Bosch Sander Pad Compatibility — GEX & PEX Models Guide

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.

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)

Bosch 125mm sanding pads are 125mm across with 8 holes.

• 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)

Bosch 150mm discs come with 6 holes or Bosch’s multi-hole pattern. Bosch says multi-hole significantly increases extraction but gives no figure.

• 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.

Soft pads suit curved surfaces, medium-hard pads general work and hard pads flat surfaces.

Bosch Replacement Abrasives

Bosch’s current random orbit discs are EXPERT C470, with hole patterns to suit Bosch pads.

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

For GEX 150 AC (17-hole multi)

Bosch multi-hole discs come in grits P40 to P400.

Buy Bosch 17-hole sanding discs on Amazon

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 mm. Makita BO5041 pads are 123 mm. DeWalt DWE6423 pads are 125 mm.
• Backing pads: each maker lists its pads for its own sanders only, so do not swap them.
• 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 150mm uses 6-hole or multi-hole, Festool ETS 150 uses MULTI-JETSTREAM 2, and Makita sells 150mm BO6030 and BO6050.

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 means more vacuum routes to the port, so extraction improves — though Bosch publishes no figure for how much.
• Cooler cutting: Improved air flow helps keep the abrasive cool.
• 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

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)

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

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?

Check your sander’s manual or Bosch’s spare parts listing for the pad that fits your model. 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.