Are you tired of using a hand-held router? You need a router table. Much like a router, a router table is a must-have tool in any workshop. It allows you to free your hands and focus on guiding the piece of wood you are working on currently. This makes for excellent accuracy and safety in shaping. Using a router table, you can better design and create unique shapes in wood. You can also dig more precise indents and grooves.
There are countless router tables in the market. Consequently, finding the perfect one for your setup can seem daunting. Here, we explore the top 7 best router tables in the market today. We also review everything you need to know to find the ideal table for your workshop.
7 Best Router Tables
Share The Love
1. Bosch RA1181- Best Professional Router Table
Bosch RA1181 benchtop router table is our choice for the best professional router table. It comes with an aluminum-based router mounting plate. This coupled with its aluminum fence and table makes it both durable and portable. The router table also boasts of a 2-1/2 inch, two adjustable featherboards even with dust collection port.
Bosch RA1181 has a large 27” x 18” aluminum top that allows for precision and versatility. It is also compatible with a variety of routers and accessories, making it the most versatile option in the market.
Overview
Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is Amazon’s Choice for “router tables woodworking.” Its most prominent features include:
- 27 Inch by 18 Inch work surface
- A benchtop router table that attaches to any workbench
- Aluminum router mounting plate and fence with MDF faceplates
- Two adjustable feather boards
- 3 mounting plate insert rings
- Dual outlet switch
- Adjustable clear guard
- 6 feet power cord
- It has dust collection port
- Outfeed fence shims
- Mounting hardware for a variety of routers
- 1-year warranty
- The table has a 2½-inch dust port which allows for fast cleaning and an overall dust-free workspace.
- It has two adjustable featherboards, enabling you to work the same shape on several boards quickly and safely.
- Several power outlets that allow you to plug in equipment you would like to use with your router.
- The large work surface is ideal for any type of project.
- It boasts of many accessory slots that will help you get the best out of your router.
- The table comes with a 1-year warranty from Bosch, one of the world’s leading brands.
- The sturdy aluminum fence and plate make the table durable.
- The Bosch RA1181 table has plastic legs. This may sometimes interfere with precision cuts.
- You require a workbench to attach the router table.
Why Is This a Top Pick
If you have a workbench, this is the best router table in the market. Its sturdy body and accessories make it both versatile and durable. What’s more, you can create high-quality precision cuts on it using a wide variety of routers.
2. Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171
Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table features a compact design. It is made in a cabinet style that makes it stable and effective in storage and dust collection. Additionally, the 25” x 15.5” work surface is smooth and laminated, making it ideal for precision cutting. It can also be adjusted to work with many routers available in today’s market.
Overview
The Bosch RA1171 comes with a variety of features including:
- A tall 4 7/8 x 25 1/8-inch aluminum fence complete with adjustable MDF faceplates.
- Accessory slots that accept 3/4 inch optional accessories and additional feather boards
- It has two dust collection ports that can fit standard 2 1/2-inch vacuum hoses
- Two adjustable feather boards that attach to the router table and fence.
- 6 feet power cord
- Dual outlet switch
- 3 mounting plate rings
- Adjustable clear guard
- Started pin and guard
- The cabinet design features a smooth laminated top that is ideal for storage, stability and dust management.
- Its mounting plate allows above table height adjustment and is compatible with a wide variety of routers.
- It comes with a tall aluminum fence and adjustable feather boards and MDF faceplates that allow maximum versatility, precision, kickback protection and guidance.
- An attached base for woodworkers without a work table.
- Effective dust collection allows for a cleaner workspace.An affordable price point
- The router mounting plate is below the table surface by approximately 0.025 to 0.030.” this may cause a slight difference in cuts.
- The work surface is relatively small and unideal for large projects.
Why Is This a Top Pick
The Bosch RA1171 is less expensive than the previous table but an equally excellent choice. It comes with its own stand and extremely sturdy fence. This makes it ideal for cutting large pieces of wood. Additionally, the table allows for an unrivaled number of add-ons.
3. SKIL RAS900- Best Universal Router Table
SKIL RAS900 Router Table came pre-assembled with a smooth laminated top and integrated accessory storage bag. You can store essential parts such as the router bits and fence in the table’s self-contained structure. It has a quick-release router mount that detaches and attaches in mere seconds.
Among the SKIL RAS900’s top features is a bit height gauge. This allows for easier bit setup and better cutting precision. Its sturdy design should also allow you to work on different routing projects.
