Professional carpenters and furniture makers have long appreciated the advantages of hand routers. These devices allow you not only to cut material, but also to create parts of various shapes.
But even in everyday conditions, there is a worthy use for a manual wood 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 terms of price/quality ratio, which was compiled based on consumer reviews and recommendations of professional carpenters, will help with this.
Rating of the TOP 18 best manual wood routers of 2020-2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 4 best manual wood routers by price/quality for 2021 | ||
| 1 | Makita RT0700CX2 | Find out the price |
| 2 | BOSCH POF 1200 AE | Find out the price |
| 3 | BOSCH POF 1400 ACE | Find out the price |
| 4 | ELITECH F 1800E | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best manual vertical wood routers | ||
| 1 | Makita RP2301FCX | Find out the price |
| 2 | ELITECH F 1355E | Find out the price |
| 3 | Makita RP2300FC | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best manual edge milling cutters for wood (trimmers) | ||
| 1 | BOSCH GKF 550 Professional | Find out the price |
| 2 | Makita RT0700C | Find out the price |
| 3 | Makita 3709 | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best manual cordless wood routers | ||
| 1 | Makita DRT50ZJX2 | Find out the price |
| 2 | RYOBI R18TR-0 | Find out the price |
| 3 | Makita DCO180Z (18V, Li-Ion) | Find out the price |
| TOP 2 best manual lamellar (keyway) routers | ||
| 1 | Makita PJ7000 | Find out the price |
| 2 | Makita DPJ180Z | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best manual inexpensive milling cutters | ||
| 1 | Kolner KER 1200V | Find out the price |
| 2 | Bort BOF-1600N | Find out the price |
| 3 | VORTEX FM-1300 | Find out the price |
How to choose a reliable wood router according to professionals?
When choosing a reliable manual wood router, you should consider the expected frequency of use of the device.
The main technical characteristics by which the device is selected depend on this:
- Power . The optimal figure is 1800-2000 W. This tool can handle almost any task. If the router is used periodically, a power of 600-700 W will be sufficient.
- Number of revolutions . The thickness of the sawn workpieces depends on this criterion. A 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 on which the type of workpieces processed depends. For domestic needs, 50-55 mm will be sufficient, although in professional devices this figure reaches 80 mm.
- Collet size . This is an element that ensures reliable fastening of the cutter. The more collets in the kit, the more attachments that can be installed on the machine.
Experts also recommend paying attention to the weight of the device, the presence of a vacuum cleaner outlet and the function of maintaining constant speed under load..
Using the latter function, the user will be able to protect the motor from overloads.
Which router is better to buy for your home?
If you plan to work on wood without excessive loads, it is quite enough to purchase an entry-level model. In addition to saving money, the relatively low weight is useful, which simplifies handling of the equipment. But you should correctly assess the significance of larger investments when purchasing professional-grade equipment. With this choice you can count on the following advantages:
- the ability to process stone and other hard materials;
- improved accuracy in complex operations;
- performing long-term processes without overheating the electric drive;
- long service life.
The presented rating of the best routers for professional work and at home is recommended to be used taking into account the characteristics of future operation. The distribution of positions in the list is made on the basis of a comprehensive technical analysis after studying customer reviews and evaluation by professional experts.
TOP 4 best manual wood routers by price/quality for 2021
For household use, it is better to buy a universal router that is suitable for a wide range of jobs. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to buy an expensive device: the lines of many well-known brands include models that combine affordable prices with excellent quality.
Makita RT0700CX2
One of the best routers on the market today for home use, although it is an edge router and can only do certain types of work (for example, creating grooves and edges).
The power of the device is 710 W, 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 made sure that the device was as comfortable to use as possible and provided it with a wide range of useful functions..
In particular, the device provides adjustment of the rotation speed, the function of maintaining a constant speed under load, precise setting of the milling depth and soft start.
The kit includes four collets, a base for vertical milling and an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and sawdust from the work area.
