TOP 18 best wood routers: price/quality ranking 2021-2022 and what to choose for home use

Professional carpenters and furniture makers have long appreciated the benefits of hand routers.

These devices allow not only to saw the material, but also to create parts of various shapes.

But even in domestic conditions there is a worthy application for a hand router: the main thing is to choose a high-quality model with decent technical characteristics.

The rating of the best models of hand routers in the price/quality ratio, which was compiled according to consumer reviews and recommendations of professional carpenters, will help.

Rating TOP-18 best wood hand routers 2021-2022

Place	Name	Price
Top 4 best wood hand routers by price/quality for 2021-2022
1	Makita RT0700CX2	Check price
2	BOSCH POF 1200 AE	To know the price
3	BOSCH POF 1400 ACE	Ask the price
4	ELITECH F 1800E	Find out the price
Top 3 best handheld vertical wood routers
1	Makita RP2301FCX	Check out the price
2	ELITECH F 1355E	Learn the price
3	Makita RP2300FC	Find out the price.
Top 3 best manual edge routers (trimmers)
1	BOSCH GKF 550 Professional	To know the price
2	Makita RT0700C	To know the price
3	Makita 3709	Find out the price
Top 3 best handheld cordless wood routers
1	Makita DRT50ZJX2	Check price
2	RYOBI R18TR-0	Learn the price
3	Makita DCO180Z (18V, Li-Ion)	Find out the price
Top 2 best manual keyhole mills
1	Makita PJ7000	Find out the price
2	Makita DPJ180Z	Learn the price
Top 3 best inexpensive hand routers
1	Kolner KER 1200V	To know the price
2	Bort BOF-1600N	Learn the price
3	VICHR FM-1300.	Find out the price

How to choose a reliable wood router according to professionals?

When choosing a reliable handheld wood router, it is worth taking into account the expected frequency of use of the device.

This determines the main technical characteristics, according to which the device is selected:

Power. The indicator of 1800-2000 W is considered optimal. Such a tool will cope with almost any task. If the milling machine will be used periodically, the power of 600-700 W will be enough.
Number of revolutions. This criterion determines the thickness of the sawn workpieces. The number of revolutions of 2 thousand will be enough for thick workpieces, and for plastic and plywood - about a thousand revolutions.
Depth. Another important criterion, which depends on the type of workpieces to be processed. For household needs will be enough 50-55 mm, although in professional devices this figure reaches 80 mm.
Collet size. This is the element that ensures a reliable fixation of the cutter. The more collets in the kit, the more nozzles can be installed on the machine.

Experts also recommend paying attention to the weight of the device, the presence of a socket for a vacuum cleaner and the function of maintaining constant speed under load.

With the latter function, the user can protect the engine from overloading.

Top 4 best handheld wood routers by price/quality for 2021-2022

For domestic use, it is better to buy a universal router that is suitable for a wide range of jobs. It is not necessary to buy an expensive device: the lines of many well-known brands include models in which the democratic cost is combined with excellent quality.

Makita RT0700CX2

One of the best routers on the modern market for home use, although it belongs to the edge type and The Makita RT0700CX2 is one of the best edge routers on the market today for home use, even though it is a edge router..

The power of the device is 710 watts, so it can be used both at home and in small furniture production.

The milling depth is 35 mm, so the tool is suitable for working with workpieces of almost any size.

The manufacturer took care to make the machine as comfortable to use as possible, and equipped it with a wide range of useful functions.

In particular, the unit features variable speed control, a constant speed under load function, precise milling depth adjustment, and soft start.

Four collets, a base for vertical milling, and an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and sawdust from the work area are provided.

Technical Data:

weight 1.8 kg;
Power cord length 2.5 m
Speed of rotation 10-30 thousand rpm.

Advantages

compact size and light weight make it easy to transport the tool;
reasonable cost;
all necessary for work is provided in the kit;
long enough power cord;
optimal power for domestic and professional use.

Disadvantages

there is a noticeable backlash immersion base;
low-quality collet 8 mm.

BOSCH POF 1200 AE

A functional and budget-friendly vertical milling machine from a well-known manufacturer The power tool will be indispensable when working with wooden workpieces.

The device is considered versatile, as it has optimal power of 650 watts and a plunging depth of the cutter of 55 mm.

To work with the cutter was more comfortable, the manufacturer has provided the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust from the work area.

Despite the high power, the tool has a relatively low noise level (95 dB), and you can start working immediately after buying the unit, because the kit provides everything you need for work, in particular, several cutters, a set of collet chucks, the necessary adapters and keys.

