Planning to work on some projects that include wood shaping, trimming and cutting? In that case, you will need an ideal wood router. The router is a device that aids in making intricate edges, grooves and other shapes in a work piece. Perhaps you do not own a router yet. The part of purchasing the best wood router is tricky indeed. Hence, check out the top 10 best wood router reviews below. Hopefully, you will find the right one for you.
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1. DEWALT DWP611 Router
It is safe to say DEWALT DWP611 Router is one of the best products among wood routers considering a high amount of positive reviews. It is a compact built machine that runs by a 1.25 HP motor. The power allows users to use it for several applications, including cutting tough woods. For maximum visibility, the router features the LED light. The plastic base is clear and bright to let you see the bit.
Different Variable Speeds
The DeWalt router offers several options for the variable speed. As a result, the user gets full control over his job. The wood router runs between 16000 RPM to 27000 RPM. Selecting your desired speed is easy too. The speed dial is present on the machine. You turn it to modify the speed effortlessly.
Decent Horsepower
If you want to know how strong performance a machine can deliver, check the horsepower. It refers to the power of the motor. The DWP611 router has an engine that delivers 1.25 horsepower. It might not be the strongest one on the market. Nonetheless, it can fill the requirement of many applications.
Dual Base Support
Looking at various popular routers, you will see that they support only one base. Either it is the fixed base or the plunge base. For someone who requires both bases in one system, the DeWalt router is there. The fixed base is going to aid while trimming and edging, whereas the plunge base assists as a versatile system. Having said this all, you have to go for the kit that offers your desired base.
Soft-Start
The machine has an impressive technology called soft start. When you start the tool, it hardly takes power from the motor. It has full-time electronic feedback. Hence, during the cutting, the speed is consistent. The starting of the motor does not harm the speed later on.
- Comes with the variable speed with optimization ability
- Gives maximum visibility with dual LED lights
- Allows easy change of the single wrench bit with the spindle lock button
- Provides an ample workspace with the extended sub-base
- Makes less sound than its competitors while running
- Does not have a dust collector
Why Is This A Top Pick
The router is a product that ensures ease of use for novice users. The power is sufficient, and it has variable speed. The unit is suitable for medium and small projects. The router has various essential technologies like the dual-LED and soft start.
2. Bosch PR20EVS Router Tool
If you prefer to use a wood router with incredible speed, consider purchasing the Bosch PR20EVS Router Tool. The tool can reach a variable rate of 35000 RPM maximum. It is a fixed base router. The weight is not heavy, thanks to the lightweight aluminum build. The depth adjustment of the item is accurate, as well as a fast one. Hence, it allows both macro and micro-adjustments. A 1-year limited warranty backs the wood router.
Sufficient Power
This router from Bosch is for those who have small woodworking jobs of cutting and trimming regularly. It will supply the necessary power to those tasks with the 1 HP engine. Also, trimming or edging requires precise speed. Therefore, you can alter the rate from a range of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM using the speed dial.
Convenient Collet
The steel sleeve you see in a router is the collet. It has the responsibility of holding the collet. The Bosch router tool features the ¼ inch collet. This is a common size that can let you do many edging tasks. Collets are supposed to be tough. You get a durably built collet with the wood router.
Ergonomic Grip
You won’t be facing a single problem while operating the machine with your hands, thanks to the excellent grip. The product comes with an ergonomic molded grip. It allows a magnificent grip, which results in operating the machine with minimum effort. Furthermore, finger guards are available on the front. They protect the user from the vibrational effect.
Rugged Build
If you intend to buy a durable wood router, the Bosch unit is a great one. It comes with a base made of top-end aluminum. Hence, it is a solid wood router that is built to last. For securing stability, the router has finger support pockets. During the trim of edges, these pockets prove to be useful.
- Has every required accessory in the kit
- Can be installed in a short time
- Designed with the palm grip construction for comfy while holding it
- Reduces the amount of the startup torque with soft start
- Has an edge guide that is not competent for heavy-duty jobs
Why Is This A Top Pick
Everything on this wood router can be done fast, such as the base change. The router is designed for small-profile 1/4-inch shaft bits. Both are installing and removing bits are super convenient. It has plenty of power for finishing edges, trim pieces, cutting holes, cutting notches and grooves.
3. Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
Lack of consistency in speed results in a bad trimming of the wood. Thus, the Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router has an electronic speed control. Even under load, the router doesn’t let the consistency of speed pause for a moment. The variable speed begins from 10000 RPM and it goes to 30000 RPM highest. The user can use the router for hours after hours as the ergonomic design and slim body do not cause body pain.
Satisfactory Performance
The output of the wood router is what a user looks for in the machine. In terms of performance, the Makita router is a decent one. It is powered by a 1 (maximum 1/4) horsepower motor. The item is perfect for small to small-medium woodworking projects. The motor uses soft start technology to ensure long-lasting service.
Easy Bit Changing
To make the bit changing process easier, the product contains a spindle lock. It is situated around the collet as a large red button. Making a quick turn, you will be releasing the bit through the wrench. Some people do not prefer the spindle lock. For them, the necessary wrench is included in the package.
6-speed System
It is a router that features the 6-variable-speed mechanism. It means you have six types of speed settings. The range of the speed is from 10000 RPM to 30000 RPM. As the router is suitable for small tasks, you will find the required speed from this range. Convenient speed dial will let you control the speed.
Lightweight
People have a misconception that wood routers are always heavyweight. Well, for this product, the statement is not true at all. The solidly built wood router weighs only 3.9 pounds. Moreover, it is designed with an ergonomic formation. Therefore, if you work on projects that require a long time of involvement, the router will prevent different types of body pain.
- Allows fast change of the base, thanks to the quick release cam lock system
- Comes with the rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for precision
- Ensures durability with the heavy-duty aluminum motor housing
- Can be used with 1/4 inches shank router bits
- Lacks the micro depth adjustment
Why Is This A Top Pick
It is a compact wood router that possesses adequate power to do many woodworking tasks. Despite being a not-so-heavy machine, it is a durable wood router. It is changing the base as well as bits are easy and quick. The user can use the router for a long while without any fatigue.
In additional, Makita RT0701C also an affordable router with some amazing features. Don’t forget to check Makita RT0701C review here.
4. Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router
One of the most potent routing tools in the lineup is the Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router. The 2.25 horsepower motor is ready to supply all the energy you require for woodworking projects. You can operate the machine by a power switch that is dust sealed. The base, as well as motor housing, are constructed of high-quality aluminum. Hence, you won’t have to worry about durability. For constant speed, the item features the constant-response circuitry.
Heavy Duty Output
If you have some high-end woodworking jobs to do, the Bosch has got your back. It can produce a magnificent amount of power due to the motor of 2.25 horsepower. It performs notably better than 1 Horsepower engine. The router has a variable speed and can be chosen from 8000 – 25000 RPM. Also, the product has a micro-fine depth adjustment for convenience in woodworking tasks.
Useful Fixed Base
The fixed base that comes with the wood router is not an ordinary one. It is accompanied by a technology called the bit height adjustment. It benefits the user by allowing him to modify the height of the bit from the wood router table. Moreover, the base contains threaded holes. It is useful to mount your item to the table efficiently.
Precise Cut
People use wood routers to edge or trim woods in a detailed manner. Thereupon, a clean-cut is a must. As talked earlier, the micro-fine depth adjustment ensures precise cutting. Also, the router features something called the constant response circuitry. The objective of this thing is to maintain a constant speed. As a result, cuts are more accurate than ever.
Effective Design
The motor housing is built of aluminum. The same goes for the base too. Hence, you won’t be worried about longevity. The power switch is dust sealed. It will always be visible even when you have done a couple of projects with the router. Besides, the design does not allow the motor to rotate when you are adjusting the depth.
- Powered by a strong motor with an advanced speed-control technology
- Equipped with bright light for the clarity of applications
- Lasts for years as it is double insulated
- Comes with threaded holes to make mounting easier than before
- Changing the base can be challenging
Why Is This A Top Pick
It is a top pick because you can use it for any type of woodworking project. It is decent for intermediate and professional works as well. The mighty motor and numerous benefits of the product make it a versatile wood router.
What more, Bosch 1617EVSPK also an amazing router considering durability and speed. Don’t forget to check Bosch 1617EVSPK review here.
