There is no denying that routers play a very important role in woodworking. In fact, they are one of the most essential tools in any woodworker’s arsenal. That being said, choosing the right router can be a daunting task. With so many different models on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
In this article, Bestsmarttool will introduce you to the best routers for any woodwork project. We will also discuss the different features that you should look for when choosing a router. By the end of this article, you will be able to choose the perfect router for your needs.
1. Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
The Makita RT0701C Compact Router is a powerful tool that has many benefits for the user. The variable speed control dial enables the user to match the speed to the application, and the smooth rack and pinion fine depth adjustment system ensures more precise settings. The slim and ergonomically designed body increases comfort and control, and the quick release cam lock system makes depth adjustments and base removal easy. The electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load, and the soft start feature ensures smooth start ups. The fixed base accepts industry standard template guides for convenience.
- Variable speed control dial (10,000 to 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
2. BOSCH 1617EVSPK Wood 12 Amp Router Tool Combo Kit – 2.25 Horsepower Plunge Router & Fixed Base with a Variable Speed
The Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit is a versatile kit that can be used for a broad range of applications, including precise bit plunging, edge forming, slot cutting, laminate trimming and dovetail cutting. This kit is one of the most widely used routers for wood working as it is durable, with aluminum construction, and has rounded hardwood handles that maximize user control. The kit is also convenient, with the built-in constant response circuitry that will maintain a constant speed throughout the cut. This kit also comes with a 12 amp motor and an adjustable speed dial, which allows the user to set the optimal speed, 8000-25000 RPM, for more or less power. The kit also includes a plunge base, fixed base, 14 inch and 12 inch collet chucks, shaft wrench, collet nut wrench, chip shields and a carrying case.
- 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
3. Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table 27 in. x 18 in. Aluminum Top with 2-1/2 in. Vacuum Hose Port
A benchtop router table is a handy tool to have in any workshop. It allows you to use a router to rout out dadoes, rabbets, and other dadoes in a workpiece that is lying flat on the table. This gives you greater precision and control than you would have if you were using the router handheld.
There are a number of different benchtop router tables on the market, and each one has its own set of features and benefits. The Bosch RA1181 is a popular option because it has a large aluminum top that is durable and precision-machined. It also has a rigid aluminum mounting plate that is predrilled for compatibility with a variety of routers. The table is also extra tall, which allows you to rout out dadoes that are up to 18 inches deep.
The fence on the Bosch RA1181 is also adjustable, and it comes with adjustable faceplates and feather boards to maximize precision and versatility. It also has a dedicated standard dust collection port that fits standard 212-inch vacuum hoses, which helps keep your work area clean. The table also comes with easy-to-use adjustable feather boards that attach to the fence and table to provide additional guidance and kickback protection.
Finally, the Bosch RA1181 also comes with an accessory slot that accepts feather boards and other 34-inch optional accessories, such as a miter gauge. It also has a storage pocket that allows you to store your router accessories. The table also comes with a cordwrap storage system that stores the 6-foot power cord.
Overall, the Bosch RA1181 is a well-designed and well-constructed benchtop router table that has a number of features and benefits that make it a popular option for woodworkers. It is durable, precision-machined, and has a number of features that make it easy to use.
- Benchtop router table design – Features a large aluminum top for extended work area, durability and precision
- Rigid aluminum mounting plate – Pre-drilled for compatibility with a variety of routers and for above-table height adjustment
- Extra tall aluminum fence – Has adjustable faceplates and feather boards to maximize precision and versatility
- Dedicated standard dust-collection port – Fits standard 2-1/2 inch vacuum hoses for debris-free operation to help keep your work area clean
- Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards – Attach to fence and table, providing additional guidance and kickback protection
4. AVID POWER 6.5 Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router Tools for Woodworking
The AVID POWER 65 Amp 125 HP Compact Router Tools for Woodworking Fixed Base Wood Router with Trim Router Bits 6 Variable Speeds Edge Guide Roller Guide and Dust Hood is a powerful router tool that comes with a variety of features to make routing and trimming applications easier. The 65Amp motor with max horsepower of 125 delivers abundant power for a variety of routing and trimming applications. The variable speed control dial 1000032000 RPM allows users to choose a more appropriate speed for different materials. The LED lights provide illumination in dark working areas, and the ergonomic design with comfortable grip and quick locking system for depth adjustment make it easy to use. The durable housing and dust hood keep the work space clean.
