Dewalt Dw618pk Router Review of 2021 | Tested & Reviewed

Dewalt Dw618pk Router Review

When it comes to carpentry, accuracy, and detail are the most important aspects. These two features also determine how beautiful your woodwork turns out to be in the end.

No matter how good the work is or how accurate the shape of a wood piece is, it will not impress anyone if it does not look professional enough. It is surprising that despite being such a crucial tool in woodwork, a router is inexpensive and not at all complicated to use.

Sale
DEWALT Router, Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, Variable...
  • 2-1/4 HP (maximum motor HP), 12.0 amp electronic variable speed motor...
  • DEWALT plunge router features electronic variable speed with full...
  • Micro-fine, depth-adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments...

They are very portable and easy to handle, by almost anyone of any age. Because of their popularity, you will find many different kinds and models in the market, and picking the right one out of the lot may seem difficult, especially if you are not too familiar with the tool. Best tool DEWALT DW618PK Review help for you.

To make things simpler for you and save you time, we decided to review one of the best and well-known routers on the market, one that is loved by customers of all ages and experiences.

Later on, in the article, we have also compiled a list of things in our Buying Guide to give you a clear idea of what to look out for when purchasing a router for your kind of woodwork.

Dewalt Dw618pk Review

Top 10 Advantages DEWALT DW618PK ROUTER

  • DEWALT DW618PK ROUTER is very easy to use
  • DEWALT DW618PK ROUTER User-friendly outlook
  • DEWALT DW618PK ROUTER Portable
  • DEWALT DW618PK ROUTER Budget-friendly router
  • High end and good quality features and body parts respectively
  • High powered motor with convenient variable and fixed speed options
  • Sturdy and powerful plunge and fixed bases
  • The debris and dust collection system is convenient
  • Quick motor release latches make sure users’ fingers are safe while also providing optimum mobility and comfort during carpentry
  • The heavy-duty metal body is dust-resistant and will not break even under the harshest pressure

DEWALT Router DW618PK ROUTER

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DEWALT Router, Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, Variable...

If you think that routers are expensive, then this product will surely change your mind. Not only is this router very budget-friendly, but it also has all the great features and specifications you would expect a high-end counterpart to have.

If you are working in a constrict place where mobility can prove to be a nuisance, you should check out the DEWALT DW618PK. In addition to being affordable and saving space, it creates only a short distance between you and your craft piece so you can expect easy maneuverability with the usage of this router.

This incredible router has a powerful motor strength of 12 AMP with 2-1/4 horsepower, one that can easily course through even the hardest wood. Because of the variable speed option, you can choose from 8000 to a maximum of 24000 RPM with ease.

Since this allows you to make different cuts with different pressure, you can rest assured that the pressure and speed distribution of this router will be balanced throughout the entire process.

With a fixed base, The DW618PK comes equipped with a micro-fine adjustment ring that works to provide precise tweaking is 1/64 inches. If you are using a router table, you can turn the adjustment ring to minimize the inconsistency.

On the other hand, the plunge base comes with an adjustable turret stop with 5 positions, so you can adjust the pressure and speed for the plunge cuts as well. The plunge lever is easy to reach and at a safe distance, keeping your fingers away from danger while routing.

Also, the concept of the plunge base is pretty easy to figure out for users of any age or experience, once you get the hang of the feed rates and the engagement of the tools.

For maintenance and easy setup, the quick LEXAN sub-base provides woodworkers with optimum durability and visibility, while also accepting typical template bushings. This makes the DEWALT DW618PK highly versatile and convenient.

There are also quick and easy changing tabs on both sides of the router, so changing bits is now easier and a much smoother process.

For removal, the easy-to-pull latch allows users to quickly change the motor base whenever required. The router also features a flat base, so you can make use of it in any direction or angle. You do not have to worry about jamming, as the 8 slotted collets now feature improved bit retention.

