You might be thinking that investing in a router table is an unnecessary expense, but if you want to take your woodworking to the next level, it's a game-changer.
Finding the right router for your table can be a daunting task, but fear not, as we've done the research for you. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, selecting the best router for your table is crucial for achieving precision and efficiency in your projects.
So, let's explore the top 10 routers that can elevate your woodworking game and help you achieve professional-quality results in your workshop.
Key Takeaways
- The Bosch Benchtop Router Table with Aluminum Top & Vacuum Hose Port is a recommended option for its durability and convenient dust collection feature.
- The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit offers a portable and versatile solution with dual-sided bit storage.
- The Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table (Router Table A) is compatible with Bosch 4-Hole Subbase Pattern and 3-Hole Subbase Pattern, providing flexibility in router selection.
- Consider the power requirements and capacity, as well as the horsepower and speed options of different routers, to ensure efficient and safe woodworking tasks.
Bosch Benchtop Router Table with Aluminum Top & Vacuum Hose Port
For small-shop woodworkers seeking a compact and versatile router table with efficient dust collection, the Bosch Benchtop Router Table with Aluminum Top & Vacuum Hose Port is an excellent choice.
Its large aluminum top provides durability and precision, and the pre-drilled mounting plate ensures compatibility with various routers.
The extra tall aluminum fence with adjustable faceplates and feather boards offers precision and versatility, while the dedicated dust-collection port keeps your work area clean.
This table is compatible with a wide range of routers and fits standard 2-1/2 inch vacuum hoses.
Additionally, it comes with accessory slots for feather boards and optional accessories, as well as storage pockets for router accessories and cord-wrap storage for the power cord.
Overall, this router table is a convenient and functional tool, offering value for money and efficient dust collection for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Small-shop woodworkers seeking a compact and versatile router table with efficient dust collection.
Pros:
- Large aluminum top for extended work area and durability
- Adjustable feather boards for precision and versatility
- Efficient dust collection with dedicated dust-collection port
Cons:
- Assembly time-consuming but manageable
SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit
The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit offers a powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor with soft start, making it an ideal choice for woodworking enthusiasts seeking a reliable and versatile routing solution.
It includes a router table (SRT1039) and a 10 Amp fixed base corded router (RT1323-00) equipped with above the table adjustment, integrated bit storage, aluminum mite gauge slot, router clamp, starter pin, and two featherboards. The tall 16-inch aluminum fence comes with adjustable featherboards, MDF face plates, and a starter pin and guard.
The table is designed for heavy routing, while the fixed base router is suitable for completing tasks. Customers appreciate its sturdy fence, above table height adjustment, and starting pin as useful features, making it a good value for the price.
Available for a reasonable price under $135, this router and table combination is a solid choice for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Woodworking enthusiasts seeking a reliable and versatile routing solution.
Pros:
- Sturdy fence and above table height adjustment
- Powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor with soft start
- Integrated bit storage and aluminum mite gauge slot
Cons:
- Measurement lines on the table wear off quickly
SKIL Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Bit Storage
If you're seeking a portable router table that offers convenient access to router bits and precision routing, the SKIL Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Bit Storage is an ideal choice for woodworking enthusiasts.
This table features an above-the-table router lift for easy access to router bits, while the dual sided integrated bit storage ensures the protection and organization of your router bits.
The precision routing capabilities are enhanced by the aluminum miter gauge slot, aluminum mounting plate, and two featherboards. Additionally, the large aluminum fence can handle tall stock and comes with adjustable face plates.
The router clamp provides easy access to tools attached underneath the table, making it a practical and efficient option for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Woodworking enthusiasts seeking a portable and efficient router table for precision routing and convenient access to router bits.
Pros:
- Above-the-table router lift for easy access to router bits
- Dual sided integrated bit storage for protecting and organizing router bits
- Large aluminum fence with adjustable face plates for handling tall stock
Cons:
- Complaints about collet issues and customer support
Bosch Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Router Table with Dust Collection Ports
With its tall aluminum fence and adjustable MDF face plates, the Bosch Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Router Table with Dust Collection Ports offers woodworkers a premium work surface designed for precise cuts and enhanced support. The cabinet-style design includes two dust collection ports, ensuring efficient removal of dust and debris for a cleaner workspace. Its rigid aluminum router mounting plate stays flat and true, providing stability for accurate cuts. The inclusion of two easy-to-use featherboards offers additional guidance and protection against kickback.
