Bosch Freak Gets Another Upgrade with the GDX18V-1860CN
The original Bosch Freak (IDH182) has been around for a while now, and it got a brushless upgrade a few years ago. There’s another upgrade, and we wanted to see how much of a performance boost the latest Bosch brushless impact driver (GDX18V-1860CN) received.
Pros
- More torque than the GDX18V-1800CN
- Comfortable handle
- Ready for Bosch Connected Module if you want to add it
- Socket-ready hybrid hex/square drive
- No price increase
Cons
- Hybrid drive makes the tool longer
Bosch Brushless GDX18V-1860CN Performance
On paper, the Bosch GDX18V-1860CN differs from the 1800CN in just two measurements. The torque moves up from 1800 in-lbs to 1860 in-lbs and the impact rate drops from 4200 IPM to 4100 IPM. The three speeds still top out at 1100, 2300, and 3400 RPM.
We ran a couple of tests to see what the practical differences are. Up first, was our 1/4-in x 8-in GRK Fasteners RSS screw test in stacked OSB. Here’s how the results played out with a 4.0Ah Core 18V battery:
| GDX18V-1800CN | GDX18V-1860CN | |
|---|---|---|
| Test 1 | 19.28 | 13.83 |
| Test 2 | 16.40 | 13.68 |
| Test 3 | 15.10 | 12.93 |
| Test 4 | 16.92 | 15.48 |
| Test 5 | 13.15 | 14.34 |
| Average | 16.17 | 14.05 |
Despite no change in the top no-load speed, the additional torque made driving these tough screws more than 2 seconds faster on average. We also ran the test with an 8.0Ah battery and the results were very close to the numbers with the 4.0Ah pack.
The second test was to see what kind of breakaway torque each impact driver has. The 1800CN was able to loosen 3000 in-lbs (250 ft-lbs). The updated GDX18V-1860CN took off 3240 in-lbs (270 ft-lbs), verifying that it is a little stronger.
Bosch GDX18V-1860CN Design Notes
Connected-Ready
One of the cool features of the Bosch brushless impact driver is its connected-ready status. If you want to have some control over the settings, view diagnostics, and see some tracking info, you can add a Bosch Connected module and turn it into a smart tool.
If you don’t want it, you don’t have to pay for a module you’re not interested in. You can add it at any time if you decide later on that you want it. Either way, I like that Bosch makes it available the way they are.
Physically, the only change is the model door shifts to the right side of the handle.
Hybrid Square Drive
The defining feature of both models is the combination 1/4″ hex and 1/2″ square drive. It’s something only Bosch has and it eliminates the need for socket adapters. It also removes the cost of breaking adapters when they absorb too much torque.
The question that lingers is how much torque Bosch’s hybrid square drive can handle. Most impact drivers don’t need more than 1600 in-lbs of torque, but offer more for the impact driver/impact wrench we often want these tools to be. With a pile of sheared socket adapters from our impact driver testing, it’s not always practical.
Single LED Light
Bosch had a 3-LED light trio around the chuck of the original brushless impact, and that’s the style we prefer. The GSX18V-1860CN (and the 1800CN) has a single LED below the handle. It’s certainly not a deal-breaker, though.
Additional Features
- Brushless motor
- Electronic battery and motor protection
Bosch Brushless Impact Driver Quick Comparison
| GDX 18V-1800CN | GDX 18V-1860CN | |
|---|---|---|
| No-Load Speed | 0 – 1100/2300/3400 RPM | 0 – 1100/2300/3400 RPM |
| Max Torque | 1800 in-lbs | 1860 in-lbs |
| Max Impacts | 4200 IPM | 4100 IPM |
| Bare Weight | 2.6 lbs | 2.6 lbs |
| Head Length | 5.8 in | 5.8 in |
Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver Price
The retail price for the brushless Bosch impact driver is $159—the same price as the last model. However, we spied it for $129 at Lowe’s, so be sure to check them out first. Bosch warranties the tool for 1 year, and you can extend it to 3 years with a free Bosch ProVantage registration.
The Bottom Line
The Bosch Brushless Connected-Ready Impact Driver packs more power into its hybrid drive, making it an even better all-around tool for both screwdriving and socket work than the original. Even though it’s an incremental step forward, the price isn’t changing, making the choice between the 1800 and 1860 an easy one.
Bosch Brushless Connected-Ready Impact Driver Specifications
- Model: Bosch GDX18V-1860CN
- Power Source: Bosch 18V batteries (including Core18)
- No-Load Speed: 0–1100/0–2300/0–3400 RPM
- Impact Rate: 4100 IPM
- Torque: 1860 in-lbs
- Weight: 2.7 lbs bare, 3.8 lbs with Core18V 4.0 Ah battery
- Height: 8.2 in
- Length: 5.8 in
- Warranty: 3 years with ProVantage
