Best Woodworking Router – There are some tools that woodworkers just can’t be without, and a great wood router is certainly one of them.
For constructing joinery, creating designs, and doing edgework, having a fixed base or plunge router is a must alongside adequate saws and drill bits. But for anyone who has yet to come across a router that’s impressed them, we’ve found seven of the best of them for you to choose from.
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1.Bosch 1617EVSPK
Pros & Cons
- VERSATILE: kit can be used for a broad range of applications, including precise bit plunging, edge forming, slot cutting, laminate trimming and dovetail cutting, making it one of the most widely used routers for wood working
- DURABILITY: aluminum construction makes this one of our most durable wood routers yet with wooden handles on a fixed base and a soft grip handle on a plunge base
- EASE OF USE: rounded hardwood handles maximize user control; microfine bit-depth adjustment
- CONVENIENT: with the built-in constant response circuitry, our 1617EVSPK wood router will maintain a constant speed throughout the cut, so you get cleaner, more accurate results
- 12 AMP MOTOR AND ADJUSTABLE SPEED DIAL: user can set the optimal speed (8,000-25,000 RPM) for more or less power
- INCLUDES: plunge base, fixed base, 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch collet chucks, shaft wrench, collet nut wrench, chip shields and carrying case
Ergonomics can make all the difference when it comes to power tools. If comfort is a priority, this palm-size router from Bosch fits comfortably in hand and makes movement easier in comparison to using traditional routers. Although it might not be able to outcompete a larger router, its small frame still offers 16,000–35,000 RPM and buyers noted that changing out the bits is a piece of cake.
“This tool is straightforward, easy to use and control, and gets beautiful results,” explained one reviewer. “The router starts and stops very smoothly, which reduces the chance of accidentally nicking the piece you’re working on. And it’s very lightweight, not a clunker at all.”
2.Makita RT0701CX7
Pros & Cons
- Variable speed control dial (10,000 - 30,000 RPM) enables user to match the speed to the application
- Smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for more precise settings
- Slim and ergonomically designed body for increased comfort and control
- Quick release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments and base removal/installation
- Electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load. Fits compact routers models RT0700C and RT0701C
- Powerful 1 to 1/4 HP (maximum) Motor Delivers Improved Performance
Another small but mighty option comes in the form of Makita’s RT0701C model. The narrow body is easy to maneuver and it’s engineered to maintain a constant speed even when under pressure. Its depth can also be adjusted and the drill bits and base can easily (and quickly) be swapped out.
“I have owned several routers over the years; this one is by far better built and designed better than most,” wrote one reviewer. “Most routers try to torque twist out of your hands, this one does not and is well balanced. Most of us do better work with tools that feel safe in our hands, this one does.”
3.DEWALT Router
Pros & Cons
- 2-1/4 HP (maximum motor HP), 12.0 amp electronic variable speed motor of DEWALT router provides the power to rout smoothly through the toughest hardwoods
- DEWALT plunge router features electronic variable speed with full feedback control for constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm and soft start to reduce start-up torque for enhanced control
- D-handle incorporates trigger switch with lock-on feature
- Micro-fine depth adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments and adjusts vertically for a constant switch/cordset location
- Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
- Integral, through-the-column dust collection collects 95% of the dust and provides superior bit visibility
- Quick release motor latches for fast and easy motor pack removal for bit and base changes
- Detachable cordset offers cordset serviceability and removes the need for a -inchshorty-inch cord motor pack
- Precision machined brass bushings and case-hardened steel guide rods provide a smooth and accurate plunge stroke
- Spindle lock button allows for single-wrench bit changes
One of the most appreciated features of this router is its micro-fine depth adjustment and its ability to switch between a plunge and fixed base router. This model is slighter larger than the Max XR cordless version and doesn’t need recharging thanks to its cord. DeWALT also sells this router in other sets, including one with a D-handle base and another with an edge guide.