This router table is compatible with a variety of routers and can be mounted on any workbench. Customers have praised its quality, solid construction, and straightforward assembly process. Backed by a limited 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee, the Bosch RA1171 Router Table provides reliability and peace of mind for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Woodworkers looking for a premium router table with efficient dust collection and precise cutting capabilities.
Pros:
- Premium work surface for woodworking and routing
- Efficient dust collection with two dust collection ports
- Solid construction and straightforward assembly process
Cons:
- Need to check router compatibility before purchasing
Rockler Trim Router Table with Pre-Drilled Holes (1/4 Thick Acrylic Base)
Ideal for small-scale woodworking projects, the Rockler Trim Router Table with Pre-Drilled Holes offers enhanced control and precision when using popular trim routers. This adjustable table router comes with pre-drilled holes on the back, a high-visibility bit guard, and a 1/4 thick acrylic base. It's perfect for applications such as round-overs, chamfers, and small dadoes, providing better control of handheld routers.
The table is compatible with popular trim routers like Bosch Colt, Porter Cable, and DeWalt, and it's also easy to use and detach the router from the table. While some users have mentioned limitations in base size and adjustments, the table has been praised for its size, strength, and sturdiness. It's an affordable and suitable option for occasional woodworkers with limited space, offering the opportunity for additional modifications for added strength and convenience.
Best For: Occasional woodworkers with limited space and those seeking an affordable option for small-scale woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Enhanced control and precision for small applications
- Compatible with popular trim routers
- Affordable and suitable for limited space
Cons:
- Limited adjustments and small base size
BOSCH RA1165 Under-Table Router Base with Above-Table Hex Key,Silver
The BOSCH RA1165 Under-Table Router Base with Above-Table Hex Key, Silver is an essential tool for woodworkers seeking precise and accessible bit height adjustments during routing tasks. This base, designed for use with the 1617, 1617EVS, and 1617EVSPK routers, allows for convenient depth adjustment of bit height from above the table. Its wide 3-3/4 base opening enables the use of larger bits, and the quick clamp system permits tool-free base changes. The base can be mounted to virtually any table surface and common router table plates, thanks to its threaded holes for mounting to Bosch's 4-hole subbase pattern and common 3-hole subbase pattern. With a 1.5-pound weight and a silver color, this under-table router base includes rubberized grip, mounting hardware, chip shield, and a hex adjustment wrench, providing woodworkers with a versatile and durable routing solution.
Best For: Woodworkers seeking precise and accessible bit height adjustments during routing tasks.
Pros:
- Convenient depth adjustment of bit height from above the table
- Wide base opening allowing for the use of larger bits
- Quick clamp system for tool-free base changes
Cons:
- Limited to use with specific Bosch router models
Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table (Router Table A)
Looking for a woodworking router table with an extra large extension table and precise miter gauge? The Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table (Router Table A) might just be what you need.
This table features an extra large extension table, a retractable guard for safety, and a multifunctional fence with an exact miter gauge for accurate cuts. It's manufactured by Leegol Electric and weighs 17.56 pounds. The package dimensions are 19.1 x 15 x 6.4 inches, making it a compact yet sturdy option.
Customer feedback highlights positive remarks on packaging, assembly, quality, and durability. However, some users have noted issues with the assembly instructions and compatibility with certain routers.
If you're in the market for a reliable and multifunctional router table, the Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table is worth considering.
Best For: Woodworking enthusiasts and professionals in need of a sturdy and versatile router table with precise miter gauge and an extra large extension table.
Pros:
- Extra large extension table for ample work space
- Multifunctional fence and exact miter gauge for accuracy
- Retractable guard for safety during operation
Cons:
- Issues with assembly instructions
Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table
For woodworkers seeking a premium, versatile router table that offers stability and precision, the Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table provides a convenient and reliable solution.
This bench top router table from Kreg, a top-notch brand known for its premium carpentry tools, features a quiet woodworking experience and a convenient routing table. The table comes in a sleek blue color with a painted finish, and it's designed with a solid base supported by casters for easy mobility. The product dimensions of 19.25D x 30W x 4.75H and its manageable weight of 28.4 pounds make it a practical addition to your workshop.
