BOSCH GOP18V-34N 18V Multi-Tool review

In the ever-expanding world of cordless oscillating multi-tools, the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool stands out as a contender, thanks to its innovative Starlock system. The Starlock system, a recent addition to the cordless tool market, has gained considerable attention for its efficiency and performance. Today, we dive into the features and capabilities of the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool.

Pros and Cons

Before delving into the details, let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of this tool to give you an overview:

Pros:

1. Starlock Accessory Changes: The Starlock system offers excellent accessory changes, making blade replacements a breeze.
2. Excellent PTR Time Trial Result: Impressive performance on the PTR Oscillating Multi-Tool Test Track, showcasing its efficiency.
3. Reasonably Low Vibration: Despite its power, it maintains a low level of vibration, improving user comfort.
4. Solid Build Quality: Bosch’s reputation for quality is upheld in this tool’s construction.

Cons:

1. Bulky Handle Design: The somewhat boxy handle design may not be ideal for users with smaller hands.
2. On the Heavier Side: With a 4.46 lbs weight (with a 6.3 Core 18V battery attached), it’s heavier than some competitors.

Starlock Blade Changes

The standout feature of the Bosch cordless oscillating tool is the Starlock system. This accessory interface not only ensures a secure grip on the blade, enhancing torque transfer, but it also allows for effortless, tool-free blade changes. The process is straightforward: pull back on the blade lever to eject the old blade, then press the tool down onto the new blade until it clicks into place. It’s a simple, fast, and user-friendly system that we greatly appreciate.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics play a pivotal role in evaluating a tool’s performance. At 4.46 lbs with a 6.3 Core 18V battery, the Bosch cordless oscillating tool has some weight to it. However, you can mitigate this by using the more compact 4.0Ah Core18V battery, which maintains performance without adding bulk. The tool itself has a boxy frame and a larger handle diameter. While this may suit those with larger hands, our testing team leans toward a slimmer design.

Performance

The cordless Bosch 18V oscillating tool features an EC brushless motor, claimed by Bosch to offer 30% more power than their previous 18V motors. In practice, this translates to a smooth and efficient performance, although it may not be the fastest tool in terms of cutting speed. It operates within the range of 8,000 – 20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute), which is more than sufficient for most tasks. Notably, the Starlock system proved to be a significant advantage during testing, with an impressive time of 1:38 on the PTR Oscillating Multi-Tool Test Track.

Vibration Control

Vibration can be a significant drawback in oscillating multi-tools, but the Bosch 18V oscillating tool manages it fairly well with its 2.8° oscillation angle. While it’s not at the advanced level of vibration control seen in some competitors, it still offers a decent reduction in vibration, enhancing user comfort during extended use.

Noise

Oscillating multi-tools are known for their noise levels, and the Bosch 18V tool falls in the middle of the spectrum, generating approximately 98 dB(A). While it’s not a whisper-quiet tool, it’s notably less noisy than many others in its category.

Key Features

Here are some key features of the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool:

• Starlock Plus accessory interface
• EC Brushless motor technology
• LED light for improved visibility in low-light conditions
• Constant Response circuitry, maintaining speed under load
• Variable-speed dial for precise control
• Reinforced metal gearing for durability
• No-mar plastic ribs to protect surfaces

Price and Warranty

The Bosch 18V oscillating tool is available as a bare tool for $199, and it comes with a 1-year warranty. At the moment, there’s no kit option available.

The Bottom Line

The Bosch cordless oscillating multi-tool’s standout features are the Starlock interface and its relatively low vibration. It upholds the quality expected from Bosch. However, in some categories, other brands may have a competitive edge. If you’re already invested in the Bosch 18V platform, this tool is a solid choice. Still, if you’re exploring multiple cordless options, there might be alternatives that better suit your needs.

Bosch 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Specs

• Model: Bosch GOP18V-28N
• Power Source: Bosch 18V battery
• Oscillations: 8,000 – 20,000 OPM
• Oscillation Angle: 2.8°
• Weight: 4.46 lbs. with 6.3Ah Core18V battery
• Warranty: 1 year limited

Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What is the Starlock system on the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool?

• The Starlock system is an innovative accessory interface that provides an excellent grip on the blade, allowing for tool-free and one-handed blade changes.

2. Is the Bosch 18V oscillating tool suitable for users with smaller hands?

• The tool has a somewhat boxy handle design and a larger handle diameter, which may not be ideal for users with smaller hands.

3. How does the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool perform in terms of speed?

• While it’s not the fastest tool, it delivers smooth and efficient performance, with an oscillation speed of 8,000 – 20,000 OPM.

4. Does the Bosch 18V oscillating tool offer advanced vibration control?

• While it reduces vibration reasonably well with a 2.8° oscillation angle, it’s not at the same level as some other brands.

5. What is the noise level of the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool?

• The tool generates approximately 98 dB(A), which is in the middle range for oscillating multi-tools.

6. What are the key features of the Bosch 18V oscillating tool?

• Key features include the Starlock Plus accessory interface, EC Brushless motor technology, LED light, constant response circuitry, variable-speed dial, reinforced metal gearing, and no-mar plastic ribs.

7. How much does the Bosch 18V oscillating tool cost?

• The bare tool is priced at $199.

8. Is there a kit option available for the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool?

• Currently, there is no kit option available.

9. How does the Bosch 18V tool compare to other brands in its category?

• While it excels in some aspects, other brands may surpass it in certain categories, so the choice depends on your specific needs.

10. Where can I find more information about the Bosch 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool?