What Are The Best Wood Router For Beginners in 2022? (Reviews, Types, Factors & Buying Guide)

Best Wood Router For Beginners

Last Updated on June 05, 2022

For any woodworking project, the type of results that you get is very important. So how do you get the best results? The trick is to use the best tool.

One of the most reliable woodworking tools that you can use is the router. In this post, I am going to review some of the best wood routers for beginners. I will focus on the review, the buying guide, and many additional tips that can help. The reason I am doing this is simple.

At the end of this reading, I want you to be able to pick your personal best wood router for beginners. It is my desire that you will also be able to use it then.  That’s why you should read this post to the end.

Let’s take a look at the best wood router reviews that I have prepared for you today.

Our Favorite Wood Routers on the Market [2022]

We have listed the Favorite Wood Routers above but if you want to know details of each product; please scroll below and explore them.

14 Best Wood Router for Beginners

I hope you can easily found your wood router in this list without hesitation

1. Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router – Best Overall Pick

Tool Combo Kit – 2.25 Horsepower Bosch Plunge Router & FIXED Base Router Kit with a Variable Speed 12 Amp Motor. The Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router is a 2.25 HP Bosch plunge router with a fixed base. The wood router kits are extremely versatile and super ideal for a broad range of router-based applications.

The router’s use includes precise bit plunging and edge forming. It can also be used for slot cutting and laminate trimming. More importantly, the router can also help anyone who needs dovetail cutting applications.

Personally, I have seen many users of the Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router also use the router with a router table. So, what makes it ideal for home use? First, the kit is versatile and features a high-end 25, 000 RPM.

It has a 12-amp motor that also quite dependable and will deliver the much power needed for any smooth routing. Because it can be used for a broad range of router applications such as precise bit plunging, and edge forming, this router is also very reliable.

It is a great way of killing two birds with a single stone. If possible, you can also double up and use it for slot cutting and laminate trimming like I mentioned above. Such a range of us has made this router one of the most widely used routers.

As if that’s not enough, the router is also highly durable. It is made of aluminum that makes one of the best and also the most durable routers that come with wooden handles and a fixed base.

The router offers a softer grip handle with a plunge base too. It is easy to use. Thanks to its hardwood handles that are rounded to provide easy grip and maximize user control.

Key Features

• 2.25 HP plunge router
• 12 Amp Motor
• 25, 000 RPM
• Aluminum model
• 3 pounds of weight
• 22.7 x 15.2 x 9.8 inches

Pros

• The broad range of router application
• Durable routers
• Softer grip handle
• Easy to use
• Maximized user control

Cons

• Limited colors

TIPS

Better motor power. It powers up in less than a second for the ultimate use.

2. DEWALT 20V Max XR Cordless Router

DEWALT router is a cordless and brushless router with ring adjustment that allows for quick height adjustment with ease. The installed electronic brakes shut down the motor rapidly at a speed of 16,000 to 25,000 rims per minute.  The wireless router is installed with custom speed control depending on the surface of the application.

Key Features

• DEWALT router comes with dual LED lights to help illuminate the workspace.
• An installed motor with a soft start helps maneuver the speed during cutting.
• The product weighs 2.6 pounds.
• A compact router is included in the packaging.
• Batteries are required upon the usage of the DEWALT router.

Pros

• The LED lights are useful when working in dark places.
• The speed control is easy to understand and adjustable.
• The weight and balance of the product help guide it effortlessly on the surface.
• The cordless attribute guides it in tight places without any problems.

Cons

• The speed control can be hit without any hindsight, affecting the output.
• The latch that holds the body of the router easily comes off. However, it can be reattached without any difficulty.
• Slightly weighty than most here
• The product does not come with batteries.
• DEWALT batteries consume smaller batteries quickly. It is recommended that 6AH batteries be used to avoid the constant changing of batteries.

TIPS

Easy to use for new users. You don’t need much instruction if you are starting.

3. Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit

Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router for Beginners Tool Kit is another powerful and highly reliable wood router. It will come in handy during door processing and furniture processing. It is also good for edge finishing and also for woodworking slotting.

For the guys who need the best crafting touch on wood, this awesome tool is also awesome. It offers one of the best speeds and power. The Enertwist compact router is actually a woodworking tool that offers an improved 7.0Amp. It also has a 1-1/4 HP motor that offers up to 6 variable speeds.

You can adjust the speed from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM depending on the material that you are working on and the timeline that you need. The router is good for carving and trimming. It offers a soft-starting on its electric motor and features full-time electronic feedback.

The model can easily maintain the best motor speed all through the chosen cut. It provides you with an incredibly smooth and clean touch too. Its rack-and-pinion design features an awesome depth control system that you can apply in case you need the best precision cutting.

There is also the easy-to-use cam-lock technology for an easy depth adjustment. It is supported by a reliable base removal and installation system. Like the other models before it, the Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router for Beginners Tool Kit also features the heavy-duty cast aluminum housing.

This type of casing gives it a durable touch. It also minimizes the vibration when working and works with the soft-grip handle to increase comfort and also durability. Again, there is adjust collection port. The port is large and allows you to go for a longer period of time. The port is 35mm on the inner and 38mm on the outer.

It is connected with a suitable dust bag or even vacuum cleaners to give you the tidiest working space.

Key Features

• 6 variable speeds
• 7.0Amp
• 1-1/4 HP motor
• 10,000 to 32,000 RPM
• Electric motor
• Dust collection port

Pros

• Dust collection port
• Heavy-duty cast aluminum housing
• Good for carving and trimming
• Incredible smooth and clean touch
• Easy-to-use cam-lock technology

Cons

• Shallow user manual

TIPS

Ideal for homes with limited space. Thanks to its cool cord and easy use.

4. 11-Amp 2 HP Fixed-Base Wood Edge Guide Router

Another powerful and highly efficient woodworking router is the 11-Amp 2 HP Fixed-Base Wood Edge Guide Router. The router is easy to use. It is also extremely powerful and quite reliable.

More importantly, the router comes with a powerful 11-Amp motor. The electric motor produces at its peak a 2-horsepower capacity that’s able to handle a wide range of most woodworking applications.

This router also features the variable speed touch. Even so, it will go for up to 25, 000 RPM if it requires the fastest touch. For hardwood’s cleanest cuts, this router is a reliable model to go with.

It offers the best depth technology the easiest depth controls. This woodwork router has micro-fine depth adjustment rings that provide you with precise depth adjustments.

The adjustments come in 1/64-inch increments. Like many other models that you will find in the top range, this router can also be used for a broad range of woodworking applications. Some of the applications include precise bit plunging and edge forming. There is also slot cutting and laminate trimming.

For the most seasoned woodworkers, using this router for dovetail cutting is no brainier at all. Personally, I also love the fact that this router is designed from one of the most durable metallic alloys for its casing. It uses aluminum alloy and comes with a power switch.

The model is completely dust-sealed to add to its touch of durability. Thankfully, it has a rubber molded handle that provides you with the most superior comfort and balance. This same type of design also offers you the best control during the shortest and extended jobs too.

As if that’s not enough, there is an ergonomic design structure. This type of building is quite innovative. It changes the chunky traditional structure and makes your work much more flexible too.

Key Features

• 11-Amp motor
• 2 HP
• 25, 000 RPM
• 1/64-inch increments
• Aluminum alloy

Pros

• Best speeds and power
• Choose your optimal speeds
• Compass equipped
• Scaled compass
• Wooden handles

Cons

• Catches dirt easily

TIPS

Ideal for best safety measures. It has a reliable in-built hand protector for your use.

5. PORTER-CABLE Router, Fixed Base, 11-Amp (690LR)

Like the wood routers that we have seen, the Porter-Cable Router 690, Fixed Base, 11-Amp (690LR) is also a versatile option. For starters, it has a very powerful motor. The router uses an 11-amp motor producing that produces up to 1-3/4 horsepower on the peak. This means that it can easily slice into lumber and give you the best results yet.

