Bosch Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Sports Low Vibration and Reliable Performance
We just wrapped up testing for our Best Oscillating Mutli-Tool shootout, and the results were pretty surprising! Today, I’m highlighting one of the featured tools, the Bosch Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (GOP18V-34N). Want to find out how this tool performed? Let’s dive in!
Pros
- Very low vibration
- Low noise level
- Starlock Plus accessory interface
- Improved ergonomics
- Well-balanced design
Cons
- Slower cutting speed than comparable Pro models
Bosch Cordless Oscillating Mutli-Tool Performance
- Max Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Oscillation Arc: 3.4°
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Accessory Interface: Starlock Plus
Hands-On Testing
In the past, testing these tools has always been a bit subjective because there was always that human element to contend with. To combat this factor, we built a pretty nifty rig to test oscillating multi-tools.
One end holds the material we’re cutting in place, while the tool is secured to a sled that’s pulled forward by a weight, applying even pressure for each test. The amount of weight varies based on what material we’re cutting, but every tool uses the same amount of weight as the others for each test.
Our testing materials included hard and soft woods, nail-embedded white pine, 1/2-inch CPVC pipe, 1/2-inch copper pipe, 1/2-inch EMT conduit, and 1/2-inch all-thread rod.
These are the results from our testing, which included nine tools. As you can see, Bosch did lag behind a bit in the majority of our tests.
Note that this model was able to finish the threaded rod cut in 65 seconds, which was by far the most challenging test. Even though you wouldn’t normally use an oscillating multi-tool for that cut, it gives us an idea of how powerful the motor is, and not every model we tested finished it.
| Test | Result | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Pine | 7.72 seconds | 8 |
| Red Oak | 12.75 seconds | 9 |
| Nail-Embedded Pine | 5.28 seconds | 4 |
| CPVC | 1.56 seconds | 7 |
| Copper Pipe | 22.72 seconds | 8 |
| EMT Conduit | 9.52 seconds | 6 |
| Threaded Rod | 65 seconds | 5 |
| Vibration Rating | 2 out of 5 | 2 |
In terms of speed, Bosch’s brushless motor churns out between 10,000 and 20,000 OPM, which is consistent with the other models we tested. So why the slower results? Part of that may be due to the 3.4° oscillating arc. While that’s a little better than what used to be the standard of 3.2°, several brands have moved to 3.6°, and some are as high as 4.2°. While this did produce slower results, it’s important to note that the GOP18V-34N did complete all seven tests, unlike DeWalt, Hilti, and Ryobi!
Pro Tip: The higher the oscillation arc, the more aggressively the tool is able to remove materials during cutting and sanding.
While the cutting speed doesn’t challenge the best of the best, there are a few other factors to consider before drawing your final conclusion.
First, Bosch’s 18V platform is pretty extensive and covers many of the tools that GCs are likely to need, as well as a number of trade-specific tools. Second, it’s clear that these tools are built with quality and performance in mind. In particular, the ProFactor lineup continues to push the limits on 18V power and delivers consistent performance time after time.
Vibration Control
Compared to many of the multi-tools I’ve tested over the years, the Bosch GOP18V-34N produces very low levels of vibration. This is thanks to Bosch’s floating head design that helps isolate the grip from the blade.
In fact, during our latest oscillating multi-tool head-to-head testing, Bosch was second only to Makita’s XMT04 OMT in terms of vibration.
Noise Level
Due to the high oscillation rate of these tools, they tend to be a bit louder than you’d expect. However, Bosch did a great job of keeping the noise to a minimum. It produced 72dBA when measuring from my ear inside our shop. Granted, this reading was taken without a blade, but that’s still a fantastic baseline.
Bosch Cordless Oscillating Mutli-Tool Design Notes
- Model: Bosch GOP18V-34N
- Power Source: Bosch 18V battery
- Weight: 2.6 lbs (bare tool), 3.8 lbs (with 4.0Ah Core 18V battery)
- Length: 11 in.
Size and Weight
The Bosch GOP18-34N weighs in at 2.6 pounds as a bare tool, 3.8 pounds with a 4.0Ah Core18V battery. This is a slight improvement over the Bosch GOP18V-28, which had a bare weight of 2.7 pounds.
The tool body measures 11 inches from end to end without the battery and a mere 12.5 inches with a 4.0Ah battery. Additionally, it’s very well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver while you work.
Bosch also made some notable improvements to the tool shape. Rather than a straight barrel grip, it features a more narrow, contoured grip section with rubber inlays to help you maintain a secure hold on the tool. It is a bit wider than many of the other tools we tested, but I don’t see that as a hindrance.
Bosch also did a great job of putting the slide switch and speed control dial well within reach.
Starlock Plus Blade Changes
Unsurprisingly, Bosch equipped this the GOP18V-34N with a Starlock Plus interface system. To swap out blades, simply fold the Starlock lever forward and press in a fresh blade. The Starlock Plus system is great for medium-duty applications, such as metal and wood cutting, as well as cutting through tougher plastics. Additionally, the Plus has a slightly larger interface than the standard Starlock, allowing for improved power transfer to the blade and accessories.
Pro Tip: Starlock accessories come in three duty-levels—Starlock Max, Starlock Plus, Starlock. Each level is backward-compatible:
- Starlock Max tools can use all three types
- Starlock Plus tools can use Plus and Standard accessories
- Starlock tools can only use standard Starlock accessories
Additional Features
- LED work light
- Compatible with all Bosch Core18V batteries
Bosch Cordless Oscillating Mutli-Tool Price
The Bosch GOP18V-34N is available in a few different configurations. It retails for $159 as a bare tool, but there are also two kit options. The first kit sells for $219 and comes with a standard 2.0Ah battery, charger, storage bag, and a few basic blades to get you started. The other lists for $249 and comes with a Core18 4.0Ah Advanced Power battery, charger, storage bag, and a small set of blades and sanding pads.
Bosch backs this tool with a 5-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
After getting some hands-on time with the Bosch GOP18V-34N, it’s clear why this would be an attractive option for Pros. While it wasn’t near the top in performance, it was able to complete every test we threw at it. The low vibration and Starlock Plus interface are a major bonus, and Bosch made some meaningful improvements to the overall ergonomics that make this tool much more enjoyable to use. If you’re on the hunt for a Pro-grade tool that won’t let you down, Bosch has your back.
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