Finding the best routing tool suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit
Feature
Variable speed control dial (10,000 - 30,000 RPM) enables user to match the speed to the applicationSmooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for more precise settings
Slim and ergonomically designed body for increased comfort and control
Quick release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments and base removal/installation
Electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load
Soft start feature for smooth start ups
Fixed base accepts industry standard template guides for convenience
High visibility base design for improved handling and performance
Base can be removed quickly to install other bases
Heavy duty aluminum motor housing engineered for increased durability
Shaft lock for quick and easy bit changes
Durable flat top design for added convenience when changing bits
Non-marring high-durability base insert for increased workpiece protection
Easy-to-read depth scales
Uses 1/4"" shank router bits
Double insulated
Plunge Base
0 - 1-3/8 plunge depth capacity for easy penetration into workpiece
Easy-to-use fine depth adjustment with 3 preset depth stops for added precision
Ideal for routing small profiles, dovetailing, door hinges and more
Conveniently located plunge lock lever for operator convenience
Removable clear plastic shield engineered to reduce airborne debris
Sub-base accepts industry standard template guides for convenience
Fits compact routers models RT0700C and RT0701C
1/4"" Collet (763637-1)
Plunge base (195563-0)
Straight guide (164834-6)
Wrench 13 (781039-9)
Wrench 22 (781011-1)
RT0701CX3
RT0701C
RP1800
RP0900K
RP2301FC
RF1101KIT2
RF1101
RD1101
Powerful 1-1/4 HP (maximum) Motor Delivers Improved Performance
Variable speed control dial (10,000 - 30,000 RPM) enables user to match the speed to the application
Smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for more precise settings
Slim and ergonomically designed body for increased comfort and control
Quick release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments and base removal/installation
Description
Makita's powerful 1-1/4 HP (maximum) Motor Delivers Improved Performance. The variable speed control dial (10,000 - 30,000 RPM) enables user to match the speed to the application. Our smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for more precise settings. It features a slim and ergonomically designed body for increased comfort and control. It has a Quick release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments and base removal/installation The Electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load. It also has a Soft start feature for smooth start-ups. The Fixed base accepts industry standard template guides for convenience. It has a High visibility base design for improved handling and the performance base can be removed quickly to install other bases. The Heavy duty aluminum motor housing engineered for increased durability. The Shaft locks for quick and easy bit changes It's Durable flat top design is added for convenience when changing bits. It has a Non-marring high-durability base insert for increased work piece protection. It also has Easy-to-read depth scales Uses 1/4" shank router bits Double insulated.2. Bosch 12 Amp 2-1/4 Combination Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit 1617EVSPK with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets
Feature
POWER: Electronic variable-speed motor and fixed base wood router kit allows for soft starts and micro-fine depth adjustmentsVERSATILE: Take care of even tough routing jobs with the powerful 2.25 HP/12 Amp motor and its versatile speed range of 8,000 to 25,000 RPM. The router table's variable speed dial allows you to set the optimal speed for the routing task and material
DURABILITY: Aluminum construction makes this one of our most durable routers for woodworking yet with wooden handles on a fixed base and a soft-grip handle on a plunge base
CONVENIENT: With the built-in Constant Response Circuitry, your hand router will maintain a constant speed throughout the cut, so you get cleaner, more accurate results
DIMENSIONS: Collet Capacity for this woodworking router is 1/4inches, 3/8inches, 1/2 inches, 8 millimeters
Description
Variable speed dial, soft-start, maintains constant speed under load, quick clamp system on both bases, includes fixed base with system for adjusting bit height from above a router table, precision centering makes it easy to keep bit on intended cutline when using jigs, templets, dovetail fixtures and similar guidance devices, fixed base has threaded holes for mounting to router table positioned in Bosch 4-hole pattern and common 3-hole pattern, microfine, bit, depth adjustment system on both bases, wide base openings and 2" subbase openings and provides better visibility, right or left. switch, location, dust sealed power switch, contoured soft grip handles, double insulated. Specs: 120V/AC, base diameter: 6" fixed/6-11/16" plunge, 1/4, 3/8", 1/2", 8mm collet capacity, no load RPM: 8,000-25,000, 10ft. cord, weighs 19.5lbs. Includes: plunge base, fixed base, fixed base chip shield, plunge base chip shield, 1/4" self-releasing collet chuck, 1/2" self-releasing collet chuck, 16mm shaft wrench, 24mm collet nut wrench, T-handle hex height adjustment wrench, carrying case.3. Bosch 12 Amp 2-1/4 HP Variable-Speed 1617EVS with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets
Feature
POWER: Amongst the most powerful routers for woodworking at 12-amps, 2.25-horsepower, and 8000-25000 RPMVERSATILE: The hand router's variable speed dial allows you to set the optimal speed for the routing task and material
CONSISTENCY: The wood router's advanced speed-control technology monitors and maintains desired RPM for consistent performance
DURABILITY: Built to last with rugged aluminum base and housing. This Bosch router is backed by a one-year limited warranty, 30-day money-back guarantee, and one-year service protection plan
CONVENIENT: Includes Bosch 1617EVS 2-1/4 HP Variable-Speed Router, RA1161 fixed base, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch self-releasing collets, drop-forged wrenches, chip shield, above-table height-adjustment wrench, and mounting hardware
Description
Value not found4. Tonsiki 10 Pieces Titanium-Coated 1/8"(3mm) Shank Router Bits Milling Cutter Fit Dremel Rotary Tools for DIY Woodworking, Carving, Engraving, Drilling
Feature
Shank diameter:1/8''(3mm),Total Length:1.57''(40mm)Material:HSS
With a titanium coating, high hardness, anti friction, no peeling, no fading, have a longer life.