The router also has a capacity of hitting up to 27,500 revolutions per minute in just a single speed. This does not only add to its power. It also guarantees the best time-saving router model for wood. There is also the precision-machined aluminum housing and base.

Porter-Cable Router 690 not only gives you accurate work but also leaves you with the best durable touch. The cam-lock lever is also another great feature that will enable you to enjoy the simplest height adjustments and also motor release touch.

There is the micrometer depth adjuster that’s accurate to the 1/128-inch that you can also integrate with this. Thankfully, there is also the auxiliary handle that will easily help you to achieve your personal milling effect.

It also improves the user experience and reducing fatigue since you are using just a single hand for operation. To add to that, there is the fast bit removal and ergonomic design. These two maximize the speed of your work. It also guarantees the stability and comfort of how you operate.

It is a great way of guaranteed user-friendly performance with additional consistency. The Porter-Cable router comes with an auto-release collet system that makes the removal of the router bits an easy affair.

Under the table is an under-table stop that prevents the electronic motor from inadvertently rotating outside the base. For the ergonomic touch, there are the best-molded grips that keep your hands with the wrists in a comfortable position even under extended jobs.

Key Features

• 1-3/4 horsepower
• 11-amp motor
• 27,500 revolutions-per-minute
• Machined aluminum housing
• Auto-release collet system

Pros

• Fixed base design
• Quite dependable
• Smooth routing
• Variable speeds
• Slot cutting and laminate trimming

Cons

• Handle made of wood

TIPS

Best for a heavy workload. It is the best router for continuous workflow.

6. Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit

Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit has been in the market for quite a long time. It is one of those router models that you can rely on at any time. I own one of these and I can guarantee you that for the three years that I have had it, it has been nothing but fun.

The Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit offers various features that make your work easy and enjoyable. First, it offers variable speeds. The speed control dial allows you to set your router in a seed range of 10,000 and 30,000 RPM.

This gives you better flexibility. It also enables you to control your speed and helps you to save time. Variable speeds also enable the user to easily match the exact speed to the main woodwork application.

In addition to that, like the other top models, this router also has one of the best racks and pinion systems for the finest depth adjustment. The technology is smooth and easy to use too. While the pinion system is very precise, the overall build is slim, easy to handle, and ergonomically designed.

It is the best-suited body for ultimate comfort and reliable control. There is also a quick-release cam lock system that guarantees the easiest depth adjustments. You can use the same for quick base removal and installation. The electronic speed control also maintains the most constant speed under the highest load.

Even for the beginner, using this router is easy since it comes with the soft start feature that guarantees smooth start-ups.

Finally, the router features a constant response circuitry that comes in an in-built design. It can easily maintain a constant speed all through the cut. This means that you will get a cleaner and much accurate result too.

Key Features

• 1-1/4 HP
• 10,000 and 30,000 RPM
• Depth adjustments
• Shaft lock
• Flat top

Pros

• Features the variable speed
• Hardwood cleanest cuts
• Easiest depth controls
• Precise depth adjustments
• The broad range of woodworking applications

Cons

• Slightly low horsepower

TIPS

Gives the top speeds for mid-level jobs. The revolution per minute is higher.

7. DEWALT Router Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, (DWP611PK)

One of the reasons why I want to include the DEWALT Router Fixed/Plunge Base Kit on this list is because I understand it well. I have used it before and for quite a long time. My experience with DEWALT palm Fixed Router stretches back to over six years when I was taking one of the largest jobs in my former school.

To start us off, the router has one of the most durable electronic motors. The motor has a 1.25HP capacity and delivers one of the best powers that will meet even the toughest woodwork applications. Like many other models that we have seen, this one is also a top model that comes with variable speed controls.

The speed control feature will enable the bit speed to optimize for quick-changing applications. Nonetheless, there is the soft-starting motor. The soft-start features the full-time electronic feedback system technology that helps to maintain the motor speed all through the cut.

