Full Review ⭐ Bosch GXL12V-270B22: 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit with Chameleon Drill/Driver Featuring 5-in-1 Flexiclick® System and Starlock® Oscillating Multi-Tool

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit is an excellent starter kit for DIYers and homeowners looking for versatile and compact power tools. This kit includes the Bosch Chameleon drill/driver and an oscillating multi-tool, providing a useful combination of tools for completing projects around the house.

The star of the show is the Bosch Starlock oscillating multi-tool, which excels at flush cutting, sanding, grinding, scraping, and sawing in tight spaces. Its compact 12V design makes it easy to control and enables access where bulkier tools can't reach. The oscillating multi-tool comes equipped with a selection of accessories to tackle different materials and applications right out of the box.

Complementing the oscillating multi-tool is the Bosch Flexiclick 5-in-1 Chameleon drill/driver. As the name suggests, this drill can quickly convert between a compact screwdriver and a full-size drill driver. Its versatility and small size are ideal for light drilling, driving, and fastening tasks around the home.

Together, these two cordless Bosch tools provide DIYers and home improvement enthusiasts with an adaptable 2-tool system to take on a variety of projects. Their 12V battery platform offers a balance between power and portability. Continue reading to learn more about the features and performance of the tools in this combo kit.

Design

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit features a sleek and modern design that prioritizes user comfort and control. The oscillating multi-tool has an ergonomic body with soft grip areas that allow you to hold the tool comfortably, even during prolonged use.

At only 3.3 pounds, the multi-tool is lightweight and won't cause hand fatigue. The barrel grip handle enables excellent control and maneuverability when accessing tight spaces. An ambidextrous lock-on button allows for continuous operation without holding down the trigger, useful during intricate jobs.

The multi-tool also comes with a flexible shaft attachment that lets you use the oscillating tool in hard to reach areas. You can bend and shape the flexible shaft as needed to get into awkward spots. Overall, the thoughtful design of the Bosch oscillating multi-tool promotes handling ease and precision.

For even greater versatility and value, consider the Bosch GXL18V-270B22 18V 2-Tool Combo Kit. This kit includes the Bosch Chameleon Drill/Driver with 5-in-1 Flexiclick system in addition to the StarlockPlus oscillating multi-tool. The innovative Flexiclick system allows the Chameleon drill to convert between an inline driver, right angle driver, offset driver, rotary hammer, and hammer drill/driver. This provides unmatched adaptability for accessing tight spaces and optimizing control.

The StarlockPlus interface on the oscillating multi-tool delivers superior tool change performance over the competition. StarlockPlus tools can be changed in just 3 seconds without the need for any tools. The interface's exceptional rigidity also enables better transfer of power from the motor. With two highly versatile tools featuring advanced interfaces and ergonomics, the Bosch GXL18V-270B22 combo kit is an extremely adaptable solution for pro users.

Motor and Power

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 combo kit comes with the powerful Starlock oscillating multi-tool. This tool features Bosch's proprietary Starlock blade changing system, which allows for quick and easy accessory changes without any tools required.

The Starlock multi-tool has a powerful yet compact EC Brushless motor that delivers up to 20,000 oscillations per minute. This provides fast cutting and sanding speeds to help you get jobs done quickly. The variable speed dial gives you precise control over the oscillation rate for optimal results across various materials and applications.

With the 12V MAX Lithium-Ion batteries, this oscillating tool packs impressive performance. It can make up to 330 cuts in 2x4 lumber on a single charge. The batteries are compatible with Bosch's 12V MAX line of tools, allowing you to build a versatile system that meets all your needs.

The Starlock multi-tool weighs only 2.5 lbs with the battery installed, making it comfortable for extended use. The soft grip areas enhance control and reduce fatigue. Overall, the motor provides professional-grade power in a compact and ergonomic package.

For those looking for just the oscillating multi-tool without the battery or charger, check out the Bosch GOP12V-28N: 12V Max EC Brushless Starlock Oscillating Multi-Tool Bare Tool. This bare tool has the same powerful motor and Starlock system as the kit version, allowing you to utilize existing Bosch 12V Max batteries. With a bare weight of only 1.6 lbs, it's extremely lightweight and comfortable to use.

The GOP12V-28N bare tool delivers up to 20,000 oscillations per minute, giving you the speed and performance needed for professional use. It's built with a durable aluminum gearbox and metal planetary gearing for long service life. The variable speed dial provides optimized control for precision cutting and sanding in wood, metal, plastic and more.

This bare tool configuration gives you flexibility if you already have Bosch 12V Max batteries or want to build a custom system. You can purchase just the oscillating multi-tool and add batteries or chargers separately. The GOP12V-28N works with all Bosch 12V Max batteries and chargers for maximum versatility.

Blades and Accessories

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 kit comes with a versatile assortment of blades and accessories for the Starlock oscillating multi-tool. It includes:

• Oscillating multi-tool with Starlock blade interface
• 1 wood cutting blade
• 1 metal cutting blade
• 1 grout removal blade
• 1 scraper blade
• Accessory storage box

The Starlock blade interface provides fast and easy blade changes with a simple twist. The blades stay locked in and don't loosen during operation for maximum safety.

The wood cutting blade makes precise cuts in wood, plastic and other materials. Its thin profile allows flush cutting close to edges.

The metal cutting blade powers through sheet metal, steel, aluminum and other metals with minimal burrs. Its precision ground teeth provide clean cuts.

The grout removal blade has a rigid triangular shape to efficiently clean out grout lines and scrape surfaces. The pointed tip reaches into corners.

The scraper blade removes adhesive, paint or dirt from various surfaces. Its curved shape matches contours.

