Best Wood Router to Rock Your World 2018
When you need precision and safety in your wood works, the best wood router should be a huge lift in your goal. You really can’t just pay lip service to your desire. Chances are, without the right tool you not only sabotage the project, you imperil your workers.
It’s really like the story of the farmer with the golden egg. Having stumbled at a goose that lay a golden egg every single day, the lucky farmer was overwhelmed. Who wouldn’t? With such a good fortune, everyone would want a piece of that magical goose.
But greed overcame the farmer. Not satisfied with just one golden egg a day, he opened the goose up – killing it in the process. The old guy wanted to have it all so he thought getting to the stomach of the goose would give him everything. Every gold he wanted.
To no avail. What he had was just a dead goose. No more golden eggs.
When you don’t give your workers the right tools, you are disrupting the process. You are not giving your production capacity the right attention.
Sure, you may be able to manipulate wood without the best wood router. That’s possible. But you would have placed the project – everyone including – in jeopardy.
Note that your workers could come within immediate danger operating machinery that could give hurt them. Or bring them harm. Routers, the right models, make sure no workers get hurt. On the contrary, these machines promote safety.
As most woodworking router reviews would tell you: There’s a price for a finely done wood project. And that includes total dedication and focus. And the right router tools, of course.
That kind of care is important. It’s just the perfect methodology to minimizing the danger offered by cutting mechanisms in run-of-the-mill routers for wood.
Plus, you ensure work gets done. Work gets accomplished. The best routers are precision instruments. Especially when you talk about CNC routers that’s top of the line.
If all these have you confounded, fret not. We’ve worked the field and done necessary research to give you the most relied-upon wood routers in history. Even better, we’ll show you how each model can be of best help to you. So you can arrive at the most educated decision. And get the most bang for your buck. Read on.
Porter-Cable Router Speedmatic
This Porter-Cable could be you best friend when you want to etch those wonderful wood inlays. You need not worry about power here. Know that you got all the power you need as this 15-A motor can give you as much as 21,000 RPM. Imagine that! That should be enough to make happen the toughest of projects.
And you have a soft-start here so you need not get sudden jolt when starting. There’s torque produced giving you ample time to adjust your bearings. Plus, you have an automatic release system of collet so bit removal becomes a cinch. This truly is a good model. Be ready to shed some dollars though.
Bosch Horsepower Speed Router Kit
If you want power but don’t want to spend so much, then this Bosch product offering should be spot on. Yes, the price tag of this one should give you all the leeway you need. Again, you have a soft-start here that together with the micro-fine adjustments on depth should get your job all the help it can get. In spite of the price you have a 2 and ¼ HP motor there, a power that will give you as much as 25,000 RPM. That’s raw power you vie for. Put in the aluminum construction and the soft handle and you know this could be a treasure find.
It’s hard to find a unit that can fit your budget but still packs a lot of punch. Well, this one could be it and as you know this is a Bosch, a world-renowned product.
Dewalt Plunge and Router Variable-Speed Kit
Now, here’s a similar offering as the Bosch that first came along. And the products are so similar in capacity they are like two boxers in the same weight division. Well, the Bosch counterpart may win some points on price.
Power-wise however, you may be looking at pretty similar offerings. First stop, you have a 2-1/2 horsepower motor here, akin to Bosch’s. Plus this one churns 8,000 to 24,000 RPM. Again very similar to the Bosch offering. Of course, this is a DeWalt and would definitely have a lot of tricks up on its pockets. You have two collets here: ½-inch and 1/4-inch. That’s giving you a lot more versatility.
As to how precise it is, you can check on its depth adjustments. Here you have a 1/64 inch per increment depth telling you this one is as precise as you want it to be. Too bad this one doesn’t have a centering tool. But above and beyond, this is a rare find you should put on top of your must-watch list.
Hitachi Fixed and Plunge Based Router
Oh, this is another very affordable model. Gentle on the budget. And again, well within the division of the Bosch frontrunner we have on our list. For starters, you have a 11-A motor that gives you 8,000 RPM to a peak of 24,000 RPM. That’s a lot of power under your wing.
Yes, for you have a 2 and ¼ HP motor here under your disposal. What’s really neat is you get to have a constant RPMs even when you place different loads to work upon. That’s real efficiency.
Here you got a lot more tools. More than perhaps the DeWalt model above. Note that you have a centering gauge here that added to the wrenches and the sockets should give you a real good start. And to think you only get but 79.5 decibels so you won’t have to drown in all the noise.