Say goodbye to unwanted sawdust and wood remains with the introduction of the DW618PK’s patented dust collection system. Simply just attach a vacuum to your router and let it collect the dust without hindering your view of work. This helps to keep your work area clean and uncluttered.

You will be glad to know that each of the individual bases features its own rubber-covered molded handles as well as a low Centre which provides enhanced balance and mobility.

The body of this router is made of high-quality aircraft-grade metal. The housing is of heavy-duty metal while the bushings are made of high-quality precision-machined brass.

With the purchase of this incredible router by the brand DEWALT, you will be receiving a 12 amp motor pack, a fixed base alongside a plunge base, collets, a sturdy wrench, a sub-base electrical gauge, a vacuum adapter for dust and debris collection, and a hardcover black kit box. The product itself has a moderate weight of approximately 22.5 pounds. The dimensions are as follows 15.9 x 24 x 9.1 inches.

This highly portable router makes it easier for woodworkers to carry it almost anywhere, anytime.

Dewalt DW618 Router Review Features

Let us take a look at the features of DW616PK.

  • It is powered by a 2-1/4 HP and a 12.0 A motor to give you a smooth routing experience.
  • The micro-fine depth adjustments help to adjust accurate adjustments in 1/64 inches increments. They can also adjust vertically for a constant corset position.
  • It comprises a tool-free steel motor cam lock that accelerates the speed of depth adjustment and base changes and results in reliable locking.
  • It comes with quick-release motor latches that cause a fast and easy removal process for the bit and base changes.
  • The dust collector collects 95% of the dust, offering clear visibility.
  • The cord set is detachable. It provides cord set serviceability and removes the requirement of a short cord motor pack.
  • The sub-base gauge ensures the precision of concentricity.
  • The brass bushings and steel guide rods offer a smooth and precise plunge stroke.
  • This router provides improved base durability, bit visibility and follows the standard template guide.
  • It includes rubber handles and a comfortable, balanced, superb control, and a low center of gravity design.
  • The switch is dust-sealed, which promotes longer switch life.
  • It comprises a heavy-duty aluminum base and a motor that is durable and less in weight.
  • The motor is nickel-plated, which offers a smooth and long-lasting adjustment for depth.
  • You can switch in your left or right hand because of the right and left switch placement and cord set.
  • The flat-top makes the bit and depth changing process more painless.
  • There are eight slotted collets present for a better bit holding and eradication of the frozen bits.
  • An adjustable turret stop helps in repeating the plunge cuts.
  • The plunge lever and the switch are more comfortable to reach, enhancing the ability to control while routing.

Specifications

  • It requires 11.0 A to operate.
  • The collets diameter is 1/2 inches and ¼ inches.
  • It has a 24,500 RPM no-load speed.
  • The dimension of the base is 6 inches.
  • The weight of this tool is 10 lbs.

Pros

  • Detailed instructions that are easy to read and understand for users of any age or experience
  • User-friendly outlook
  • Portable
  • Budget-friendly router
  • High end and good quality features and body parts respectively
  • High powered motor with convenient variable and fixed speed options
  • Sturdy and powerful plunge and fixed bases
  • The debris and dust collection system is convenient
  • The heavy-duty metal body is dust-resistant and will not break even under the harshest pressure
  • Quick motor release latches make sure users’ fingers are safe while also providing optimum mobility and comfort during carpentry
  • Adjustment rings provide better consistency and stability throughout the entire woodwork process.

Cons

  • The product is slightly heavy
  • For some customers, the package came with a few pieces missing so be sure to keep a cautious eye out for that
  • List Element
Sale
DEWALT Router, Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, Variable...
  • 2-1/4 HP (maximum motor HP), 12.0 amp electronic variable speed motor...
  • DEWALT plunge router features electronic variable speed with full...
  • Micro-fine, depth-adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments...

BUYING GUIDE

Dewalt is one of the most popular known manufacturers of woodworking tools, especially power tools. It has a vast range of excellent woodwork tools that are used by professionals all over the world.

