Bosch 12V Flexiclick 5-in-1 Drill Driver System GSR12V-300FCB22 Review

Drilling

The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill offered its worst performances compared to other 12 volt 5-in-1 models in our tests, requiring an unimpressive 95 seconds to bore a 5 inch hole in a door, struggling in a high speed setting from the get go using a one inch spade bit, and posting some of the longer times to drill holes in steel. While this model satisfactorily completed each task, we expected more, and were surprised that a significantly cheaper model easily outshone it.

Driving

While driving a lag bolt, the BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 performed in the middle of the 12V 5-in-1 models we tested, tapping out with one and one eighth inches of exposed bolt shank and threads, a quarter of an inch longer than the best performing model.

Furthermore, our team used the drills to fasten 3-inch number 9 Torx T25 flat head deck screws into the same material, and assess their capability to drive screws flush with the wood's surface. The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-in-1 offered reasonable performance from a 12-volt, but never succeeded in driving and setting screws perfectly flush with the wood surface.

Battery Life

The 2-amp-hour battery of the BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill lasted nearly four complete rounds of our testing trials, rivaling the performance of the top 12-volt 5-in-1. However, the charging time for the battery is over an hour, 10 minutes longer than the top model. Fortunately, Bosch includes two batteries in this kit, unlike the top-performing DeWalt, meaning you are unlikely to experience interruptions completing projects.

Convenience

The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill proved to be a convenient model, including a nice bit holder and four bits. We generally like this model, but would have liked for the keyless chuck to offer the tactile ratcheting clicks like many other models incorporate, as it is easier to ensure a secure bit with the more audible and haptic sensation.

Should You Buy the BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill?

The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill is a somewhat expensive 12-volt tool that, to our test team's surprise, failed to perform as well as more affordable models. With better options in the compact 12-volt and convenience-focused 5-in-1 space, and better-performing models of bigger sizes and voltages, we can't recommend the BOSCH 12V Flexiclick.

What Other Drill Should You Consider?

The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill is a fairly average 12-volt drill driver. So if you are looking for the top-performing 5-in-1 12-volt drill, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 is our top recommendation. For more power and performance overall, consider the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2 Drill Driver. It offers the best overall performance among all of the models we have tested, although you'll trade off the compactness present only in 12-volt 5-in-1 models. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly model, the Craftsman V20 1/2-In. Drill/Driver provides good performance at a more affordable price. However, for the tightest of budgets, the Black+Decker 20V Max Drill/Driver is a good option, providing the DIYer or hobbyist with enough bang for the buck to handle most DIY tasks.