The included components such as the precision benchtop router tabletop, insert plate with level-loc rings plate levelers, aluminum fence with dust-collection port, bit guard, jointing rods, and assembly hardware, enhance its functionality.
Despite some assembly challenges mentioned in customer reviews, the Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table is highly regarded for its stability, quality, and jointing capabilities.
Best For: Woodworkers seeking a stable and versatile router table for precision and jointing capabilities.
Pros:
- Premium carpentry tools from a top-notch brand
- Convenient routing table with quiet woodworking experience
- Stable and adjustable for perfect performance
Cons:
- Tedious and time-consuming assembly
BOSCH 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router
Ideal for woodworkers seeking a reliable and powerful router, the BOSCH 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router offers precise control and versatile performance for a range of woodworking projects. With a durable aluminum construction and rounded hardwood handles, this router provides maximum user control.
The microfine bit-depth adjustment and built-in constant response circuitry ensure consistent speed throughout the cut, while the 12 amp motor with adjustable speed dial (8,000-25,000 RPM) caters to various cutting requirements. The router's compatibility with optional template guide adapters and included accessories like collet chucks and chip shields enhance its functionality.
Although customer reviews are mixed, with some experiencing issues, many users praise its power, precision, and ease of use. Overall, the BOSCH 1617EVS router is recommended for its reliability, durability, and suitability for both professionals and hobbyists.
Best For: Woodworkers seeking a powerful and versatile router for precision woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Durable aluminum construction and rounded hardwood handles for maximum user control.
- Microfine bit-depth adjustment and built-in constant response circuitry for consistent speed throughout the cut.
- Compatible with optional template guide adapters and includes various accessories for enhanced functionality.
Cons:
- Mixed customer reviews regarding performance and reliability.
BOSCH Portable Jobsite Router Table (RA1141)
Are you in need of a highly portable router table that offers easy setup and precise cuts for your woodworking projects? The BOSCH Portable Jobsite Router Table (RA1141) might be the solution you're looking for.
With its ultra-portable design featuring folding legs, you can set it up quickly and store it with ease. The laminated MDF top ensures smooth and precise cuts, while the easy click router mounting system allows for effortless bit changes without the need for leveling.
The table comes preassembled and offers onboard storage for holding router bits and spare parts. However, it's important to note that there have been mixed reviews regarding the quality and design, with some customers experiencing issues with wobbly legs and tool holder lids.
If portability and easy setup are your top priorities, this router table could be a suitable option for your woodworking needs.
Best For: Woodworkers with limited space or in need of portability for their woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable design with folding legs for fast setup and easy storage
- Laminated MDF top for smooth and precise cuts
- Onboard storage for holding router bits and spare parts
Cons:
- Wobbly legs and tool holder lids not staying closed
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Router for a Table
When choosing a router for a table, there are several factors to consider.
First, you should think about the power requirements of the router. Make sure that the router you choose has enough power to meet the demands of your woodworking projects.
Next, check the compatibility of the router with the table. You want to ensure that the router and the table are a seamless fit.
In addition, look into the table mounting options. Different tables may have different ways of mounting the router, so make sure that the mounting options align with your needs.
You should also consider the router adjustment features. Look for a router that has easy and precise adjustment features, as this will enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your woodworking projects.
Finally, don't forget about the dust collection system. A good dust collection system will help keep your workspace clean and minimize the amount of sawdust that gets into the air.
Router Power Requirements
When selecting a router for a table, it's essential to carefully assess the power requirements based on your specific woodworking tasks and workspace conditions. Router power varies between 1.75 to 2.25 horsepower for table routing, with higher horsepower routers suitable for heavy-duty tasks and lower horsepower ones for lighter projects.
Consider the router's amperage and voltage requirements to ensure compatibility with your workspace's power supply. Check the power source to align with the router's needs for safe operation.
Additionally, be mindful of the router's power consumption and its impact on your workshop's electrical load, especially when using other equipment simultaneously.
Understanding these power requirements will ensure that you select a router that can efficiently and safely handle the demands of your woodworking projects.
Router Compatibility
Choosing the right router for your table involves considering various compatibility factors, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance for your woodworking needs.
It's important to ensure that the router you choose is compatible with your specific router table model, as some routers may require adjustments or modifications for a perfect fit.