In 2019, Dewalt launched a cordless router, popularly known as the DW616PK fixed/plunge-based combination kit. This blog reviews this router’s function, its unique features, and the specifications that this router possesses.

For readers’ convenience, we are going to take a look at this handy buying guide where we are going to talk about some of the key features of a router that customers need to keep an eye out for before they place their initial order.

Note that in this buying guide we will discuss some of the key factors associated with the purchase of a router, hence it does not really matter if you are a pro in the world of carpentry or just a mere amateur. We hope this buying guide proves to be of some help to you. So without further ado, let us get into it!

Review

The DEWALT DW618PK is a fixed base/plunge router combination kit that provides a soft starting feature. It is powered by a 2-1/4 HP and 12.0 Am electronic variable speed motor. A heavy-duty motor drives this great router for routing through demanding hardwood pieces according to the worker’s desirable speed.

It provides accurate adjustments for the depth, faster and easier removal time for changing bits and bases. The dust collection inside the plunge base offers excellent visibility.

Value

You can order the Dewalt router separately at amazon for about $195.02, with a D-handle base for $282.01, a template guide kit for about $233.78, a universal edge guide, and a dust collector for almost $225.01.

Type of router

This is obviously a must for any carpenter when purchasing a router. Choosing the right router comes down to the kind of woodwork you will be doing. If you are someone who has never done woodwork before, then it would be a smart idea to get a fixed router.

There are plenty of high-quality fixed routers manufactured by DEWALT. Fixed routers are a better choice for amateur carpenters because of their size and built. Fixed routers also allow better balance as they require a workbench or table to reduce movement.

Another type of router is a plunge router . With a plunge router, you can easily preset the depth of the cut you are going to make and then slowly lower the tool into the cut. Unlike a fixed router, plunge routers don’t necessarily require a workbench or table.

The variable speed

This is a very important feature a high-quality router will definitely have. A good router from a well-known brand will allow users to make the choice between fixed and variable speed, so you can make use of the same router for different bit sizes.

The problem with having only a fixed speed is that it prevents versatility. This means that you will only be able to use the router for certain bit sizes. This obviously puts a strain on the users’ creativity as well.

Hence, a high-quality router will come with a variable speed option as well as a fixed speed option. This way, you can easily choose between bit sizes and work your way around them as desired.

Soft motor start

No carpenter will wish for their router to start working off on full power right off the bat. Not only will it ruin the entire project, but it can be highly dangerous as well. You really do not want a router to suddenly just jerk off of your hands.

To make sure something like this does not take place, always keep an eye out for routers that have soft start motors. With a soft start, you can first get accustomed to the power surge of the router motor and adapt yourself to the startling noise as well.

This way, you have proper calculation over the pressure of the router, as well as better balance. Most routers with electronic circuitry come equipped with a soft start now. It is a rather nice and convenient feature to have on routers.

The base style of the router

There are basically three standard base types when it comes to routers. Let us start with the fixed base at first. As the name suggests already, routers with a fixed base typically come with preset and fixed handles on opposite sides of the product. The thing with a fixed base is that they are typically just limited to a few types of routing.

The next base style is the Plunge Base. This style of base is actually more convenient and versatile than the fixed base. If we had to get into the mechanics of the plunge base, then know that the motor tends to move vertically. Plunge bases are great for operations such as blind grooves, dado cuts, fluting, etc.

For the last base style, we have the D-Handle Base. Unlike how the previous two bases came with either knobs or handles on either side of the device, routers with this base style come with a D-shaped handle that provides users with a pistol-like grip. The handle also features a lock power switch.

This style of base is also highly versatile as they allow users to perform on a wide range of applications as well.

Amperage

High-quality routers usually have amperage rates between 10 to 12 amps. If you are someone who tends to go for big bit changes, then getting a router with a slightly higher amp level will be a suitable choice. But for those who own routers for occasional projects do not really need a powerful one, however, it is still a good idea to have a tool that works harder and more efficiently.