Can be used with a Dremel tool. Ideal for woodworking trimming and slotting.
Transforms your rotary tool/dremel/die grinder into a high speed router for extra fine detail routing & shaping.Suitable for electric trimmer, for wood trimmed, milling etc. Machining
Description
Features:-10pcs Mini Router Bits for Carpentry
-This is a new set of 10 mini router bits
-They can be used with a Dremel tool
-Each has a 1/8" (3 mm) shank
-Ideal for Carpentry, Home Improvement, Crafts, Hobbies & More
-Premium-Quality router bit set in the highly sought after 1/8" shank size.
-Includes the 10 most commonly used types: straight, trim, V groove, beading, cove, slot cutter and more.
-These rugged bits are made of tough High Speed Steel HSS and are Titanium coated!
-Transforms your rotary tool/dremel/die grinder into a high speed router for extra fine detail routing & shaping.
Caution: When you use this drill bits, the material temperature will get very high, please add some water or coolant to avoid the material get smoke when using it.
5. eBoTrade 10PC HSS Routing Router Bits Burr Rotary Tools Suit Dremel & Rotary Tool, Engraving, Wood Working Tools White Box
Feature
Tungsten Carbide Single Cut Rotary Burr SET 1/8" shank Fit DremelMaterial: Tungsten Carbide Use: Rotary Burr
Shank diameter: 3mm, Shank Length: 35mm
Cutting edge diameter: 6 mm
Total length: 45-50 mm
Description
AMERICA'S MOST RELIABLE ELECTRONIC PRODUCT BRANDFaster and safer products with our leading eBoTrade technology
10 million+ happy users and counting
Specifications:
Shaft diameter: 3mm
Drill Bit size: 6mm
Compatibility: smaller rotary tools like those made by Dremel
Brand new
Package Included:
10x Tungsten steel Solid Carbide Burrs and storage box
Worry-Free Warranty:
At eBoTrade, we back products all with an 18-month warranty and provide friendly, easy-to-reach support.
eBoTrade Product Certified:
eBoTrade product meets the rigorous safety standards of UL and FCC certificate.
eBoTrade
If for any reason you are unhappy with any product by eBoTrade, please do not hesitate to contact us. We take full ownership and responsibility for the quality of our products and will do our best to solve your problem quickly and efficiently!
6. Dremel 335-01 Plunge Router Attachment
Feature
Fits model 275, 285, 395, 398; 100, 200, 300 and 400 Series; 3000, 4000, 4200, 8200 and 8220Quickly converts rotary tool to plunge router; plunge lock-in handle; 2 depth stops for rapid depth adjustments
Plastic and metal construction
Includes plunge router attachment, edge guide, circle cutting guide, mounting wrench, manual
6 by 5-1/2 inches; 1-year warranty
Description
Plunge router attachment, lock & release in handle, clear base, two depth stops with quick release, lightweight & easy to control, on board storage for bits & wrench, edge guide for accurate & straight cuts, Circle guide routs perfect cuts.7. Bosch Colt Palm Grip PR20EVSK 5.6 Amp 1-Horsepower Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router with Edge Guide
Feature
POWER: Variable-speed palm-grip router kit with soft-start and quick-lock systems.TOUGH: Fixed base router with a 5.6 AMP motor with 15,000 - 35,000 rpm; depth adjustment system and finger support pockets.
DURABILITY: This Bosch router edge guide offers a rugged aluminum fixed base that's durable, solid, and reliable.
CONVENIENT: Includes palm router and Bosch router accessories (drop-forged collet and shaft wrenches, collet, fixed base, straight-edge guide, case).
DEPENDABLE: This wood router packs big power in a small, compact package (weighs 11.8 pounds). Includes a one-year warranty.