5. DEWALT DW616 Router
A fine fixed base router from DEWALT is the DEWALT DW616 Router. The wood router is powered by an 11.0 amp, 1-3/4 HP motor. The product has a nickel-plated motor housing. It helps to make the depth adjustments durable. Changing the bit is super convenient, credit to the flat top. The router provides depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. It is one of the best wood routers considering the accuracy.
11.0-amp Motor
The router has an engine that powers by the 1-3/4HP motor. It is optimized magnificently to rout through the most stubborn wood. The 11.0-amp motor is competent to do any type of trimming and edging jobs you offer to it.
Trouble-free Depth Adjustment
Depth adjustment is a vital thing everyone looks for in the router. The DW616 wood router lets you make a depth adjustment by the tool-free steel motor cam lock. It also makes the process of changing the base faster than before. For accurate depth modification, the micro-fine depth adjustment is present. It delivers proper depths in 1/64″ increments.
Solid yet Light
For woodworking job purposes, users have to carry their wood routers. Moving the DW616 router is easy, thanks to its lightweight construction. The base is firm but not heavyweight. It is possible because of the aluminum build. The exclusive die-cast aluminum is utilized to create the base of the router.
Practical Design
The company paid attention to the practicality while designing the unit. An innovative design from DEWALT prevents excessive vibration. Users can operate the machine for a long time without fatigue. The construction is dust sealed. It means the router is going to remain free of dirt, no matter what project you are working on.
- Has two wrenches for changing the bit without complication
- Provides precise depth with micro depth adjustment
- Does not vibrate while cutting
- Features rubber handles to give excellent grip
- Gets loud after using for a while
Why Is This A Top Pick
The DEWALT router is not difficult to use. It can be used by beginners, thereby. Features of the unit justify every single penny you spend on it. The router is one of the best values for money items. The material used in the machine is sturdy and durable. It will surely serve for several years.
6. DEWALT DCW600B 20V Max XR Cordless Router
One of the highest-rated wood routers by customers is the DEWALT DCW600B 20V Max XR Cordless Router. The motor has sufficient horsepower for doing most of the routine tasks. The condition and durability of the engine are backed by a soft start. To provide the correct speed to an application, you have the variable speed. Dual LED light will illuminate to let you do the work with proper visibility. Furthermore, the user can adjust the height through the depth adjustment ring.
Brushless Motor
One of the useful inventions in terms of the motor industry is the brushless motor. Compared to brushed motors, the brushless motor works way more efficiently. With efficiency, the motor also performs better than the brushed one. The DCW600B router comes with a brushless motor that can produce power equivalent to 1.25 HP motors. The motor tends to be long-lasting and barely requires maintenance.
Sufficient Speed with Electronic Brake
Different applications demand different speeds. For this reason, the DEWALT wood router is offering rates from 16000 to 25500 RPM. The speed dial does speed alteration. The dial also shows what speed you are on. It helps to determine if you need more speed. The router features an electronic brake. This break slows the motor down fast.
Two LED Lights
The places you work on woodworking projects may not be well lit all the time. Lack of proper lighting can discourage you from doing work. Also, you may not get those perfect edges in the woods. The DEWALT router keeps you out of trouble with dual LED light. These two lights are great in terms of supplying adequate light around the bit.
Wireless
Unlike traditional wood routers, this item does not need a cord to connect to the electric outlet and operate. The DEWALT wood router is a cordless system that runs by a battery. The battery you will be using for the machine has a long life. Even after having the battery, it is a lightweight router tool.
- Has an effortless speed and depth adjusting capability
- Provides visibility with the dual lighting system
- Shuts down the router fast with electronic brake
- Comes at a reasonable price
- Requires buying a few accessories separately
Why Is This A Top Pick
The manufacturer opted for the brushless motor for this product. This motor is significantly underrated. It is less power-hungry and more durable than conventional motors. The power is around 1.25 HP. Another great convenience is, you can take the router anywhere for work as it is a cordless router.
