When it comes to power tools, it can be difficult to choose between Bosch versus DeWalt.
Bosch and DeWalt are some of the most well-known brands in the tool marketplace. Both have a long history and are widely used by DIYers, professionals, woodworkers, and other home builders.
We are hoping that we can help you make a more informed decision by looking at the history of the two brands and comparing the tool kits they currently offer.
A Brief Background On Bosch
Bosch has a long and illustrious history, having been around for over 130 years. Its origins can be traced back to 1886, when Robert Bosch started a workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering in Stuttgart, Germany.
With the introduction of improved ignition devices and the spark plug, they broke into the business world.
In 1932, the hammer drill was invented, and Bosch entered the tool industry. It was the first electric drill of its kind to be able to hit and rotate simultaneously.
From then on, Bosch has been involved in a wide range of industries, including the automotive sector and Telehealth.
A few examples of their innovation include:
- Mobile hydraulic lift
- Round electric fridge
- 3-way catalytic converters
- eBike drives
- Hybrid vehicle technology
- Antilock brake systems
The four industry sectors that make up the Bosch group today:
- Mobility solutions
- Consumer products (including power tools)
- Manufacturing technology
- energy and construction technology
Bosch’s power tool segment began in 2003. The majority of them are tools made in China, Mexico, Malaysia, or Taiwan. However, some are still made in Europe, specifically Switzerland and Germany.
DeWalt’s Position In The Industry
DeWalt is a company that has been around for around 100 years. It all began in 1924 in Leola, Pennsylvania, when the radial arm saw was invented by Raymond DeWalt.
Considering the strong demand for wartime equipment and national defense during the Second World War, the company expanded rapidly in the 1940s. In 1947, they became officially known as DeWalt Inc.
DeWalt has established itself as a leading brand among trades professionals and contractors. In 1992, they released their first version of power tools catering to this segment of users.
DeWalt was a major contributor to the creation of the modern “revolutionary” cordless tool system in 1994. Their cordless version of tools containing lithium-ion batteries was introduced to the market in 2010.
DeWalt also offers over 200 power tools and relevant accessories to its customers. China, Thailand, Mexico, Korea, and Japan are among the countries that produce their tools.
They started their “Made in America with sourced materials” initiative in 2013. Now they have 7 manufacturing units in Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Indiana.
Quality Of Bosch versus DeWalt
Comparing the tool offerings of these two companies is a difficult task, to begin with. Both brands have a strong reputation and they have earned the confidence of their customers over time.
Based on 2 similar tool combo kits that both brands have on the market right now, we’ll do our best to point out a few benefits and drawbacks.
Bosch vs. DeWalt Combination Kits
BOSCH 12-Volt Cordless Combo Tool Kit (CLPK22-120)
The Bosch package includes:
- Hammer drill
- Reciprocating saw
- Circular saw
- Two 18V batteries
- Flashlight
- Battery charger
- Carrying case
DeWalt Max Cordless 20V Drill 5-Tool Combo Kit (DCK590L2)
The following items are included in the DeWalt package:
- Hammer drill
- Impact driver
- Reciprocating saw
- Circular saw
- Two 20V batteries
- Flashlight
- 12-20V battery charger
- Carrying case
The most noticeable benefit of the DeWalt combination kit is that each power tool works with a 20V battery. Of course, this equates to more power. The inclusion of a 5th tool, an impact drill, is another benefit.
The benefits and drawbacks of each package are somewhat mixed after that.
Hammer Drill
Bosch’s hammer drill features what they call Active Response Technology. This means that if the power drill becomes stuck while in operation, it will shut down automatically.
This may be critical for someone who uses the drill on a daily basis to avoid injury. In our opinion, this makes the Bosch’s hammer drill marginally better than its equivalent DeWalt drill.
Reciprocating And Circular Saw
The Bosch kit seems to have an edge over DeWalt in terms of reciprocating and circular saws.
Both saws are slightly more advanced and have better construction. The reciprocating saws from DeWalt and Bosch both have a variable speed trigger, but Bosch’s also has 2-speed limits. This will help customers better meet their work requirements.
The circular saw from Bosch has a 500 bevel, while the one from DeWalt can only be used in a single position. As a result, Bosch’s is a bit more versatile. The circular saw blade that comes with Bosch is also of better quality.
Battery
Each tool kit’s battery charges quickly and lasts a long time. The DeWalt 20V batteries can take a little more time to charge, but you get more power in exchange.
Flash Light
Finally, we can go over the flashlight, which we think is of lesser importance compared to the others in the tool kit. In this aspect, DeWalt comes out on top.
The flashlight in its package uses an LED bulb, while the Bosch uses a standard bulb. LED bulbs tend to be brighter and have a longer life span.
Final Thoughts
Hope we have managed to capture the essential details. With all the information in hand, deciding between Bosch versus DeWalt tools should be a little easier. But, in the end, it comes down to each person’s needs and preferences.
With regards to the combo kits, one might prefer the DeWalt option simply because of the impact drill.
This incredibly useful tool is well worth the higher price and what could be considered by some to be slightly lower quality than the other power tools. This package is also appealing in terms of the extra power of the battery.
Your decision will also depend on what other tools you currently have in your collection.
Perhaps you’ve already started amassing a range of Bosch 18V tools that can be applied with the batteries and charger that come with this package. It’s also worth noting that DeWalt’s 20V segment currently lacks a diverse selection of tools.
Related: Check out the comparison guide for Milwaukee vs Makita