More importantly, there is the dual-LED and the clear sub-base that ensures that you get maximum visibility in case of any operation. The quick adjustment ring also enables you to get the easiest control of the bit for the appropriate depth changes. The changes are usually within the 1/64″ for the fixed base.

The plunge base also incorporates the fine-tuning adjustment rod in case you need a precise depth setup. Unlike the other models, this one also has a large spindle lock button that uses slow pressure to provide you with a comfortable and easy change of the single wrench.

Of importance too is the fixed base system that accepts the industry and standard template as complete guides for the best convenience.

Key Features

• 1.25HP capacity
• Dual LED
• 1/64″ for the fixed base
• Spindle lock button
• Adjustment rod

Pros

• Precise bit plunging and edge-forming
• Durable metallic alloy
• Best control during the shortest and extended jobs
• Ergonomic design structure
• Makes your work much more flexible

Cons

• Bits dulls after sometime

TIPS

Best for single-hand use. You don’t have to use both hands. Thanks to the simple model.

8. Bosch MRC23EVSK Combination Router-

The final best woodwork router that we will look at is the Bosch MRC23EVSK Combination Router. This brand is one of the best routers for beginners brands that you can get today. The router model that we have here is reliable and versatile.

It has a precision control system that uses the trigger control system. The system located around the handle and provides enhanced control.

The router system is also adjustable. It gives you the freedom to employ the variable speeds using the reliable dial pad for matching the speed. The router features a fast, 2.3 HP speed and comes with soft start motors.

The variable speed controls the horsepower and gives you the tough strength for the hardest routing tasks. With the 15 Amp, the speed range is also high and falls between 10, 000 and 25, 000 RPM. There is the high compatibility that the router table provides with its threaded holes and fixed-base design.

One thing that you will love in this model is also the multiple shaft-lock detents. These dents also enable you to get quick and simple bit adjustments. The depth ring and the clamping mechanism also combine to ensure that the motor remains in the best locked-in position for the fixed base use only.

Nonetheless, there are the spring-loaded release tabs that allow you to have the safest quick base removal. Thankfully, the motor can also be transitioned quickly, so that it runs smoothly between the fixed and plunge bases.

For the best grips around the handles, again, there is the addition of the over-molded rubber to the handles. The molding provides comfortable and one of the securest grips. Finally, this router offers the best edge guide and compatibility. It works with all the 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2-inch bits.

It also uses the best edge guide that allows users to route very straight lines and to create the best grooves along with any workpiece.

Key Features

• 2.3 HP speed
• 15 Amp the speed
• 10, 000 and 25, 000 RPM
• Multiple shaft-lock detents
• Over-molded rubber
• Spring-loaded release tabs

Pros

• Auxiliary hand
• Single hand for operation
• Additional consistency
• Easily match the exact speed to the main woodwork
• Quick base removal and installation

Cons

• Higher amp rating

TIPS

The best design for a longer-lasting experience. It is the most durable router design.

9. Triton TRA001 3.25HP Wood Router

The Triton TRA001 router is one of the most versatile wood routers for woodworkers. It guarantees full control and accurate engineering. This tool offers a wide range of fantastic features and is able to handle the strongest wood pieces.

This tool comprises a multi-function fence that provides reasonable control when being handheld. It includes well-enclosed protection that gives protection from the cut zone. The combination of a plunge and fixed-base router helps you to complete various projects without using other tools.

The plunge base assists in making designs, and the fixed-base helps to give smooth edges and flat surfaces.

Key Features

• The Triton TRA001 includes a 3.25 hp motor.
• A single button switches from plunge to a fix-based router.
• It comprises a micro winder that allows fine depth adjustment.
• It offers a running power of 8000 to 21000 rpm.
• It weighs 14.33 lbs.

Pros

• This router has a soft starting and a variable speed.
• The dust is reduced because of the presence of side vents.
• It works as a plunge and fixed base router.
• It is light in weight.
• This router provides easy access to change worn brushes.

Cons

• Some of the customers complained about the motor vibrating while in use.

10. Bosch GKF12V-25N Wood Router

Delivering cordless freedom, the Bosch GKF-12V-25N Max EC wood router is one of a kind tool that has been designed uniquely.