- 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.
5. Milwaukee’s Cordless Compact Router,18.0 Voltage
The Milwaukee Cordless Compact Router180 Voltage is a power tool that has a lot of pros and a few cons. The pros of this tool are that it is cordless so it is easy to move around, it is a compact router so it is easy to use and store, and it has a variable speed control so you can adjust the speed to the job you are doing. The cons of this tool are that it is only 180 volts so it is not as powerful as some other routers, and it is made in China so the quality may not be as good as some other routers. Overall, the Milwaukee Cordless Compact Router180 Voltage is a good tool that has some pros and cons, and it is a good value for the price.
- Power Tools and Accessories
- Country of manufacture: China
- Manufacturer: Milwaukee
- Package weight of the Product: 4.9 Pounds
6. DEWALT Router, Fixed Base, 1-3/4-HP (DW616)
The DEWALT Router Fixed Base 134HP DW616 is a powerful router that can easily handle the toughest hardwoods. It has a microfine depth adjustment ring for precise depth adjustments, an adjustable toolfree steel motor cam lock for quick and easy depth adjustments, and locking quickrelease motor latches for fast and easy motor pack removal. It also includes a subbase concentricity gauge to ensure bit concentricity.
- 1-3/4-hp, 11-amp motor provides the power to rout smoothly through the toughest hardwoods
- Micro-fine depth adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments
- Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
- Quick-release motor latches for fast and easy motor pack removal for bit and base changes
- Sub-base concentricity gauge included to ensure bit concentricity for best-in-class accuracy
7. CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router Tool Hand Edge Trimmer WoodWorking Joiner Cutting Palmming Tool 30000R/MIN 800W 110V with 12PCS 1/4″ Router Bits
The CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router Tool is a hand-held edge trimmer that is perfect for woodworking. It is made with high quality aluminum and plastic, which makes it durable and long lasting. It is easy to operate and is applicable under normal ambient conditions. It is equipped with a right rotary transparent cover to control the flying sawdust. The transparent base design is great for accuracy and is easily recognizable in processing. The scale is clearly visible and easy to operate. It includes a set of accessories, such as a straight guide, trimming guide, wrenches, dust board, and more. The trimming guide roller runs along the curve, ensuring cutting is exact and the curve processing is fine. The straight guide is thicker and more stable, making straight processing stable. The wrenches can be used to tighten the router bits. This electric trimmer is widely used in wood processing, cabinet processing, handicraft production, plastic sheeting, wood veneer, and other similar materials.
- 【Premium Quality】- The wood trimmer is made with high quality Aluminum + Plastic which is durable to use and have long service life.
- 【Easy to Operate】- Trimmer applicable under normal ambient conditions, equipped with the right rotary. Transparent cover to control the flying sawdust. Can clearly observe the processing conditions. Transparent base design is great for accuracy easily recognizable in processing. The scale is clearly visible, easy to operate.
- 【A Set of Accessories Included】- It includes a set of accessories, such as Straight Guide, Trimming Guide, Wrenches, Dust Board, Sample Guide Plate, Adjustable Button, Fast Switch Button and more. The Trimming guide, roller running along the curve, ensuring cutting is exact, curve processing is fine. Straight guide, thicker models are stable and not deformed, straight processing is stable. With the wrenches you can tighten the router bits.
- 【Widely Used】-This electric trimmer is widely used in wood processing, cabinet processing, handicraft production, plastic sheeting, wood veneer and other similar materials chamfering, grooving, surface finishing, curve cutting, planning wood edge, pattern processing operations activities and DIY. Easy to wood trimming, grooving.