Technical characteristics:

weight 3.4 kg;
The depth of cutter stroke is 55 mm;
Speed of rotation 10-28 thousand rpm.

Advantages

ergonomically shaped handle is comfortable in the hand;
proven and reliable manufacturer;
well-thought-out equipment;
affordable price;
excellent build quality.

Disadvantages

no precise adjustment of the milling depth;
Sometimes not enough power when working with thick workpieces.

BOSCH POF 1400 ACE

In terms of cost, this milling machine belongs to the medium price category, and well-thought-out technical characteristics allow you to use it to work with different types of wood.

The device can successfully cope even with thick workpieces, because the milling depth reaches 55 mm.

Even shaped carvings can be done successfully, and the manual adjustment function even makes it possible to create ornaments.

The tool also has an electronic stabilization system for creating precise and straight cuts.

Power output is 650 Watts..

This is powerful enough for high performance and continuous operation.

The tool is highly stable even during power surges, and the soft start function provides protection against shock loads and extends the service life of the device.

Technical characteristics:

weight 3.5 kg;
noise level - 95 dB;
the maximum diameter of the cutter 50 mm.

Advantages of

Soft start function and speed regulation;
quality starter kit in the kit;
it is possible to fine-tune the depth of milling;
long mains cable;
fits comfortably in the hand.

Disadvantages

some users complain about the insufficient quality of construction;
it is difficult to adjust the height of the mill.

ELITECH F 1800E

Relatively inexpensive, functional and high-quality vertical milling machine has Increased power, so it is suitable for both household and professional use.

The milling depth is 55 mm, and 8 and 12 mm collets are provided, so the unit is suitable for working with wood of different thicknesses.

The rotation speed can be adjusted during operation to create precise cuts, and the soft start function extends the tool's life.

For additional comfort of operation, the manufacturer has thought in detail about the body of the device.

It has rubber pads that prevent the palm from slipping. There is also the possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and a convenient backlighting of the working area.

Technical Specifications:

weight of 4.5 kg;
Power cord length 2.5 m;
power 1800 W.

Advantages of

Excellent build quality at an affordable price;
easy to hold because of the well-adjusted inclination of the handles;
Soft start function;
convenient location of the backlight;
there is a precise adjustment of the height and depth of milling.

Disadvantages

there is a backlash of the guides;
Some users find the router too noisy.

Top 3 best handheld vertical wood routers

Vertical routers are considered versatile devices, as they allow you to perform a wide range of work on wood. Three models are recognized as the best for domestic and professional use.

Makita RP2301FCX

In terms of cost, this router is not the cheapest, but its price is fully compensated by by the extended functionality and well-thought-out technical characteristics.

The power of the tool is 1000 watts. Combined with the milling depth up to 70 mm, this indicator allows you to use the device to work with different types of wood and different thicknesses of workpieces.

Collet 12mm is included. Collets of other sizes will have to be purchased separately.

Additional functions are also available, and each of them is aimed at maximum ease of operation.

The unit has variable speed control to create smooth and precise cuts, a soft start to reduce stress on the motor, and a spindle lock and lock for safe operation.

The milling depth can also be adjusted according to the type of workpiece.

Technical Data:

weight 6.1 kg
Cable length 4 m;
power 1000 W.

Advantages

High power makes the tool suitable for professional use
advanced functionality;
excellent build quality;
the fine-tuning of the milling parameters;
the working area is illuminated.

disadvantages

no copying bushing;
Shipped without a set of cutters.

ELITECH F 1355E

Inexpensive, but quite functional milling machine, which is ideal for household use.

The device is vertical, so it allows you to perform a wide range of works with wooden workpieces.

The increased power of 1300 W and the depth of cutter stroke of 55 mm allow precise and straight cuts even in thick wood.

The package includes an assembly wrench, collets for 6 and 8 mm, and a parallel stop. There is a hole in the housing for connecting a vacuum cleaner, which will help remove dust and sawdust from the working area.

Despite the democratic price, the tool is provided with basic functions aimed at the convenience of operation.

In particular, the device has a function to regulate the speed of rotation, provides a spindle lock and a turret stop.

Technical parameters:

weight 3.7 kg;
Cable length 2,5 m;
the milling depth of 55 mm.

Advantages

working area illumination;
long enough power cord;
Adequate cost with well-thought-out technical characteristics;
it is possible to regulate the depth of cutter's stroke;
it is possible to regulate the depth of cutter's stroke.

