Wood routers are mainly used to hollow out an area in a piece of wood. You can also use it to cut fancy patterns, grooves, and edges. This is an indispensable tool when it comes to cabinetry as well as decorative moldings. The best wood router comes with a variety of bits that help the woodworker to create complex designs, hollow out groves, make joints, form wood edges, just to name a few.
Contents
- 1 Our Listed 10 Best Wood Router Comparison
- 1.1 DEWALT DWP611PK 1.25 HP Router
- 1.2 Bosch PR20EVSPK 5.6-Amp Router Combo Kit
- 1.3 Makita RT0701C 1.25 HP Compact Router
- 1.4 PORTER-CABLE 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router
- 1.5 Triton TRA001 3.25 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
- 1.6 Ryobi R1631K 1.5 Peak HP router
- 1.7 Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router
- 1.8 Black & Decker RP250 10-Amp Plunge Router
- 1.9 Milwaukee 5625-20 Router Tool
- 1.10 Festool 574354 EB Router, 2200 -Watts
- 1.11 How wood router works?
- 1.12 Types of Wood Router?
- 1.13 What is Router Bits?
- 2 Effective Tips for Buying Best Wood Router
Our Listed 10 Best Wood Router Comparison
Today there are excessively many wood routers available on the market and their prices vary a lot. For most of beginners, it seems like a never-ending task when it comes to selecting the right wood router. This is where we come in.
To help you understand exactly what you need to know about the various wood router on the market, we have assist you compiled a list of the top 10 wood router reviews.
Let's check the top ten detailed in at glance.
Product Image | Product Name | RPM | Rating | Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DWP611PK 1.25 HP Compact Router | 16,000-27,000 | |||||
| Bosch PR20EVSPK Fixed and Plunge Base Variable-Speed Router Combo Kit | 16,000-35,000 | |||||
| Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router | 10,000-30,000 | |||||
| PORTER-CABLE 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router | 27,000 | |||||
| Triton TRA001 3-1/4 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router | 8000-21000 | |||||
| Ryobi R1631K 8.5 Amp LED Lit Corded Router | 25,000 | |||||
| Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router | 20,000–30,000 | |||||
| Milwaukee 5625-20 Router Tool | 10,000-22,000 | |||||
| Festool 574354 EB Router, 2200-Watts | 10,000-22,000 | |||||
DEWALT DWP611PK 1.25 HP Router
Best wood router for the money / Best rated wood router
Amps: 7.0 Amps | Collet Diameter: 1/4 in | Peak Horsepower: 1.25 HP | Plunge Stroke: 2 in | Router Base: Combo Kit | Spindle Lock: 12 Position | Base Dimension: 4" (standard),4 3/8" x 5 3/4" (plunge) in | Depth Stop: 5 | No Load Speed: 16,000-27,000 RPM | Cord Length: 8 ft. | Power Tool Type: Corded | Router Type: Compact Router | Tool Weight: 4.6 (fixed), 6.2 (plunge) lbs | Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
Starting our list is the DEWALT DWP611PK wood router. Coming from one of the renown power tools manufactures, this model come with advanced features that set it apart from the competitor.
This router is not only constructed using high quality materials, it is also well designed making it easy to use for both newbies an advanced users. We also love its ergonomic features and aesthetically pleasing design.
One of the features that make this tool unique is the soft starter. A soft starter gives the user more control and convenience when working with the tool.
The softer startup reduced the electric current surge, which lessens the stress on the router allowing you to make steady cuts.
Although this model comes with a 1.25 HP motor, it gives you with enough torque to handle most of the woodworking projects.
Pros
- Adjustable speed.
- Soft start.
- Very portable
Cons
- Not great for handling heavy duty tasks.
We would recommend this product to woodworkers who are looking for a high quality, portable and easy to use wood router.
Bosch PR20EVSPK 5.6-Amp Router Combo Kit
Best plunge wood router
Type: Combo fixed/Plunge | Maximum Load Speed: 35000 RPM | Depth Capacity: 1.1875 Inches | Cord Length: 120 Inches | Collet Size: 1/4-in | Horsepower: 1 | Depth Adjustment: No | Dust Collection: No | Above Table Height Adjustment: Yes | Handle Type: Barrel | Electronic Speed Control: Yes | Base Diameter: 5.75 Inches | Spindle Lock: Yes | Weight: 3.3 lbs
If you are looking for the best plunge base router from the wood router reviews, then the Bosch PR20EVSPK might be your best bet.