“The plunge base is good for making holes or cutting dados, while the fixed base is good for edging,” wrote one owner. “The router itself is very heavy and sturdy, and feels very well-made.”
4.SKIL 10 Amp
Pros & Cons
- 10 AMP FIXED BASE ROUTER TOOL—Powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor provides smooth and accurate routing from start to finish.
- SPEED CONTROL—Lets you adjust speed based on the material.
- SOFT START—Provides a safe and controlled start to routing.
- LIVE TOOL INDICATOR—Stay safe and alert with an indicator that lights up when the router is connected to power.
- DURABLE & ERGONOMIC—Die-cast motor housing and shaped handles provide superior grip and control.
When there’s a list of varied projects, it’s worth having the ability to use both a plunge and fixed base router, like this Skil version, which has been compared to top competitors such as Festool and Makita. Equipped with an LCD screen, the user can make controlled and exact cuts with electronic feedback that helps optimize the RPMs.
The brand also sells a corded fixed-base router with a 10-amp motor. One reviewer also noted, “The transparent base and integrated light make it easy to see your work, and the vacuum fitting on the plunge base gets rid of debris effectively.”
5.AVID POWER 6.5-Amp
Pros & Cons
- Powerful Motor & Variable Speed - 6.5-Amp motor with max horsepower of 1.25 delivers abundant power for a variety of routing and trimming applications; The variable speed control dial (10000-32000 RPM) allows users to choose a more appropriate speed for different materials.
- Precise Operation & LED Lights - Smooth rack-and-pinion depth adjustment system ensures precise operation for a range of cabinetry and woodworking applications; Dual bright LED lights illuminates dark working areas.
- Ergonomic Design & Convenience - Rubber covered handle for comfortable grip;The quick locking system for convenient depth adjustments and base change.
- Durable Housing & Clean Jobsite - The aluminum body and base for long term durability; Dust hood removes dust to leave a clean work space.
- Package Included - 1.25 HP compact router tool with 12.1Ft/3.7m cord, 5 router bits, edge guide, roller guide, dust hood, 3/8” and 1/4” collet, wrench and tool bag.
Cutting with the utmost precision is achievable if you have a good edge guide, which Avid Power’s power router provides. While the guide keeps your lines straight, its 11 amp motor keeps it powering through tough projects.
This option also has the ability to adjust its depth up and down. “I purchased this to use exclusively with my dovetail jib,” wrote one buyer. “The unit operated without hesitation and made precise cuts every time.”
6.Triton TRA001
Pros & Cons
- Single button switches from conventional plunge to fixed-base router with rack and pinion mode
- Single wrench bit change through base is achieved with automatic spindle lock
- Micro winder enables continuous fine depth adjustment through the full plunge mode
- Soft start and variable speed provides the perfect speed for all cutter types
If you’re quite new to the woodworking scene and are still getting accustomed to the various tools and mechanisms involved in the process, then the Triton TRA001 router would be the perfect pick indeed.
It comes with only three buttons and a stable cutting power, which will not cause any problems for tool novices and amateurs.
7.Ridgid R2401
Pros & Cons
- Round and Square Bases - for added versatility and convenience
- Easy Access Micro Adjust Dial – for precise depth control
- Flat Top – router sits upside down for easier bit changes
- No Mar Top – Overmold on top of router prevents marring of work surface
- Quick Release Lever – allows for easy removal of motor from base
It’s not every day that one comes across a wood router that lets you adjust and customize every cut that you make on a wooden block.
But the Ridgid R2401 is one of the very few router models which lets you do that and a lot more, to help you breeze through any wood shaping job effortlessly.
WRAP UP
Best Woodworking Router – While legacy brands like DeWALT and Bosch have received their fair share of applause for router tables, some brands—such as Avid Power—have been showing face as crowd favorites too, occasionally with impressively lower price tags.
But prior to shopping for a router, it’s useful to know what varieties are available to aid you in your selection.
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