If you plan to do a comfortable and compact edge routing, this router will be a fantastic option.

Key Features

• It weighs 2.2 lbs.
• If your rounding to a depth of 0.2 inches, this router provides 23ft of routing per battery              Amp hour.
• This cordless router provides efficient power of 13000 rpm.
• It offers fine depth Adjustment and convenient macro adjustment.

Pros

• It offers a versatile depth adjustment.
• The gripping parts are present on the workpiece for excellent stability.
• This EC brushless motor provides excellent runtime.
• It has an easy change spindle lock.
• It comprises a drop-detection sensor that stops the motor if dropped.

Cons

• The application is limited.
• The bits are not located at the base.

11. Avid Power 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router

Avid Power comes with a powerful and custom-speed motor with a variety of trimming applications and router settings. The router provides a detailed adjustment setting for precision in its operation from constructing cabinets to other woodworking. The product arrives with five router bits and an edge guide.

Key Features:

• The product weighs 7.48 pounds.
• Avid Power comes with a 1.25 horsepower router.
• The power source is an electric cord of 12.1 feet or 3.7 meters.
• Batteries are not required, nor are they included in the packaging.
• The speed control varies from 10,000 to 32,000 RPMs for custom settings regarding the nature of materials.

Pros

• The product is an inexpensive alternative compared to its competitors.
• The accessories and parts of the router can be switched with similar products of competitors.
• LED dual lights to help illuminate the working space to provide better assistance.
• The installed motor is well-fitted and provides a higher load tolerance.
• It comes with a tool bag with a wrench, collets, and straight bits for the router.

Cons

• The vibrations can be felt more at higher speeds.
• The installed LED lights provide little brightness.
• The base provides for a rough finish.
• The trim router falls off easily.
• When applied pressure, the locked-in motor wobbles and cuts by accident.

12. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2723-20 Compact Router

The M18 compact router is a combination of accuracy, strength, and agility. It comes with detailed adjustments for a proper application. This compact router uses a Power state Brushless Motor with trim routers with 3100 RPMs for precise cuts, which guarantee optimum performance. This router comes with a USA manufacturer’s warranty.

Key Features:

• The product weighs 2.95 pounds.
• The product requires assembly due to its multiple parts.
• It is a battery-powered router.
• M18 compact router comes with a horsepower of 1.25 hp.
• The router carries maximum power of 900 watts.
• The batteries are required to turn on the router.

Pros

• The product is easy to use due to its toggle on-off switch.
• Even though it is cordless, it provides the same power as a corded router.
• The built-in intelligence protects it from overheating and overloads.
• Its speed varies from 10,000 to 31,000 RPMs to assist the user with clean and quality cuts.
• The product is also compatible with the complimentary Milwaukee offset base attachments and its plunge base.

Cons

• Batteries are not included in the packaging. They must be ordered separately.
• The manual is written in very fine print, which can be a hassle to read.
• The return and refund process is complicated, so buyer beware!

13. Metabo HPT Router

This Metabo HPT router comes with a fixed base with a variable speed setting. It is manufactured to assist groove cutting, chamfering, trimming, shaping, window cutting, and pattern cutting. This router is designed to provide precise cuts and would be a helpful addition to the worker’s workshop.

Key Features:

• The product weighs 10.28 pounds.
• The product comes with 2.25 horsepower.
• Batteries are not required for this router.
• It comes with a five-year warranty.
• The router emits noise at 79.5dB to assist the user focus on the job.

Pros

• Metabo router comes with an 11 amp motor for monitored and accurate cuts.
• Its two-stage motor clamps provide quick and quick adjustment for base changes.
• The rims per minute adjust as the load varies with the original speed control.
• The Metabo is plated with nickel, which allows for quick adjustments.

Cons

• The power switch is not placed in a suitable position.
• The router is unreliable at times and can overheat in less than six months of use.
• The customer service at Metabo may replace the first burnt battery, but no responsibility is taken by the company thereafter
• The spindle placed around the color cannot be removed without mechanically reverting it.
• Complicated issues are not posted on their website, and the support team lacks assistance.

