A compact router is an ideal weapon of choice for artists, furniture makers, or carpenters. Their compact size allows users to transport and move them around in your work area more conveniently. Also, they can get into nooks that other routers are too big for. As such, they’re perfect for detailing works and creating elegant patterns on wood.
In this week’s article, we’d like to highlight six options that stand tall above the rest. We won’t just be enumerating their functions, but rather focus on what value they offer you. So for those seeking a quality unit to purchase, here are the best compact routers currently available on the market.
Compact Router Comparison Table
Compact router | features | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | - Produces up to 30,000-RPM of power for use on a wide range of different applications - The brushless motor guarantees a smooth performance all throughout your session | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - Delivers clean and accurate cuts, thanks to a variable speed 1.25-horsepower motor - Has a lightweight design that’s easy to control and puts very little stress on your wrists | 4.3/5.0 | |
 | - A rugged aluminum fixed-base increases stability and reduces shaking significantly - Its straight-edge guide helps you measure workpieces before any cutting occurs | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - Armed with a 1.25-horsepower, 6.5-AMP motor that cuts through wood with great ease - A quick-lock system keeps the motor in place and facilitates simple height changes | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - Constructed with an ergonomic body that puts minimal stress on your arms and wrists - Includes a 2-year warranty package for service and parts | 3.0/5.0 | |
 | - Shifting from one speed to another is made easier, thanks to a variable-speed control dial - Weighing only 3.9-lbs, this router is handy and can be used straight for several hours | 5.0/5.0 |
Compact Router Reviews
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Finally, several of its segments like the height, depth, and base are easily adjustable. You no longer need to worry about dislodging everything since they’re all simple to fine-tune. Even the bits are included with this upgrade. Users looking to make a splash in their next project must seriously reflect on the Makita RT0701C Compact Router. The advantages it provides are endless and despite its expensive price, is well worth the investment.
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Conclusion
When purchasing power tools for woodworking, the most important factor to consider is your need. We can go on and on about cutting strength, stability, value for money, and efficiency – only to face one simple question: What is your purpose?
Moreover, we believe the best compact router is the one that best fits your lifestyle. So as an end to this article, we hope you can identify what tasks you plan on undertaking, how often you’ll be doing it, and what your budget is. Answering these questions honestly will put you on the right path to uncovering things in yourself you never knew existed.
Now that you’ve read our insights, go forth and discern what to do with this information.
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