This model is incredibly versatile and will assist the user to make clean cuts and perform other professional and at home jobs including trimming the laminate flooring, custom carpentry as well as deck planks.
This model come with a reliable motor coupled with variable speeds that guarantee maximum accuracy.
Another reason why you may consider purchasing this model is the fact that it come with a compact and lightweight design for reduced user fatigue.
Other impressive features that come with this model include quick clamp system that allows you to move the motor from one base to another without using any tools as well as a solid and durable aluminum fixed base.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle.
- Variable speed dial.
- Durable base.
Cons
- No lights.
We also love the contoured soft grip area of the Bosch PR20EVSPK that offers the user with exceptional comfort and ability to control the tool efficiently.
Additionally, this model comes with seven-step adjustment depth feature that allows for micro-fine adjustment as well as accurate bit depth setting.
Makita RT0701C 1.25 HP Compact Router
Best compact wood router
Amperage: 6.5 amps | Cord Length: 8.208 ft. | Depth Adjustment: Yes | Dust Collection: Yes | Collet size: .25 in. | Maximum Speed: 30000 RPM | Multiple base: Yes | Peak Horsepower: 1.25 hp | Product Weight: 3.9 lbs. | Router Base Type: Fixed | Variable Speed: Yes | Warranty: 1 Year Warranty
Are you a novice woodworker who is looking for an affordableand easy to use wood router to help you in your woodworking projects? If this is the case, the Makita RT0701C is perfect for you.
This router is not only a favorite tool among DIYers and professionals, it is also one of the best-rated wood routers available on the market.
This model feature ergonomic feature and many innovations that provide the user with great control as well as excellent overall performance.
One of the features that made us to include this tool in our wood router reviews is the variable speed control dial that allows the user to match the speed to application. We also love the quick release cam lock that enables easy depth adjustments as well as base installation and removal.
To enhance the comfort of the user, this router features an ergonomic and lightweight design that allows the user to use the tool for long without much fatigue.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Variable speed control.
- Soft-starting motor.
Cons
- Needs an option to attach handles.
The motor is also powerful to handle most of your woodworking projects. Additionally, this model features a soft start that facilitates smooth startups as well as electronic speed control that ensures that speed remains constant.
PORTER-CABLE 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router
Amperage: 11 amps | Cord Length: 6 ft. | Depth Adjustment: No | Dust Collection: No | Collet size: 1/4" & 1/2" | Maximum Speed: 27500 RPM | Multiple base: No | Peak Horsepower: 1.75 hp | Product Weight: 8 lbs. | Router Base Type: Fixed | Variable Speed: No | Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
If you are someone who is looking for the best router that offers you with reliability, then this model might be what you need.
This router is made in the USA by a reputable company that has continued to offer the users with reliable and high performing power tools for more than two decades.
This router features a high performance because of its single speed and eleven amps motor that has ability to generate 1.75 HP power.
Another impressive feature that comes with this router is the cam lock leaver that makes it easy to make coarse adjustments of height enabling it to deliver steady and constant performance.
We also love its low weight design that allows you to carry it from one place to the other with ease.
Some of the other impressive features that made us to include this product in our best wood router reviews are the sturdy aluminum base as well motor housing.
To boost its accuracy this model also come with a micro depth adjustor as well as an ergonomic design that makes it easy to fit and remove the wood bits.
Pros
- Great motor.
- Precision machined aluminum base and motor housing.
- Easy to control.
Cons
- Lacks variable speed.
Triton TRA001 3.25 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
Best budget wood router
Amperage: 11 amps | Cord Length: 6 ft. | Depth Adjustment: No | Dust Extraction: Yes | Collet size: 1/2" & 1/4" | Maximum Speed: 8000-21000 RPM | Multi-Function Fence: Yes | Peak Horsepower: 3.25 HP | Plunge range: 0 - 2 | Product Weight: 14.33 lbs. | Router Base Type: Plunge | Variable Speed: No | Spindle Lock: Yes | Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
Although sometimes affordability wins above all other things, it does not mean that you have to sacrifice on performance. Instead of going for tools that come with hefty price tag and advanced tools that you rarely use, a simple tool might be just what you need.
This wood router will offer you with all the power you need to tackle daily woodworking tasks without a hefty price. It is simple and easy to use design also makes it a great choice for novice and experienced users.
This model is more versatile than most of the budget routers and does not compromise its performance.
