Full Review ⭐ Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC: Cordless Impact Wrench, 330 Nm Tightening and 560 Nm Breakaway Torque, Three-Speed/Torque Settings, 18V System

The Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC is a powerful yet compact 18V cordless impact wrench designed for professional use. This lightweight but rugged tool delivers an impressive 330 Nm of maximum tightening torque and 560 Nm breakaway torque, providing the power needed for automotive and machinery applications.

Key features of the Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC include:

• 18V lithium-ion battery system
• Brushless motor for long runtime and durability
• 1/2" square drive with detent pin for secure socket retention
• Three speed and torque settings for versatility
• LED light to illuminate dark work areas
• Soft grip handle and ergonomic design for comfort
• Weighs only 1.8kg for reduced user fatigue
• Carry case included for storage and portability

With pro-grade power in a compact size, the Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC allows users to tackle a wide range of bolting, threading, and fastening tasks. Its cordless convenience makes it well-suited for automotive repair, machinery maintenance, metal fabrication, construction jobs, and more.

Design & Build Quality

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench features a robust and durable design built to withstand heavy use on the job site. It has a lightweight but sturdy housing made from hardened plastic and rubberized grip areas for comfort and control.

Despite its compact size, the tool feels reassuringly solid in the hand thanks to its all-metal transmission and inner components. This gives it the ruggedness to cope with professional use without concern for premature wear and tear.

In terms of ergonomics, the wrench is nicely balanced and easy to handle. Its short length makes it easy to use in tight spaces. The rubberized softgrip areas provide a secure, comfortable hold when applying torque. The variable speed trigger allows precise control over power and speed.

Overall, the high-grade materials and compact but robust construction make this a tool built to last. It has the reassuring heft of an industrial tool but remains comfortable and manageable during extended use.

Bosch is well known for manufacturing high quality power tools that deliver reliable performance even under tough conditions. Another example is the Bosch GDR 10.8-LI cordless impact wrench. This lightweight but powerful tool uses Bosch's latest lithium-ion battery technology to provide impressive torque and runtime. With 135 ft-lbs of max torque, it can easily loosen even corroded or stuck bolts and lug nuts.

The Bosch GDR 10.8-LI has a durable composite housing that is designed to withstand job site abuse. It has an ergonomic shape with softgrip areas for comfort during prolonged use. Weighing only 2.2 lbs with the battery, this wrench helps reduce user fatigue. The variable speed trigger allows precise control over the power and speed. An LED light illuminates dark work areas.

With Bosch's well-earned reputation for quality manufacturing, the GDR 10.8-LI impact wrench will provide years of reliable service. Just like the GDS 18V-330 HC, it exemplifies Bosch's commitment to designing and building robust, high-performance power tools built to excel in professional use.

Power & Performance

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench delivers impressive power and performance capabilities for an 18V cordless tool. Its brushless motor enables a maximum tightening torque of 330 Nm and a breakaway torque of 560 Nm, providing more than enough oomph for automotive repair jobs as well as construction and industrial applications.

The impact mechanism generates a high torque impact rate of up to 3,600 impacts per minute, allowing you to drive fasteners quickly and efficiently. Variable speed control gives you the flexibility to dial in the right amount of power for each application, with three speed/torque settings to choose from. The first speed setting delivers up to 220 Nm of torque at 2,400 ipm, while the second jumps up to 330 Nm at 2,700 ipm. The third setting unleashes the full 560 Nm of breakaway torque at a slower 1,400 ipm for maximum power when breaking loose corroded or stubborn fasteners.

With this range of speed and torque settings, the Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC provides the versatility to tackle everything from precision automotive work to heavy duty construction jobs. The brushless motor helps maintain constant power and speed under load, giving you the performance to power through tough fastening tasks quickly.

