We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy
Home
All Categories
Tools & Home Improvement
Power & Hand Tools
Woodworking Routers

10 Best Woodworking Routers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router

5%OFF

Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router

Bosch

10.0 score

Check price

The Bosch 1617EVS is a powerful fixed-base router designed for woodworking projects where precision and control matter. It runs a strong 12-amp motor (about 2.25 horsepower), giving you plenty of power to handle tough materials and detailed cuts. One of its standout features is the adjustable speed dial, which allows you to fine-tune the router speed between 8,000 and 25,000 RPM. This flexibility helps you match the speed to different wood types or bits, improving the quality of your work.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,139
Power
Speed Control
Collet Size

Most important from
3512 reviews

Power
The 2.25 HP motor delivers ample power to effortlessly handle cabinetry, intricate designs, and shaping edges with exceptional performance.
Speed Control
Electronic speed control ensures consistent RPMs, resulting in clean, accurate cuts every time.
Collet Size
Switching between 1/4" and 1/2" collet sizes is quick and straightforward, accommodating a wide range of router bits.
Base Type
The fixed-base design provides excellent stability and control, making handling and maneuvering easy and precise.
Ergonomics
Rounded hardwood handles offer a comfortable grip even during extended use.
#2
8.8 score

Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus

Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus

Festool

8.8 score

Check price

The Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus stands out as a powerful and precise woodworking tool. With a 2.25 horsepower motor and 11.7 amps of power, it can handle demanding tasks efficiently. The plunge base allows for smooth 2-3/4 inch plunge action, making it versatile for various applications.

#3
8.5 score

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router (Tool Only) (DCW620B)

13%OFF

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router (Tool Only) (DCW620B)

DEWALT

8.5 score

Check price

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Plunge Router is a solid choice for woodworkers looking for a cordless router that packs plenty of power. It delivers 2.25 peak horsepower, which is strong enough for many demanding tasks, and its variable speed dial lets you adjust from 11,000 to 23,000 RPM to match different materials and cuts. It comes with both 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets, giving flexibility in router bit sizes. The tool offers two base types—fixed and plunge—making it versatile for various routing styles. Its ergonomic design is thoughtful, weighing around 8 to 11 pounds and featuring a balanced build that helps with control and precision.

Rating
8.5
Power
Speed Control
Base Type

Most important from
128 reviews

Power
The ergonomics and perfectly positioned angled handles deliver exceptional control, making the router feel lighter and easier to handle despite its solid 2 1/2 hp power.
Speed Control
Speed control and precise depth adjustments with the ability to lock at any interval offer superior ease and control for a variety of woodworking tasks.
Base Type
The plunge mechanism is smooth and reliable, allowing instant locking at any depth with a simple thumb flick, combining the flexibility of both fixed and plunge bases.
Ergonomics
The ergonomics and perfectly positioned angled handles deliver exceptional control, making the router feel lighter and easier to handle despite its solid 2 1/2 hp power.
Dust Collection
The integrated dust collection system is ingenious, efficiently capturing dust through a vertical post with versatile connector options, even redirecting edge-cut dust back into the chute.

Top 10 Best Woodworking Routers 2026 in the United States

Sponsored

Slide 1

TwoWin

110V 800W Palm Router Electric Hand Trimmer Wood Router 1/4" Collets Woodworking Tool Laminate Trimmer + Tungsten Carbide Router Bits 15-Piece Set

Check price

#1

Winner

10.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Bosch

Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router

Power: 12-amp motor, 2.25 horsepower
Speed Control: adjustable dial, 8,000-25,000 RPM
Collet Size: 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch
Base Type: Fixed
Ergonomics: rounded hardwood handles, sealed switch

Check price

5% OFF

Chosen by 1139 this week

Sponsored

Slide 1

TwoWin

110V 800W Palm Router Electric Hand Trimmer Wood Router 1/4" Collets Woodworking Tool Laminate Trimmer + Tungsten Carbide Router Bits 15-Piece Set

Check price

#2
8.8  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Festool

Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus

Power: 11.7 Amps
Speed Control: MMC electronic controls
Base Type: Plunge
Ergonomics: Ergonomic handle

Check price

#3
8.5  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

DEWALT

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router (Tool Only) (DCW620B)

Power: 2.25 Horsepower
Speed Control: Variable speed 11,000-23,000 RPM
Collet Size: 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch
Base Type: Fixed and Plunge
Ergonomics: 8 to 11 pounds, balanced build
Dust Collection: Integrated with AIRLOCK compatibility