Disadvantages

there is a noticeable backlash of the guides;
makes a lot of noise.

Makita RP2300FC

A mid-range handheld vertical milling machine from a renowned manufacturer The power tool is suitable for both domestic and professional use.

The power of the device is 1200 W, so the device will successfully cope with the sawing of workpieces of different thickness. The depth of travel of the cutter is 70 mm, and it can be continuously adjusted during operation.

The manufacturer has also taken care to ensure that the use of the tool is as comfortable and safe for the user as possible.

The housing is illuminated and has a hole for a vacuum cleaner. Additionally, there is a soft start function, which reduces the load on the motor and prolongs its life.

Technical Data:

weight 6.1 kg;
Cable length 4 m;
Working depth of the cutter 70 mm.

Advantages

excellent Japanese construction;
high power allows you to work with different thicknesses of workpieces;
there are two collets for different types of cutters in the kit;
LED illumination of the working area is provided;
steadily maintains the speed of rotation under load.

Disadvantages

the power button gets jammed from time to time;
not very good quality parallel stop.

Top 3 best manual edge routers for wood (trimmers)

Edge routers are used only for a certain type of work, in particular, making grooves and creating edges. Due to the limited functionality of such devices are used primarily in manufacturing, but the models described below are suitable for domestic use.

BOSCH GKF 550 Professional

One of the most inexpensive edge routers on the market today. Despite The manufacturer has equipped the device with all the necessary features and characteristics for full-fledged operation.

The power of 550 W is enough to create grooves and edges in wooden workpieces of different thickness and hardness.

The depth of cutter and rotational speed can be adjusted to create smooth and accurate cuts.

Weight is low, making it easy to transport, and the extended package makes it easy to use.

The tool also has a soft start function. It reduces the load on the motor and extends the life of the motor.

Technical features:

weight 1.4 kg;
power of 550 W;
rotation speed of 33 thousand rpm.

Advantages

reliable, proven manufacturer;
excellent build quality;
adequate cost;
light weight;
thoughtful equipment.

Disadvantages

not a single cutter in the kit;
no protection against accidental start-up.

Makita RT0700C

Edge router from the well-known Japanese manufacturer will become an indispensable assistant in the home and on the production.

The power consumption of the device is 710 W. Combined with the 35 mm depth of travel of the cutter, this indicator allows you to create even and precise grooves and edges even in thick wooden workpieces.

The device has a special opening for connecting a vacuum cleaner. With its help, the user can remove dust and sawdust from the working area.

Additional functions are represented by the rotation speed control, maintaining a constant working speed under load and locking the spindle for safe operation.

Also features soft start function. With this function, the user can easily start the tool without subjecting the motor to extreme loads.

Technical characteristics:

weight 1.8 kg
Cable length 2.5 m;
Working depth of the mill is 35 mm.

Advantages

compact size allows you to comfortably hold the device in your hand;
sufficient power level;
quality materials and assembly;
it is possible to regulate the rotation speed and depth of cutter stroke;
Two types of collets in the kit.

Cons

Some users find the price too high;
The adjustment wheel can spin randomly when the body vibrates a lot.

Makita 3709

This edge router from a well-known power tool manufacturer has all the edge router with all the features you need for smooth operation..

Its power is 300 watts. For a tool of this type, this is a high enough indicator, which allows you to make grooves and create an edge even in thick wooden workpieces.

The depth of travel of the cutter is 40 mm, so the tool is considered suitable for both domestic and professional use.

Included with the device itself is a collet for 6 mm, a parallel stop, a straight cutter, a contour guide and a set of clamping keys for assembling the unit.

The unit is mains powered and a sufficient cable length allows the tool to be installed in any part of the workshop.

Technical characteristics:

weight 1,5 kg;
The mains cable length is 2.5 m;
Rotation speed 3000 rpm.

Advantages

convenient depth adjustment;
extended configuration;
sufficient power even for professional use;
excellent build quality;
the small weight makes it easy to transport.

disadvantages

no depth limiter;
no soft start function.

Top 3 best handheld cordless wood routers

Cordless wood routers differ from cordless models by their high autonomy of operation. But it should be taken into account that the operating time of such tools is limited, and periodically the device will have to recharge, although cordless routers are indispensable if the user has to work in areas where there is no connection to a fixed power grid.

Makita DRT50ZJX2

The mid-priced edge router differs from previous models in that Runs not on mains power but on a built-in lithium-ion battery.