Dust collection

When working with routers of any kind, it is a must that you will be surrounded by dust and/or wood debris. Some projects produce a lot of dust while others may not cause too much discomfort but whatever the case, the dust can be annoying and messy.

But to prevent this from happening, a high-quality router with good features will come with bags or cartridges that collect the dust and keep your work area clean. However, they may not always be efficient in doing the task.

This is why you will need to make sure that the dust receptacle is easy to remove and attach so that you do not waste much time handling it when you should be concentrating on other important jobs.

On top of that, with the addition of a handy dust collection system, you do not have to worry about cluttering your workspace either. This way, you can have your full attention on your project and not deal with annoying dust particles flying around you.

Some tips to keep in mind when dealing with routers

Just for the sake of our readers, we are going to add this helpful informative section. If there are first-timers reading this review, we hope this section proves to be of some help to you and your routing session.

Safety Tips

You can prolong the life of your tool and enjoy the routing process by following some easy steps. These steps will also allow you to work safely and reduce any chance of accidents occurring.

Always wear appropriate clothes and gears while working; remove all loose items such as rings or bracelets to avoid discomfort and accidents as they can get caught in the moving parts.

Be sure to protect your eyes from flying dust particles by wearing glasses and save yourself from inhaling harmful air by covering your mouth with a mask. This is also a must for users with breathing problems.

Always try to work in a well-ventilated area with proper natural light. If natural is scarce, make sure your work area is well lit. You do not want to accidentally hurt your fingers or cut the wrong piece off of your project because of the darkness.

Make sure you have a firm grip on the router itself and never leave it running when not in use. If you need to pause, then keep it on the table or workbench while making sure it is switched off.

If you are using a corded model then keep the cord untangled and away from the tool and your body to avoid unwanted accidents from taking place.

Never ever touch any of the moving parts of your router. When in use, make sure to keep your hands away from the motor part.

Do not apply unnecessary pressure. It does not matter if you feel that the router is not being able to do the job even after you have applied enough pressure. The speed at which the router is set to do the job is enough. Do not try to overwork it on your own.

Keep your hands dry and grease-free at all times in order to avoid slips. Wear rubber gloves! You do not want wood splinters getting under your skin when working, do you?

Always keep your router tool clean and maintain it according to the instruction manual it comes with. Lastly, keep children and your loved ones away from your workstation when operating such tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is the DEWALT DW616PK safe for mounting under a table? And will it collect dust if used upside down?

Yes, the Dewalt DW616PK is safe for mounting under a table, and it does not collect dust when turned upside down.

Q2. Does the DEWALT DW616PK come with a soft start feature?

No, the DW616PK does not come with a soft start feature.

Q3. What is a centering tool?

The centering tool is a stationary dial gauge for easy centering.

Q4. How do I choose the right speed?

The general rule of thumb is that the woodworker should choose a slower speed if the bit’s size is larger.

Q5. Who Should Buy?

Beginners and professional woodworkers can buy this router.

Final Notes

So there you have it! In this article, we have reviewed the incredible DW618PK router by DEWALT, a brand known and loved by carpenters all around the globe. This amazing router may not be as expensive as its counterparts, but it surely does pack in a lot of punch.

On top of that, the features are impressive which makes this router highly versatile for any kind of woodwork. The two base styles improve the quality of this router by numbers. The strong heavy-duty body of this router also makes sure that the product is worth its money and lasts you for a very long time.

We hope you had a fun time reading this article and that our informative sections proved to be of some help to you. It is crucial to know that routing is not an easy job. It takes a lot of time to master and requires users to have patience. However, with enough practice nothing is impossible.

We chose this router by DEWALT DW618PK to be reviewed as it is not only a very budget-friendly device, but it is an ideal buy for users of all ages and/or experiences. So if you are a newbie to the world of woodwork, we are sure that this product will be of great help to you, and act as a kickstart to your carpentry projects.