7. Triton TRA001 3-1/4 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
The plunge base is indeed more flexible than the fixed base. However, a wood router with this base may not match with a standard budget as it is expensive. Triton TRA001 3-1/4 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router has the plunge base, yet the cost is not too much. As a bonus, the product offers the other base (fixed) too. Head to the section below to find out some impressive features of the wood router. Don’t forget to check Triton Tra001 review here.
Mighty Motor
The item is powered by one of the most potent motors among wood routers. It will deliver all the power your trimming job requires by the 3.25 HP motor. The engine is a power station when it comes to output. It is capable of running at various speeds. The range starts from 8000 RPM to 21000 RPM.
3-stage Turret
Getting an accurate depth with a wood router is significant. That is what the router is supposed to do. The Triton router does that job pretty well, thanks to the 3-stage turret. According to most users, the preset depths are too precise. If you are managing an assignment that requires excellent depth, you cannot go wrong with this machine.
Effortless Base Switch
Even being a router with an expensive cost, some products have only a single base system. The Triton is not one of them. It has both bases to fulfill the demands of users who prefer one of them. Sometimes you need to use the other base. In that case, all you do is press a single button to make it a fixed base router from the conventional plunge one.
Side Vents
The woodworking projects will gather wood dust and particles. These arrive when you are cutting the board. A high amount of dust can damage the lifespan of your motor and router noticeably. The manufacturer provided multiple side vents on the product. The vents keep the debris away to maintain a healthy environment for your machine.
- Uses micro winder for depth adjustment
- Comes with an RPM speed of 8000 to around 22000
- Powered by 3.25 horsepower and 15-amp motor
- Features an adjustable fence
- Fails to prevent vibration thoroughly
Why Is This A Top Pick
Though the router is equipped with a powerful motor, it can run faster than its competitors. This is outstanding as many heavy-duty routing jobs require high speed. The router has concern for its users, which is why several safety features are available. Along with the router, you will be getting vital accessories like height adjustment crack and fence. It is a money saver undoubtedly.
8. Hitachi M12VC 2-1/4 Peak HP Variable Speed Fixed Base Router
Excellent addition to your woodworking workshop will be the Hitachi M12VC 2-1/4 Peak HP Variable Speed Fixed-Base Router. Thanks to a powerful motor and the electronic speed control, the product delivers the smoothest cuts. The operation of the router is quiet. Hence, you can work for many hours without having to worry about loud noise. Furthermore, the router lets you optimize the speed according to your likings. To know more, see the features below.
Solid Performance
Not every application contains soft materials. Hardwoods materials sometimes make it difficult for low HP motor routers to shape the wood appropriately. Hence, Hitachi added a strong motor that has a 2-1/4 peak horsepower. The mightiest wood will have to get beaten by this power. To control the speed, the user gets an electric control. The variable rate begins at 8000 RPM and can reach 24000 RPM maximum.
Silent Operation
Wood routers operate by powerful motors. The power has a cost too. Many wood routers make unbearable noise during the operation. Despite being a heavy-duty router, the Hitachi M12VC makes less sound than other router units. The noise level of the product is 79.5 dB. Considering other router machines, it is quite silent.
Precise Depth
The Hitachi router is one of the best wood routers when it is about depth adjustment. You can adjust the depth quickly with the router as it has the 2-stage motor release clamp. It doesn’t only speed up the depth adjusting procedure but also makes sure an accurate depth. Moreover, the product is great for depth adjustment because of the nickel-plated motor housing.
Ergonomic Construction
Even though the motor is solid and runs by a high-powered engine, the weight is 7.3 pounds only. It is a suitable wood router should you be looking to freehand rout. The handles are wrapped with the elastomer compound. Thus, the grip is top-notch and you won’t feel a vibration while holding it. The overall ergonomics let you work for a long time.
- Contains the electronic speed control feature
- Features the variable speed from 8000 to 24000 RPM
- Delivers smooth adjustment of the depth with the nickel-plated motor housing
- Changes base quickly by the motor release clamp
- Can face issues when the power source is not supplying the required voltage
Why Is This A Top Pick
In a nutshell, the router is an amazing choice for its easy depth adjustment, quiet operation and comfy in terms of handling. Another point that necessitates being mentioned is the electronic speed control. Despite having it, many routers cannot maintain the constant speed. Fortunately, this one is different and it keeps RPM at a steady level.