For even more power and performance, consider upgrading to the Bosch Professional BITURBO GDS 18V-1000: Cordless Impact Driver. This beast of an impact driver delivers an incredible 1000 Nm of tightening torque and 1600 Nm of breakaway torque. The BITURBO utilizes a high-performance brushless motor and advanced electronics to optimize power and runtime. With best-in-class torque, it provides 50% more power than previous models. Variable speed settings give you precise control to match power and speed to the application. From routine tasks to the most demanding jobs, the BITURBO has the muscle to power through tough bolts and give you the ultimate in cordless impact performance.

In addition to brute strength, the BITURBO impact driver maintains productivity with features like KickBack Control that reduces high torque reaction, and a built-in LED light to illuminate dim work areas. The lightweight but durable housing withstands jobsite abuse while delivering hours of comfortable use thanks to the ergonomic design and soft grip areas. When you need the power to muscle through the biggest, most stubborn fastening jobs, the Bosch Professional BITURBO GDS 18V-1000 delivers the ultimate in cordless impact performance.

With an unmatched combination of power, features, and ergonomics, this impact driver is ideal for automotive technicians, industrial users, plumbers, HVAC pros, maintenance crews, remodelers, and anyone who needs to drive large fasteners quickly and with complete control. Backed by Bosch's reputation for German engineering and innovation, the BITURBO represents the pinnacle of 18V impact driver technology. Upgrade to this next-level powerhouse and make your toughest fastening jobs easy.

Battery & Charger

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench comes with Bosch's 18V Lithium-Ion battery pack. This battery has a large 4.0Ah capacity, which provides excellent runtime before needing a recharge.

One major advantage of the 18V system is that the battery is compatible with Bosch's entire range of 18V power tools. So if you already own other Bosch 18V tools, you can share batteries between them.

Charging the 4.0Ah battery from empty takes about 60 minutes with Bosch's rapid charger. This is quite fast for an 18V battery of this size. The charger has an LED display that shows the charging status, so you know when the battery is fully charged and ready to go.

In terms of battery life, you can expect around 150-200 bolts removed or tightened per full 4.0Ah charge. This is ample runtime for most automotive and construction jobs. The impact wrench is also compatible with Bosch's larger 6.0Ah 18V batteries, which provide even longer runtime between charges if needed.

Overall, the 18V Lithium-Ion battery system provides excellent power, rapid charging, and long runtime for cordless convenience. Sharing batteries with other Bosch 18V tools is an added benefit.

Accessories & Features

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench comes equipped with several useful accessories and features that enhance its usability and versatility on the jobsite.

LED Light

It has an integrated LED light located right above the collet that illuminates the work area. This allows you to clearly see the fastener and workpiece even in dimly lit spaces or tight corners. The LED light has a 20-second delay after trigger release, providing sufficient visibility as you move between tasks.

Belt Clip

A sturdy belt clip is included that enables the user to conveniently holster the impact wrench when not in use. The belt clip can rotate 360 degrees and has an auto-locking feature to securely hold the tool. This allows easy accessibility when moving around the job site.

Attachments

The Bosch impact wrench accepts 1/2" square drive sockets, giving you the flexibility to use your existing socket collection. Standard 1/4" hex quick-change chucks are also compatible if you need to drive hex fasteners. Optional socket adapters further expand your attachment capabilities for versatility.

Ease of Use

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench is designed for comfortable and convenient use. The tool has an ergonomic grip that fits nicely in your hand, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

The variable speed trigger gives you excellent control over the torque output. Squeezing lightly provides lower torque for precision work, while fully squeezing the trigger delivers maximum torque for stubborn bolts. There is also a speed control dial that lets you choose between three speed and torque settings.

Changing sockets is easy with the 1/2" square drive. The detent pin holds sockets securely in place to prevent them from falling out during heavy duty use. The forward/reverse selector switch is conveniently located for quick direction changes. An LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility.

Overall, the GDS 18V-330 provides excellent ease of use with its ergonomic design, variable speed trigger, speed settings, quick socket changes, and handy forward/reverse selector. These features allow you to work efficiently and comfortably on a wide range of fastening applications.