Dewalt Torque Max Compact Router Kit
If you’re looking for raw power then this one may top the rest in the list. Note here that you have a 1.25 horsepower motor here. But that motor is capable of giving you as much as 16,000 to 27,000 RPM. That’s higher and stronger than most.
What may get your attention here is that you have a real-time electronic feedback so you get to know the changes in motor speed as you go through the cut. However unkind may that be. Again, you have precision factored here as you get 1/64 of an inch depth changes. So you get to adjust little by little. Not losing the precision cut you need.
Let's Compare the Best Wood Router
Detailed Comparison List
Product Name | Price | Product Dimensions | Total Reviews | Product Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Porter-Cable Router
| 11.5 x 7 x 13.1 inches | 17.2 pounds | ||
Bosch Horsepower Speed Router Kit | 6.2 x 19.5 x 14.5 inches | 18.2 pounds | ||
Dewalt Plunge and Router Variable-Speed Kit | 15.9 x 24 x 9.1 inches | 22.7 pounds | ||
Hitachi Fixed and Plunge Based Router | 4 x 22.2 x 16 inches | 9.9 pounds | ||
Dewalt Torque Max Compact Router Kit | 17.8 x 26 x 48.9 cm | 3.6 kilograms | ||
Porter-Cable Router Fixed-Base | 10 x 10 x 8 inches | 9.4 pounds | ||
Makita Router Compact | 17 x 10 x 7 inches | 10 pounds | ||
Dewalt Torque Max Router Compact with LEDs | 5.6 x 11.5 x 7.3 inches | 5.5 pounds | ||
Bosch Colt Fixed-Base Speed Router | 15 x 13 x 8 pounds | 8.2 pounds | ||
Skil Fixed-Base HP Router | 9 x 13x 8 inches | 8.3 pounds |
Porter-Cable Router Speedmatic
Short review
Porter-cable has designed this fella with a sturdy and big built. You might wince on its stature but fret not; it provides stellar power that is capable to do even the toughest applications. This guy came to this list as one of the best choice that you could pick for a wood router.
Despite its build, this wood router could be hand-held that comes with an M.Power CRB or to put it simply, Powercable template guide brushing set. The plunger works smooth since it has a handy lever lock to keep it steady in plunge position.
We can’t help to notice its only drawback. It has no feature of built-in dust collection. The Power Cable’s predecessors used to have this lovely feature but they no longer make this.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Bosch Horsepower Speed Router Kit
Short review
If you need a router that could be used with variable speed, this woodworking router could fit your needs based on our reviews. This tool is made to be capable used upon large diameter or on heavy router chunks.
It comes with 2 collets: a quarter and a half in size. There is also a fine-tuning knob that allows you to better mobility for adjustment in terms of height. It also has a feature called micrometer depth adjustment that is capable to tune the depth accurately done to its finest detail. It could be done in just a simple flick of locking lever and a small turn on the dial.
Thanks to the Bosch 4 screw base attachment design, you don’t have to sweat to mount it on your router table. Added to that, there are two features that Bosch is proud of: the through-the-table adjustment and the plunger base.
One thing its setback is its handle on the fixed base. It is too small that causes to restriction in mobility.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Dewalt Plunge and Router Variable-Speed Kit
Short review
The Dewalt makes a nice craftsman router because of its solid built and superior power. It dealt the most demanding nice and swiftly.
Its depth adjustment is simple to use and at the same time, highly accurate. The plunge base is a sweet bonus. The simplicity and durability are highlights of this Dewalt that even the inexperienced woodworker can do a fine job with it.
However, its base plate that is placed on the plunge portion is not flat. Also, the switch isn’t covered in protective rubber so that the dust wouldn’t get in the housing.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Hitachi Fixed and Plunge Based Router
Short review
The Hitachi’s adjustable depth is one of its features that make this little one a great router. You can adjust or change its depth for its routing even if it’s placed on the table.
The Hitachi is no doubt a good tool that allows you to have simple and quick adjustments. You don’t have to seat in buying for its accessories since this kit saves you from it. This package comes along with the template bushings, plunge base and even centering gauge and the likes. It doesn’t break a sweat when it works and hums quietly.