Specifications:
- weight 1.8 kg;
- power cord length 2.5 m;
- rotation speed is 10-30 thousand revolutions per minute.
pros
- Compact dimensions and low weight allow you to easily transport the tool;
- reasonable cost;
- The kit includes everything necessary for work;
- a sufficiently long power cord;
- optimal power for domestic and professional use.
Minuses
- there is noticeable play in the submersible base;
- poor quality 8 mm collet.
BOSCH POF 1200 AE
A functional and budget-friendly vertical router from a well-known power tool manufacturer will become an indispensable assistant when working with wooden workpieces..
The device is considered universal because it has an optimal power of 650 W and a cutter immersion depth of 55 mm.
To make working with the router 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 purchasing the device, because the kit includes everything you need for work, in particular, several cutters, a set of collet chucks, the necessary adapters and keys.
Specifications:
- weight 3.4 kg;
- cutter stroke depth 55 mm;
- rotation speed is 10-28 thousand revolutions per minute.
pros
- the ergonomically shaped handle fits comfortably in the hand;
- proven and reliable manufacturer;
- thoughtful equipment;
- affordable cost;
- excellent build quality.
Minuses
- there is no precise adjustment of the milling depth;
- When working with thick workpieces, sometimes there is not enough power.
BOSCH POF 1400 ACE
In terms of cost, this router belongs to the middle price category, and well-thought-out technical characteristics allow it to be used for working with different types of wood.
The device can successfully cope even with thick workpieces, because the milling depth reaches 55 mm.
In addition, the device successfully copes even with figured carvings, and the manual adjustment function even allows you to create ornaments.
The tool also features an electronic stabilization system to create precise and even cuts.
The power of the device is 650 W.
This indicator is sufficient for high productivity and long-term continuous operation.
The tool has high operating stability even during power surges, and the soft start function provides protection from shock loads and extends the life of the device.
Specifications:
- weight 3.5 kg;
- noise level 95 dB;
- maximum cutter diameter 50 mm.
pros
- there is a soft start function and speed adjustment;
- high-quality starter kit included;
- You can precisely adjust the milling depth;
- long network cable;
- fits comfortably in the hand.
Minuses
- some users complain about the build quality being insufficient;
- It is difficult to adjust the height of the cutter.
ELITECH F 1800E
A relatively inexpensive, functional and high-quality vertical router has increased power, so it is suitable for both domestic and professional use..
The milling depth is 55 mm, and the kit includes 8 and 12 mm collets, so the device is suitable for working with wooden workpieces of different thicknesses.
Rotation speed can be adjusted during operation to create precise cuts, and the soft start function extends tool life..
For additional operating comfort, the manufacturer has thought out the device’s body in detail.
It has rubber pads that prevent your palm from slipping . It is also possible to connect a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and convenient illumination of the work area.
Specifications:
- weight 4.5 kg;
- network cable length 2.5 m;
- power 1800 W.
pros
- excellent build quality at an affordable price;
- comfortable to hold due to the successful tilt of the handles;
- there is a soft start function;
- convenient location of lighting;
- there is precise adjustment of the height and depth of milling.
Minuses
- there is play in the guides;
- Some users find the router too noisy.
Making a plate for installing a manual router on a table with your own hands
Milling plates are made independently in the following cases:
- creating a milling table with your own hands for a manual or homemade stationary router;
- further unsuitability of the industrial milling table slab.
The material chosen is:
- Sheet steel;
- aluminum plate;
- plexiglass (textolite);
- sheet phenol or carbon plastic;
- MDF;
- laminate;
- thick plywood.
The thickness of the material is selected from 4 mm to 10 mm.
The simplest model of a homemade mounting plate is a two-layer one.
Manufacturing of the supporting part:
- The bottom layer is made of durable material (steel or aluminum).
- The size of the workpiece is selected depending on the specific model of the hand router, but within the range of 200x300 - 250x350 mm.
