BOSCH RA1171 vs RA1181 Router Table
If you want to get your hands on a decent and functional router table, you might come across Bosch as one of the most popular manufacturers. However, the brand has successfully launched so many models that choosing one may not be that easy at all.
In the line-up that Bosch has produced, deciding between two of their most popular models can be pretty hard. So, here is a complete Bosch RA1171 vs RA1181 guide for you to get through this struggle. Both these models differ in many aspects while having many similarities as well. So, let’s dig deep down into what they have to offer.
Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171
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The Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171 has topped the charts due to its functional nature and high-end quality. From build quality to the precision that it allows you to get during work, every aspect serves amazingly well to the user. This model may not be the easiest to travel with, but its cleaning regime will not fail to impress you. The lamination top and sturdy aluminum mounting plate will grant you accuracy in handling your wood while working.
Features and Specifications
- 35 pounds of weight
- Tall aluminum fence
- Sturdy aluminum router mounting plate
- Pre-drilled plate
- Two feather boards
- Fully adjustable
- Accessory slot
- Cabinet style design
- Two dust collection ports
- 6 feet power cord and dual outlet switch
- Three mounting plate rings
- One-year limited warranty
Benchtop Router Table RA1181
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Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181 is one of the best models by far that the brand has manufactured. This unit is bound to give you a lasting and memorable experience with the portable style and sturdy nature. The precision that the rigid aluminum plate and the top offer is indeed remarkable. Furthermore, the fully adjustable nature of this unit will grant you great versatility in working with it.
Features and Specifications
- 30 pounds of weight
- Large aluminum top
- Rigid aluminum mounting plate
- Pre-drilled plate
- Extra tall aluminum fence
- Adjustable feather boards and faceplates
- Standard dust-collection port
- Accessory slot storage pocket
- One-year limited warranty
Bosch RA1171 vs. RA1181 – What’s the difference?
Structural Design
The cabinet style of RA1171 makes it a little heavy and less portable. However, the plus point is that you can store your tools in the cabinet easily. Whereas the benchtop design of RA1181 is there to offer lightweight nature and higher portability.
Work Surface Precision
The laminated and smooth aluminum finish of the RA1171 will provide accuracy during work sessions. The top is quite spacious to handle differently sized wood pieces as well. Whereas RA1181 comes with the same aluminum top but without lamination. So, durability is not questionable regarding this model at all.
Base Support
When it comes to the RA1171 router table, you will get great balance due to the cabinet design. The sturdy base support will help you in precisely doing your work. However, this design won’t work on uneven surfaces. The same goes for the RA1181. Moreover, the sturdiness of the base is relatively weaker in this model.
Cleaning Regime
Regarding this aspect, the cabinet style of RA1171 makes it a clear winner. Due to its design, you will not get any debris or dust under the table. However, with the benchtop design of RA1181, you will have to face debris under the tabletop.
Size
RA1171 weighs 35 pounds whereas, RA1181 weighs 30 pounds. The tabletop space for the RA1171 is 25 In. X 15.5 In. Whereas, with Bosch Ra1181 Table, you will get a larger tabletop measuring 25 In. X 18 In.
Dust Collection Port
As far as the dust collection is concerned, as mentioned before, the RA1171 model has a slight edge here. Why so? Well, the design and structure of this unit make it better regarding this aspect. This unit holds two dust ports that are compatible with 2.5 inches of standard vacuum hoses. However, when it comes to RA1181, you will get only one dust-collected port.
Mounting Plate
The mounting plate is one of the most crucial parts of a router table. You can never make any compromise regarding this part. However, when it is about Bosch 1171 vs. RA1181, we have a clear winner. Many people have made complaints about the fixing issue of the mounting plate of Bosch RA1171. However, the makers have been successful in resolving this issue in the RA1181 model.
Featherboards
If you want easy and complete adjustability with your tool, both these models will do great for you. Both RA1181 and RA1171 come with two fully adjustable feather boards. Bu adjusting the feather boards, the user can handle a vast range of wood pieces with the tool easily.
Ease of Assembling
When assembling a router table, you will never want to put much of your effort or time into this step. So, the ease of assembling is an important aspect to look for before purchasing.
With the RA1181 model, you will get plenty of parts. It may be a bit time-taking, but once you get familiar with the parts, you are ready to set it up quickly as well. Hence, if you compare the assembling procedure to the RA1171 model, RA1181 will win the battle with a relatively easier procedure.
As far as the RA1171 model is concerned, assembling it is quite complicated as it comes with numerous parts. Moreover, there is some issue regarding the fixing of the mounting plate. So, getting through it won’t be too easy for you.
The Conclusion:
When it comes to Bosch RA1171 vs RA1181, similarities and differences run side-by-side. Some of the limitations of the previous model have been worked upon in the latest one. However, some pros and cons are purely related to the design.