Additionally, compatibility with router table accessories and bit storage features should be taken into account to streamline your woodworking process.
It's crucial to note any compatibility limitations, such as certain routers not accepting template guides or having specific vacuum hose size requirements.
Moreover, if you plan on using your router internationally, consider compatibility with different power outlets and router models from various regions.
Checking compatibility with a wide range of router brands, including Bosch, DeWalt, Hitachi, and others, is also essential for flexibility and versatility in your woodworking projects.
Table Mounting Options
To ensure seamless integration and optimal performance for your woodworking needs, it's crucial to carefully consider the table mounting options when selecting a router for your table.
First, consider the size of the table and its extension options to ensure it can accommodate different workpieces and projects.
Look for router tables with pre-drilled mounting plates for easy compatibility with various routers, ensuring a secure and stable setup.
Evaluate the adjustability and quality of the fence, featherboards, and miter gauge for precise and controlled routing.
Additionally, explore the dust collection capabilities and the ease of access to the router for maintenance and bit changes.
Lastly, consider the portability and storage features, especially if space is a concern in your workshop.
These factors will contribute to a well-rounded router table setup for your woodworking projects.
Router Adjustment Features
Consider the router adjustment features as essential components for enhancing the precision and control of your woodworking projects, complementing the table mounting options discussed earlier.
Above-table adjustment features allow effortless changes to bit height and cutting depth without reaching under the table, ensuring convenience and safety.
Compatibility with various routers and router table plates provides versatility to adapt the router to your specific needs and preferences.
Built-in dust collection ports and efficient chip removal features contribute to a cleaner work environment and better visibility during routing operations.
Additionally, adjustable featherboards and fence systems offer enhanced guidance and support, enabling you to achieve more precise and controlled cuts.
When choosing a router for a table, prioritize these adjustment features to elevate the quality and accuracy of your woodworking endeavors.
Dust Collection System
When selecting a router for a table, prioritize the compatibility and efficiency of the dust collection system to ensure a cleaner and healthier work environment.
Effective dust collection systems are crucial for maintaining a tidy workspace and reducing health hazards associated with airborne particles.
Look for routers with dedicated ports designed for seamless attachment to vacuum hoses, as this ensures efficient debris extraction.
Consider the compatibility of the dust collection system with different router models and vacuum hose sizes to integrate it seamlessly into your workshop setup.
Quality dust collection systems not only minimize cleanup efforts but also contribute to a healthier work environment by capturing dust generated from various woodworking processes like routing, sanding, and cutting.
Choose a router with a dust collection system that effectively addresses your specific woodworking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Any Type of Router With These Router Tables, or Are There Specific Models That Are Compatible With Each Table?
You can't use any router with these tables. Specific models are compatible due to their design. Check the table's manual or website for recommended routers. Using the right router ensures safety and optimal performance for your woodworking projects.
Are These Router Tables Easy to Assemble and Set Up, or Do They Require Advanced Woodworking Skills to Put Together?
Setting up these router tables is straightforward, even if you're not a woodworking pro. They're designed for easy assembly and user-friendly operation. With clear instructions and minimal tools required, you'll have your table ready to use in no time.
How Do I Know Which Router Table Is the Best Fit for the Type of Woodworking Projects I Want to Work On?
To find the best router table for your woodworking projects, consider the table size, fence quality, and dust collection system. Also, look for compatibility with your router and accessories, as well as sturdy construction for precision cuts.
Are There Any Additional Accessories or Attachments That I Should Consider Purchasing to Enhance the Performance of These Router Tables?
You should consider purchasing accessories like featherboards, router lifts, and dust collection systems to enhance the performance of your router table. These additions can improve safety, precision, and cleanliness in your woodworking projects.
Can These Router Tables Accommodate Routers From Other Brands, or Do They Only Work With Routers From the Same Manufacturer?
Sure, you can use routers from various brands with these tables, but it's advisable to check compatibility. Different routers may require specific adapters or modifications, so always verify before pairing different brands.
Conclusion
So there you have it, 10 top-notch routers for your table that will take your woodworking to the next level.
With the right router, you'll be able to tackle any project with ease and precision.
Remember, when it comes to woodworking, a good router is worth its weight in gold.
Happy woodworking and may your cuts always be clean and your joints tight as a drum!
