Ever looked at a beautifully crafted wooden table or a perfectly shaped shelf and wondered how it was made? Often, the secret weapon in a woodworker’s arsenal is a router. But what if you’re just starting out, or looking to upgrade your tools? Choosing the right router and understanding how to use a router table can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different types, features, and brands, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and even make a costly mistake.
That’s where we come in! This post is designed to cut through the confusion and give you the clear, simple information you need. We’ll break down what makes a good router, explore the benefits of a router table, and help you figure out which combination is perfect for your projects. By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident about choosing the right tools and ready to tackle your woodworking dreams.
So, let’s dive in and discover how a router and router table can transform your woodworking! We’ll start by exploring the different types of routers available and what makes each one unique.
Our Top 5 Router And Router Table Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Router And Router Table Detailed Reviews
1. BOSCH 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit – 2.25 Horsepower Plunge Router & Fixed Base Router Kit with a Variable Speed 12 Amp Motor and RA1181 Benchtop Router Table
Rating: 8.6/10
The BOSCH 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit is a fantastic set for anyone serious about woodworking. It gives you a powerful 2.25 horsepower router that you can use in two ways: as a plunge router or a fixed base router. This kit also comes with the Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table, making it a complete package for all your routing projects.
What We Like:
- It’s a versatile combo kit with both plunge and fixed bases.
- The router has a strong 12 Amp motor with speeds from 8,000 to 25,000 RPM.
- The benchtop router table is well-equipped with featherboards and dust collection.
- It features soft start and easy-to-use micro-fine depth adjustments.
- The aluminum fence and mounting plate on the table are durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 6-foot power cord might be a bit short for some workshops.
- While powerful, it might be overkill for very simple, occasional tasks.
This Bosch kit offers a great combination of power, versatility, and helpful features for woodworkers of all levels. It’s a solid investment for taking your projects to the next level.
2. SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit
Rating: 8.7/10
Unleash your woodworking potential with the SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit. This combo kit brings together a robust router table and a powerful router, making it a fantastic setup for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. It’s designed to help you create precise cuts and smooth finishes on your projects.
What We Like:
- The kit includes both the SKIL Router Table and a 10 Amp Fixed Base Router, offering great value.
- Above the table adjustment makes it easy to change router bits without reaching under the table.
- The large 24-inch fence with adjustable face plates helps you guide your wood accurately.
- Integrated bit storage keeps your router bits organized and handy.
- The router features a powerful 10 Amp motor with soft start and speed control for smooth operation.
- Durable construction with die-cast motor housing and ergonomic handles ensure a comfortable and secure grip.
- The fence includes a starter pin and guard, which is helpful for routing taller pieces of wood.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fence is large, some users might prefer even more adjustability for specialized tasks.
- The included featherboards are functional, but heavier-duty options might be preferred by some advanced woodworkers.
This SKIL router table and router kit is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their routing capabilities. It provides a good balance of power, features, and ease of use for many woodworking projects.
3. Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table
Rating: 8.9/10
The Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is a fantastic tool for woodworkers. It helps you make precise cuts and detailed designs in your woodworking projects. This table makes routing much easier and safer. It’s a great addition to any workshop, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker.
What We Like:
- The large aluminum top gives you plenty of space to work.
- It’s very sturdy and built to last.
- The aluminum mounting plate is pre-drilled for easy setup with different routers.
- You can adjust the router height from above the table.
- The tall aluminum fence with adjustable faces helps you make accurate cuts.
- It has a dust port that fits standard vacuum hoses, keeping your workspace clean.
- Adjustable featherboards provide extra guidance and protect you from kickback.
- There’s a handy accessory slot for things like miter gauges.
- A storage pocket keeps your router accessories organized.
- The cord wrap and power-cord lock are smart features for safety and convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find it a bit heavy for a “benchtop” model.
- While it fits many routers, very large or unusual models might require some modification.
Overall, the Bosch RA1181 router table is a well-designed and versatile tool. It offers great features for precision woodworking and a cleaner workspace.
4. Routers & Router Tables
Rating: 9.5/10
Routers and router tables are essential tools for anyone who enjoys woodworking or DIY projects. They help you shape wood with precision and create decorative edges. Whether you’re building furniture or just adding a personal touch to a craft, these tools offer a lot of versatility.
What We Like:
- They make shaping wood easier.
- You can create many different designs.
- They help make your projects look more professional.
- Router tables give you more control and stability.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some routers can be quite noisy.
- They might require a learning curve for beginners.
- The bits can be expensive to replace.
- Router tables take up a good amount of workshop space.
Routers and router tables are valuable additions to any woodworker’s toolkit. They allow for creativity and precision, helping you achieve impressive results on your projects.
5. SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage
Rating: 9.2/10
The SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table is a handy tool for any woodworker. It helps you make precise cuts and shapes with your router. This table is designed to make your routing projects easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- Above the Table Router Lift: You can easily adjust your router bits without reaching under the table. This saves you time and effort.
- Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage: Keep your router bits organized and safe. The storage case has quick latches and keeps your bits in one place, so you don’t lose them.
- Precise and Smooth Routing: The table is made of smooth MDF and has an aluminum miter gauge slot. This helps guide your wood for accurate cuts.
- Large Fence: The 24-inch fence has adjustable plates. It works well with taller pieces of wood, giving you more control.
- Two Featherboards: These attach to the fence and table. They guide your wood and help prevent kickback, making your work safer.
- Router Clamp: You can quickly attach most routers to the table with the included clamp. It’s easy to use and fits many router brands.
What Could Be Improved:
- The MDF table surface might scratch over time with heavy use.
- While portable, it can still be a bit bulky to store in smaller workshops.
The SKIL SRT1039 offers great features for its price. It’s a solid choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers looking for a reliable router table.
Choosing Your Perfect Router and Router Table Combo
Why You Need a Router and Router Table
A router is a powerful tool for woodworkers. It carves out wood to make grooves, edges, and shapes. A router table makes using a router safer and easier. It holds the router upside down. This lets you push wood against the spinning bit.
1. Key Features to Look For
Power and Speed
Look for a router with a strong motor. More power helps it cut through tough wood. Variable speed is also important. It lets you match the speed to the wood and bit type. Faster speeds are good for softer woods. Slower speeds work better for hardwoods and large bits.
Collet Size
Routers use collets to hold the bits. Most routers have a 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch collet. A 1/2-inch collet can hold larger, stronger bits. This is better for tougher jobs.
Base Type
Routers come with different bases. A fixed base is good for set-depth cuts. A plunge base lets you push the bit into the wood. Many routers come with both.
Router Table Features
- Tabletop Material: A flat, smooth tabletop is key. MDF is common, but some tables have laminate or phenolic tops. Phenolic is very durable and resists moisture.
- Insert Plate: This is a ring that holds the router. Look for one with adjustable rings to fit different bit sizes.
- Fence: A fence guides the wood. An adjustable fence lets you make precise cuts.
- Dust Collection: Good dust collection keeps your workspace clean. Look for a port to attach a shop vacuum.
- Storage: Some tables have shelves or drawers for bits and accessories.
2. Important Materials
Router tables are often made from MDF. Higher-quality tables use phenolic resin or aluminum for the tabletop. These materials are smoother and last longer. The router itself is usually made of plastic and metal.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters
- Solid Construction: A sturdy router table won’t wobble. This makes your cuts more accurate.
- Smooth Tabletop: A slick surface helps wood slide easily.
- Precise Fence: An accurate fence ensures straight cuts.
- Powerful Motor: A strong motor means less bogging down.
- Good Bearings: Smooth-running bearings in the router help it last longer.
Quality Reducers
- Wobbly Table: This leads to inaccurate cuts and safety issues.
- Rough Tabletop: Wood can snag and catch, causing problems.
- Flimsy Fence: It’s hard to make straight cuts with a weak fence.
- Underpowered Motor: The router may struggle with harder woods.
- Cheap Plastic Parts: These can break easily.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A router and router table make many woodworking tasks easier. You can create decorative edges on furniture. You can cut grooves for shelves or drawers. You can also make perfect joints for cabinets.
For beginners, a simple router and table combo is a great start. As you get more experienced, you might want a more powerful router or a larger table. The ease of use and safety a router table provides is a big plus. It helps you achieve professional-looking results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a handheld router and a router table?
A: A handheld router is used directly in your hands to move the wood. A router table holds the router upside down, and you move the wood over the bit.
Q: Can I use any router with a router table?
A: Most routers can be mounted to a router table, but you need an insert plate that matches your router’s base.
Q: What is the most important part of a router table?
A: The tabletop needs to be flat and smooth for best results.
Q: Is a plunge router better than a fixed-base router for a table?
A: A fixed-base router is usually preferred for router tables because it offers more control for consistent depth cuts.
Q: How do I choose the right router bit?
A: The type of bit you need depends on the cut you want to make. Bits come in many shapes like roundover, straight, and chamfer.
Q: Is dust collection really necessary?
A: Yes, dust collection is important for your health and keeps your workspace clean for better visibility and accuracy.
Q: What size router do I need?
A: For most home projects, a router with 1.5 to 2.25 horsepower is usually enough.
Q: How do I ensure safety when using a router table?
A: Always use push sticks, keep your hands away from the spinning bit, and wear safety glasses.
Q: Can I build my own router table?
A: Yes, many woodworkers build their own router tables to save money and customize them.
Q: What kind of wood is best for a router table top?
A: Phenolic resin or MDF with a laminate coating are good choices for durability and smoothness.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.