It is ideal for almost all small woodworking projects including trimming, edging, dovetails, as well as hinges. Although the model has a compact size, most users are surprised on its performance when handling other heavy tasks.
The model also come with comfortable grips, soft start, variable speeds, micro adjust dial and other advanced features that are hard to find on other models within its price range.
Pros
- Built strong.
- Variable speed.
- Smartly designed.
Cons
- No LED lights.
Ryobi R1631K 1.5 Peak HP router
Best wood router for beginner
Amperage: 8.5 amps | Cord Length: 10 ft. | Depth Adjustment: No | Collet size: 0.25" | Cut Depth: 0–2 in. | Maximum Speed: 25000 RPM | Peak Horsepower: 1.5 HP | Product Weight: 6.5 lbs. | Router Base Type: Fixed Base | Dust Collection: No | Multiple base: No | Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
Ryobi R1631K is one of the durable, easy to carry and affordable routers available today. Purchasing this model will allow you to enjoy the convenience of three router bits that are included. This will save you a lot of money as you does not have to purchase the bits separately.
If you are looking for the best wood router to add in your tool collection and expand our carpentry possibilities such as precise detailing, molding as well as molding, this might be your best bet.
One of the features that set this tool from the rest is the inbuilt LED lighting that illuminated the area you are working on for increased precision.
This model also comes with fast fluid depth adjustment that allows you to fine-tune your measurements with a touch of button. Other advanced features that come with this model includes ergonomically designed handles, high quality motor as well as built in cam levers.
We can recommend this model to both expert and novice users who are on the lookout for a high performing and easy to use wood router.
Pros
- LED lights.
- Ergonomic comfort handle grips.
- Free tool bag.
Cons
- Lacks variable speed.
Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router
Amperage: 5.5 amps | Cord Length: 8 ft. | Depth Adjustment: Yes | Collet size: 0.25 in | Maximum Speed: 20,000 – 30,000 RPM | Peak Horsepower: 1.5 HP | Variable Speed: Yes | Product Weight: 3 lbs. | Router Base Type: Fixed | Dust Collection: No | Multiple base: Yes | Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty & Lifetime Service Agreement
Although sometimes affordability wins above all other things, it does not mean that you have to sacrifice on performance. Instead of going for tools that come with hefty price tag and advanced tools that you rarely use, a simple tool might be just what you need.
This wood router will offer you with all the power you need to tackle daily woodworking tasks without a hefty price. It is simple and easy to use design also makes it a great choice for novice and experienced users.
This model is more versatile than most of the budget routers and does not compromise its performance.
It is ideal for almost all small woodworking projects including trimming, edging, dovetails, as well as hinges. Although the model has a compact size, most users are surprised on its performance when handling other heavy tasks.
The model also come with comfortable grips, soft start, variable speeds, micro adjust dial and other advanced features that are hard to find on other models within its price range.
Pros
- Built strong.
- Variable speed.
- Smartly designed.
Cons
- No LED lights.
Black & Decker RP250 10-Amp Plunge Router
Amperage: 10 amps | Cord Length: 8 ft. | Depth Adjustment: Yes | Plunge Stroke: 2 in | Collet size: 0.25 in | Speed: 8000 - 27000 RPM | Peak Horsepower: 2 HP | Variable Speed: Yes | Product Weight: Approx. 9 lbs. | Router Base Type: Plunge | Spindle Lock: Yes | Warranty: 2 Year
Our list of the top 10 best wood routers would not be complete without mentioning this plunge router from Black and Decker. Most people prefer power tool from this brand, as they are affordable, easy to use and offers you with reliable and high performance.
This model come with a quarter inch collect, a 10 amp variable speed motor, wrench as well as an adjustable parallel edge guide.
Featuring adjustable speed from 8,000 to 27,000 RPM, this router is cuts through soft wood and hard wood easily.
We also love its ability to retain constant speed when cutting the wood. Another impressive feature that comes with this tool is the rack and pinion height adjustment system that allows you to adjust the depth.
Another reason we consider this router as a top perfumer is the push button spindle lock that makes it easy to change the bits.
Pros
- Well constructed.
- Variable speed.
- Changing of bits is easy.
Cons
- The handles could be bigger.
Additionally, owing to its versatility, this model can perform all the functions of a fixed base router and still do other functions including template cuts as well as hand routing cutouts.