That said, this table has a relatively small work surface. It is suitable for DIYers and hobbyists who are willing to learn woodworking gradually.
Overview
When you purchase the SKIL RAS900, you are getting a router table with:
- 2 feather boards for accurate routing
- A tall fence with adjustable laminated MDF faces
- A quick clamp system
- Additional accessory storage compartments
- A bit height gauge
- Miter gauge and bit inserts
- Starter pin and guard
- Mounting with easy bit changes
- The router table is made in a folding design that allows it to decease to half size. This makes it easier to store and carry.
- It comes with two feather boards
- It comes pre-assembled and requires minimal setup
- The table is highly stable
- It has several accessory storage fields for added functionality
- The router table has a solid base
- The working surface allows for a variety of routing projects
- Affordable price point
- When not set up correctly, the table could move during use
- The top plate is laminate instead of aluminum
Why Is This a Top Pick
SKIL RAS900 Router Table is a reliable mid-range option. It comes with durable feather boards and spacious storage containers. It also provides the woodworker with ample space for routing projects. Plus, the table is built on a sturdy foundation, thus eliminating the need for a workbench.
SKIL RAS900has a reasonable price point in comparison to larger router tables available in the market. This means that you can’t go wrong. Reviews reveal that SKIL RAS900 ideal for novices and experienced woodworkers alike.
4. Kreg PRS1045- Best Metal Router Table
With a 24″ x 32″ surface area, the KREG Precision Router Table is well-suited to large woodwork projects. It has a host of added features and accessory slots that allow maximum productivity. You can also use its easy-to-use templates and base plates to create a variety of shapes on large stock pieces.The router table includes a router insert plate that can accommodate any router in the market. Its L-shaped aluminum extrusion on the fence comes with two fully independent faces that ensure zero-clearance support.
In a nutshell, the KREG Precision Router Table is built for durability, performance, and precision.
Overview
The Kreg PRS1045 is built using stainless steel. It can handle a sizable amount of weight. Its other notable features include:
- A height adjustment system
- A micro-adjusted wheel on the fence for precision setups
- An adjustable, powder-coated, multi-purpose steel stand
- An outfeed anchor
- Compatibility with almost every router available in the market
- Dual feather boards
- An efficient dust collection system
- An aluminum miter channel/T-slot
- The sturdy tabletop spans 16″ x 24″ and is made from vibration and noise-resistant MDF
- The table’s fence is made from heavy-duty aluminum
- Unrivaled versatility and adjustability
- It has a system of quarter-turn locking levers that allow secure locking and east fence adjustment
- The laminated micro-dot top allows smooth sliding of pieces
- The table has a robust industrial-like build
- Its router insertion plate is undrilled
- The center plate is not flat side to side
- It is relatively expensive compared to other benchtop models
Why Is This a Top Pick
The KREG Precision Router Table encompasses excellent workability in an easy-to-use design. It is well-suited for both professional and amateur woodworkers. Even better, you don’t need a workbench to use the table. It has a sturdy metal stand that can anchor significant weights.
Aside from the table itself, you can benefit from the numerous additional features. These include a router table fence and a tabletop with an insert plate.
The Kreg PRS1045’s minimalist and clean design is a sure winner for anyone looking for efficiency.
5. Goplus Electric Aluminum- Best Budget Router Table
Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table has an adjustable working surface. It also has an extension that allows an additional 7.8″ of working space. This makes it highly convenient for large woodwork projects. Additionally, the top is made of aluminum, while the extension wings are steel, making it one of the most durable router tables.
The table is compatible with any router that has a base plate size of up to 6 inches. Its precise miter gauge is useful in making straight precision cuts. For cleaning purposes, the grooves on the main surface provide for easier dust management.
Overview
Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table is a more permanent option. It needs to be attached with bolts to create a steadier working surface. Its top features include:
- A wide durable aluminum working surface
- Adjustable wings that can extend the top for an additional 8″ by 18.”
- A transparent retractable guard
- A precise miter gauge that helps create straight and accurate cuts
- A mount that can accommodate routers with up to a 6” diameter base plate
- The main table is wide enough for large woodwork projects
- The table also has an extension wing on each side for additional workspace
- Takes up less space in the workshop
- Its design makes it easy to clean and install
- Works with a wide variety of routers
- It is a permanent option and may not be ideal for someone looking for a portable table
- It needs to be bolted for steadiness
Why Is This a Top Pick
The Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table scores top marks in terms of sturdiness and size. In addition to taking up little space, it can be extended when working on larger woodwork projects. It also comes with numerous additional accessories such as dust guards, feather boards and router fences.
