Bosch 12 V set: GSB 12V-15 and GDR 12V-105

In the bag

Amazon lists the GSB 12V-15, the GDR 12V-105, two 2.0 Ah 12 V batteries, a GAL 12V-40 charger and a bag. A bag rather than a hard case makes sense here, since it is easier to fold into a cupboard or carry over a shoulder. Bosch states a 24 month manufacturer warranty.

Reading the thin spec sheet

The listing gives one torque figure of 120 Nm for the set. That cannot be the drill, so it is most likely the impact driver's figure, but the listing does not split it out. Max speed is entered as 2.6 rpm, which is clearly a data error. In short, the numbers here are not reliable for comparison and Bosch's own data sheets are worth checking.

What is clear is the platform. These are 12 V tools, so the packs are smaller and lighter and so are the motors. They will put up shelves, assemble furniture, hang doors and drive most fixings in a house, but long decking screws and coach bolts will take longer and drain the 2.0 Ah packs quickly.

Compared with the 18 V sets

Against the Bosch GSB 18V-110 C and GDR 18V-210 C kit, this set gives up a great deal of power and battery capacity for a much lighter load. The 18 V set is the better pick for building a deck or framing. The DeWalt DCK276P2 is similar in role to the larger Bosch and also much heavier.

The 12 V batteries do not fit Bosch 18 V tools. If you expect to add a circular saw or SDS drill later, starting on 18 V avoids running two battery systems.

Who it does not suit

Anyone planning a garden building, a deck or regular masonry drilling into hard brick should look at 18 V. Two 2.0 Ah packs also mean regular charging on full days.