A new Bosch 18V cordless FlexiClick 5-in-1 drill kit quietly appeared at online retailers this month, model GSR18V-800FCB24.
The new Bosch FlexiClick cordless drill appears to be an upgrade to an existing model, GSR18V-535FCB15.
Looking at the specs, there’s not much of a difference except for the new kit costing $80-$140 more, depending on the retailer.
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Looking for clues, we can see that the new Bosch FlexiClick has a KickBack Control feature, that reduces the risk of sudden rotational torque in a bind-up scenario.
However, the older model has a similar feature, but it just wasn’t advertised on the handle grip.
Bosch says:
The efficient, brushless motor delivers an impressive 565 In.-Lbs. of max torque for heightened performance.
This is the same max torque as for the older model.
Correction: the 565 in-lbs torque is an INCREASE compared to 535 in-lbs for the previous model.
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The new FlexiClick drill has a slightly updated housing and styling.
As with the other 12V Max and 18V cordless drills across the Bosch FlexiClick line, the new model also has a modular chuck attachment interface for tackling drilling and driving work in tight spaces and around obstacles.
It comes with 3 attachments – a drill chuck, right angle drill chuck, and offset driving head. There’s a 1/4″ hex bit chuck built into the tool.
Bosch describes the 18V FlexiClick as a 5-in-1 tool, but I’m having difficult seeing where the number comes from. There’s the built-in locking bit holder, drill chuck, right angle drill chuck, and offset driving head. That’s just 4, right?
It has a typical drill clutch, but also what’s described as a switchable precision clutch that, when activated, stops the tool when clutch slippage is detected.
Retailers’ product pages elaborate:
The switchable precision clutch feature ensures greater control by stopping the override once a set torque level is reached.
Does that mean the drill has an electronic clutch, rather than mechanical, and that an additional setting can stop things… further?
- Modular chuck system
- 0-630/0-2100 RPM max speed
- 565 in-lbs max torque
- 5.4″ head length
The kit comes with 2x Core18V 4Ah “advanced power” batteries, a charger, the 3 head attachments, and a tool bag.
Price: $399 for the kit
Discussion
When looking at new tools and related tech, I tend to ask myself a big question:
Why should I care?
I’m a tool user and here’s a brand new Bosch 18V cordless FlexiClick drill/driver with brushless motor. Why should I care?
Well, it has…
565 in-lbs max torque – just like the old model an increase of 5.6% compared to the old model.
Anti-kickback tech – just like the old model.
3 head attachments – just like the old model.
Oh – it’s slightly faster than its predecessor, with 0-630/0-2100 RPM compared to 0-600/0-1900 RPM for the older model.
Is that worth increasing the price from ~$260 at Amazon for the older model 2-battery kit to $399 for the new one?
The older model is advertised as having a precision clutch. This new one has a “switchable precision clutch.” I don’t understand the point of that when there’s a clutch dial at the head of the tool.
From what I can see, that’s the only real difference here.
Switchable precision clutch – when switched on, stops the tool when clutch slippage is detected.
Isn’t that how all mechanical and electronic cordless drill clutches work? When a torque clutch activates, it decouples power transmission, whether mechanically or electronically. So again, what’s the point in an added “switchable precision clutch” on top of that?
Why should I care?
If power transmission is disconnected, does the tool need to be stopped also? Clutches will usually remain engaged until the user lifts their finger from the trigger switch.
Are marginal no-load increases in speed and this switchable precision clutch feature meaningful upgrades that justify the bump-up in price?
I started off excited about this new 18V brushless FlexiClick, but that changed very quickly after I went searching for details and insights and came up near-empty.
Am I missing something here? Or is the new FlexiClick drill as ho-hum of a development and upgrade as it seems?
Jared
Is the “5 in 1” because it’s a drill/driver?
Does the new one lack compatibility with the bluetooth module (I forget what Bosch calls it), or was that just relocated from the handle so they could make it skinnier?
Stuart
I don’t think so. The 12V has 4 heads, one of which can be used by itself or with the drill chuck, and is advertised as a 5-in-1. This one comes with 3 heads, and the right angle looks to be fixed to a built-in drill chuck.
This one also has Bluetooth connectivity with an add-on module that’s sold separately. It’s not clear where they moved the attachment slot.
When comparing side-view product images using the common 4Ah battery as a size reference, the new model’s handle grip doesn’t appear to be any slimmer. (I updated the image after seeing your comment.)
jkrl73
Bosch also has a hammer drill head for the Flexiclick: https://www.amazon.com/GFA18-H-SDS-plus-Rotary-Hammer-Attachment/dp/B084QFHW22/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1HUJ0FOEM6CJU&keywords=Flexiclick&qid=1707384411&sprefix=flexiclick%2Caps%2C647&sr=8-6
It is not included in this package, but in Europe they have a budle including it.
That the #5 option
Ryan
It’s a 5in1 because the basic lockable bit holder is removable and you can use the tool without any attachments.
So bare tool plus 4 heads
Andrew
The 5th tool is a hammer. Anything can be a hammer.
PETE
And a wheel chock lol
MFC
Paperweight?
GM
I have both the 12v Flexiclick and the 18v Flexiclick as well as a slew of Milwaukee and Makita hammer drills and driver drills. I got the Flexiclicks because I continuously need the offset drill attachment, but the other attachments also come in handy with some frequency. Over time, the 18v Flexiclick has become my favorite 18v drill bar none. So, if they start blowing those out to make room for the new model, I’ll happily grab another one.
Ken
A Bosch UK livestream popped up on my YouTube recommendations just an hour ago where they cover the new model. YouTube ID is: exowakZt0Dw
They claim that the new model has slightly more torque than the old (64nm/565 in-lbs vs 60nm/530 in-lbs). So the new model apparently has 35 in-lbs or about 3 ft-lbs more torque. Nothing to write home about.
They also claim that the kickback control is much improved. They demonstrate the difference between the two and it does appear to be much more sensitive.
Another apparent difference is that the right-angle chuck is metal on the new model but plastic on the old model. I’m not sure, but it may be a German-made Rho chuck just like the straight chuck.
They also explain the “switchable precision clutch” as an improvement over the older version. The new version not only disengages, it cuts power completely. In other words, no more clicking noise, even if you continue to hold down the trigger. They describe it as “more elegant” and that there is no possibility of further torque applied to the screw. A very subtle effect, I think.
One last thing: the new model has the bluetooth connectivity integrated, without the need for the separately-purchased module. That is about a $20 value. I believe all new “connected” tools from Bosch will have the connectivity integrated like this.
I agree that none of these upgrades are very notable, but I also strongly doubt it will actually sell for $399 for very long. Lowe’s has a placeholder listing for $259. That would make it a better value than the prior version if you value the bluetooth feature alone as a $20 savings.
Stuart
Bosch North America specifically says “GCY42 connectivity module (sold separately).” There’s no mention of Bluetooth connectivity in USA product page listings.
I see the same Lowe’s listing, here.
Ken
You are right. On a previous live stream I thought the guys said that future connected devices would have the bluetooth module integrated and I assumed this was an example of that because the circular access is not visible on the new model’s handle. I just had a look at the manual from the Bosch UK website and it shows that the bluetooth module access is on the opposite side of the handle on the new model. That’s why it isn’t visible in the photos in your post.
blocky
I have the previous brushless model with the coin door for the bluetooth module. It definitely comes with a metal chuck. Before that, there was a brushed version that apparently shipped with a plastic chuck, which I would have preferred due to weight. Bosch chucks, even the plastic ones have treated me well.
I used mine all day today, and the anti-kickback was/is already quite good imo, but I did go back and forth with the clutch due to sound, since I was holding a conversation with a client while working. That does seem like a cool but subtle feature.
I suppose mine is a true 5-in-1 because I also have the rotary hammer attachment, which is excellent.
blocky
Oh, one other difference – mine shipped with a 1/4″ hex quick release built into the right angle head, not the right-angle chuck that is now pictured.
frobo
On my 12 volt Flexiclick I can hang the offset attachment onto the right angle attachment, thereby giving a fifth function (sort of). I know, it’s a stretch, and I’ve never done it, but you could. However, as Stuart says, the right angle attachment on this new product seems to have a fixed chuck. So, it’s a mystery to me too as to why they’re claiming 5 functions. Maybe they just copied the ad verbiage from previous models.
MM
In my opinion it is a much better idea to have the right-angle attachment work with the other attachments rather than having a permanently installed chuck. I have the M12 installation driver and I often use the 90-degree attachment in conjunction with the offset adapter.
Nate
Ditto. Love that about my 12v Flexiclick. Not being able to put any of the other attachments on the right angle attachment would be a showstopper for me. Would be enough for me to consider going with another brand (I liked the Milwaukee when I saw it, but hated the FWD/RVS location and the soft keys).
MM
The location of the soft keys bugged me a lot at first. However, I learned a tip from another toolguyd user a couple years ago: if you grip it like a drywall screw gun, with your index finger pointing straight forward and your middle finger on the trigger, now you get a lot more control compared to a “fist” grip, and the fwd/reverse buttons are easy to push with your thumb. I do prefer the more traditional cross-slider for fwd/reverse like most tools have but that tip about how to hold the M12 tool really improved my competence with it, the learning curve was short. I’m sorry I forgot who posted that tip, but thank you again whomever you are!
TonyT
IIRC, the 18V Flexi-Clicks support a SDS attachment, giving the 5th option.
Stephen
Correct. The Bosch website shows the SDS attachment.
Stuart
That’s like advertising an impact driver as a 100-in-1 tool because you can load it with different sizes and styles of bits.
TonyT
No, not a fair comparison – it’s not a bit but another head you can attach. Although if Bosch doesn’t include it they should say 4 in 1 with optional 5th attachment.
https://www.boschtools.com/us/en/products/gfa18-h-1600A019Z1
Robert
$80 to $140 mark up is significant for so little apparent gain. I looked at Euro exchange rates, guessing maybe the dollar had gotten so weak they weren’t getting enough Euros back when Bosch tried to redeem their US customers’ dollars. But that’s not it. In the last two years the exchange rate has bounced both ways, in about a 10% band.
