Bosch PDR 18 LI Cordless Impact Driver Review
The Bosch PDR 18 LI Cordless Impact Driver is a great value, powerful impact driver that can tackle all but the toughest jobs.
Capable of producing a high, 130 Nm of torque and an impact rate of 3200 bpm, you’ll find the PDR 18 capable of gliding through the majority of household and light commercial tasks.
With a lightweight (1.25kg) and ergonomic grip design, the PDR 18 remains comfortable to hold and use even for extended periods of time.
The PDR 18 LI is part of Bosch’s Power4All family of products where the batteries are all fully compatible. This makes this particular kit, with its two included batteries and a charger such good value. Simply add another couple of body only tools from the Power4All range and you’ve got the start of a great workshop.
Does it make an impact?
The Bosch PDR 18 offers a great balance of power and features at an attractive price.
- Very powerful: High torque and high impact force ensure optimum performance when driving screws in metal and wood
- Very convenient: The compact and ergonomic shape, and a low weight ensure fatigue-free working
- The high-performance motor runs on reduced current, therefore enabling a particularly long run-time and increased efficiency
- Screw diameter up to 8 mm
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Although not as versatile as a combi drill for everyday tasks, sometimes you just need the power that only an impact driver can deliver, such as driving in bolts for example, or screwing heavy wooden beams together.
Combined with a decent set of impact bits (see below), you’ll find few tasks around the home that this impact driver can’t handle.
Bosch’s standard 2 year guarantee also gives you piece of mind that you’ve got a decent bit of kit.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Bosch PDR 18 – Vital Statistics
As mentioned before, the impact driver and a battery weigh in at only 1.25kg – this represents a lot of available power in a such a small package.
- Battery Voltage – 18V
- Battery Capacity – 1.5Ah
- Number of Batteries – 2
- No-Load RPM (Max) – 2600 rpm
- Max Torque – 130 Nm
- Max. Impact Rate – 3200 bpm
- Chuck Size – 1/4″ with hexagon shank
- Weight – 1.25 kg
- Charge Time – 1 hour
As with its sister, the PSB 1800 – the smaller capacity batteries mean it won’t have the longevity of use that some of its more expensive competition have with their larger batteries (see our Impact Driver Roundup) but this package does over a great value entry point into the Bosch ecosystem.
Bosch PDR 18 Manual
Here is a link to the Bosch PDR 18 Manual hosted on the Bosch website
Bosch PDR 18 – Accessory Set
No impact driver is complete without a decent set of impact bits. These bits have specially designed shafts and tips and are designed for the high torque applications that impact drivers and wrenches excel at.
Be wary of using cheaper bit sets as i’ve seen them twist and strip under stress.
The Bosch Professional Impact Bit Set is an ideal partner to your new PDR 18. These are designed for pro use these bits will likely outlast your impact driver!
- Ideal for heavy duty use
- Can be used with high voltage impact drivers
- Manufactured from specially formulated V steel alloy for extreme toughness
- Features torsion control to withstand the stresses of high torque applications
- Black oxide Finish
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
What We Like!
- Plenty of torque in such a compact package
- Ergonomic and lightweight
- The standard 1/4″ chuck and hex shank – no adaptors needed
- Twin batteries and fast changer
FAQ’s
Can I use standard screwdriver bits
You can do as they should fit the standard 1/4 chuck but be wary of using them with too much torque. I’ve managed to strip the head off of a cheaper bit before attempting to free a rusted screw.
Always use them at low speed settings or alternatively invest in a decent set of high impact bits designed for these types of applications.
Can this be used for working on cars?
It really does depend on the application. If you need an impact driver for general maintenance on your car then this will probably be suitable.
If you are looking for an easy way to loosen stuck wheel nuts then this isn’t the tool for you as it simply won’t have enough torque for the job.
Is there a cheaper version without batteries?
Bosch do sell a bare PDR 18 Impact Driver, supplied without batteries or charger.
This is ideal if you already have a similar tool from the Bosch Power4All range such as the fantastic Bosch PSB 1800 Combi Drill – this represents a significant cost saving overall.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Ratings
Bosch PDR 18 LI Cordless Impact Wrench Review
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Performance
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Features
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Ergonomics
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Value
Summary
The Bosch PDR 18 LI Cordless Impact Wrench is a great value, powerful impact driver that can tackle all but the toughest jobs.
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