Ready for heavy-duty drilling applications in materials ranging from wood to metal, the small yet powerful Bosch DDS181-02 Compact Tough 18-volt lithium-ion 1/2-inch drill/driver’s 7-inch head length is the smallest in its class, yet it delivers top performance. It works with all Bosch 18-volt lithium-ion batteries, and this kit includes two Slim Pack 1.5 Ah HC (high-capacity) batteries. They provide up to 50 percent more runtime over standard lithium-ion batteries and include an electronic battery fuel gauge to ensure you have enough power for the job.
Compact and lightweight with included Slim Pack HC battery (view larger).
Fast Speeds, High Torque, and Durable Construction
The DDS181-02 has two optimized speeds–one ideal for high-torque applications (0-500 RPM) and one ideal for high-speed applications (0-1,700 RPM)–and it provides a maximum of 600 inch-pounds of torque. The 4-pole open frame motor and newly developed gearbox provide exceptional power for such a compact drill/driver. The 18+1 clutch settings included in this Compact Tough model and a variable-speed trigger help you match the best speed to the job, so you can achieve precise results. It can drive 500 screws per charge using the BAT619G 3.0 Ah HC battery (not included).
Balanced Design and Easy Bit Changes
The ergonomically designed handle and soft-grip wrapped housing offer a comfortable fit for extended working time. The DDS181-02 comes complete with a single-sleeve 1/2-inch auto-lock chuck for one-handed bit changes, as well as increased drill-bit capacity for versatility. And for even greater convenience, LEDs provide illumination when you are working in dark or enclosed areas.
Flexible Power System
In addition to the 1.5 Ah HC lithium batteries included in this kit, this drill/driver can be used with Bosch’s batteries from its 18-volt line–including the 1.3 Ah Slim Pack battery (model BAT609), the 2.6 Ah Fat Pack battery (model BAT618), and the 3.0 Ah HC Fat Pack battery (model BAT619G). If you’re looking for a lightweight option, the Slim Pack is the perfect choice. If longer runtime is what you need, the Fat Pack will do the job.
ProVantage Guarantee
The DDS181-02 comes with the ProVantage three-year protection plan, which guarantees two years of battery protection and one year of tool protection. Under this plan, you can receive two years of free battery replacements, tool replacement for one year, and a free tool repair package for the second and third years.
What’s in the Box
One Bosch DDS181-02 Compact Tough drill/driver kit with two 18-volt lithium-ion Slim Pack batteries, one 30-minute charger, one carrying case, bits, and operating instructions.
Bosch DDS181-02 Compact Tough Drill Driver Kit
At a Glance: Powered by Bosch 18-volt lithium-ion batteries
Maximum runtime from 1.5 Ah Slim Pack HC battery (two included)
Two speed settings (0-500 RPM and 0-1,700 RPM)
Maximum of 600 inch-pounds of torque
18+1 clutch settings and a variable-speed trigger
Three-year ProVantage protection plan 
Product Features
- Four-pole high-performance motor for maximum power in the most compact size
- New patented gear train and clutch enables most compact design in its class and lightest weight
- Flexible power system–both DD and HDD are compatible with every 18-volt lithium-ion Bosch battery
- Ergonomic grip zone–small diameter enables better gripping and greater comfort
- Modified orientation relative to handle increases comfort
Best drill in its class! I’ve been searching for the perfect drill to suit my budget and basic needs for almost an entire year now. The Bosch DDS181-02 drill fits the bill! I am not a professional, so my review is from a DIY around the house handyman.First impressions out of the box. This box is HUGE! It doesn’t include many extras and the box itself has inefficient use of space. However, that is of minor concern considering this will be used for small jobs around the house…
Pocketable Petite Power Packs Punch! Lithium lightness not a luxury! Summary: Price, Power, Weight. Pick any two – the Bosch is the no-compromise cordless drill to get if price is not an issue. Lighter weight ideal for extended use, smaller size ideal for smaller hands. Battery packs that you can actually fit in a pocket or tool belt is a big advantage!Whether you are repairing trim, hanging curtains, fixing the deck or assembling a book shelf, a cordless drill is perhaps THE most useful tool for the average homeowner. I started out ~15 years…
Especially good drill for women or long days of work. Light, smaller diameter grip but plenty of power. THIS is the drill for women who do their own repairs. The handle diameter is smaller and it is MUCH lighter than my old Black and Decker 18V drill. The Lithium Ion battery makes a huge difference. Not only is it lighter, but the balance is much better. When you hold it in your hand it is not pulling on your arm from the weight of the battery. It weighs 55.3 ounces 3.4 pounds, about 1.6 kilos). For comparison a gallon of milk weighs about 8.5 pounds, a typical thing us moms are hauling…