9. Triton MOF001 2-1/4 HP / 13 Amp Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
There are some applications where a low powered router won’t fit. The Triton MOF001 2-1/4 HP / 13 Amp Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router is the product to be your companion to complete those tasks. The tough router has many impressive things for its users. Let’s take a look at them.
Decent Power
Unlike the Triton TRA001 router, it does not have the 3 HP motor. However, what you get with this item is not bad either. The 2 HP motor of the router can satisfy its users by trimming and edging strong woods. The router has several speed alternatives. It ranges from 8000 to 21000 RPM. Though it possesses a two-horsepower motor, the weight is lighter than the TRA001. It is only 10.4 pounds.
Uncomplicated Bit Changing
For work purposes, sometimes you have to put the wood router under the table. So what if at that moment you need to replace the existing bit? Will you have to crawl under the table? Not. All you do is extend the spindle to a position that is comfortable for you. Now take a wrench and add a new bit.
Micro Winder
It is a technology produced by Trition that operates the depth adjustment. Even if you are routing in the plunge base, the micro winder will keep giving you excellent depth adjustment. It is useful in certain routing jobs.
- Has a slim and light build
- Let’s you read scales properly with the 3-stage turret
- Increases precision of plunge by the rack and pinion system
- Switches base fast
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
- The power switch is not convenient to use
Why Is This A Top Pick
Most routers having a high horsepower motor (2 HP) do not weigh low. The advanced construction of MOF001 managed to be a lightweight machine, nonetheless. Besides, the router features essential qualities like soft start, variable speed and air vents.
10. DEWALT DW618PKB Router
A powerful high-end router with a plunge and fixed base available in the kit can be challenging to find. If you are searching for one, make sure to check out the DEWALT DW618PKB Router. It has an ample power of 2-1/4 HP, variable speed, soft start and two bases in the kit. Some routers have issues with bit retention. This one is free from the problem as the long self-releasing eight slotted collets eliminate frozen bit issues.
Great Performance
Dewalt tools have always been a name of trust and a source of extraordinary power. The DW618PKB is similar to other Dewalt products as well. It runs by an engine that possesses 2-1/4 horsepower. The soft-start technology backs the motor. It gives the motor a voltage which increases gradually. Soft start smoothes the acceleration and prevents wear.
Bit Visibility
Dust is one of the reasons why you mess up the edging of the wood. The wood router comes with an integral dust collection. What it does is to gather dust in a particular location. As a result, the bit is visibly and brightly clear. As the manufacturer claims, the dust collection collects 95% of the dust, which is fantastic.
Necessary Equipment
When a manufacturer doesn’t add essential accessories in the package, you have to buy them separately. Why not buy a router that includes all necessary components? The DW618PKB comes with a DW6182 plunge base, DW6184 fixed base, large hole sub base, DW618M motor pack, vacuum adapter, wrench, and soft carry bag. Furthermore, two collets are present in the box. One is 1/4 inches, and the other one is 1/2 inches.
- Runs with the variable speed that ranges from 8000 – 24000 RPM
- Includes dust collector to prevent dust from spreading
- Adjusts depth faster than other machines with steel cam lock
- Comes with rubber over-molded handles for user comfort
- At an increased use, the brushes may not be safe from burn out
Why Is This A Top Pick
Enormous motor power, variable speed, fantastic depth adjustment all these surely make this Dewalt router a top pick. The unit will save loads of bucks for the user as it comes along with needed accessories. Dewalt offers three years of warranty for this, which is a big plus indeed.
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Factors to Consider Before Buying a Wood Router
Types of Wood Routers
It can be a confusing task to select the best wood router as there are different types of items on the market. Should you consider the base only, you will find three types of wood routers. Read about them below to understand what product will fit your application most.
1. Plunge Router
Plunge routers allow you to adjust the depth while cutting. It is an essential trait that professionals require for their jobs. Thus, a plunge router is mostly used by professional workers. Someone without proper experience won’t be willing to use the plunge router.
Plunge wood routers are capable of dealing with template-based, as well as freehand tasks. For example, you can use it for cutting mortises, grooves and letters.
Advantages
- It allows you to modify the depth of the cut.
- It lets you control the vertical movement.
