Full Review ⭐ Bosch GOP18V-34N: 18V Brushless StarlockPlus® Oscillating Multi-Tool (Bare Tool)

Bosch is a leading power tool manufacturer known for their high-quality and innovative products. Founded in Germany in 1886, Bosch has steadily grown into a global brand with a reputation for precision engineering and reliability across their extensive range that spans power tools, home appliances and automotive parts.

Bosch power tools cover all applications from DIY and home improvement to professional use in construction and industry. Their lineup includes drills, saws, sanders, planers, routers, jointers and more. Bosch invests heavily in research and development to incorporate the latest technology into their tools.

One of Bosch's most popular and ingenious power tool designs is their oscillating multi-tool. This versatile tool can sand, saw, grind, cut, scrape and polish thanks to its fast oscillating blade motion. Bosch's oscillating multi-tools are designed for accuracy and control during delicate jobs.

The Bosch GOP18V-34N reviewed here sits at the high end of Bosch's oscillating multi-tool range. It's an 18V cordless model with a brushless motor and StarlockPlus blade changing system. Let's take a closer look at the features and performance of this oscillating multi-tool.

Overview

The Bosch GOP18V-34N is an 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool designed for professional use. As part of Bosch's 18V system, it is compatible with all Bosch 18V lithium-ion batteries. This versatile tool can be used for a wide variety of cutting, sanding, and grinding applications thanks to its oscillating blade motion.

The GOP18V-34N features Bosch's brushless motor technology which delivers efficient power while generating less heat. The StarlockPlus blade change system allows for quick and easy accessory changes without any tools required. With variable speed settings and an LED light, this oscillating multi-tool is built to take on tough jobs in tight spaces.

Overall, the GOP18V-34N provides pro-grade cutting and sanding performance in a compact and ergonomic design. It's a highly versatile addition for electricians, remodelers, installers, and other professionals who need an oscillating multi-tool on the jobsite.

For those looking for a more compact 12V oscillating multi-tool, Bosch also offers the GOP12V-28N: 12V Max EC Brushless Starlock Oscillating Multi-Tool Bare Tool. This lightweight, ergonomic tool delivers versatility and performance in tight spaces. The GOP12V-28N features the same brushless motor technology and StarlockPlus blade change system as the 18V model. With up to 11,000 oscillations per minute, it can handle detail sanding, flush cutting, and grinding in wood, metal, and plastic. The GOP12V-28N gives professionals powerful cutting and sanding abilities in a super compact size.

When choosing between the Bosch 18V GOP18V-34N and 12V GOP12V-28N oscillating multi-tools, the 18V model provides more power for heavy duty cutting and sanding applications. However, the 12V version offers impressive performance in a smaller, lighter package that's great for working in tight quarters. Both feature advanced brushless motors and the StarlockPlus blade change system for optimal productivity. Overall, Bosch offers pro-grade oscillating multi-tools to suit both robust jobsite demands as well as delicate detail work.

Design

The Bosch GOP18V-34N oscillating multi-tool features an ergonomic and durable design optimized for comfort and control during extended use. The tool has a slim, compact body that fits nicely in your hand, with soft grip areas that provide a secure hold.

Despite its light weight at just 3.3 lbs, the GOP18V-34N feels sturdy and well-balanced. This allows you to maneuver the tool into tight spaces and work at odd angles with less fatigue. The all-metal gearing and durable composite housing also give the tool a solid, quality feel.

Bosch designed the GOP18V-34N for optimal control and precision. The variable speed dial allows you to match the oscillation rate to the material and application. An accelerator trigger provides instant speed boosts when needed for aggressive cuts. The LED light illuminates dark work areas.

With its comfortable grip, lightweight body, and precision controls, the GOP18V-34N delivers outstanding ergonomics and is built to withstand heavy use on jobsites. The durable construction ensures a long service life even under demanding conditions.

