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Top 10 Best Routers for Woodworking

When you’re building items out of wood, using the best router for woodworking can expand your possibilities. Routers are special tools that are designed for precision cutting. With a great model, you can make clean, beautiful edges or cut delicate patterns. Routers are also ideal for making perfect joints between two pieces of wood — in particular, they can help you cut beautiful dadoes and rabbets. As you choose a router, it’s important to look for models that are easy to hold, equipped with excellent blades, and powerful enough to slice through your preferred wood types.

1. DEWALT DWP611

When it comes to home projects, the DEWALT DWP611 is best router for woodworking. It’s built with a 1.25 HP motor, so it has the power to cut through a wide range of wood types. The motor uses electronic feedback as it runs, ensuring a consistent speed. Use the convenient adjustment ring to change the cutting depth, and shift the bit speed with the variable speed controls. Two LEDs and a clear sub-base help you track your cutting lines for an accurate result.

Dewalt Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

2. Makita RT0701C

Compact and easy to hold, the Makita RT0701C is a top router for woodworking. The body is slim and ergonomically designed, so it fits into smaller hands without causing fatigue. Select the perfect speed with the dial; it runs between 10,000 and 30,000 RPM. After you choose a speed, the electronic controls ensure that the motor maintains that speed as you cut. Create a precise depth with the rack-and-pinion system, and use the cam lock to make fast adjustments. This router features a soft-start mechanism for efficient startups.

Makita Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

3. Avid Power Compact Router

Cut through a wide range of hard and soft woods with this Avid Power router. The variable speed controls make it easy to set speeds between 10,000 and 32,000 RPM — just use the onboard dial for accurate settings. When you need to adjust the depth of a bit, the rack-and-pinion design helps you get the job done. As you cut, the rubber handle helps you maintain your grip, and two LEDs brighten your work surface. With the included dust hood, this router helps you keep your workshop clean.

Avid Power Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

4. Triton TRA001

Get two tools in one with the Triton TRA001 router. Use it as a plunge router when you need to make dadoes and grooves on the top surface of the board. Then, switch it into fixed-base mode when you need to make precise cut depths for dovetail joints. The single-button switch enables you to move quickly between the two modes. The micro winder helps you create the perfect depth, and the variable speed controls adjust to your wood type.

Triton Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

5. PORTER-CABLE 7518 Speedmatic

When you’re tackling long cuts, the PORTER-CABLE 7518 Speedmatic is a useful tool. It features a high-powered motor that starts without jumping and keeps a constant speed as you work, ensuring precise results. The aluminum housing is durable yet lightweight, and the dust seal helps the motor last longer in a dusty work environment. Two large side handles make it easy to control the router and follow your cut lines.

PORTER-CABLE Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

6. Enertwist Compact Palm Router Tool

For small tasks, this Entertwist router has just the right amount of power to get the job done. This cheap router for woodworking uses a 1.25 HP motor and six different speeds up to 32,000 RPM, giving you plenty of cutting options. Simply hold the top of the router in the palm of your hand to guide the blades. The soft-start feature prevents unnecessary torque, and the rack-and-pinion system helps you set a precise depth for any bit. Between tasks, switch out the bit in seconds using the quick-release lock.

Enertwist Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

7. PORTER-CABLE 892

If you need an affordable router for woodworking, the PORTER-CABLE 892 enables you to stick to a budget without sacrificing power. The 12-amp motor drives your bits through difficult woods with ease, and the electronic feedback system maintains a steady speed as the router moves. When you change to a different bit or wood type, the variable speed controls have you covered. On the sides of the body, two molded grips fit neatly into your hands and enable you to make precise cuts.

PORTER-CABLE 2 Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

8. Ryobi P601 One+

Create perfect trim cuts with the Ryobi P601 One+ router. The depth adjustment knob allows you to set the bit depth without using tools, and LED lights help you see clearly in dark wood shops. If you’re working in the heat or the rain, rely on the over-molded grips to help you maintain a tight hold on the tool. Keep in mind that the battery is not included, but you can use the P601 with many Ryobi 18V batteries.

Ryobi Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

9. MLCS 9056 Rocky Trim Router

For wood shops with limited storage space, the MLCS 9056 Rocky Trim Router is an efficient option. It features a compact body that slips into a small storage shelf. The heavy-duty body holds up well to frequent use, and the front switch enables you to control the power without letting go of the router base. The included flush-trim attachment and edge guide help ensure accurate cuts and joint work.

MLCS Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

10. Bosch 1617EVS Fixed-Base Router

The Bosch 1617EVS Fixed-Base Router is built for accuracy. An onboard dial sets the perfect speed in seconds, and the fixed base ensures consistency. With the unique hardwood handles, you can keep the router in control when precision matters most. The integrated motor has 2.25 HP and 12 amps, giving you the power to choose speeds up to 25,000 RPM.

Bosch Top Ten Best Router for Woodworking

A router can take your wood shop to the next level, making it easier for your to create tight joints and decorative edging. What’s more, it can help you build professional-quality items. With so many models on the market, the best router for woodworking for you depends on your project requirements and budget.

By BCR Writing Staff
July 2019

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