The sturdy router table weighs less than 30 lbs. This makes it well-suited for beginners or someone who moves from site to site.
6. Bosch RA1141- Best Benchtop Router Table
The Bosch RA1141 Benchtop Router Table is our best benchtop router table. It is easy to use and stable. It features a smooth laminated MDF top that makes it easy to slide pieces when working and allows better support. It also has an east click router mount that can attach and detach in seconds.
The router table comes with a tall fence. This means you can work on a taller stock without worry. Its dual feather boards provide control and guidance when feeding stock.
If storage space is an issue in your workstation, the Bosch RA1141 is an ideal option. It has a folding, pre-assembled design that makes it highly portable. The storage compartments also provide convenience.
Overview
The Bosch RA1141 is manufactured by Bosch, which is a highly reputable brand. It boasts of first-rate features such as:
- Folding legs and a pre-assembled design
- Onboard storage compartment for holding router bits and other parts
- Tall fence complete with two adjustable feather boards
- Smooth laminated MDF tabletop for precise cutting
- The folding design makes the router table easy to store and carry
- Its smooth laminated top allows for effortless precision cutting
- The storage compartment allows for convenience when working with other tools
- It has a tall fence with two feather boards that allow maximum precision and guidance
- Because it comes pre-assembled, it takes less time to set up
- It allows for effective dust and consequently a cleaner workspace
- The fence system is less precise and may lock off square if you are not careful
Why Is This a Top Pick
Bosch RA1141 is highly portable. The foldable legs can double as storage compartments, which helps you save more space. It is also highly adaptable and can be used to produce a wide range of custom shapes on wood. You can use the templates provided or create yours and use them on the table.
All in all, the Bosch RA1141 table is an excellent option for DIYers and professional woodworkers alike.
7. Grizzly Industrial T10432- Router Table with Stand
The Grizzly Industrial T10432 Router Table features a steel stand, sturdy A-frame and a versatile router mounting plate. The mounting plate is universal and can accommodate a wide variety of routers. The table also comes with a large adjustable complete with T-slots and a 2-1/2 inch dust port. In general, it spans a height of 34-5/8″ and is 1-3/8″ thickness.
Using the table is fairly simple. You only need to add your router to the platform and get to work. The working space is sufficient for small to large woodwork projects.
Overview
The Grizzly Router Table is an excellent buy and a quality product from the manufacturer. It boasts of top-notch features such as:
- Fully adjustable gab plats on the head sliding rails
- Adjustable fence and stand
- An MDF core complete with melamine laminate edges
- A universal mounting plate with a starting pin and removable inserts
- A measuring tape on the fence that reads both left and right
- T-slots in the fence for mounting jigs and feather boards
- MDF core fence with an aluminum mounting bracket
- The wide working space provides easy movement and stability. This ensures safety when making precision cuts or working with larger stock wood.
- The split fence allows you to make a zero-clearance fence and create enough space for shimming.
- Beneath the tabletop is a storage shelf that can be used to hold accessories. This is ideal when working with other tools.
- It has a larger footprint compared to other models discussed here. This can be an issue in workshops where space is minimal.
- Beginners and intermediate woodworkers may find some of the features on this router table unnecessary. This could translate to wasted money if you don’t use the entire table.
Why Is This a Top Pick
Grizzly is a highly trusted brand in the woodworking power tool industry. They are known for solid craftsmanship and first-rate quality. The Grizzly Industrial T10432, which is our best budget router table, is no exception. If you are a professional woodworker or often use a router, this table will make a great addition to your workspace.
Popular Videos
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Router Table
If you have decided to purchase a router table, your choice of which one to buy will depend on your needs. Here is a list of factors to consider before choosing the best router table for you:
Durability and Safety
Safety and durability are important factors to consider when buying any product but more so with woodworking equipment. Always read the product description of a router table. Look for any specialized safety certifications listed by the manufacturer. The safer the router table is, the better.
Next, you can look for a table with any form of warranty. A warranty is a proof that the manufacturer has faith in its quality and is willing to address any problems you may encounter while using the table.
You can check the country of manufacturing. If a table is produced in Canada, the US, or the EU, it most likely follows American manufacturing standards. You can also opt for a table manufactured in another country as long as you look into the manufacturer.
Finally, go through the customer reviews to see what other customers are saying about the router table. Most customers with a complaint or praise for a product will post their experiences.
