped up testing some of the best cordless impact wrenches from brands you know and trust. Today, I’m highlighting one of our contestants, the Bosch GDS18V-330C impact wrench. I’ll share what we learned in our testing so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your tool arsenal.
Bosch GDS18V-330C Impact Wrench Performance
- No-Load Speed: 2300 RPM
- Impact Rate: 3300 IPM
- Max Fastening Torque: 330 ft-lbs
- Max Breakaway Torque: 590 ft-lbs
- Anvil: 1/2 in. friction ring with through hole
Speed and Power
At its heart, the Bosch GDS18V-330C is powered by a brushless motor that churns out up to 590 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, 330 ft-lbs of fastening torque, a top speed of 2,300 RPMs, and a max impact rate of 3,300 IPM.
In terms of power, this model is on the lower end compared to the latest mid-torque models we recently tested, but don’t let that fool you. This is still a Pro-grade impact wrench, and it has plenty of power for most of the medium-duty applications you’re likely to encounter on your jobsite.
Mode Selection
The GDS18V-330C has three main speed modes and two assist modes. This is fairly common on modern impact tools, but here’s a quick breakdown of how each mode affects the tool’s performance.
| Mode | No-Load Speed | Impact Rate | Max Fastening Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1000 RPM | 1900 IPM | 185 ft-lbs |
| 2 | 1500 RPM | 2500 IPM | 245 ft-lbs |
| 3 | 2300 RPM | 3300 IPM | 330 ft-lbs |
The two assist modes function very similarly, but with one key difference. On Mode A, the tool will automatically stop rotation once the motor senses the fastener is tight on forward, or loose when in reverse. Mode B will only stop rotation in forward once the tool senses that the fastener is tight.
These modes help prevent overdriving fasteners, damaging your work surface, and spinning off nuts and bolts during removal.
Tool Connectivity
Smart tools and tool connectivity are the way of the future from what we see in the industry. Bosch is no different and engineered a quarter-sized compartment on the side of the handle that accepts their battery-powered Bluetooth Tool Module.
The module connects to the Bosch Toolbox app that offers a 100-foot range to your phone. It allows you to fine-tune your tool’s settings, monitor tool and battery statuses, and keep tabs on your equipment with tool-asset inventory management.
When you look at One-Key from Milwaukee or Tool Connect from DeWalt, a lot of the new smart tools are primarily focused on tool management. Bosch including settings that affect the control of the tool is a step in the right direction since it gives those of us who are a bit more OCD some customization options. Here’s are a few of the most relevant things you can do:
- Assign Modes: Customize Auto Shut Off, Auto Slow Down, and included direction rotation
- RPM Adjustment: Select a specific speed
- Soft Start: Toggle a soft start function on or off
- Light Controls: Adjust the duration and intensity of the LED light
Bosch GDS18V-330C Impact Wrench Design Notes
- Model: Bosch GDS18V-330C
- Power Source: Bosch 18V battery
- Weight: 3.46 lbs (bare tool), 4.56 lbs (with 4.0Ah battery), 5.64 lbs (with 8.0Ah battery)
- Head Length: 6.63 in.
Size and Weight
The Bosch GDS18V-330C weighs 3.46 pounds as a bare tool, 4.56 pounds with the kitted 4.0Ah battery, or 5.64 pounds with an 8.0Ah battery. This is actually the lightest bare tool weight from our latest impact wrench round-up. When you’re working with that slim 4.0Ah Core18 battery pack, it’s a noticeable difference compared to the other big names.
It’s also on the more compact side. The head measures 6.63 inches from tip to tail, and the tool stands 8.25 inches tall.
Ergonomics
Bosch grip designs are a fan favorite around our office. They are slightly larger than most others on the market, but the general shape contours nicely in the palm of your hand. Plus, there are a few larger grooves on the front and back of the grip to help channel away sweat from your palm and fingers.
Moreover, the GDS18V-330C is very well balanced, even when using the larger 8.0Ah battery. This makes it easy to maneuver without causing excess wrist fatigue.
Additional Features
- LED worklight
- Compatible with all Bosch 18V batteries
- Pin detent option available (GDS18V-330PC)
Bosch GDS18V-330C Impact Wrench Price
The Bosch GDS18V-330C retails for $219 as a bare tool and $399 as a kit that includes two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a storage bag. Bosch backs this impact wrench with a 1-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
After getting some hands-on time with this impact wrench, I’ve come away with a few interesting observations. It’s clear that Bosch was not attempting to create the strongest tool in the mid-torque class, so it’s important to manage our expectations. Instead, they created a tool that allows Pros to customize their settings to fit their needs without being overly complicated.
Personally, I like the feel of this tool. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and has plenty of power for most common mid-range automotive, concrete, and utility applications. Are there stronger, faster models on the market? Sure! But for $399, the Bosch GDS18V-330C kit offers a smarter tool for Pros who want a more versatile impact wrench.