Description
The Bosch PR20EVSK Colt Variable Speed Router with Edge Guide is a versatile tool that's ideal for performing custom carpentry, trimming laminate flooring or deck planks, mortising hinges, dovetailing, and a host of other at-home and professional jobs. This router packs big power in a small, compact package for extended comfort and maximum accuracy.
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 Includes router, guide, case, base, collets, and shaft wrenches. View larger. |
 Rubber over-molded grip allows for stable, one-handed operation. View larger. |
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The PR20EVSK owes its robust performance to a 1.0-horsepower (the highest rating for small routers), 5.6-amp motor that spins at a variable speed of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM and has a soft-start that reduces startup torque. Additionally, depth adjustment is simple with the PR20EVSK: just align and lower the motor and then lock the router in position with the clamping level. Micro-fine adjustments are equally effortless thanks to the wheel on the back of the router's base.
To help you match the correct speed to the job, the included instruction manual features a chart showing the speed of each dial position, along with a list of the routing tasks that each setting may be used for.
User-Friendly Features for Flexibility, Comfort, and Reliability
This user-friendly tool offers simple, straightforward operation. First, the collect accepts standard 1/4-inch bits to give you job flexibility, with an impressive maximum diameter of 1-5/16 inch. For added convenience, a front spindle lock on the motor means easy, one-wrench bit changes, but a shaft wrench is also included for those who prefer to use two wrenches.
In addition, the speed dial is conveniently mounted on top of the tool body for easy access. An added bonus, the motor housing has a palm-shaped, rubber over-molded grip that allows for stable, one-handed operation. Finally, weighing about three pounds, the PR20EVSK offers a surprisingly rugged aluminum fixed base that's durable, solid, and reliable.
Constant Response Circuitry for Stable Motor Speed
This model includes Bosch's "Constant Response" circuitry, which monitors and maintains speed under load for consistent performance and overload protection. Constant Response works by detecting tough loads and then increasing power to maintain the selected RPM. Working with stable speed lets you concentrate on controlling the router, so you'll always make clean, burn-free cuts.
Additionally, a quick-clamp system allows the motor to be easily adjusted and moved from base to base. For further convenience, an angled cord exit keeps the router's cord safely out of your work area.
The PR20EVSK comes with a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
Router, straight edge guide, carrying case, fixed base, 1/4-inch self-releasing collet, drop-forged collet, shaft wrenches, and instruction manual.
8. DEWALT DW618PK 12-AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit
Feature
2-1/4 hp, 12-amp electronic variable speed motor provides the power to rout smoothly through the toughest hardwoodsComes with 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets for improved versatility and bit retention
Depth adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments and adjusts vertically
Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
Integral, through-the-column dust collection collects 95% of the dust and provides superior bit visibility
Item does not come with a centering tool
Description
DEWALT DW618PK 12-Amp 2-1/4 Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets- Dimensions: 9.13 IN x 15.88 IN x 24.0 IN
- Features
- 2-1/4 hp (maximum motor hp), 12.0 Amp electronic variable speed motor provides the power to rout smoothly through the toughest hardwoods
- Electronic variable speed with full feedback control for constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm and soft start to reduce start-up torque for enhanced control
- Micro-fine depth adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments and adjusts vertically for a constant switch/cordset location
- Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
- Integral, through-the-column dust collection collects 95% of the dust and provides superior bit visibility; Quick release motor latches for fast and easy motor pack removal for bit and base changes
9. QLOUNI 20PCS 1/8(3mm) HSS Routing Router Bits Burr Rotary Tools Set for Dremel, Wood Working Tools, Carving, Engraving, Drilling
Feature
[High Quality] Tungsten Burr set, High Speed Steel, stay sharp longer than the cheap, lower quality burs[20 Different Bits] Each Burr is shaped to fit different angles or situations, fits Dremel Tool, meet most of your drilling needs
[Diameter of Shank] Shank diameter: 3mm (1/8''), total length: 4cm (8/5''), high grade and the cuts of each bit make you feel that they have been designed with precision
[High Compatibly] The Carbide Rotary Files can work with most small rotary tools (like Dremel tool) for DIY carving fans
[Wide Application] Carbide Rotatory Burr Sets are perfect for softest wood, carving engraving, drilling glass/holes
Description
QLOUNI 20pcs Carbide Rotary FilesFeatures
20pcs high speed steel carbide rotary burr in Assorted shape, fits Dremel Tool can meet most of your needs, for drilling holes, engraving, carving, wood working
High speed steel Features as solid, can last for longtime, not easy to get wearing
Tips: The Cutting heads are not very sharp tools, work in the softest wood well
Specifications
Shank Diameter:3mm(1/8'')
Total length: 4cm(8/5'')
Package Included
20pcs/set x HSS Routing Wood Rotary File