The power cord is flexible even in cold temperature. However, its power switch doesn’t have any protective cover. Also, the springs on the plunge are somewhat stiffer than it’s supposed to be.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Dewalt Torque Max Compact Router Kit
Short review
Dewalt has come to this list twice so far but it is possible for a few reasons. On this fella, the smooth operation is one of its redeeming points. Even if it is set in different speeds, there is no to very little vibrations.
The LED is a nice touch to this woodworking router that allows you for more visibility. With its light built, it is easy put it in hand and to adjust. The lock feature of it is stable and secure. The plunge base operation is also smooth and displays no sloppy work.
However, this is not perfect in all angles. In long time usage, it will gradually get hot and also melt some brush parts.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Porter-Cable Router Fixed-Base
Short review
Not only that this woodworking router has a nice price tag, Porter-Cable has a good built quality and great reviews. The lock mechanism is easy to use in this newer version and can be easily switched between ¼ inches to ½ inches.
An option to offer in collets is a good plus. With its great adjusting ability, you can easily cut through with minimal effort. Its superior quality and power is evident in its built alone.
This appears basic and plain but works the job well. It didn’t have any frills and it is very straight forward in use. It is a bummer that its height adjustment is a little crude on touch
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Makita Router Compact
Short review
The Makita Router Compact Kit comes with an edge guide. Its plunge base and standard height adjuster base are few of its great features.
Makita made this guy for an easy setup. Thanks to the latch lock, changing the base can be done in a jiffy with minimal effort. Its overall isn’t bulky so maneuvering it is made easier. The motor roars clean and nice for fast and accurate cuts. It doesn’t take a pro to use the Makita.
This isn’t a complete package though. The opening of the fixed base is too small that makes it unable to use round over bits. This is only possible if you use it with a plunge base.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Dewalt Torque Max Router Compact with LEDs
Short review
Dewalt is infamous of their tools’ quality and durability. And this one isn’t an exception.
Like its predecessors, this Dewalt has the variable speed feature. Its overall built is light and solid. With its spindle lock, you don’t need wrenches anymore. In just a weight of 5.5 pounds, it is well-balanced in hand while in work.
The dual LEDs are a nice touch that makes it easier for you to use it and maneuver. You have to keep in mind that you have to take good care of its blade and occasionally change it.
Its only drawback of this woodworking router is that it doesn’t come with a storage case. It doesn’t affect it however of giving this a great review.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Bosch Colt Fixed-Base Speed Router
Short review
Bosch has made this tool to be completely handled even by beginners. The size is compact enough that you could do round-overs on the edges with ease. Thanks to that, it is perfectly fit to use on face frames on your cabinets or in other tight places.
The overall built of it is simply and straightforward. The price tag is pleasant to look at since it is reasonably priced that guarantees quality and durability. It is designed to be well-balanced and solid in your palm to boost your productivity and efficiency. The motor is powerful and performed well particularly on edge work.
One of its pleasing qualities is the ease of removing the base. It was simple to be done: unlatch, then twist and it will come off. The small horsepower and the soft start make the job easier to control in doing fine work. It cuts it clean if there is no forced deep cut thanks to its great power.
Upon your purchase, the Bosch Colt includes a 10mm wrench with its router. It is also packed with an edge guide and spindle lock. The variable speed is a sweet add-on. The spindle lock is also added to the touch.
While this is one of your best bet as a handy powerful wood router, it starts to get hot after a period of using it. When this happens, this may failed during work. It would also take a bit of practice to adjust the depth and set of its cutting. Reviews have shown that this woodworking router is to be used best as a trimmer.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Skil Fixed-Base HP Router
Short review
The Skil offers a sweet choice for a router in just an inexpensive price. The woodworking router itself is blunt and not fancy to use. It has no plunge capability and limited controls. For a basic router, it is reliable in a great price.
This comes with a soft start feature. The built itself is well-made and does the work as it supposed to be. Efficient and solid to the touch. You can also notice around the bit are the LEDs. The bottom plate is clear and sturdy plastic that allows you to see your work during your usage. You can also ramps up the speed in just a flick of your hand. The chuck lock is useful to keep your from juggling between the two wrenches even when changing the bit.
It is worth to notice that the adjustment knob is a bit smaller. It makes it pretty hard to turn and it would help if it could be done bigger. It also doesn’t have any edge guide. Another con is that the lights just stays on when it is plug in. There is no power switch to be seen.
All in all, the Skil woodworking router is great to be used primarily in minor fixing. This deal is hard to pass up with its affordable price.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
ADVANTAGES
Top 6 Best Reasons Why Wood Routers are a Must-have!
