The woodworking router is one of the most versatile tools you can have in your woodshop. It can transform even the most basic project into a quality finished product.
A router is a handheld tool which hollows out wood or other materials. This tool is commonly used for cabinet and furniture manufacturing. It can also be used to create fine details on edges or panels.
Routers can be described as large electric motors that you hold in your hands. How it is used will depend on the type of bit that you have installed in your router chuck.
There are many options for routers, from powerful and large to small enough to fit in your palm. This buyer’s guide will help you select the right woodworking router for you.
Top 5 Choices For The Best Woodworking Router
DeWALT DWP611 1.25HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router With Dual LEDs
The compact router can be used for all types of routering, and it is powerful at 1.25HP. The router weighs about the same weight as a cordless drill and can be used with just one hand if needed. This unit is less than one foot high and narrow, which makes it easier to handle and allows for more precise cuts.
The collet can accept router bits. The depth can be adjusted to within 1/163 cm or up to 4 cm. This compact router can also mill wood and composites at light speeds of 7 amps and 27,000 rpm.
Two LED lights mounted on the unit and a clear base ensure that all cuts are visible. It measures only 10 cm in size, which makes it easy to cut in tight spots. The flat edge of the sub-base is d-shaped, which can be used up against flat edges.
Things we love:
- The compact size of the motor gives you more control and a decent amount of power.
- Comparable to full-sized models, quiet operation
- With the clear sub-base and LED lights, you can see clearly through cuts.
Things we don’t like:
- For more difficult tasks like dado cutting in hardwoods or turning particular types of metal, the power may not be sufficient.
Bosch GKF125CEN Palm Router 1.25 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router
Another compact option is the Bosch router, which packs power with its 1.25 HP motor (7 amps). This router can be operated by one hand and fits easily in the average person’s grip.
Micro-adjustment is a feature of the router. Two dials are located near the router’s base that allow for precise depth adjustments. The base is topped by a depth gauge, which can be adjusted using the dials. It’s easy to see as you move the dials.
This router is capable of handling most applications at a maximum speed of 35,000 RPM. The collet is 3 cm in diameter and can accept bits up to 1 inch. If you are using large-diameter bits, make sure to not overload the motor with hard materials.
Things we love:
- The micro-depth dial allows you to achieve the perfect depth for your cuts
- Compact router with powerful motor that weighs only 2 kg
- The quick shaft lock mechanism eliminates the need to use a wrench on your collet
Things we don’t like:
- The unit’s base isn’t clear and there is no LED light. This makes it difficult to see your cuts while using the tool.
PORTER-CABLE 690LR 11Amp Fixed-Base Router
A compact router won’t be able make certain cuts for larger jobs. The PORTER-CABLE is able to solve this problem. The motor’s power is impressive at 1 horsepower and 11 amperes. You will need to use two hands to control the motor, which is not possible with compact models.
This router is rugged thanks to its all-aluminum housing and base. You can also adjust the depth of the router to 1/128th of an inch for precise control. The tool has collets that can accept 15 cm shafts.
Although the router isn’t lightweight, it can be carried with just two hands. It is easy to hold and maneuver steadily thanks to its molded grips. This PORTER CABLE can be used for heavy-duty cutting, but not for precise finish cuts.
Things we love:
- The motor is powerful, can handle most wood types at 1 HP and spins at up to 27,000 RPM
- The dial for micro-adjustment is simple to read and use
- This router is priced lower than other models on the list.
Things we don’t like:
- A single-speed motor is not suitable for precision cutting or large diameter bits.
- Visibility of cuts is made more difficult by a lack of a clear base and LED light.
DeWALT DW618 2/4 HP Electronic Variable Speed Fixed-Base Router
This router is another non-compact model. It’s a large, powerful router that can handle heavy-duty tasks. This router is for you if you need to cut through the toughest woods like ash and hickory.
The motor is 12 amp and 2 horsepower, with a maximum speed of 24,000 rpm. This router also allows you to change the position of your cords depending on which direction you are working.
Variable-speed options on the router are also a great feature. This allows you to use larger bits at lower speeds. The clear base allows you to easily see all cuts. However, there is no LED light to illuminate the work.
Things we love:
- Variable speed motors allow for flexible router use. You won’t need to purchase a smaller model.
- No matter the cut direction, alternative cord placement will keep the cord out of harm’s way
- Easy bit installation and extraction without the use of tools speeds up more difficult jobs
Things we don’t like:
- The DeWALT router is slightly more heavy than the other models in this guide
- A lack of an LED light makes precise cutting difficult, even with a clear base.
Makita RT0701C 1-1/4HP Compact Router
This compact router model is also available. It weighs less than 2kg. It has a motor that is rated at 6.5 amps and 1 HP, which is the standard for compact routers. It can run at 30,000 rpm which is the highest speed for most routers.
This router has a unique rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment. To change the depth of your router, all you have to do is unlatch a hook and turn a large dial.
The router is an excellent choice for woodworkers with experience who can use it for many tasks. Variable speed settings allow for the use of a wide range of bits. This router is also compatible with standard third-party templates.
Things we love:
- Makita’s 1-year warranty ensures the durability and craftsmanship of this router
- The rack and pinion micro depth set feature is easy to use and works well.