Budget and Usage
You could select an excellent table only to find it falls outside your price range. When shopping for a router table, have a budget in mind. How much are you willing to spend on the table? Will your investment pay off? If you are a hobbyist or want to create pieces for reaction, consider a clamp-on table. It is ideal for small projects and costs less.
However, if you are a professional who works on large projects, you could opt for a full-sized router table. This will allow you more stability and space for your work.
Compatibility
If you already have a router, you want a router table that is compatible with it. This should save you the hassle of having to buy a different router. That said, most routers and router tables of the same brand go hand in hand. Some manufacturers will also list routers that are compatible with their router tables.
If you buy a router table that does not accommodate your router, you can always drill new holes. However, you need enough space on the table for this. This means you will have to study the table’s measurements and your router’s diameter.
Type of Surface
For accuracy, you want to work on a flat, rigid, sturdy surface. The surface should also be free of any bumps or defects that may affect your routing quality. Generally, the best router table surfaces are those made of MDF. They offer a conducive environment for precise cutting. They are also more durable when laminated or surfaced with melamine.
On the other hand, you can opt for a cast iron top. Although it may be pricier, it eliminates vibrations.
Dust Collector
When routing, you produce a lot of dust and wood shavings. You need a router with an effective dust collection mechanism to keep your workbench clean. This will also help protect you from respiratory complications that are common in the woodwork industry.
Easily-Adjustable Fence
An easily-adjustable fence helps save time during a project. Go for a router with a fence that is strong but can sit in place when required to. You can also choose between a one or two-piece fence, depending on the control you need when working with wood pieces.
The Base
You apply a lot of pressure on the router table when working. This means you need a table that offers stability and protection. When picking out your router table, look for one with a sturdy base. Try something strong but not too bulky that the table is not portable.
Workshop Space
How much space do you have in your workshop? If space is not an issue, you can opt for a full-sized table. But, if you need to save on space, consider smaller tables or tables with a folding system. Another great option is a table that comes with storage space and can double as a cabinet.
What Is a Router Table
A router table is an essential tool in every woodworker’s workshop. It is specialized equipment that holds a hand-held router. The router is fixed to the router table, with the cutter protruding through a hole in the table’s surface. The router and router table can be used to map out and cut intricate shapes in dense materials such as wood. You can form edge profiles, for instance or install grooves.
Router tables are categorized into free-standing and benchtop. Free-standing router tables are large and can be used as standalone router tables. On the other hand, benchtop tables are lighter, smaller and more portable.
Although you can use a router without the table, the table eliminates the need to use both hands. It holds the router so you can focus on moving the piece of wood. This provides you with safety and more room for accuracy.
A router table also comes with a dust collection mechanism. In this regard, it can act as a cleaner as you work on your project.
How to Use a Router Table
Using a router table is relatively simple. It is the same as using a hand-held router only both your hands are free. First, you need to attach your router to the router table. This means you should already have a router that is compatible with your router table. After fixing your router, you can switch it on and off as you wish.
Next, insert your template and slide the piece of wood along the table until you achieve the intended result. Lastly, remove the piece and switch off your router.
What Can You Do with a Router Table
The router table was created to compliment the hand-held router. It improves the router’s versatility and ease of use. Consequently, you can use a router table to perform woodworking procedures you usually complete with a hand-held router. Some common examples include:
- Box joinery
- Dovetail
- Dodoes, slots, and grooves
- Stopped cuts
- Template work and edge trimming
- Finger joints, lock miter and drawer lock
You can also use your router table as a jointer or use it to make raised panel doors. In many instances, router tables are used when working with narrow, long or small stock. This is because it may be challenging to hold down larger stocks on the router table.
What Is the Most Important Feature of Router Tables
All parts of a router table are essential to its performance. However, the part that most affects the quality of your work is the router table surface. The best router table has a flat rigid surface. Such a surface allows you to create cuts with extreme precision. It also eliminates possible problems such as inferior edge profiles and uneven joints.
Standard options include MDF surfaces, laminate MDF or phenolic resin tables. MDF surfaces are affordable and sturdy and are ideal for medium-duty woodwork. When laminated, an MDF surface lasts longer and can withstand more weight.
Phenolic resin tables are advisable for heavy-duty work. They are naturally tough, rigid, and resistant to temperature and humidity changes. However, they are the most expensive.
What Is the Difference Between a Spindle Molder and a Router Table
Most woodworkers are familiar with the spindle moulder vs. router table debate. While both tools share similarities, they are also different in some essential ways. For one, both the spindle moulder and router table are woodworking equipment. They are designed to help an artisan create intricate designs on individual pieces of wood.
