The same scenario plays out every time we’re browsing an online catalog or standing in the middle of aisle at your local specialty tool dealer. You want to buy a drill. It’s got to be rugged enough to handle wood, steel and concrete and it had better not quit on you when you least expect it.
So there they is looking right back at you from across the room (two drills from Hilti). One is a classic, having been put through its paces in heavy duty for decades. The other appears slick and new and promises more pollished performance and advanced electronics.
Which do you realy require? But it’s never simply a question of horsepower. It’s a question of what you do.
It is about what kind of space you live in. It is about what your job requires. For some jobs, it’s a matter of brute force: the GX3 is a mechanical monster, designed to be driven by straight-forward, no-nonsense input.
On others, it’s a question of electronic finesse: the GX120 is a smart machine, powered by advanced power management systems and brushless technology. Knowing when to use each; when to deploy the mechanical or the electrical, will not only save you money; it will keep you from frustration on the job site. First up…
Choosing Between Hilti GX3 And GX120 Drills
Motor Technology and Performance
The guts. What kind of motor? In this case, there is a brushed motor on the GX3.
Old school. That means there’s a set of brushes that will eventualy wear out. Time to change ‘em out.
However, it also means instant response and huge torque spikes. On the other hand, a brushless motor (the moddern day norm) like the GX120 doesn’t have any brushes to worry about replacing. Brushless motors creates less heat and are more efficient.
So you get cleaner operation and longer run times. And not having to stop using it to service brushes every couple of years is more efficient for most folks. How about the control and trigger?
Trigger Control and Durability
The GX3 is a straightforward on/off trigger. It is direct. Squeeze and it goes.
There is no computer between your hand and the tool. Sometimes contractors love that because they want something raw. The GX120 is more of an intelligent trigger.
It takes into account user input and load to adjust its speed to match. This prevents it from stalling out in harder materials and protects it from heat damage. The intelligence is a double edged sword.
If you like complete manual control then the GX3 is more honest feeling. If you’d like the tool to help you along, then the GX120 stands out. Where the GX3 really excels is in durability.
It’s truly a workhorse and is known for taking a licking and keeping on ticking. You can throw it around, drop it and put it through the ringer and it will keep working. That’s because this thing was made with solid build, thick casing and tough internals.
Again, that’s not to say the GX120 isn’t durable; it’s been designed to professional standards. However, it’s held together by sensitive electronics. If you’re pushing it to extremes (vibration, etc.) or working in wet conditions, you may want something else.
Maybe the GX3 will help you sleep better at night if you’re working in a rough environment such as rough excavation or even mining. The other big consideration is battery compatibility.
Battery Compatibility and Future Proofing
The GX3 runs the older G 108 battery system.
Those are still around, but they’re larger and heavier. The GX120 runs either new G 108 L battery or one of the new gen batteries depending on which sub model you get. The new batteries is lighter, charge quickly and integrate well with modern chargers.
So if you’re already invested into the old battery system, then the GX3 makes sense. If you’re starting from scratch though, the GX120 platform is more future proof. Balance and weight.
Weight Balance and Ergonomics
Drilling overhead requires good balance and weight. Because the GX3 weighs more, you will notice its weight on your shoulders at the end of an eight hour day. The GX120 is lighter and has better balance in terms of weight distribution.
This means you can get away with working longer without being as tired. And I know, that’s no small thing. Tired leads to back pain.
And tired also leads to mistakes. So the GX120’s comfort advantage should of been taken seriously by those who use it every day. But what if you’re on the fence?
Final Recommendation and Buying Guide
Which do I recommend? Pick the GX3 if you’re more of a traditionalist. You like things simple and rugged and rough around the edges.
It’s straight-forward. It’s tough. And it gets ‘er done.
It is no muss or fuss. If you prefer modern conveniences, comfort and efficiency then go with the GX120. It’s lighter, it’s smarter.
It works with you instead of for you. The majority of pros these days have moved to the new technology simply because the convenience typicaly outweighs the nostalgic feeling for the ol’ brushed motors. Pick the machine that best fits your workflow.
Don’t pick the name you know.