This provides high autonomy of operation and does not limit the movement of the user.

At the same time, other technical features and capabilities remain high.

In particular, a vacuum cleaner can be connected to the device to clean the working area of dust and sawdust, and the conveniently located LED backlight improves the accuracy of work.

Also, the tool has all the features typical of Makita network milling machines.

The user will be able to adjust the speed and depth of travel of the cutter by himself.

For safe operation, there is a spindle lock and instant stop, and a soft start function allows you to quickly start the device without putting extra stress on the motor.

Technical Data:

mass 2.1 kg;
the depth of cutter stroke of 40 mm;
Speed of rotation 10-30 thousand rpm.

Advantages of

optimal ratio of price to build quality;
there is a convenient lighting of the working area;
high power in a compact size;
full autonomy of operation;
all necessary for work and storage case are provided in the kit.

Disadvantages

some users find the milling machine a bit heavy;
not very high quality cutters in the complete set.

RYOBI R18TR-0.

This manufacturer of power tools is little known to domestic consumers, but the This cordless trimmer has optimal build quality and well thought-out technical characteristics.

Speed of rotation reaches 29 thousand rpm and depth of cutter stroke of 39 mm allows to work with wooden workpieces of different thickness.

Depth of cutter can be precisely adjusted for even, quality cuts. This makes the tool suitable even for professional use.

For ease of operation, the housing is equipped with a spot LED lighting of the working area.

Together with the tool itself, the user receives a parallel stop, a straight cutter, a collet set and a wrench for replacing accessories.

Battery charger and spare battery are not included.

Technical specifications:

weight 1.3 kg;
the depth of cutter stroke of 38 mm;
18 V battery pack.

Advantages

there is working area illumination;
expanded equipment;
adequate price;
the depth of cutter plunge can be adjusted;
convenient transparent base.

Disadvantages

no speed regulator;
not always available on sale.

Makita DCO180Z (18V, Li-Ion)

Convenient and inexpensive edge router is equipped with a built-in battery, so it it can be used even in workshops where there is no connection to the stationary power supply.

It has the same power and performance as corded tools.

The speed is 30,000 rpm and the two collets included in the kit allow you to change cutters to create different types of edges.

For long and comfortable operation, the device is equipped with additional features.

For example, the user will be able to adjust the rotation speed directly while working to create precise and straight cuts, and the secure locking of the spindle will ensure complete safety of work.

The tool also has a soft start function. With its help, the owner can start the tool without any problems, without exposing the motor to additional loads.

Technical characteristics:

weight of 1.4 kg;
18 V battery
the speed of rotation of 30 thousand rpm.

Pros of

reliable and proven manufacturer;
excellent quality of Japanese-made;
high autonomy of operation;
Allows to obtain a smooth and accurate cuts;
adequate price.

Disadvantages

non-standard cutters;
comes without charger and spare battery.

Top 2 best manual keyhole mills

Keyhole mills are rarely used in the home, as they are designed for a narrow range of works. But in furniture production they are used quite often, although the choice of slot mills in the domestic market is not too extensive.

Makita PJ7000

The price of this keyhole milling machine is average, but most users consider it acceptable, since the production is engaged in a reliable and time-tested company.

The power of the tool is 960 watts, so it will successfully cope with a wide range of tasks, and a reliable motor will ensure long and trouble-free operation even with increased loads.

Soft-start function on the engine to reduce engine wear and tear.

The machine has a working depth of only 20 mm, but that's good enough for the basics.

Another advantage of the machine is the extended equipment. Together with the tool itself, the user receives a key cutter, a front handle, a removable dust bag, and a convenient storage case.

Technical Data:

weight 2.5 kg
Cable length 2.5 m;
the depth of cutter stroke 20 mm.

Advantages of

excellent build quality;
all that is necessary for work is provided in the set;
reasonable cost;
quality storage case is included;
fits well in the hand.

Cons

stiff power cord;
backlash is present on the guide rails.

Makita DPJ180Z

Another blade milling machine from the famous Japanese brand. This model is actively This model is actively used in furniture production, so the manufacturer has taken care that the tool had all the characteristics for long and trouble-free operation.

In particular, the device has an increased rotation speed (up to 10,000 rpm) and an optimal depth of cutter travel (20mm)..

These features are sufficient for industrial woodworking.

The device is powered by a reliable lithium-ion battery that provides high autonomy of operation and allows using the tool even in the field or in workshops where there is no connection to the stationary power grid.