- It is easy to flip the router upside down so you can swap out bits.
Things we don’t like:
- This router doesn’t offer tool-free colet adjustments
- This router, like other compacts cannot handle heavy-duty applications such as routing hardwoods.
What A Woodworking Router Does And Why You Might Need One
Steve Ramsey explains in this video that almost every surface of wood in your home, apartment or office was finished by a router. A router can do almost everything: edges, cabinet panel features and joints, inlay, etc.
The two main ways a router can be used is to be held in your hands or under a table. This guide will focus on handheld routers, but table-top routers are equally popular.
The type of job you’re doing will determine the difference. A tabletop router is better if you are making baseboard moldings for your entire home. It will be faster. For more complicated, repetitive tasks, such as finishing jobs that require frequent bit changes, handheld routers work better.
For beginners who want to learn woodworking, a woodworking router can be a great tool. A compact router and a round-over bit make it easy to create simple crafts or picture frames for friends.
A woodworking router is essential. A router is a must-have for any woodworking project. Let’s say that you want to create a picture frame. A router is not necessary to make a square or rectangular piece of wood. You can do something similar with a router.
How Woodworking Routers Work
The woodworking router is an easy machine. This is an electric motor that you can hold in your hands. The bottom holds a collet which can hold a router bit. The motor spins quickly when you pull the trigger.
The collet is a large nut that secures the router to its base. To adjust the bit’s depth, you must turn a dial. Each router has a maximum depth, while others have two dials that allow for precise measurement.
Although routers are easy to use, it is important to be careful. If you’re not careful, router bits spin at high rpms and can cause severe damage to your fingers.
Hold the router flush against the material to be cut. To achieve an even cut, slowly and steadily move your router along the piece. Bob Vila shows you how to use a router like a professional.
Guides that attach to router bases are a common feature on many routers. This aids in accuracy. You can also purchase jigs that work with your router. A jig is required to create dovetail joints and mortises for door hinges.
Many handheld routers come with plunge attachments that are often sold separately. A plunge router is a handheld router that can be moved up or down by pushing it. Plunge routers can be used to apply designs or letters on panels. The plunge router is a great tool for completing jobs that require you to frequently pick up and place the router.
What To Look For In A Woodworking Router
You should consider these important factors when buying a router, depending on your woodworking needs:
- Regular size vs. compact. Which type of router should you buy depends on the type of project. For projects with decorative or rounded edges, a compact router is sufficient. For deeper cuts, such as a 3 cm mortise or dado cut, a standard-sized hand-held router is required.
- Tabletop or hand-held? I have only reviewed hand-held routers. However, table-top routers can be used for high volume routing. You can also use your hand-held router as a router table. Many brands sell router tables to accompany their routers. This is the Bosch one.
- Fixed vs. Plunge. Many routers have the option to add a plunge-base accessory.
When cutting in the middle of a panel, a plunge router or one attached to the accessory is useful. For projects that require consistent depths of cut like edging and dados, fixed base models are more suitable.
The router’s maximum rpms doesn’t necessarily indicate its overall power. Amps do. Shafts are not able to handle large bits at high speeds. An 8 cm bit spins faster at its tip than at the shaft, sometimes at twice the speed! You can limit the number of jobs you do with a compact router by using smaller bits and working at shallower depths.
FAQ Woodworking Router
Q. What bits are needed to go with my new handheld device router?
A: Most routers don’t come with any bits. A few bits might come with the routers, but it could be a tiny drum bit. You will need to buy a basic set. They are available at every home improvement store. Once you feel comfortable with your tool, you can start looking at other job-specific tools, such as these.
Q. Are routers safe?
A: Routers are one of the most dangerous tools in a woodshop. Your fingers are only a few inches from the 30,000 rpm steel blades. It is important to use the tool slowly and with care. You could get your fingers sliced if you move too quickly.
Wood chips fly out of routers at high speeds due to their huge rpms. Safety glasses and dust masks are essential.
Q: I am new to woodworking. Q: Can I use a router?
A: Absolutely. A compact router is a great tool to start woodworkers. A compact router makes it easy to round over edges and make molding.
Beginners need to get familiar with routers as soon possible. Once you are comfortable with the machine, you’ll be able to do many tasks such as installing kitchen cabinets or decorative woodwork.
Take A Bow
DeWalt DWP611 compact router is a great choice for beginners. Its clear base and LED lights allow you to see what you are doing, which is important for beginners who want to learn how to properly use the tool. The 1.5 HP motor is average for compacts, but the price range is affordable for all budgets.
The DeWalt DW618 Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router is a more professional option. The handheld router, which is not compact, can make deep cuts and cut hardwoods at 2 HP. It stands out from other full-size routers with its variable speed feature. The option to place the cords in a different location is also rare. This router is a full-size, good-looking option.
The price is a key consideration for anyone who is looking for the best woodworking router. However, it is important to know what the router will be used for. Some jobs will require a small router while others will need a larger router. This guide will help determine which wood router is best for your next woodworking project. Looking for a guide to plunge routers? You can find The Best Plunge Router Complete Guide & Reviews here.