14. Festool 492601 Router

This router is manufactured by Festool to provide perfect and precise routing. The 1400 Guide Stop router provides custom adjustment controls for exact cuts with a margin of error of one-tenth of a millimeter.  The router aims to provide smooth cutting with accuracy at an increased speed. The Guide stop comes off quickly and without any difficulty using the two rods that are included in the product with the deliverance of the OF 1400 router.

Key Features:

• The product weighs one pound.
• It comes with a three-year limited warranty.
• The router comes with a foot-level guidance support rail for better maneuvering and stability of the product.

Pros

• The batteries are not included in the product as they are not required for the setup.
• The installation is clear and straightforward.
• This router is particularly helpful in building cabinets and custom skateboards.
• It is an expensive product but saves time for searching for a cheaper and reliable alternative.

Cons

• The user needs to carry research on his own for a better understanding before using the product.
• It is required to tighten the adopter and go over everything before turning it on. This may become annoying after a few times.
• The rods are not mentioned in the guide adopter and must be researched separately.

Find here all the best palm routers here

Choosing the Right Wood Router for the Job

Wood routers having various sizes and features are found in a workshop.  If you are thinking about getting a router for your new project, then you need to read some good reviews about some popular routers out there in the market.

We have reviewed some best wood routers that have advanced and unique features.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Wood Router

In case you want to buy your better wood router there are many factors that you will have to consider. They include the following.

Speed

The speed of the router is vital. Make sure that you get the best revolution per minute. You must also ensure that you get variable speeds that you can work with.

More importantly, you must ensure that the motor is powerful and that it can easily power up your router.

Price

The price of the router is very important. You don’t want to spend what you cannot afford. In short, you will have to prepare your budget first and determine what you are willing to spend.

Once you have this in place, you can then use it as your main yardstick when you are out shopping.

Size

Size is another consideration that you must make. Ensure that the size of the best router for beginner woodworkers is ideal for your space.

If you have a tight workshop, you must ensure that the router takes limited space but still leaves you with enough space to move around.

Reviews

For woodwork tools, what the previous users say is often very important. You always want to find out if you are on the right track.

It is therefore very important to take a look at their wood router in order to determine the ideal model for your use. More often than not, user feedback and expert reviews will give you ideal pointers on what to look at.

Some of the factors that you can look at include durability, efficiency, and ease of use.

Durability

The work that will do is not an easy one. To be much more direct, most woodworking projects are often quite demanding. If this is the case, it is, therefore, important that you find a model that’s tailored for the job

Metallic alloy construction is very vital. Nonetheless, you should go for a light, portable, and highly resistant model. That’s why aluminum models are some of the most celebrated designs today.

Ease of Use

Let’s just say this, how easy is the router to use? Can you remove and easily replace the bit? Is the router easy to work with?

How much control do you need to apply to get the best results? Depending on what you need it is important that you find a router model that’s easy to work with.

I always suggest that you go for a router that has an easy-to-understand user manual. If you can easily follow the user manual then you can get to operate the router easily.

Warranty

Many tools have a tendency to develop malfunctions sometimes. Such problems can come from the poor design of the tool or simply from weak-ends.

Whichever model you choose, it is important that you buy your good wood router for the beginner with a warranty.

If you have a warranty, fixing your router will be easy. In addition to that, you will also get enough time to enjoy the value of your money.

Additional Information

Now that you have seen the user guide, it is time to give you some of the best additional info about routers. Take a look at what I have in store for you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Final Notes:

Now that we have looked at some of the best wood routers for beginners, I believe that you have made your choice. That’s good. The tools reviewed above make routing easier for every woodworking enthusiast and help you make intricate designs and perform fantastic routing.

If not, you can use our guide to roll out the perfect plan to nail your wood router For beginners today. Even so, I often tell my readers to focus more on their needs before the prices. It is good to understand that the router that you are buying will satisfy your needs first.