Hard as you may try, you really can't stop technology. It's like the tidal wave that overcomes us. It is either you adapt to it or you get overwhelmed by it. Such is the case for wood routers.You may detest the fact that you have machines that take care of manual work. But unless you want to spend a lifetime on a simple task, making the most of these innovations may be the most logical thing to do.Still, if you're sitting on the fence, unsure of what to do, here are 6 concrete reasons to start your wood projects with wood routers by your side. And come out with jaw-dropping works of art. Read on.
1. Easy to handle and maneuver
The very first advantage of a CNC router that were going to talk about is its flexibility and ease of use. The truth is that with a standard router you would have to worry about being an expert before you would be able to handle it well. But with a CNC router it all comes with ease.
You might be wondering that why is it different when they are both routers. Well, that's because a CNC router is automated while a standard router isn't. So with a CNC router you would most likely need little or no knowledge before you would be able to operate it.
This way you wouldn't have to pay for extra manpower which might be a bit costly.
Also with a CNC router it's all about basic computer skills. You would be able to easily maneuver it. This way you wouldn't have a hard time getting around your work. And at the same time it makes your work a lot faster.
So you wouldn't waste so much time doing a particular project. And all in all it makes your work lot easier.
2. It’s more productive
One other advantage of a CNC router is that it’s more productive than a standard router. It provides quality outputs. And at the same time the outputs are usually very accurate. That’s something you might not be able to get with a standard router table.
At the same time it is also known to work effectively with a lot of work. And it’s good for mass production of works. This is why it is suitable for heavy duty jobs.
And with this the expenses you get from manual labor and also human are eliminated. Generally the cost of running your business is totally reduced. This way you can be sure of acquiring more profits than incurring more debts.
3. Reduces the amount of unwanted waste
With standard routers one thing that can’t be avoided is accumulating do much waste while working. Large wood pieces produce so much waste and this isn’t so good. But with a CNC router it’s a lot different.
You don’t have to waste so much while working. You can save as much as you want with a CNC wood router. Not only do you save your wood, you also get to save a few pennies.
Do you know how CNC router works without wasting so much? Well, it’s quite simple. They don’t beat around the bush. In the sense that they cut the wood directly. And with this the amount the gets wasted gets drastically decreased.
And without doubt this is one of the greatest advantage of a CNC router.
4. Work more
Well, if you are the hardworking type then count yourself lucky. Why? Because with a CNC router you have the opportunity to work as much as you want. This amazing router boasts about providing you with a chance to do a lot more than you used to do.
When it comes to using a standard router it wouldn’t be able to provide the necessary cuttings for a large piece of wood. And that’s not all. It also doesn’t provide accurate finishing. But with a CNC router it’s a whole lot different.
It has so many controls that makes it easier for you to do a large amount of work. You wouldn’t have to stress yourself that much to get the result that you desire. And that’s not all it’s also able to provide accurate finishing.
So if you’re considering expanding the number of customers you accommodate then a CNC router is a good option to opt for. You would be able to carry out so many projects. And you would do it with ease.
5. It’s safe to use
With a standard router that isn’t automated you would have to worry about the safety of your workers. And this is because with a standard router it deals more with manpower. But with a CNC router it deals more with brain power.
So you can be sure that the workers operating the unit are in safe hands. And the probability of them getting an injury while working is very low.
With this you can be sure that less money would be spent on treating workers that were injured on the site. And all in all it reduces your general expenses.
6. Gives the perfect finish
The last advantage we will be talking about is how well a CNC router finishes the job. Most times when you use a standard router it isn’t so smooth and accurate. But with a CNC router it’s always smooth and accurate.
The interesting thing about a CNC router is that it allows for you to do a wide range of projects. And not just that, but does it very fast. And to cap it all gives it a very smooth finish.
One thing this router does is to boost your efficiency as a woodworker. So many customers would appreciate your work a lot better. And with that you would be able to have more customers.
At the same time it adds beauty to the final product. It makes your work look outstanding and unique. And that’s what every customer wants in their projects.
Top Features That Define The Best Router Table
Making choices in life is unavoidable. From the time you are born to when you die you either make choices on your own or they are made on your behalf. But either way these different choices are still made.
One big choice that a woodworker would have to make is the type of router table to get. Well, different people have different choices and different preferences. But there are also some common things you would love to find in your router table.
