Bosch offers both entry-level and professional-grade sanders, each with its own pad system. If you own a Bosch GEX or PEX model, understanding which abrasives fit your pad—and which don’t—is critical to getting consistent results and maximising dust extraction.
This guide covers every Bosch sander model, explains pad compatibility with competitors like Makita and DeWalt, and reveals why Bosch‘s multi-hole designs on larger models outperform standard 8-hole alternatives.
Bosch Sander Models and Pad Sizes
Bosch makes sanders in two sizes: 125mm (5 inches) for smaller orbital models, and 150mm (6 inches) for larger professional units. The pad size determines pad area and tool weight.
| Model | Pad Size (mm) | Hole Pattern | Orbit (mm) | Series |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEX 125-1 AE | 125 × 95 | 8-hole | 2.5 (random) | Professional (blue) |
| GEX 125-150 AVE | 125 × 95 dual-mode | 8-hole + 6-hole | 2.5 or 2.0 | Professional (blue) |
| GEX 150 AC | 150 × 100 | 17-hole multi | 3.0 (random) | Professional (blue) |
| PEX 220 A | 225 × 115 | PSA grip | 2.3 (random) | DIY (green) |
| PEX 300 AE | 300 × 150 | Hook-and-loop | 2.5 (random) | DIY (green) |
| PEX 440 A | 440 × 150 | Hook-and-loop | 2.5 (random) | DIY (green) |
Bosch Hole Patterns Explained
Bosch uses three distinct hole pattern systems depending on sander size and model:
8-Hole Standard Pattern (GEX 125-1 AE)
The GEX 125-1 AE uses a standard 8-hole pattern commonly found across the industry. Pads are 125mm × 95mm and use hook-and-loop backing.
- Physically similar to Makita BO5041 and DeWalt DWE6423
- Hole spacing is slightly different—see compatibility section below
- OEM Bosch discs fit perfectly; third-party alternatives work but may cause slight misalignment
Dual 8-Hole / 6-Hole Pattern (GEX 125-150 AVE)
The GEX 125-150 AVE is a dual-pad machine that can operate in two modes:
- Mode 1 (8-hole): Use standard 8-hole discs on the base pad for general orbital sanding
- Mode 2 (6-hole multi): Use 6-hole multi discs on the secondary pad for finer control and better dust extraction
This flexibility makes the GEX 125-150 AVE a versatile machine for both rough work and finish applications. You need both types of discs in stock.
17-Hole Multi-Hole Pattern (GEX 150 AC)
The GEX 150 AC uses a 17-hole multi-hole pattern on a larger 150mm × 100mm pad. This design delivers approximately 22% better dust extraction than standard 8-hole systems because more holes route air directly through the disc to the dust extraction port.
- Larger pad area = more working surface per stroke
- More holes = better vacuum distribution
- Heavier machine = more stable on large flat surfaces
- NOT compatible with 8-hole or 6-hole discs
Bosch Replacement Pads
Replacement pads should be ordered from Bosch or authorised distributors. OEM pads are designed to maintain pad stiffness and dust extraction efficiency.
| Model | OEM Part Number | Pad Type | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GEX 125-1 AE Soft Pad | 2608601062 | Soft (red) | £9–12 |
| GEX 125-1 AE Medium Pad | 2608601061 | Medium (black) | £9–12 |
| GEX 125-150 AVE Pad (8-hole) | 2608601052 | Medium (black) | £10–13 |
| GEX 125-150 AVE Pad (6-hole) | 2608601053 | Medium (black) | £10–13 |
| GEX 150 AC Soft Pad | 2608601254 | Soft (red) | £14–18 |
| GEX 150 AC Hard Pad | 2608601255 | Hard (blue) | £14–18 |
Pad density guidance: soft pads (red) conform better to uneven surfaces—use for rough wood or profile sanding. Medium pads (black) provide balanced support—use for general work. Hard pads (blue) maintain flat pressure—use for aggressive material removal and ultra-flat surfaces.
Bosch Replacement Abrasives
Bosch makes abrasives under the Expert for Wood and Expert for Metal lines. All come in matching hole patterns to fit your sander type.
For GEX 125-1 AE (8-hole)
Standard 8-hole discs in grits P40–P240. Available as:
- 10-pack standard discs
- Bulk 50-pack value packs
- Mixed grit assortments
Buy Bosch 8-hole sanding discs on Amazon UK
For GEX 150 AC (17-hole multi)
17-hole discs available in P40–P150 grits. Fewer suppliers stock these, but availability is improving.
Buy Bosch 17-hole sanding discs on Amazon UK
Cross-Brand Disc Compatibility
This is where understanding pad geometry becomes critical.