However, a router table is smaller, lighter and more versatile than a spindle moulder. They are easier to use and ideal for making fine precision cuts on wood. Also, they require and use less power to run.
On the other hand, a spindle moulder is heavy and difficult to navigate. It also uses significantly more power to work on wood pieces. In the spindle moulder’s defence, it works exceptionally well on large chunks of wood.
All in all, a router table is a better investment. This is because it performs all the tasks performed by a spindle moulder while using up less space and power.
How Do You Find the Best Quality Router Table
Reading reviews and recommendations is a significant first step towards finding the best router table for your workshop. However, there are several steps you can take to ensure you end up with the perfect choice. Here’s an overview:
Assess Your Needs
The first thing you should do is determine why you need a router table. Are you a hobbyist or professional woodworker? Will you be working on simple projects or creating complicated designs? Once you set down your needs, you can find a router table that matches them.
Assess your Usage Location
If you are using the router table in your workshop, you don’t need to fuss about portability. However, if you are an on-the-go woodworker, you want a smaller, more compact and transportable table.
Set a Budget
Now that you know what you need, you can set a budget for it. The most critical factor to consider here is whether you expect any considerable returns from your investment. Create an exact budget or put down an estimate. Remember, you can get a quality router table without breaking the bank.
Find a Warranty
A router table is an investment. If it broke down shortly after you bought it, you would take a loss. This is why you must shop for a solid warranty to protect you from any unforeseen problems. As a rule of thumb, only consider router tables with at least a 1-year warranty. Ask questions, read the fine print and browse through customer reviews.
Look for Accessories
Most router tables come with accessories such as feather boards, fences, steel bands, starting pins and insert plates. Although they may not always be a requirement, they offer you great value for your money.
Select the Right Brand
Now that you know everything you want, it is time to pick a seller. Keep in mind that you probably work with the manufacturer you buy from for a while. For instance, if something breaks down, you will need to contact their customer care team.
This is why you should look up your manufacturer. Check out their customer service and read reviews from previous customers.
Finally, pick a seller you are comfortable with and order your router table.
What Will It Cost to Buy a Good Router Table
A router table can be a hefty investment for a beginner. A professional quality model can set you back several thousand dollars without accounting for any additional accessories. Fortunately, you don’t need a professional model to start learning about routing. You can always begin with an entry-level router table. These tend to cost anywhere between $300 and $800.
There are also options for less than $200. They tend to be portable and foldable. They may also have a reasonable level of stability. However, these router tables are usually smaller than the more expensive tables. They are also more malleable and may be unable to withstand too much weight.
When you go for a cheaper table, you may get 1-2 accessories instead of the 3-5 offered with premium options. This is okay if you don’t need the additional accessories.
That said, if you are a professional woodworker who gets occasional contracts, set a budget for a minimum of $1000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the size of the router table matter?
Yes, it does. When working with large pieces of wood, you will need a router table with a wide working area. On the other hand, you can use any router table for smaller pieces. You should also consider the amount of space available in your workshop before picking a router table.
Should I also buy a workbench?
Most router tables are compatible with workbenches. If you already have a workbench, you should purchase a router table that works with it. Alternatively, you can opt for a router table that comes with a stand or solid base.
Why do I need a router table?
A router table allows you to get the most out of your woodworking projects. It lets you free your hands and concentrate on moving the piece of wood you are working on. With a router table, you can achieve exquisite customized designs.
Why are feather boards important?
Feather boards are essential in ensuring safety in the workspace. They apply pressure to the wood during cutting to ensure everything moves as it should. The best router table should come with functional feather boards.
The Bottom Line
Picking out the best router table for your workshop can improve your woodworking skills immensely. It can help you create exquisite wood designs and optimize your projects. It can also increase your efficiency and comfortability in the workshop. What’s more, the time you save using a router table can better be used to hone your woodworking skills.
Every router table reviewed here is a credible option. Your choice will ultimately depend on your preferences. That said, Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181 is our first choice because it is compatible with many routers and has a convenient power outlet. It can also be mounted on most workshop workbenches.
The SKIL RAS900, on the other hand, is the best router table for the money as it comes with a wide range of features at a customer-friendly price.
Before settling on a choice, compare and contrast the router tables reviewed in this guide. You want a table that matches your needs in terms of space, skills and budget.
Hopefully, this buying guide has helped you understand what to look for when in the market for a router table.
Best Articles
Leave a Reply