- 【What's in the Box】- 12PCS 1/4" Shank Router Bits Set【Including 6mm/12mm/16mm Straight bits,12.7mm 90°"V" Grooving bit,12.7mm Dovetail bit,32mm 45°Chamfer bit, 12.7mm Dovetail bit, 32mm 45°Chamfer bit, 12.7mm Flush trim bit,R6.3mm/R9.5mm Round over bit, R6.3mm Core box bit,R6.3mm Core bit,R4mm Roman ogee bit.】 1x Palm Router, 1 x Straight Guide, 1 x Trimming Guide, 2 x Wrenches, 6 x Carbon brushes, 1x Sample Guide Plate, 1 x Adjustable Button, 1 x Fast Switch Button, 1 x Manual.
8. BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router
The Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1 Horsepower 56 Amp Electronic VariableSpeed Palm Router is a great tool for routing wood. It has a 10 Horse Power 56 amp variable speed motor with speeds from 16000 to 35000 RPM. This router is also equipped with a straight edge guide to help lead the router along the edges of your work piece. It also has an angled cord exit to keep the cord out of the way while routing. The durable aluminum fixed base is precise and solid. The PR20EVS also has unique finger support pockets for additional stability especially when trimming edges. The fast and precise depth adjustment system allows both macro and micro adjustment. The quick clamp system allows the motor to be easily adjusted or moved from base to base. The PR20EVS also provides enhanced bit capacity with a fixed base that accepts bits up to 1 5/16 inches in diameter. The versatile bit changing system allows for fast and easy bit changes using two wrenches or spindle lock and one wrench.
- PR20EVS Colt Palm Router features a 1.0 Horse Power 5.6 amp variable speed motor with speeds from 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
- CONVENIENT: Provides a straight edge guide to lead router along edges of work piece or up to 3-5/8 inch from edge; The wood router also features an angled cord exit to keep the cord out of the way when working
- DURABLE: The rugged aluminum fixed base of the wood router is durable, solid and precise; The PR20EVS features unique finger support pockets for additional stability, especially when trimming edges
- PRECISION: The fast and precise depth adjustment system allows both macro and micro adjustment while the quick clamp system allows motor to be easily adjusted or moved from base to base
- VERSATILE: The PR20EVS provides enhanced bit capacity with a fixed base that accepts bits up to 1 5/16 inch in diameter; Versatile bit changing system allows for fast, easy bit changes using two wrenches or spindle lock and one wrench
9. BOSCH 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router
The Bosch 1617EVS is a 225 HP electronic fixedbase router. It has a durable aluminum construction, rounded hardwood handles, a microfine bitdepth adjustment, and a builtin constant response circuitry. It also has a 12 amp motor and an adjustable speed dial. The router is compatible with the optional RA1129 template guide adapter set, and it includes a fixed base, a 14 inch and a 12 inch collet chuck, a shaft wrench, a collet nut wrench, chip shields, a thandle, a hex height adjustment wrench, and 1024 screws for table mounting.
- FIXED BASE: threaded holes for mounting to router table positioned in common 3-hole pattern; includes RA1161 fixed-base with system for adjusting bit height from above a router table
- 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 1617EVS 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
FAQs
What are the best routers for any woodwork?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are a variety of routers on the market that can be suitable for different applications. However, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to help you decide which router is right for you.
1. What type of woodwork will you be doing?
If you will be doing a lot of precision work, then you will need a router that has a smaller cutting diameter and is more accurate. If you will be doing a lot of heavy-duty routing, then you will need a router that is more powerful and can handle tougher materials.
2. What are your experience levels?
If you are a beginner, you may want to consider a router that is easier to use and has more forgiving features. If you are more experienced, you may want to consider a router that has more adjustable settings and can be customized to your needs.
3. How often will you be using the router?
If you will only be using the router occasionally, you may want to consider a model that is less expensive and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. If you will be using the router frequently, you may want to invest in a more expensive model that is more durable and has a longer lifespan.
4. What are your router needs?
Do you need a router that can do plunge cuts, edge profiles, or decorative cuts? Do you need a router that has a built-in dust collection system? Do you need a router that has a variable speed control? Make a list of your router needs and use this list to help you decide which router is right for you.
5. What is your budget?
Routers can range in price from around $30 to $600 or more. Decide what your budget is and use this to help you narrow down your choices.
Once you have answered the questions above, you should be able to decide which router is right for you.