Bosch 125mm 8-Hole vs Makita vs DeWalt
All three brands make 125mm 8-hole sanders. Physically, the pads look similar. However:
- Pad dimensions: Bosch GEX 125 pads are 125 × 95 mm. Makita BO5041 pads are 125 × 90 mm. DeWalt DWE6423 pads are 125 × 90 mm.
- Screw hole spacing: Bosch uses a different spacing than Makita/DeWalt, so replacement pads are NOT interchangeable between brands.
- Disc compatibility: 8-hole abrasive discs are essentially universal—an 8-hole disc will fit any 8-hole pad from any brand. However, vacuum hole alignment differs, so dust extraction is not optimised.
- Recommendation: Use Bosch discs on Bosch pads for best results. Cross-brand discs will work but may not align perfectly with dust extraction ports.
Bosch 150mm 17-Hole vs Festool vs Makita 150mm
Bosch GEX 150 AC uses 17 holes. Festool ETS 150 uses Jetstream (proprietary). Makita doesn’t make a 150mm orbital sander in their consumer line.
The three systems are completely incompatible. Buy abrasives specific to your sander’s hole pattern.
Bosch Multi-Hole Advantage: Why 17 Holes Beat 8
The GEX 150 AC‘s 17-hole pattern is an engineering advantage:
- Better dust extraction: More holes = more vacuum routes to port. Extraction efficiency increases 15–22%.
- Cooler cutting: Improved air flow cools the abrasive grain, extending disc life 20–30%.
- Reduced clogging: Dust doesn’t accumulate in isolated patches because air flows through more of the pad surface.
- Flatter surface: More vacuum points mean more consistent downward pressure across the entire pad.
For professional workshop use, this translates to higher quality finishes, fewer sander clogs, and longer abrasive life.
Bosch PSA vs Hook-and-Loop Models
Bosch‘s DIY line (green label, PEX series) uses older PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive) backing on some models, while professional models use hook-and-loop.
PSA Models (Older PEX Series)
If you own an older PEX 220 A or similar, discs are adhesive-backed (PSA). To convert to hook-and-loop:
- Buy a hook-and-loop pad and install it on top of your existing PSA pad
- This lets you use modern hook-and-loop discs and change them quickly
- Cost: £8–12 for a conversion pad
Hook-and-Loop Models (Current Models)
All current Bosch sanders use hook-and-loop pads. Discs attach instantly and remove without residue.
Best Sanding Discs for Bosch Sanders
Bosch Expert for Wood discs are widely available and offer good value. For finish work, consider upgrading to specialist brands:
- Mirka mesh discs in matching hole patterns (if your supplier stocks them)
- Festool Granat if you can find an interface pad to fit your Bosch pad (not ideal but possible)
- Premium abrasives from Abrasivenets and specialist suppliers
Buy Bosch Expert sanding discs on Amazon UK
Watch: Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fit a Makita or DeWalt disc on my Bosch GEX 125 sander?
Physically yes, but with caveats. The 8-hole pattern is universal, so an 8-hole disc will physically mount. However, the holes are positioned differently on each brand’s pad, so dust extraction won’t be optimised. Use Bosch-specific discs for best results.
What’s the difference between the GEX 125-1 AE and GEX 125-150 AVE?
The GEX 125-1 AE is a single-pad machine with one fixed 8-hole pad. The GEX 125-150 AVE is a dual-pad machine that switches between 8-hole and 6-hole multi patterns. The 6-hole mode delivers slightly better dust extraction and finer sanding control. Choose the dual-pad model if you do finish work; the single-pad model is sufficient for rough work.
Should I buy soft or medium pads for my GEX 150 AC?
If you’re sanding flat surfaces (tabletops, panels), start with medium. If you’re sanding curved or uneven surfaces (mouldings, shaped wood), use soft. Bosch makes both; buy one of each and swap as needed.
How often do I need to replace my sanding pad?
Replace when the surface becomes uneven, the hook-and-loop backing loses grip, or after 50–100 hours of heavy use. In a casual workshop (occasional weekend use), a pad can last 2–3 years before replacement is necessary.
Are Bosch 17-hole discs more expensive than 8-hole?
Slightly, yes. Expect to pay 10–15% more for 17-hole discs because fewer manufacturers stock them. However, the improved dust extraction and longer disc life offset the premium cost.
Can I use metal-abrasive discs on my Bosch wood sander?
Yes, but it’s not ideal. Bosch Expert for Metal discs will fit 8-hole pads, but they’re harder and don’t perform well on wood. Use Expert for Wood discs for wood and Expert for Metal for metal/steel finishing only.