Milwaukee 5625-20 Router Tool
Amperage: 15 amps | Cord Length: 8 ft. | Construction Type: Double Insulated | Cord Type: 8' Fixed | Collet size: 1/4"-1/2" | Maximum Speed: 10,000 - 22,000 RPM | Peak Horsepower: 3.5 HP | Base: 7 Inch Fixed 2 Handle | Dial Speed Control: Yes | Depth Adjustment: 1-21/32" | Dust Collection: No | Router Base Type: Fixed | Product Weight: Approx. 11.8 lbs. | Warranty: 5 Years
Efficiency and power are the two main benefits that come with this router. One of the features that make this model to stand out is how easy it is easy to use.
This model comes with classically designed handles that not only improves the user comfort but also makes it super easy to use.
We also love the powerful motor that has the ability of handling the most demanding application while its low noise rating allows for a quieter operation.
Unlike the predecessor, this has reduced vibrations allowing for a much smoother operations. This allows the user to use the tool for long without much fatigue.
Another impressive feature that comes with this model is the soft start feature. This feature not only makes it easier for novice wood makers to use the tool but also improves their accuracy.
We also love the electronic speed controls that ensure constant speeds when working on the wood. Similarly, to enhance its durability this model comes with a high quality yet lightweight motor housing that improves the life of the motor.
Pros
- Variable speed dial.
- Durable construction.
- Has a soft-start motor.
Cons
- Significantly heavier than other models in its class.
Festool 574354 EB Router, 2200 -Watts
The Festool 574354 EB Router is designed with the needs of serious woodworkers and other individuals who would want unlimited routing potential. This model offers you with everything you need to tackle the most difficult routing task you can think of.
The name Festool is quite popular when it comes to production of high quality power tools.
Similar to other high quality products from this brand, this best wood router is well crafted to offer the user with durable, reliable and heavy duty machine that has the ability to hold up to any woodworking project.
This model comes equipped with a 2200 watts motor, makingsure that you do not have to deal with underperformance or any overheating.
We also love the MMC electronic controls that allows for constant speed when working on any wood and this will improve the cut quality as well as overload. Besides, the model comes with an ergonomic design that ensures improved control andreduced fatigue.
Pros
- Easy to control.
- Handles the most complicated tasks.
- Ergonomic design.
Cons
- High price tag.
How wood router works?
As previously mentioned, a great wood router will help you in hollowing part of the wood, creating intricate designs, and making joints.
There are very many things you can do using the router. The working mechanism of this tool is easy. When purchasing this tool, you are also provided with other accessories referred as bits.
Each bit is designed to help you to deal with different tasks for instance if you would want to make round edges when making a bench or table, you are provided with a bit to do that work. There are also other bits such as v-groove or round nose bit to help you make beautiful patterns on wood.
Types of Wood Router?
There are two main wood routers types o. These are the fixed base routers and plunge router. The type of the router determines what you can do with them and how they operate.
Plunge routers
A plunge router features a base that has a spring. This spring make it easy to push it into a piece of wood. One of the reasons why most woodworkers prefer this type of router is the fact that it features a lockable base that you can lock at your desired depth when working on various applications.
Unlocking the depth release feature, allows you to adjust the bit depth while you continue to use the router.
Another difference between these routers with the fixed base router is that the cuts start from the center of the working area instead of the edge. This offers the users with more convenience.
However, this type is a bit hard to use when compared to the fixed counterparts. If you are a beginner or a person who needs to use them occasionally, this is not the best choice. Additionally, these routers are more expensive than the fixed base routers.
Fixed base routers
Fixed base routers are the best choices especially if you are a beginner. These are also the best wood routers for advanced users especially if you need a router to help you in making a bench or table.
They are the best choices for people who need to take edge cuts as well as molding that require line precision.
Another big plus that comes with these routers is that they lighter making them use. However, unlike the plunge router, it is not possible to adjust the depth when the router is running.
Here are the three types of wood routers that you should know. Each of these models is designed to fit various tasks. For this reason, you need to consider the work you would want to do with the router before selecting the most appropriate type.
Trim routers
These are the smallest routers available. They are designed for simple uses such as edge work.
If you are a beginner in woodworking, these routers will suit your demands, as they are inexpensive and simple to use.
Midsized routers
These routers are bigger than the trim routers and pack more power. This makes them ideal for medium range tasks, making them perfect for homeowners.
If you are looking for a model to use occasionally, these are the best to select. They have the capability of handling a wide range tasks including table mounting.