For even more versatility in a compact 12V system, check out the Bosch GXL12V-270B22: 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit. This kit includes the Bosch FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill/Driver and a Starlock Oscillating Multi-Tool. The innovative FlexiClick system allows the drill/driver to convert into 4 different tools without changing chucks. It can be used as a standard drill/driver, right angle drill, offset drill, screwdriver, and detail driver. This gives you ultimate versatility in tight spaces and for awkward angles.

The Starlock oscillating multi-tool delivers fast, clean cuts in wood, metal, and more. It has a powerful motor and 3.2 degree oscillation angle for smooth, splinter-free performance. The Starlock blade change system allows for quick and easy accessory changes without any tools required. Weighing only 2.5 lbs, it's designed for low fatigue and comfortable operation.

Together, the FlexiClick drill/driver and Starlock oscillating tool give users unmatched versatility and productivity in a compact 12V platform. The lightweight design and 5-in-1 capability of the FlexiClick makes it ideal for working in tight spaces and at odd angles. While the Starlock oscillating tool tackles detailed cuts and grinding tasks with precision and control.

For professional contractors, remodelers, and DIYers needing maximum flexibility from their 12V Max tools, the Bosch GXL12V-270B22 2-tool combo kit is a top choice. This innovative system will help you work faster, easier, and with less fatigue on a wide range of applications.

Motor & Power

The Bosch GOP18V-34N multi-tool is powered by an efficient brushless motor that delivers impressive cutting power. The motor provides up to 20,000 oscillations per minute and 3.2° oscillation for smooth, fast cuts.

One of the key benefits of the brushless design is increased runtime compared to brushed motors. Without carbon brushes that wear down over time, brushless motors experience less friction and wasted energy. Bosch claims the GOP18V-34N can make up to 300 cuts per charge in wood with a standard blade.

The tool uses Bosch's 18V battery system and is sold without a battery or charger. When paired with Bosch's higher capacity 5.0Ah or larger batteries, it has ample juice for extended use. The brushless motor maximizes each battery charge for more efficient runtime.

With the brushless motor and 18V battery platform, the GOP18V-34N provides sufficient power for cutting wood, metal, plastic, and other materials. It has the torque and speed for efficient performance in a compact cordless tool.

Blade Changing

The Bosch GOP18V-34N features the StarlockPlus blade change system, which makes swapping accessory blades quick and easy.

To change the blade, you simply push the StarlockPlus button to release the current blade. The blade will pop out of the multi-tool. Then you can insert the new blade into the tool. When you hear it click, you'll know it's securely locked in.

The StarlockPlus system has a couple of key benefits. First, it's designed to keep blades firmly locked during operation, preventing any slipping or movement. Second, the blades can only be inserted one way, so you always have the correct orientation.

Overall, the StarlockPlus system allows for fast blade changes in just seconds. No tools are required and it provides a solid, secure hold during use. This is a major plus for the GOP18V-34N, letting you switch between cutting tasks seamlessly.

Cutting Performance

The Bosch GOP18V-34N excels at cutting through a variety of materials thanks to its powerful brushless motor and versatile blade attachments. The multi-tool makes quick work of wood, metal, plastic, drywall, tile, and more.

When outfitted with a wood cutting blade, it slices through lumber, plywood, studs, and framing materials with ease. The variable speed dial provides exceptional control when making delicate cuts. For metal, the GOP18V-34N equipped with a bi-metal blade cuts sheet metal, ductwork, pipes, and more without overheating. The oscillating motion prevents binding.

For tile, the carbide grit or diamond grit blades available allow you to notch or cut ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. It takes a delicate touch, but the GOP18V-34N handles tile work well. Plastic materials like PVC trim and ABS pipe are no match for the multi-tool and its cutting blades.

The tool also accepts sanding and scraping attachments which work great for drywall and grout removal. Overall, the cutting performance of the Bosch GOP18V-34N allows it to take on a wide variety of materials with speed and precision. It's one of the most capable and versatile oscillating multi-tools available.

Battery & Charging

The Bosch GOP18V-34N comes without a battery or charger, so you'll need to purchase these separately if you don't already have compatible Bosch 18V batteries. This gives you the flexibility to choose between Bosch's range of 18V batteries to suit your needs and budget.