- Plunge routers are the safest ones.
Disadvantages
- It is expensive.
2. Fixed Base Router
Tasks such as edge cutting and molding require to pinpoint straight line accuracy. The fixed base router can provide the most wanted precision needed for these works. However, to have the best out of the fixed base router, you have to make sure a router table is present.
A fixed base router should be the unit to go with if you started using wood routers a few days ago. The lightweight construction makes it easy for a newbie to work with this router.
Advantages
- It delivers the most precise cuts.
- It costs way cheaper than the plunge router.
- The fixed router is perfect for home use.
- It tends to be lightweight.
Disadvantages
- A fixed router is not capable of adjusting the blade depth.
3. Combo Router
Woodworking contains countless tasks. Some of them require both a plunge base as well as a fixed base. To help you in this complicated situation, the combo router kit is there. It is certainly best for both worlds.
Combo routers refer to a kit where both bases are available to use. These routers come with technology to change the base quicker than traditional routers. By changing to your required base, you can continue to do great in your woodworking project.
Advantages
- It is the solution to the problem of requiring two routers with two bases.
- It is costly to buy two individual wood routers, whereas the combo kit costs cheaper.
Disadvantages
- Not all combo routers let you alter the base quickly. Some take a long time for the switching process.
Ergonomics
Many customers compromise the ergonomics of a wood router for the low price, power and overall performance. What is ergonomics? Well, for wood router units, ergonomics refers to the comfy use capability and efficiency. Also, ease of use and safety features are important elements of ergonomics. Wood routers that are not comfortable to use lead to extreme muscle tension.
In consequence, you feel pain in different parts of the body afterward. An ergonomically designed wood router will not cause fatigue even after doing work for hours. Next time you are purchasing a router, make sure the construction is ergonomically built.
What Does a Wood Router Do?
A wood router is a handheld tool that can be used for numerous purposes. Nonetheless, the main objective of the machine is to make use of itself in woodworking and carpentry. The user can use the wood router, inverting it in a router table. A wood router has certain functions to rout woods and even plastics. Other than cutting edges, it specializes in cutting rabbets and dadoes to make a specific wood pattern. Let’s see three more things to do with the router.
1. Making a Round Edge: You can create a round edge in a table that has a square shape. It is super easy, provided you have a wood router. Add the bit in the collet and set the correct depth. Now run the wood router along the edges to do so.
2. Creating Patterns: The router will be a useful tool to make designs, grooves and patterns on the wood. Suppose you own a piece of wood that you do not need anymore. With the assistance of the wood router, you can create a design on it and make it an attractive wood sign.
3. Cutting Dados: The slots you see in a cabinet or bookcase are the Dados. The dado gives shelves support to shelves that no other material can ever provide. Without a router containing a straight bit, you cannot cut dado at all. The wood router allows you to cut both the through dado and the blind dado.
How to Choose a Router?
A wood router is an essential tool if you are involved or about to be involved in a woodworking business. Besides router has many tips and tricks. Don’t forget to check router tips and tricks here.
You will fail to purchase the appropriate router if you have a lack of knowledge regarding the functions of the product. A potential buyer should know numerous things about the router, such as the base, size, speed, horsepower, collet, etc. before buying. Let’s see some of those crucial points.
1. Mid-size or Full-size
Talking about the size first, you may come across two sizes. The mid-size router is popular, as well as a cheap option. Do not let the cheap price tag deceive you. For the majority of routine tasks, the mid-size unit will do justice. From medium to medium-large routing jobs, it will have your back. These routers tend to have a horsepower of 1.75 to 2.25 HP.
Go for the full-size wood router only if you are planning to use raise panels and large profiling bits on it. Make sure you have big funds for these routers. Also, you will need a table to set the product up. Having said that, full-size routers are the best products for those serious heavy-duty routing jobs.
2. Material
Tools like the wood router are supposed to be backed by materials that are solid, sturdy and durable. Perhaps, you will have two choices. The first one is cast aluminum. One should prefer cast aluminum for easy transportation, handheld capability and comfort. The lightweight structure of aluminum is quite sturdy too.
