Think Woodwork

The Makita XTR01Z LXT Cordless Compact Router is a unit that offers users impeccable routing strength, despite its small frame. It produces a maximum speed of 30,000-RPM, enough to dig through hardwood with relative ease. A brushless motor and lithium-ion battery pack combo also ensures that the device can run up to 50% longer without exhibiting signs of slowing down.

Additionally, a variable speed dial allows you to match its rapidity to the appropriate application. Once you’ve selected a setting, it remains at a constant pace until otherwise instructed. This helps you control it better, even on intricate jobs.

As one of the best compact routers out there, users who prioritize convenience should definitely give the Makita XTR01Z LXT Cordless Compact Router a closer look.

Coming from a less-popular company hasn’t stopped the Enertwist Variable-Speed Electric Palm Router from pushing into our best compact router review. A blend of durability, stylishness, and high-performance has got the general public drool over its potential.

Just like others in its class, this tool delivers superb ripping strength resulting in clean cuts with every stroke. An ergonomically designed frame is not only aesthetically pleasing but also quite robust. It keeps the machine from succumbing to wear-and-tear, thus preserving your initial investment.

These features may seem pretty ordinary – even bordering on generic – am I right? Except that all this would cost you only half of what other brands offer! Is there a better deal currently on the market? We think not.

The PR20EVS Colt Variable-Speed Palm Router is probably the most well-known feature on our list – and with good reason too. With over 100 years of experience under their belt, Bosch has almost been synonymous with quality power tools. This is yet another prime example.

Apart from a dominant motor, one of the things we love best about the PR20EVS is its strategic design. The sides have been aligned with rubberized handles to augment gripping strength, while a specialized depth adjustment system aids in controlling both micro and macro settings. There are even finger support pockets that come in handy when trimming hard-to-reach edges.

All in all, we would strongly recommend this unit to beginners or newbie woodworkers. The convenience it offers will only push them to enhance their talents even more.

Most variable-speed dials only have three settings, but the Avid Power Compact Wood Router comes with six. This allows you to customize the power exactly for the task at hand, while also switching gears at a much quicker pace. 

Additionally, an improved rack-and-pinion system helps make depth adjustments more precise. All that’s needed, actually, is a simple twist for the machine to dig deeper into the wood. Once you’ve chosen a function you’re comfortable with, the Avid Power Compact Wood Router then delivers perfect incisions up to the last millimeter.

Versatility is a big reason for the success of this product. Despite being relatively unknown, it has worked its way into the spotlight and shown consumers that it’s one of the best compact routers money can buy.

What initially struck us as flimsy actually ended up being quite formidable. The Harvet R0700 Palm Compact Router Kit is an incredibly lightweight model that often feels like you’re not carrying anything. If you anticipate doing work for several hours straight, this is a perfect router to have by your side.

Besides that, though, nothing else about it is really eye-catching. Its cutting strength, accuracy, and miscellaneous attributes can all be found in other models. Some may even argue that its results are slightly below that of Bosch or Makita. 

Nevertheless, there is no doubt that this tool will provide you with workable results. We would just recommend spending your money on something that’s a bit more reputable. Still, if you were open to taking a chance, we wouldn’t be completely against it either.

Just like its close relative, the Makita RT0701C Compact Router contains every function needed to be an effective tool. Users will have that peace of mind knowing it is built to come through, especially when you need it most.

A 1.25-horsepower motor can cut through all types of wood. It maintains a constant speed throughout use to provide better control and minimize the risk of short circuits. Since routers usually consume a lot of voltage, the last thing you want is an accident. This, coupled with a soft-start feature, ensures that this doesn’t happen.

At the same time, its frame has been enforced with heavy-duty aluminum for added durability. The Makita RT0701C Compact Router’s body, though, is not at all heavy. It is extremely relaxing on the arms and effortless to control. This instrument will move anywhere you want it to, which bodes well for overall adeptness.