Saulac
So the attachments have the standard 1/4 hex? Is this how Bosch stuff has always been. I don’t remember the M12 interface but I don’t think you can use w/o attachment. There should have been an angle bit holder. Maybe a square drive attachment.
MM
M12 uses 1/4 hex, you can use the bare tool without any attachments. However the bits don’t lock in unless you use the 1/4-in bit holder attachment.
Jamie Lee Davis
I wonder if it’s an actual Bosch, or a Chervon etc.
Matt
For fine work, I really love when a tool cuts power at a given clutch setting. It gives repeatability and doesn’t overstress a small fastener or soft substrate with a ratcheting action. It’s honestly why I will still often reach for my Milwaukee M4 driver instead of my M12 installation driver for certain tasks.
I think once the price settles this would be well worth the upgrade. Especially if electronic clutch settings are customizable through the app.
K J
Personally I don’t see the market for these modular drills in an 18-24v format. I like installation drivers or whatever you wanna call them in the compact 12v factor because they’re designed to get into small stupid positions. This feels like it’ll be too bulky for my use, and it’s pretty dang expensive. Not sure who’s the market for this.
AlexK
That was my thought as well, but reading the comments, it seems some people are happy with the 18v even though it’s heavier and larger. Maybe someone will comment on what they use it on. For big stuff I’ve reached for full size right angle drills, but never needed an offset drill/driver.
MM
I would love it if Dewalt made a 20V version. I have an M12 and I like it a lot, but the Dewalt has a more ergonomic grip and there are times when I’ve wanted more power. You’re right that sometimes 20V class tools can be a lot bigger/bulkier but I don’t think that has to be the case here. The 12v installation drivers aren’t much smaller than a compact 20v drill. And many of today’s 18V batteries are remarkably compact as well. An 18V version running 1.7ah powerstacks would be awesome in tight spaces.
TimL started a topic over on the forum discussing the possibility of homebrewing such a tool by swapping the transmission from a DCD703 onto a 20V drill.
https://discuss.toolguyd.com/t/frankenstein-a-dewalt/3458
AlexK
Just noticed the picture of it being used to drive a large head screw into floor molding. Maybe I should do that instead of an 18ga nailer? No one will notice.
Ben
I’d suggest a 1/2″ lag bolt for maximum holding power, a 1.2x toe damage multiplier, and minimum aesthetic appeal. Just my 2 cents.
Peter
Looking at the epic gap on top of the trim I think if anything the screw is to small too.
Jim Felt
Interesting photo misapplication use by their so-called “marketing” manglers. Maybe shot overseas? Not in North America at all?
Maybe they used to work at Makita USA?
Or am I just misinterpreting the need for anything bigger than my perfectly adequate 12V Bosch version?
Peter
Not sure why they do not include the bit holder attachment.
I really like the 12V version.
Has anyone seen a bare tool of the 12v click brushless version?
kri
I own both 12flex click and 18v
the metal chuck on 18 volt is made by rohm. Sds hammer i great
but the drill as driver is awesome. the kick back control has saved my rist few times with hole saw only problem i have is that the handle that is on the sds hammer is not
mountable to the drill when it´s just a chuck is on the sds attachment. have older version of 18v. And all have bit holder not chucks like on the picture. the main chuck from rohm. im in europe bought this drill 3 year ago
Jason White
I have the slightly older model. It’s a 4-in-1 but if you buy the optional SDS chuck, that makes it a 5-in-1. Bit of bait and switch tactic, in my opinion.
My only beef with this unit is that you can’t just push a bit into the chuck with one hand. Bosch makes you pull back on the little chuck/collet thingy with one hand and push the bit in with your other hand, which can be awkward at times. Otherwise, I like this tool a lot.
blocky
I share this beef. Plus, I find there’s too much play in the Bosch quick-collets for my liking, so I rarely use them. Otherwise, this looks like a refinement on a basically perfect drill, imho.
Two days last week, I used this drill for 8 hours of medium-duty drilling out hardboard and mdf. I’ve used a lot of different drills for this task, but settled on this one because the balance/ power makes the job less taxing on my body and because the trigger-speed control is so good, I can feather the speed correctly to prevent the bits from overheating during continuous drilling.
I’ve been meaning to look into the Bluetooth app to see if I could preset the max rpms and basically lock the trigger.
Chip
If you drill/drive into concrete the sds head makes a world of difference.
I would suspect with so much masonry being present in the world except for NA,this is a great homeowner owned single tool/multiple use option.
I’ve been using the m12 sds (still the best m12 tool IMO) and an impact driver for tapcons since it was available.
A dedicated sds,right angle impact,driver,impact wrench,and impact driver save a lot of time when attaching to concrete and/or confined spaces.
Seems that sourcing materials for manufacturing post covid, will be a large step in tool pricing going forward.
Sami
The most obvious difference that justifirs price, from what I have seen, is that $399 it’s bundled with 2x 4ah batteries with the 800 kit vs 1x 4ah battery with the old 535 for $319…