The second material choice is the cast iron frame. It tends to be heavier than aluminum. However, cast iron frames are the most stable ones. The frame has better shock resistant technology than aluminum. You will barely spot vibration in it. However, transportation is complicated for cast iron units.
3. Horsepower
The horsepower indicates the power of a motor. Different routers have motors possessing a different amount of horsepower. Assuming your application includes edge shaping, internal groove cuts and things like these, a motor with low power will be enough. On the other side, you can select routers with superior HP to do lots of woodworking joints. The wood joint demands large bits to remove large amounts of wood. Hence, high horsepower is recommended.
4. Variable Speed
Nowadays, almost all the wood router manufacturers provide the variable speed mechanism in their products. Nevertheless, some units are still present on the market, which lacks the feature. It is wise not to go for those products. Every woodworking task has a unique demand for speed. The variable speed lets you make changes depending on the job. Moreover, it is an incredible energy saver. It also prolongs the lifespan of a motor.
5. Other Criteria
Including the points mentioned above, there are some other things you may look for to purchase a decent wood router. One of them is the soft start. It ensures the motor doesn’t get to the full speed the moment you turn it on. Soft start pauses the speed while launching and gradually increases it to the preset speed.
Check if your router takes the bit you need to use for your projects. Different products come with different collets. The collet must be a match with the bit you own. Several wood routers include the compatible bits with it. You can buy those units to save some money as purchasing bits separately is costly.
Another key feature a router should contain is the electronic feedback circuitry. It has a variety of names given by various brands. All of them do the same work of monitoring the motor load and adjusting the output of torque to match. Power output remains the same thereupon. The feature goes unnoticed when it is present. However, you will surely feel the need for it once your router does not have it.
How to Set Up a Wood Router?
People who have not installed a router before may think that setting up the unit is an intimidating task. Well, it is not. Instead, it is one of the easiest jobs among wood router related tasks. Having stated that, fixed and plunge routers have their different way to set up. Both methods are convenient when you follow the instructions below.
1. Plunge Router Setup
STEP-1: The first thing you want to do to start using the router is to fix the depth. There is a depth stop on the router. By setting it up, you will set the depth of the plunge router. It (depth) will be sent to the motor. It is going to plunge to the adjusted depth.
STEP-2: The next step starts by turning on the wood router. Most of the routers should have a simple power switch. After launching, hold down the router on the base and push it downward. Also, move it from right to left. When you are at an edge of the cut, let the router up. One point you have to make sure is that the motor is moving upward, withdrawing the bit.
2. Fixed Base Router Setup
STEP-1: Loosen the collet by turning the nut counter-clockwise. Insert the bit you need for work.
STEP-2: Tighten the collet after adding the bit. Clamp-on the bottom (base). The slide of the body should be loosened to the depth you require. Then re clamp it.
STEP-3: It is the right moment to turn the router on. First, use scrap wood to test the bit depth and if everything is working fine.
What Should Be the Speed For Wood Routers?
When you are using a bit that is 1 inch or less than that, the maximum RPM should be 24000. Bits with a size of 1 to 2 inches are supposed to run at 18000 RPM. If it is more than 2 inches but less than 3 inches, 16000 RPM is ideal. For 3 inches bits, the speed should be 12000 RPM or less.
How Do Torque and RPM Affect Routing?
Motors contain a rotating shaft called the crankshaft. The crankshaft can produce a specific amount of rotating force. It is called torque. A motor performs incredibly when the torque is up to the mark.
The full form is RPM is revolutions per minute. It means RPM refers to the number of turns the shaft is making in a minute.
Both terms are valuable in the routing field. A decent amount of torque makes your motor ready to deal with lots of tasks. And through the RPM, you can observe and determine the speed you need for certain applications.
How Deep Can a Router Cut?
If you think the router is only responsible for creating the deepest cut, you are gravely wrong. Bits play arguably the most prominent role in increasing the depth of cuts. Therefore, if you want deep cuts, first purchase a long bit. One of the longest bits is the Freud 2 ½ inches bit. It will surely match your needs.
What Is the Best Wood Router For Home Use?
Not every woodworker is a fan of opening a shop or a place like that to do his job. Many of these people prefer to continue their work in a garage or basement. They should go for products which have some particular attributes for home use. A home wood router has to be lightweight. The comfortable operation should be another point to look for. As you will be using it at home, proper safety features are a must.