Applications

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC cordless impact wrench is suitable for a wide range of automotive and workshop applications. Its compact size and ergonomic design make it easy to access tight spaces like engine bays. With 330Nm of max torque, it has enough power for most medium duty fastening jobs like lug nuts, suspension components, brake calipers etc.

The 3-speed settings allow you to match the torque to the task at hand. Speed 1 delivers a precise 80Nm for delicate jobs. Speed 2 provides 190Nm for general automotive tasks. Speed 3 unleashes the full 330Nm for heavy duty applications. This versatility ensures you always have the right amount of fastening torque.

The 1/2" square drive accepts all standard impact sockets, though you may need adaptors for less common sizes. An integrated LED light illuminates the work area. The brushless motor delivers sustained power and runtime.

While powerful for an 18V tool, the Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC is still limited compared to corded and higher voltage impact wrenches. Very heavy duty jobs like truck wheel lugs will require more torque. The battery runtime is also finite compared to a corded tool, though this can be mitigated with additional batteries. Overall, it's an excellent mid-range cordless impact suitable for most automotive jobs. But for heavy industrial use, a more powerful tool may be required.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful 330 Nm of tightening torque and 560 Nm breakaway torque for demanding applications
• Compact and lightweight design improves maneuverability
• Variable speed trigger provides precision control
• 3-speed gearbox with auto-stop for optimal speed/torque in each application
• Brushless motor is efficient, durable and provides long service life
• Electronic Cell Protection helps prevent overloading, overheating and deep discharging
• Includes belt clip and LED light for convenience
• Part of the 18V system for use with all Bosch 18V batteries

Cons

• Expensive initial investment
• Battery and charger sold separately
• Noise level is quite high during operation
• No fuel gauge on tool to indicate remaining battery
• Heavy duty use can drain battery quickly
• Plastic casing feels slightly cheap for the price point

Value for Money

The Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC is priced at around £250 which puts it at the higher end of the 18V impact wrench market. However, you do get a lot for your money with this model.

Firstly, the build quality and performance is superb. The robust metal housing and proven brushless motor ensures this is a tool built to last in professional use. Compared to cheaper plastic models from some competitors, the Bosch will hold up much better over time.

In addition, the power and torque output exceeds most other 18V impact wrenches. The 330Nm tightening torque and 560Nm breakaway torque allow you to tackle even stubborn bolts with ease. Only top-end 18V models from Milwaukee and Makita offer similar specs.

The included FatPack 4.0Ah battery provides long runtimes, and the charger is fast and convenient. Some kits come with smaller 2.0Ah batteries which don't last nearly as long.

You also get a handy belt clip and storage case included. So everything you need to get started is in the box.

Overall for the capability on offer, the Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC provides excellent value compared to the competition. The premium price tag is justified by the premium performance and build quality. If you want the best 18V impact wrench currently available, this Bosch won't disappoint.

Summary & Verdict

The Bosch Professional GDS 18V-330 HC cordless impact wrench is an excellent choice for automotive and heavy-duty fastening applications. Its compact and ergonomic design makes it comfortable to handle and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

With 330 Nm of max tightening torque and 560 Nm breakaway torque, it has ample power to loosen even rusty bolts and lug nuts quickly. The three-speed and torque settings allow you to match the power to the job. It's built with Bosch's signature quality and utilizes efficient brushless motor technology for long runtime.

The 18V Lithium-Ion battery has enough juice for most tasks and charges quickly. LED light and belt hook further add to the convenience. Overall, the GDS 18V-330 HC impact wrench delivers outstanding performance, runtime, and usability.

For professionals and DIYers looking for a versatile, high-powered cordless impact wrench, the Bosch GDS 18V-330 HC is easy to recommend. It has the right features, power delivery, ergonomics and brand reputation to satisfy.