Bosch GSB 18V-55 vs GSB 18V-65 UK: Which Combi Drill to Buy?
The Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 and GSB 18V-65 are two compact brushless 18V combi drills. The newer GSB 18V-65 adds more torque, more speed and KickBack Control. Here is how GSB 18V-55 vs GSB 18V-65 compares.
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Buy the GSB 18V-65 if you drill into masonry often or want the safety of KickBack Control, as it has more torque, a faster top speed and drills up to 13 mm in masonry. Buy the GSB 18V-55 if you want a lighter, cheaper drill mainly for screwdriving and small holes.
GSB 18V-55 vs GSB 18V-65 at a Glance
| Feature | Bosch GSB 18V-55 | Bosch GSB 18V-65 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque (soft / hard) | 28 / 55 Nm | 31 / 65 Nm (76 Nm max) |
| No-load speed | 0 to 460 / 0 to 1,800 rpm | 0 to 550 / 0 to 2,100 rpm |
| Impact rate | Not listed by Bosch UK | Up to 27,000 bpm |
| Masonry capacity | Up to 10 mm | Up to 13 mm |
| Wood / steel capacity | 35 mm / 13 mm | 35 mm / 13 mm |
| Chuck | 13 mm metal chuck | 13 mm keyless chuck |
| Torque settings | 20 + 2 | 20 |
| KickBack Control | Not listed | Yes, switchable |
| Head length | Not listed | 175 mm |
| Weight without battery | 1.0 kg | 1.12 kg |
| Motor | Brushless | Brushless |
The Key Differences
Power and speed
Bosch lists the GSB 18V-65 at 65 Nm hard torque (76 Nm max) against 55 Nm for the GSB 18V-55, and a faster top speed of 2,100 rpm against 1,800 rpm. Its first gear is faster too, at 550 rpm against 460 rpm.
Masonry drilling
This is the practical difference most trades will notice. Bosch lists the GSB 18V-55 for masonry holes up to 10 mm, and the GSB 18V-65 up to 13 mm, with an impact rate of up to 27,000 blows per minute.
KickBack Control
The GSB 18V-65 has switchable KickBack Control, which cuts power if the drill twists suddenly when a bit snags, reducing the risk of wrist injury. Bosch does not list it on the GSB 18V-55. It is worth having on any drill used for larger holes.
Weight
The GSB 18V-55 is a little lighter at 1.0 kg without battery, against 1.12 kg for the GSB 18V-65. Both run on Bosch Professional 18V batteries, including ProCORE18V.
The Two Bosch Combi Drills
1. Bosch GSB 18V-65 (kit)
Best all-round Bosch combi65 Nm hard torque (76 Nm max), up to 2,100 rpm, 27,000 bpm, 13 mm masonry capacity and switchable KickBack Control. This kit includes two ProCORE18V 4.0Ah batteries, a charger and an L-BOXX.
2. Bosch GSB 18V-55
Best lighter, cheaper option55 Nm brushless combi drill with 13 mm metal chuck, 20 + 2 torque settings, 10 mm masonry capacity and 1.0 kg without battery.
Which Should You Buy?
- Electricians and plumbers drilling into brick and block: GSB 18V-65.
- Kitchen fitters and second-fix trades mainly driving screws: GSB 18V-55.
- Need more power: the GSB 18V-110 C is in our best combi drills guide.
- Still choosing a brand: see our DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Bosch GSB 18V-55 and GSB 18V-65?
The GSB 18V-65 has more torque (65 Nm hard against 55 Nm), a faster top speed, a larger 13 mm masonry capacity and switchable KickBack Control. The GSB 18V-55 is slightly lighter.
Does the Bosch GSB 18V-65 have KickBack Control?
Yes. Bosch lists switchable KickBack Control on the GSB 18V-65. It is not listed on the GSB 18V-55.
Do the GSB 18V-55 and GSB 18V-65 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both take Bosch Professional 18V batteries, including the ProCORE18V range.
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