Check price

13% OFF
#4
8.2  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Makita

Makita RT0701CX3 1-1/4 HP* Compact Router Kit

Power: 1.25 horsepower
Speed Control: variable dial, 10,000-30,000 RPM
Base Type: Fixed
Ergonomics: slim, ergonomically designed body
Dust Collection: none, external vacuum needed

Check price

#5
8.2  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Festool

Festool 574689 Router OF 2200 Imperial

Power: 2200 watts
Collet Size: 1/2 inch
Base Type: Plunge
Ergonomics: intuitive controls
Dust Collection: top-mounted hose, swivel nozzle

Check price

#6
7.9  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Festool

Festool 576223 Router OF 2200 EB-F-Plus

Speed Control: user-friendly with clear icons
Base Type: Plunge
Ergonomics: magnetic spindle brake for quick stops
Dust Collection: rear-mounted column and swivel nozzle

Check price

#7
7.6  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Festool

Festool MFK 700 EQ Modular Trim Router Set

Power: 720 watts
Speed Control: variable
Base Type: Fixed
Ergonomics: detachable cords, well-thought controls
Dust Collection: dust extraction port

Check price

#8
7.6  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

DEWALT

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

Power: 12 Amps, 2.25 HP
Speed Control: Variable, 8,000-24,000 RPM, soft start
Collet Size: 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch
Base Type: Fixed, Plunge
Ergonomics: Single handle, quick-release latches
Dust Collection: Through column, captures 95% dust

Check price

#9
7.3  score
Slide 1

Milwaukee

Milwaukee's Cordless Compact Router,18.0 Voltage

Power: 18 Volts
Ergonomics: Lightweight, compact

Check price

#10
7.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Makita

Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP* Compact Router Kit

Check price

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Buying Guide for the Best Woodworking Routers

When choosing a woodworking router, it's important to consider the type of projects you'll be working on and the specific needs you have. Woodworking routers are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks such as shaping edges, cutting joints, and hollowing out wood. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best router for your needs.
PowerPower in a woodworking router is measured in horsepower (HP) or amps. This spec is important because it determines how efficiently the router can cut through different types of wood. Routers with lower power (1-1.5 HP or 6-9 amps) are suitable for light-duty tasks and softwoods. Medium power routers (1.5-2.5 HP or 10-12 amps) are versatile and can handle a wider range of tasks and wood types. High power routers (2.5+ HP or 13+ amps) are best for heavy-duty tasks and hardwoods. Choose a power level based on the type of projects you plan to undertake.
Speed ControlSpeed control refers to the ability to adjust the router's RPM (revolutions per minute). This is important because different materials and bit sizes require different speeds for optimal performance and safety. Fixed-speed routers operate at a single speed, which is suitable for consistent tasks. Variable-speed routers allow you to adjust the speed, making them more versatile for different materials and bit sizes. If you plan to work with a variety of materials or perform intricate tasks, a variable-speed router is a better choice.
Collet SizeThe collet size determines the size of the router bits you can use. Common sizes are 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. This spec is important because it affects the range of bits available to you and the stability of the bit during operation. 1/4 inch collets are suitable for light-duty tasks and smaller bits, while 1/2 inch collets provide better stability and are suitable for heavy-duty tasks and larger bits. If you need versatility and plan to use a variety of bit sizes, look for a router that supports both collet sizes.
Base TypeWoodworking routers come with different base types: fixed base, plunge base, and interchangeable base. The base type affects how you can use the router. Fixed base routers are stable and precise, making them ideal for edge work and simple tasks. Plunge base routers allow you to start cutting in the middle of a workpiece, which is useful for more complex tasks like inlays and mortises. Interchangeable base routers offer the flexibility of both fixed and plunge bases. Choose a base type based on the complexity and variety of your projects.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and easy the router is to handle. This is important because woodworking can be a time-consuming task, and a comfortable router reduces fatigue and increases precision. Look for features like comfortable grips, balanced weight, and easy-to-reach controls. If you plan to use the router for extended periods, prioritize ergonomics to ensure a more enjoyable and efficient working experience.
Dust CollectionDust collection is a feature that helps manage the sawdust and debris produced during routing. This is important for maintaining a clean work environment and for your health. Routers with built-in dust collection ports can be connected to a vacuum system to minimize dust. If you work in a small or enclosed space, or if you want to keep your workspace clean, look for a router with effective dust collection capabilities.

FAQ