Having multiple blades included allows you to tackle different applications without purchasing additional accessories. The kit provides versatility right out of the box. The accessory storage box neatly organizes all the blades for quick access and safe storage.

Battery and Charger

The Bosch 12V Max 2-tool combo kit comes with two 12V Max 2.0Ah slim pack lithium-ion batteries and a 12V Max charger. The slim pack batteries are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and store.

Despite their small size, the 2.0Ah batteries provide decent runtime for the tools. Bosch estimates you can get up to 265 screw driving tasks or 55 minutes of drill/driving time per charge. Runtime will vary depending on the task, but the batteries should be sufficient for most applications.

Charging the batteries is straightforward with the included 12V Max charger. It's designed for Bosch 12V lithium-ion batteries and will fully charge a battery in 30-60 minutes. The charger plugs into a standard wall outlet and has an LED light that indicates charging status.

The batteries use Bosch's CoolPack technology which helps keep the battery temperature low during heavy use. This can extend the battery life over time. Overall, the slim pack batteries offer a nice balance of portability and power for a compact 12V system.

Versatility

The Bosch GXL12V oscillating multi-tool offers excellent versatility for a wide range of applications. The tool's compact 12V design makes it lightweight and easy to handle, while still packing sufficient power for most DIY and home improvement tasks.

One of the key benefits is the tool's ability to access tight spaces that larger models can't reach. The thin profile of the oscillating blade allows you to cut or sand in between boards, pipes, studs, and more. This makes the multi-tool a problem solver for renovations, demolitions, installations, and repairs.

In addition to the oscillating blades, the Bosch kit includes attachments for scraping, sanding, grout removal, and more. So you can use the tool for detail sanding, removing old caulk or paint, cleaning grout lines, and other finesse applications. The quick-change accessory system allows fast swapping between blades and attachments.

While it may lack the power of larger 18-20V models, the 12V Bosch multi-tool has sufficient oomph for most materials. It can cut through wood, plastic, metal and more. The variable speed dial gives you control over the oscillation rate as needed.

Overall, the Bosch GXL12V oscillating multi-tool punches above its weight in terms of versatility. For a compact 12V tool, it can tackle an impressive range of tasks. The included attachments further expand its capabilities for both precision work and more demanding cuts.

Ease of Use

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 kit comes with a compact yet powerful oscillating multi-tool that is designed for easy handling and operation. Despite its small size, the ergonomic grip fits comfortably in your hand even during extended use.

The variable speed dial allows you to adjust the speed from 10,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute to match the application. Whether sanding, cutting or grinding, you can fine-tune the speed for optimal control and efficiency. I found the speed settings to be very responsive.

The multi-tool has an ambidextrous on/off switch within easy thumb reach. It provides good tactile feedback when switching on and off. There is also a lock-on button to keep the tool running without holding down the switch, useful during continuous operation.

An LED light illuminates the work area for better visibility, especially in tight spaces or low light conditions. The bright light is conveniently located on the front of the tool.

Overall, the Bosch oscillating multi-tool offers great ergonomics and thoughtful design for easy handling and operation. The variable speed dial, ambidextrous switch, lock-on button and LED light all contribute to the tool's usability and control.

Value

The Bosch GXL12V Oscillating Multi-Tool kit offers excellent value for money. At around £140, it sits at the lower end of the price scale for 12V oscillating multi-tools, making it very affordable.

You get two tools for this price - the oscillating multi-tool and a 12V drill/driver. Having both tools together in one kit represents great value. The drill/driver alone would cost £60-80, so you're basically getting the oscillating multi-tool for just £60-80. That's a bargain price for a cordless oscillating multi-tool of this quality.

Considering the performance, versatility and design of the oscillating multi-tool, the price seems very reasonable. It has a powerful motor, variable speed settings, and comes with useful accessories. The Starlock blade change system is also a nice addition not always found on lower-priced models.

While more expensive oscillating multi-tools are available with higher power and more features, the Bosch GXL12V hits a sweet spot of capability and price. For most DIYers and home improvement projects, it offers everything you need at an affordable cost.

The 2-year warranty provides added peace of mind on the purchase. Overall, this oscillating multi-tool kit gives you tremendous capability and flexibility at a very wallet-friendly price point. It's a great value purchase for any homeowner.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful 12V motor provides excellent cutting and sanding performance
• Starlock blade change system for quick and easy accessory swaps
• 5-in-1 drill driver head adds versatility
• Compact and lightweight design enhances maneuverability
• Variable speed dial offers control over oscillations
• Long battery life up to 265 cuts per charge
• Includes an assortment of sanding pads and saw blades
• Carry bag for storage and portability

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately adds to cost
• No LED light on the multi-tool itself
• Does not come with a wood cutting blade
• May lack power for heavy duty cutting tasks
• Dust extraction capabilities could be better

Conclusion

The Bosch GXL12V-270B22 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit offers a versatile and convenient solution for DIYers and professionals alike. With the compact Chameleon drill/driver and powerful Starlock oscillating multi-tool, this kit packs a punch while remaining highly portable.

The Chameleon's innovative 5-in-1 Flexiclick system provides unmatched versatility for driving and drilling in tight spaces. Its 12V Max motor delivers ample power while the LED light illuminates dark work areas. The Starlock OMT features a rugged design and variable speed dial for optimized control across applications. Its quick-change blade system allows fast transitions between accessories.

Together, these tools can handle a wide range of projects. Their ergonomic, lightweight builds reduce fatigue during extended use. While a shorter battery life is a tradeoff of the 12V platform, the rapid charger helps mitigate any downtime. For those seeking an all-in-one kit for common home improvement and remodeling jobs, the Bosch GXL12V-270B22 is an excellent choice worth the investment. Its smart blend of power, versatility and portability in a compact kit makes it a great addition to any toolbox.