Full sized routers
These routers come with high power, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. These are the best choice for professional woodworkers as well as avid DIYers.
Although you can find compact models that you can still use freehand over a workbench, most of them are heavy and require to be mounted on a router table for enhanced performance.
What is Router Bits?
There a number of router bits that are designed to help you in making various designs and groves. We are going to list some of the most useful bits available.
Beading
A beading bit will allow you to place a rounded u-shape edge below the levels of the piece of the wood you are working on.
Chamfer
This bit will allow you to make a curve free edge at an angle beside the side of the piece of the wood·
Cove
If you want to make a concave quarter circle on a piece of wood, this is the best bit to use.
Dado and Dovetail
These bits are used to form a grove on a wood piece. The Dado is useful in making a box groove while the Dovetail bit allows you to make a groove that has a wider bottom than the top.
Rabbeting
Helps you to make a ninety degree cut on the edge of a wood piece.
Roman Ogee and V groove bit
The bit lets you make an S-shaped design on the edge of a wood piece while a V groove lets you leave a V shaped groove.
Round Nose and Round Over
If you would want to make a half circle groove on an edge a wood piece, a round nose is the best choice. On the other hand, for you to make a rounded edge on the edge of the wood piece, use the round over bit.
Effective Tips for Buying Best Wood Router
When looking for the wood router, you need to consider some specific qualities. Remember, the routers come in different types that are suited for specific jobs. The following tips will help you in picking the top rated wood routers that suit your specific needs.
1. Soft start
The first feature to consider when selecting the best wood router is to ensure that the router has a soft router. Routers come with powerful motors that produce a high amount of torque.
Having a router that has a soft start will mean that even if you had misplaced your hand slightly, you will not end up ruining your project.
2. Motor performance
Of course, you would want a router that offers you with sufficient power to tackle different woodworking project.
A router with higher horsepower will mean that it has power that is more cutting.
However, these routers are often heavier and more expensive. If you are on the lookout for the wood router for light application a model having about three horse power is enough for you.
3. Type of the base
The different types of wood routers available are best suited for different applications. For this reason, you need to ensure that you have selected a model that suits your specific needs.
Remember selecting even the best-fixed base router will not give you the benefits that come with the plunge router. Fixed base router is great for edging and other light applications but is not great for advanced uses.
4. Variable speed
If you are looking for a router to help you in dealing with different types of woods, you need to consider a model with variable speed. Selecting a model with variable speed will help you to avoid the risk of ruining your project every time you use new material.
The reason behind is because some materials are hard while others are soft. Using high speeds in soft materials can easily damage it while using lower speeds in harder materials means you have to spend a lot of time.
5. Grip
As any other woodworking tool, the wood router should come with a comfortable handle. The handle should have an ergonomic handle that offers you with a firm grip.
A comfortable handle will also allow you to use the tool for long without being tired.
6. Consider the reviews
Another thing to consider when purchasing the best wood router is the reviews.
Going through customer reviews will give you an idea of how other clients feel about the product you can also go through the various wood router reviews available in sites such as ours to find out how experts think about the wood router.
7. Size
The size of the router also matters. If you are looking for a router to perform light tasks, going for a lightweight and compact model is a great choice.
They are great to use especially if you are a beginner.
However, if you are looking for a heavy-duty model, a larger model will offer you with sufficient power to withstand repeated use.
A piece of reminisce
I have heard of a guy who called himself a master craftsman who believed that he could make the best wood designs. If you wanted to have stylish cupboards in your kitchen, this was the right guy to call. However, this was before the arrival of the wood routers.
Where I come from, we have these old guys who are always resistant to change and always criticize new innovation. The “master craftsman” was one of those guys. After the invention of the Wood router, almost everyone would make better design than he could make. Because of his incompetence, he was forced to close his workshop and retire.
However, on the bright side people can still go to his workshop to see the designs he made using the ancient tools.
If you do not want to be like this guy, you need to select high quality and easy to use wood router that fits your needs. What features should you look for when selecting the best wood router?
So What you judge?
In conclusion, we can say that the wood router will depend on the needs of the user. From detailed list of the best wood router reviews, it is evident that each router is different from the other.
There you have it. We hope that our wood router reviews will help you in selecting the best router that suits your needs.
Lastly, make sure that you have gone through our list of wood router reviews below, compare the features, and pick the model that meets your specific demands. All the Best!