Affectionately nicknamed the “Freak 2.0,” Bosch’s GDX18V-1800CB25 combination impact driver and wrench kit is redefining both versatility and value. Designed with a powerful brushless motor and equipped with some of the best lithium-ion batteries money can buy, it promises both performance and durability at a head-turning price.
Dedicated do-it-yourselfers will appreciate the powerful torque and high-octane impact energy while everyone, including first-time users, will enjoy the portability and flawless ergonomics of this well-appointed tool. Packed with convenience features, it’s the culmination of years of engineering by Bosch, and its the perfect tool to round out any home workshop.
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Top Bosch Cordless Impact Wrench Q & A
Q: What comes with the “Freak” 2.0 kit?
A: Bosch’s GDX18V-1800CB25 kit comes with a two-in-one impact driver and wrench, two 4.0 AH 18-volt CORE lithium-ion batteries, a plug-in charger, belt clip and carrying bag — plus a bit holder and four bits.
Q: What’s the difference between the Bosch IDH182-02 and the GDX18V-1800CB25 kits?
A: The GDX18V-1800CB25 is a significant upgrade. The batteries have twice the capacity, and both torque and impacts per minute are higher. Bluetooth connectivity provides user feedback for ultimate control, and the Cell and Motor Protection System has been refined to ensure you get the longest service life possible for your investment.
Q: Do the batteries fit other Bosch cordless tools?
A: Yes, they work with any model using the 4.0 AH CORE 18-volt batteries.
My Take
Bosch puts a lot of thought into designing their latest round of tools for the home market, and the “Freak” 2.0 is the perfect example. It offers professional-level capability, but with the versatility and user-friendly features that make it a better fit for the average garage. It dares you to become a better do-it-yourselfer.The price is a little higher than similar kits, but the expected durability should more than offset the cost. Tools are investments, and the GDX18V-1800CB25 may be one of the best cordless impact wrenches you ever buy.
Bosh Freak 2.0 Impact Wrench Features
The Bosch GDX18V-1800CB25 is a dual impact driver and wrench. It’s equipped with a flexible head that can take both bit and sockets — change from 1/2-inch square to 1/4-inch hex sizes in seconds. With up to 1800 in./lbs of torque and 4200 impacts per second, it’s ideal for any project around the house from carpentry and furniture assembly to maintenance on vehicles and yard equipment.
The variable-speed trigger offers fingertip speed control while the performance control system limits RPMs to your choice of range — you may never strip a bolt again. And with the optional GCY30-4 Connectivity Tool Module installed, Bosch’s free ToolBox app will even tell you how to optimize your tool’s performance.
The brushless motor runs cooler than conventional brushed versions, and it features a system that protects both it and the batteries from overloading. Convenience features from a forward-mounted LED light and a slip-resistant grip to top-quality 4.0AH batteries round out the kit.
Maintenance
The GDX18V-1800CB25 requires zero maintenance — the motor is brushless, so it never needs lubrication. Keep the lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry area away from dust and out of direct sunlight. The terminals on the charger and battery packs can be cleaned with rubbing alcohol whenever necessary to remove any built-up grime.
What’s to like?
Cordless impact wrenches have a reputation for being convenient but underpowered. The Bosch GDX18V-1800CB25 solves that problem and more. It can’t compete with a pneumatic tool, but no cordless model can, and for all practical purposes, it can handle anything a homeowner throws at it plus light commercial duty without the need for an air compressor.
The quality build is evident at first glance, and intuitive features plus a compact size and extraordinary ergonomics make it maneuverable for users of any experience level. The Bluetooth connectivity and the upgraded batteries seal the deal on what’s undeniably a top-quality tool and an even better value.
What’s not to like?
While most similar impact wrenches have three LED lights mounted in the housing around the head, the GDX18V-1800CB25 has only a single light. It’s brighter and illuminates the work better, but the beam doesn’t extend quite as far circumferentially. I like the triple-light configuration a little better for swapping out a flat on the side of a dark road, but it’s not a deal-breaker.
The Bosch GDX18V-1800CB25 Versus the Competition
The Bosch GDX18V-1800CB25 faces some stiff competition in its price range. How does it compare to better-known brands such as DeWalt, Ryobi, Milwaukee, Craftsman and Ingersoll Rand?
The Ryobi P1883, the DeWalt DCF880HM2, and the Craftsman C3 are similar in function to the GDX18V-1800CB25, but while each offers slightly more raw torque, only Bosch offers dual-capability and a brushless motor in this price range. Comparable models from Milwaukee and Ingersoll Rand are made for everyday professional use and cost up to twice as much.
Battery packs are of consistently high quality among brands, and while Bosch’s original “Freak” — the IDH182-02, still comes with two lesser-powered 2.0 AH batteries — the GDX18V-1800CB25 features dual 4.0 AH packs. They make the tool heavier, but it’s nice to have choices. Packs are interchangeable with most of the tools in Bosch’s cordless platform, but unlike Ryobi and DeWalt, CORE offerings are limited.
For top-tier power, pros should consider brands like Milwaukee and Ingersoll Rand first. They’re expensive, but their stronger motors and higher-quality electronic components give them the edge for heavy-duty use — they can take a pounding. But for everything you need around the house and more, the Bosch GDX18V-1800CB25 is a top performer at a fair price.
What do users say?
The GDX18V-1800CB25 is new on the market, and reviews are just filtering in, but so far, they’re impressive. The consensus is that what Bosch’s IDH182-02 lacked in power and battery run time, the “Freak” 2.0 has in spades. Users especially appreciate the well-appointed kit including the belt clip and bits that enhance functionality right out of the box.
The only quibble seems to be the price, but while it’s tough to look at the kit and see the value of the brushless motor, you can’t judge a book solely by its cover. Tool owners experienced with both conventional and brushless versions say there’s a clear difference in both performance and durability that worth the higher cost – see Brushless vs Brushed motor.
Final Thoughts
Cheap tools aren’t hard to come by, but they can let you down when you need them most. Great tools, like Bosch’s GDX18V-1800CB25, are an investment, but they promise many happy returns.