The tool is compatible with Bosch's 18V lithium-ion batteries which provide long runtimes and short recharge times. Bosch claims their 5.0Ah batteries can deliver up to 65 minutes of runtime with the multi-tool, while their larger 8.0Ah batteries extend that to 100+ minutes. This is ample runtime for most applications.

Charging is via Bosch's 18V chargers which can fully recharge an empty 5.0Ah battery in as little as 60 minutes. So you can get back to work quickly after draining the battery. The chargers automatically shut off when the battery is fully charged to prevent overcharging.

Overall, battery life and charging speed is very good with Bosch 18V batteries. Just be aware you'll need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger if you don't already have these.

Accessories

The Bosch GOP18V-34N comes with a few handy accessories right in the box. This includes:

• (1) Oscillating Multi-Tool
• (1) Oscillating Tool Carbide Wood/Metal Saw Blade
• (1) Oscillating Tool Carbide Wood/Metal Saw Blade
• (1) Oscillating Tool Carbide Grout Removal Blade
• (1) Oscillating Tool Carbide flush-Cut Blade
• (1) Oscillating Tool Sanding Pad
• (1) Oscillating Tool Dust Extraction Adaptor
• (1) Contour Grip

Having multiple blades and accessories included is a nice addition for this oscillating multi-tool. The different blades allow you to tackle various materials right away, from wood to metal to grout. The sanding pad also increases the versatility. The dust extraction adaptor helps keep the work area clean by attaching to a vacuum hose. And the contour grip gives you an alternate handling option for more control and comfort during extended use. Overall, the included accessories make this a nicely equipped oscillating multi-tool ready for many applications.

Pros & Cons

The Bosch GOP18V-34N oscillating multi-tool has several pros that make it a great choice:

• Powerful brushless motor - The GOP18V-34N has a high-performance brushless motor that delivers fast cutting speeds and long runtime. This makes it efficient for heavy-duty use.

• StarlockPlus blade changing - Changing blades is fast and tool-free with the StarlockPlus system. This allows quick transitions between jobs.

• Variable speed trigger - Speed can be adjusted with the variable speed trigger from 10,000 - 20,000 oscillations per minute. This allows better control for different materials and tasks.

• Ergonomic grip - The slim softgrip handle provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip, even when using the tool for long periods.

• LED light - The built-in LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility in low light conditions.

Some potential downsides to consider:

• Bare tool only - The tool body only is sold without batteries or a charger, so these must be purchased separately.

• No orbital setting - It lacks an orbital setting that provides an elliptical cutting motion. This limits versatility compared to some competitors.

• No tool-free bevel adjustment - The bevel adjustment is not tool-free and requires an Allen key. This makes angle adjustments more tedious.

Overall, the GOP18V-34N's powerful performance and convenient StarlockPlus blade changing system make it one of Bosch's best oscillating multi-tools. Just be aware it comes as a bare tool only and lacks some features like orbital cutting action.

Conclusion

The Bosch GOP18V-34N 18V Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool is an excellent choice for professionals and DIYers looking for a versatile and powerful oscillating tool. Its brushless motor provides efficient performance, while the StarlockPlus blade change system allows for quick and easy accessory changes.

This multi-tool really shines when it comes to cutting performance. It makes quick work of a variety of materials, from wood and metal to tile and plastic. The 3.2° oscillation angle delivers an aggressive cutting motion that maximizes speed and efficiency. Variable speed gives you control to match the speed to the application.

The lithium-ion battery platform provides long runtimes between charges. While a battery is not included, the tool is compatible with all Bosch 18V batteries. The charger is fast and convenient.

In terms of downsides, the tool lacks some of the bells and whistles found on higher priced models. There is no tool-free blade change or LED light. It also does not come with any accessories.

Overall, the Bosch GOP18V-34N is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, high-performing oscillating multi-tool. It's thoughtfully designed and delivers impressive cutting abilities across many materials. For professionals and avid DIYers looking for a reliable oscillating tool, the GOP18V-34N is easy to recommend.