As the construction world has shifted from corded to cordless power 18V and 20V batteries have reigned supreme. While these batteries pack a punch in terms of performance, they tend to be bulky and heavy. Bosh 12V tools offer a more agile option for woodworkers, especially when using a smaller, lighter tool makes sense, such as, when installing cabinets and trim.
Advantages of 12V Batteries
12V batteries are smaller and lighter than 18V and 20V batteries. Because of this, 12V batteries are great for working in small spaces, users experience less fatigue, 12V tools are less top-heavy, and overall are easier to handle and work with. 12V batteries also charge faster.
Bosch isn’t the first brand to release 12V batteries and tools. Milwaukee has a broad range of tools under their M12 line, but comes in short for woodworking. Bosch 12V tools pick up where Milwaukee leaves off and then some.
Bosch 12V Batteries
The compact Bosch 12V Max Lithium-ion batteries (BAT414-2PK) promise 50% more power than previous Bosch batteries while weighing a mere 0.3 lbs. These batteries operate in cold conditions up to -4°F. The Electronic Cell Protection provides defense against overheating, overload, and unnecessary discharge, promoting a long lifespan.
The Bosch 12V batteries are compatible with every Bosch 12V tool.
Bosch 12V Tools
Today we are looking at several of the tools in Bosh’s lineup of 12V tools.
Bosch 12V Tools
- Bosch 12V Flexiclick
- Bosch 12V Screwdriver
- Bosch 12V Drill Driver
- Bosch 12V Random Orbital Sander
- Bosch 12V Planer
- Bosch 12V Oscillating Tool
- Bosch 12V Jig Saw
- Bosch 12V Router
- Bosch 12V Worklight
- Bosch 12V Power Adapter
- Bosch Laser
Bosch 12V Flexiclick
- Name – 12V Max Chameleon Drill/Driver with 5-In-1 Flexiclick® System and (2) 2.0 Ah Batteries
- Model – GSR12V-140FC
- Price – $136
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- This compact, versatile tool comes with four separate attachments: locking bit holder, keyless chuck, offset angle grinder, right angle grinder
- Two speed settings
- Small and lightweight (1.8 lbs., tool only) for maneuverability
We quoted the price for the tool alone, but it is also available to buy with a battery or with the complete carry case system set.
Bosch 12V Drill Driver
- Name – 12V Max EC Brushless 3/8 In. Drill/Driver Kit
- Model – GSR12V-300B22
- Price – $157
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- High efficiency brushless motor
- Two speed settings, max speed of 1,750 rpm
- Produces 300 in. lbs. of torque in 3/8 in. tool
- Precise torque settings with less fastener damage from 20+1 clutch setting
- Professional power in lightweight, compact design (1.6 lbs. weight, tool only)
Bosch 12V Screwdriver
- Name – 12V Max Brushless 1/4 In. Hex Two-Speed Screwdriver
- Model – GSR12V-300HXN
- Price – $129
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- 300 in. lbs. of torque in 1/4 in. Hex screwdriver
- Precise torque settings with less fastener damage from Precision 20+1 clutch settings
- High-efficiency brushless motor
- Two speed settings, with max speed of 1,750 rpm
- Compact 5 in. body and light weight of 1.3 lbs. (tool only)
Bosch 12V Random Orbital Sander
- Name – 12V Max Brushless 5 In. Random Orbit Sander
- Model – GEX12V-5N
- Price – $84
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Bosch Reviews
Features
- 5-inch 8-hold sanding pad capable of flat, concave, and convex surfaces
- Ergonomic palm-grip sander
- High-efficiency brushless motor
- Mobile dust collection compatible with vac hose attachment
- Easy to control compact design
- Speed selector
- Soft-Start Technology
- Sander comes with one medium backing pad, one sanding disk, and one dust bag
Bosch 12V Planer
- Name – 12V Max EC Brushless Planer
- Model – GHO12V-08N
- Price – $165
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Powerful compact 10 in. x 3.94 in. x 4.33 in. planer comparable in size to a hand planer
- High-efficiency brushless motor
- Max planing width of 2.2 in with 0.08 in. depth
- Max of 33 ft. of planing per amp hour
Bosch 12V Oscillating Tool
- Name – 12V Max EC Brushless Starlock® Oscillating Multi-Tool
- Model – GOP12V-28N
- Price – $86
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- StarlockPlus 3D for maximum cutting torque, compatible with all Starlock accessory blades
- Versatile cutting tool capable of flush cuts, plunge cuts, sanding, grinding, and more
- High-efficiency brushless motor
- Variable-Speed Dial ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 rpm
- Compact 11.2 in x 2 in. x 3.3 in. body, 1.75 weight (tool only) with unmatched performance-to-weight ratio
How to Sharpen Oscillating Blades
Want to extend the life of your oscillating blades? Read our article Sharp Pog – Oscillating Blade Sharpener Review or buy it on Amazon.
Bosch 12V Jig Saw
- Name – 12V Max Barrel-Grip Jig Saw
- Model – JS120N
- Price – $104
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Ergonomic, barrel-grip design with soft grip and compact body for easy control and comfort
- Variable speed dial of 1,500 to 2,800 rpm
- Multidirectional blade clamp for T-shank blades
- Counterbalanced low-vibration plunge mechanisms for smooth control
- Tool-free blade change
- Switchable LED lighting for cut path
Bosch 12V Router
- Name – 12V Max EC Brushless Palm Edge Router
- Model – GKF12V-25N
- Price – $125
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Compact and ergonomic edge router for comfortable grip
- High-efficiency brushless motor with max speed of 13,000 rpm and up to 23 ft. round-over capacity per amp hour
- Depth adjustment for precise fine depth and easy macro depth adjustment
- Convenient router depth adjustment lock
Bosch 12V Worklight
- Name – 12V Max LED Worklight
- Model – FL12
- Price – $69
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Best in class 10 high-intensity LED light illumination
- Spotlight capabilities
- Dimming function
- 6 hour runtime with 2.0Ah battery 12 hours of runtime with 4.0Ah battery (batteries not included)
- 200 degree manipulation
- Equipped with two magnets, a carabiner clip, and 1/4 in. screw thread for tripod attachment
- Highly durable housing and LED lights
Bosch 12V Power Adapter
- Name – 12V Max Portable Power Adapter
- Model – GAA12V-21N
- Price – $26
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Provides 2.1 amps to power USB devices, such as cell phone
- Heated jacket adapter
- Metal belt clip for convenience
Bosch Laser Distance Meter
- Name – BLAZE™ 65 Ft. Laser Distance Meter
- Model – GLM 20
- Price – $46
- Purchase – Amazon
- More Information – Bosch Website
- Read Our Review
Features
- Long range, indoor, accurate laser measure capable of measuring distances from within 1/8 in. up to 65 ft. away
- Real-time distance measurement adjustment
- Easy-to-use one button operation
- Backlit display for easy reading in light or dark
- Convenient size, shape, and portable
- AAA battery-powered device
Bosch 12V Tools – Wrap Up
Bosch has filled a void with their line of up 12V tools and accessories.
Before these tools came out, your only option for cordless powered woodworking were heavy, bulky 18V or 20V tools or being constrained by an extension cord. These can be a big interference when working, especially when installing cabinets or trim.
It’s nice to have a smaller, lighter tool that’s easier to finesse when balancing upper cabinets, working in confined spaces, or doesn’t just tire you out from holding for extended periods of time. On top of that, Bosch 12V batteries don’t sacrifice power. You still get that professional-grade performance.
Overall, Bosch 12V Tools provide a great, powerful yet lighter option to carpenters and woodworkers.