This does not include a spare battery and charger: you have to buy them separately.

Specifications:

weight 3.2 kg;
18-volt battery;
maximum tool diameter of 100 mm.

Advantages of

fits comfortably in your hand;
runs on internal battery;
acceptable power for industrial use;
high-quality materials and body assembly;
affordable cost.

Minuses

no charge level indicator;
comes without a charger.

Top 3 best inexpensive handheld milling machines

If there is a need to purchase a hand-held wood router for occasional use, you should not buy expensive models. In the lines of many domestic and foreign brands there are inexpensive devices that are not inferior to more expensive counterparts on technical characteristics and functionality.

Kolner KER 1200V

At a cost of about 4 thousand rubles, this vertical hand milling machine has all necessary characteristics for use in the home and in production.

Power consumption is 1500 watts, and the depth of travel of the cutter - 50 mm. Thanks to these characteristics, the device can be used to work with thick workpieces made of hardwood.

Two collets for 6 and 8 mm are provided, allowing the unit to be used with different types of cutters.

To allow the user to get a precise and even cut, the manufacturer has equipped the device with the function of adjusting the speed and depth of milling.

There is also a secure spindle lock for high operational safety and a soft start that reduces the load on the motor and allows you to quickly start the tool.

Technical characteristics:

weight 4 kg
power cord length 2 m;
Working depth of the mill is 50 mm.

Advantages

cheaper than analogues;
high-quality assembly without backlash;
Ideal for home use;
flexible settings and adjustment of the cutter's stroke;
comfortable ergonomically shaped handles.

Disadvantages

low quality plastic body;
very noisy.

Bort BOF-1600N

Production of this cutter is engaged in a little-known company, but the tool Different in excellent quality and acceptable specifications.

Power consumption is 1500 watts, so the device is suitable not only for domestic, but also for industrial use.

Maximum stroke depth of the cutter is 50 mm. This means that the tool can be used safely even for thick workpieces.

The machine is equipped with a molded soleplate, which ensures reliable fixation of the tool on the work table.

Despite the low cost, the device has all the necessary features for safe and continuous operation.

It has a spindle lock and a turret stop, for extra safety.

Technical Data:

weight 4.8 kg;
Maximum tool stroke depth: 50 mm;
power consumption - 1500 W.

Advantages of

Affordable price and well thought-out functionality;
decent quality of assembling;
compact size makes it easy to use;
it is convenient to hold in a hand;
power enough for use in production.

Disadvantages

I often come across manufacturing defects;
there is a very noticeable backlash.

VICHR FM-1300

This inexpensive hand router is ideal for users who want to get Quality tool for infrequent use.

Despite the democratic cost, the technical characteristics and functionality of the device are very decent.

Power consumption is slightly lower than in other models of similar category (1300 W), but for the work with wooden workpieces of medium thickness it is enough.

Optimal depth of cutter stroke (50 mm) and variable speed allows to obtain precise and even cuts, even if the user does not have enough skills to work with similar tools.

It has a spindle lock and turret stop for safe use, and a vacuum cleaner can be connected to the unit to remove sawdust from the working area.

Technical Data:

weight 3.6 kg;
Working depth of cutter 50 mm;
power consumption - 1300 W.

Advantages

adequate cost;
power is sufficient for domestic and industrial use;
the number of revolutions can be adjusted;
there is a hole to connect a vacuum cleaner;
allows to obtain precise and even cuts.

Disadvantages

not a very high quality housing assembly;
not always available on sale.

Types of routers and their brief description

There are several types of hand routers for wood.

They are designed to perform different types of work:

Vertical (submersible) - are universal models, with which you can perform a wide range of works, from the formation of holes and grooves to chamfering. Suitable for both professional and domestic use.
Edge trimmers Trimmers are used for chamfering, filleting, grooving. As a rule, these models are used by professional carpenters.
Rotary - are used to create holes in wooden workpieces, ceramics, plastic and plasterboard. Can also be used for edge design.
Lamella - Are only used to create grooves.
Fitting - Typically used in furniture production to create paired holes.

Which company to choose?

Choosing a hand router for wood, attention should be paid not only to the technical characteristics, but also to the brand of the tool.

Even for domestic use, it is better to buy devices from well-known manufacturers.

They do not save on materials and carefully control all stages of production, so the finished tools are of high quality and reliability.

The best manufacturers of handheld wood routers are recognized companies Makita, BOSCH, ELITECH and Kolner.

The devices of these brands and were included in the selection.

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