Bosch has always been known to offer consumers affordable products without skimping on quality. The 1617EVS Fixed-Base Router is a prime example, thanks to its wide range of different features. It may not look the part, but it can get the job done.

This model comes with a powerful 2.25-horsepower, 12-AMP motor that spins up to 25,000-RPM. A variable speed dial allows you to increase rapidity or slow down with just a single twist. Moreover, the router’s speed-control system ensures a constant pace of your chosen setting. These all contribute greatly to maintaining its high level of performance throughout any task.

Additionally, the Bosch 1617EVS Fixed-Base Router is made with a strong aluminum exterior that extends down to its base. This design increases the tool's overall durability while also preventing dust particles from entering its engine. The only qualm we have about it, though, is that its handles can still be improved. Gripping them can be challenging, especially with sweaty palms.

Even just from a physical standpoint alone, the Dewalt DW618 Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router proves it can be a worthy companion on all your work sessions. A slightly stronger 2.5-horsepower motor can dig through all types of different wood with relative ease. Furthermore, it possesses an electronic variable-speed function for easy adjustment of pace through a knob.

Since this variable-speed motor is so essential, Dewalt’s makers have introduced several precautions to keep it safe. Physically, this is housed in a nickel-plated case, which doesn’t just increase durability, but also simplifies making changes to the machine. 

At the same time, a soft-start feature warms up the engine by accelerating slowly until reaching your desired speed. This should give you better control of the machine and prevent any overheating from happening.

We also love how the bit depths are easily modifiable. An incredibly convenient ring control can manage this in 1/64-inch increments so that each stroke is exactly how you want it. This attribute directly results in cleaner cuts and much more accurate outputs. Ultimately, you’ll be able to go as deep or as low as your project requires.

Those working under a strict budget should find the Hitachi M12VC Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router as a viable option. It comes with all the necessary components but at a fraction of the cost offered by other more high-end companies. Now wouldn’t this be an ideal situation for any consumer?

Just like other wood routers, this model is fortified with a dominant 2.25-horsepower motor. It is strong enough to withstand harsh conditions and dig into even the thickest of hardwoods.  Consumers who regularly work on mid to larger-scale projects will realize just how valuable owning this is.

However, this isn’t merely a knock-off version as it has its own identity too. Primarily, is a two-stage motor release clamp that delivers quick and accurate depth adjustments anytime you choose, not to mention the base height. Another noteworthy quality is its supremely quiet motor. The Hitachi M12VC only produces 79.5-dB of noise, which allows you to focus on your work without any distractions. 

Another affordable opportunity to consider investing in is the Porter-Cable 690LR Fixed-Base Router. It perfectly blends stylishness and durability with precision to create a high-performing device that’s capable of anything.

User-friendliness has always been a major priority for this company, and it’s seen in how they put each product together. For example, they’ve added an auto-release collet system for easier bit removal, a cam lock level that simplifies coarse height adjustment, and of course, a pair of over-molded handles to enhance gripping strength. These may initially seem like unnecessary additions, but trust us – they are present to make your life better.

Besides those, we really like how well-built the Porter-Cable 690LR Fixed-Base Router is. Majority of its casing is made from hard metal, while the other parts are assembled from aluminum. The instrument’s switch and ball bearings have likewise been completely sealed to prevent any dust particles from entering. 

The final item on our review article is the Milwaukee 5625-20 Fixed-Base Router. Even though it wasn’t manufactured in America, this model is still one of the most influential models around, which will make its steep cost more acceptable.

One unique thing about this router is how its handles are positioned. Instead of the typical palm-grip knobs, it employs a U-shaped design that feels more natural and offers better gripping prowess. Stylishness is another dimension it excels in, as the Milwaukee 5625-20 will undoubtedly stand out in any work area.

In addition to that, its 3.50-horsepower, 15-AMP is pretty formidable and can slice through a wide variety of materials. Modifying the bits has likewise been made more stress-free, thanks to a T-wrench that comes with this package. It may not be tool-less like the other models, but one can’t complain given its results. Just be careful, though, when working on the engine as it often free-falls when not done properly.