Our recommendation for the wood router for home use will be the DEWALT DCW600B 20V Max XR Cordless Router. If a basement lacks adequate lighting, the dual LED light will solve that issue. It is not hard to hold it for a long time as the weight is 2.6 pounds. The router ensures a secure shutdown with the electronic brake. Moreover, the brushless motor reduces mechanical noise and almost eliminates electromagnetic interference (EMI). As a home wood router, these advantages are great for the health of the user.
But sometimes you may have to find an alternative for a router if this is not available. Do you know how to cut a groove in wood without a router? Don’t forget to check it.
What Is the Best Router for a Beginner?
Using a power tool can be difficult. Especially, it is harder for someone who has never used that particular power tool before. Thus, a beginner should pick an item that is easy to operate and is not too powerful. Why not powerful? Well, powerful tools come with complicated functions that may not be friendly to a beginner. Also, a novice user does not jump to the most heavy-duty routing tasks at the starting point. Start with a wood router that has ease of use, affordable cost and decent cutting potential.
Many people familiar with routers recommend the Bosch PR20EVS Router Tool as they consider it to be the best wood router for a beginner. The unit has a cozy grip to ensure comfy. The power is not much and it will fulfill the demand of a beginner for sure. At a low price, it offers variable speed. With a spindle lock, you change the bit effortlessly.
Picking the Best Wood Router for You
It is tricky to choose one great router out of so many versatile wood routers. Talking about the top 10 routers, all of these units are excellent in their ways. However, our experts will opt for the Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router as the ultimate winner. It belongs to a reputable brand that has been serving woodworkers with incredible tools. The router is packed with essential features and surprisingly does not have an expensive price tag. Let’s talk about it a little.
The performance is truly up to the mark with the 12-amps, 2.25-horsepower engine. It features the constant response circuitry to ensure continual speed. With the soft start, the router will be safe from the power surge and overheat.
The wood router is a durable product. It has a magnesium construction that is light but strong enough to last for a long time. The base and motor housing have aluminum build. Moreover, the company provides one year of warranty for the tool. A wood router is an outstanding tool in terms of longevity too. Overall, it is the best woodworking router to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What router bits should I start with?
If you have a router or planning to buy one, you better be ready to purchase some bits as well. Novice woodworking people may face confusion on choosing the right bits. The appropriate bit depends on the application you are involved in. However, every woodworker should have at least the 5 bits given below.
- Straight-Cutting Bit
- Roman Ogee Bit
- Rounding-Over Bit
- Rabbeting Bit
- Cove Bit
Will the wood router cut aluminum?
A machine that has the ‘wood’ in its name cuts aluminum is hard to believe. Nonetheless, it is true. A wood router is capable of cutting aluminum on a few conditions. It should be a motor with decent power. The worker will have to wear eye and hearing protection. And last but not least, the bit should be carbide. The carbide bit contains the hardest material any bit could ever have.
Which wood router should I buy?
Plenty of wood routers are available on the market. To determine the right one for you, head to the buying guide section. It will aid you to know about your requirements. Once you know what you need, check out the top 10 wood routers. Pick the router that fits your demands the most.
What wood router can do?
Many calls it the most versatile tool in the world for a reason. The wood router is capable of doing more than just one thing. It cuts inlays, rebates and grooves. It can be used for decorative fluting. To profile edges, you can use the router. It is capable of trimming the wood flat and also shaping it. The wood router can do many major woodworking trimmings to an object.
Who invented the wood router?
Henry Cope, an American pattern maker, introduced the wood router in 1884. However, it was a manual tool back then. You could use the device for a handful of woodworking tasks only. Later in 1905, a company named Kelley Electric Machine made the first electric power wood router. The machine weighed almost 60 pounds. On an important note, some also say that Jet Motor Hand Routers invented the wood router in 1915.
The Bottom Line
Due to the tremendous numbers of routers on the market, you might get confused when determining the best wood router for you. The article focuses on top routers that are currently available and also, it has the necessary information to make you understand what product will fit your necessity. Whether you are looking for the best plunge router or just a fixed base one, you get all of them together above.
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