Well, not to worry we are here to help you out. We’ve done our research and we’ve come up with some features you should find in the best router table. Notwithstanding the price, model, design and any other feature.
So if you want to find out more about these features read on.
1. Good working surface
The working surface of your router table is one of the most important features to look out for. Why? This is because this would determine how well your work will go. Your router table should be big enough to accommodate enough work load.
When the table is large enough then you would be able to cover a lot of projects within a short period of time. And it makes your work a lot easier.
Also the surface of the table should be rigid and flat and also smooth. Once the surface is smooth enough you wouldn’t have a problem moving the work piece on the table. If it’s flat you would be able to balance it well while working. And when it is rigid it would be able to withstand stress.
These three things make it easier for you to do your job.
You could also opt for table tops made of MDF. And the reason is because it helps enhance durability. So your table would be able to handle so much stress and tension without breaking. That of course would make it last for a long time.
This way you can be sure that you wouldn’t have to replace it anytime soon.
Also if you’re very particular about professionalism a cast iron top would do. And the advantage is that it helps reduce the amount of vibration.
2. The fence must be easy to adjust
No doubt that one of the most important parts of a router table is its fence. Which is why you must pay much attention to the type of fence the router you would be getting has.
It must be easy to adjust. And this is because it helps save a lot of time when you want to do a project. You might not know it but when the fence of a router table isn’t easy to adjust it wastes a lot of your time.
It does not have to be strong to be easy to adjust. Well, it’s strong it’s all well and good. But the major point is choosing a fence that wouldn’t be so hard to set in place.
You can either choose between one piece fences or two piece fences. Your decision is actually based on how you handle the boards.
3. A good dust collector
The truth is that not all router tables have a dust collector. But it’s advisable that when you want to get your router table you get one with a dust port or dust collector. The reason is because it saves you a lot of stress.
It’s unavoidable to have dust while you work. So it’s important to get a dust collector that would be able to accumulate all the dirt. This way you wouldn’t have to stress yourself once you’re done with the strenous work.
It can also help improve your health. You wouldn’t have to inhale so much dust while working. And this way your lungs remain safe and healthy.
4. A good base
You might think that the base of a router table isn’t that important but it is. With a strong base the router would have a strong build.
While working you would apply so much force and pressure to the work piece. And also you would place heavy woods on the router. So you would have to ensure that the base is able to handle a lot of work without collapsing.
So with a good base the router is a lot stable and also offers you better protection while you do you work. Because with a strong base you can be sure that the router wouldn’t collapse on your leg causing any injury.
Also, with a good base you can be sure that you would be more comfortable while doing your work. The stability of the router table does not only provide stability for you while you work but also assurance that nothing would go wrong.
CONCLUSION
You can’t really expect the best wood output if you don’t put in the best woodworking tools on the line. Reason enough why the best wood router is paramount. If you put the power tool in your employ, you put precision right into the heart of your wood projects. Not to mention speed.
There’s just simply too much at stake when don’t have the right tools. And you would be wise not to ignore all these key aspects of working with wood.
For one, you let go of unwanted waste. Wasted wood is wasted dollars. When you work with the best routers (e.g., CNC) you stop accruing all those unwanted large piles of wood. You free yourself of that burden.
Plus, you get to have the outstanding finish you need to call your work astounding. Quite simply, that may not be possible without a respectable router by your side.
And all that will come in record speed. You minimize the delays. You cut short on the down times. The result: You maximize on efficiency.
Moreover, you get unsurpassed safety. Cutting mechanisms are a powerful thing. On the down side, they pack a punch so much it could spell danger to you.
The best wood router, however, ensure you get safety factored in. Right from Day 1.
All that speak volumes on why getting the best wood router is not a luxury. It’s a must. As most woodworking router reviews would tell you. And you’d be wise to take heed.
It’s also the reason why we give our two-thumbs-up to Bosch Horsepower Speed Router Kit. All the products we presented here are top of the line. No doubt about that. We wouldn’t have presented them to you if they weren’t.
But you really can’t downplay customer satisfaction. Manufacturers can cite all the wonderful things their products can give. Unless echoed by consumers themselves, these claims are empty. Mere ruckus.
But the Bosch Horsepower Speed Router Kit is the real thing. It’s why it’s plagued with the most positive reviews amongst every other product on the market today.
When people who have used the product speak, we should listen. It’s a valuable cue that cannot be ignored. It’s like having a map to finding a real-life treasure. Ignoring it would be unwise.