- Holes are drilled in the corners for screws for fastening to the table.
- A hole is drilled at the intersection of the diagonals of the bottom plate.
- It expands to fit the size of the largest cutter used.
- Subsequently, the central pocket is countersunk to remove burrs.
- The standard getinaks or carbolite overlay is removed from the router.
- Along the edges of the central pocket, holes are marked and drilled for mounting the router into the mounts of the standard lining.
Making the top:
- The top plate is replaceable. Used instead of ring inserts. The material used is less durable, thinner, with a smooth surface.
- All dimensions from the base plate are transferred to the workpiece.
- Holes for fastening to the table and router are drilled with a chamfer for the heads of the mounting screws “sunk”.
- The central pocket is made to fit a specific cutter size.
- Several such plates are made to suit the diameter of the cutting tools used.
The next version of a homemade milling plate is single-layer. It uses replaceable rings to match the diameter of the cutter.
- In the middle part of the base plate, a recess is made with the diameter and thickness of replaceable ring inserts.
- Holes are drilled for fastening the rings.
- They are threaded for screws to secure the inserts.
If necessary, replacement linings are also made independently.
- Round blanks with a diameter 40–50 mm larger than the diameter of the largest cutter are cut out of thin sheet material.
- Holes are cut in the center for a specific cutting tool.
- The holes are countersunk from burrs.
- At the opposite edges of the plates, holes are drilled for fastening the rings to the base plate with a chamfer for countersunk screws.
TOP 3 best manual vertical wood routers
Vertical routers are considered universal devices, as they allow you to perform a wide range of woodworking jobs. Three models are recognized as the best for household and professional use.
Makita RP2301FCX
In terms of cost, this router is not the cheapest, but its price is fully compensated by its advanced functionality and well-thought-out technical characteristics.
The power of the tool is 1000 W. In combination with a milling depth of up to 70 mm, this indicator allows the device to be used for working with different types of wood and workpieces of various thicknesses.
A 12 mm collet is included in the kit . 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 use.
The device features adjustable rotation speed to create smooth and precise cuts, soft start to reduce load on the motor, as well as spindle locking and locking for safe operation.
The milling depth can also be adjusted based on the type of workpiece.
Specifications:
- weight 6.1 kg;
- network cable length 4 m;
- power 1000 W.
pros
- high power makes the tool suitable for professional use;
- advanced functionality;
- excellent build quality;
- precise settings of milling parameters;
- There is illumination of the working area.
Minuses
- The kit does not include a copy sleeve;
- supplied without a set of cutters.
ELITECH F 1355E
Inexpensive but quite functional router that is perfect for home use.
The device is vertical, so it allows you to perform a wide range of work with wooden workpieces.
Increased power of 1300 W and a cutting depth of 55 mm allow you to make precise and even cuts even in thick wooden workpieces.
The kit includes a key for assembly, 6 and 8 mm collets, and a rip fence. The case has a hole for connecting a vacuum cleaner, which will help remove dust and sawdust from the work area.
Despite the affordable price, the tool provides basic functions aimed at ease of use.
In particular, the device has a rotation speed control function, spindle locking and a turret stop.
Specifications:
- weight 3.7 kg;
- network cable length 2.5 m;
- milling depth 55 mm.
pros
- there is illumination of the working area;
- a sufficiently long network cable;
- adequate cost with well-thought-out technical characteristics;
- you can adjust the depth of the cutter;
- A network connection indicator is provided.
Minuses
- there is noticeable play in the guides;
- makes a lot of noise.
Makita RP2300FC
A mid-price manual router from a well-known power tool manufacturer, suitable for both household and professional use..
The power of the device is 1200 W, so the device can successfully handle cutting workpieces of different thicknesses. The depth of travel of the cutter is 70 mm, and it can be smoothly adjusted during operation.
The manufacturer also made sure that using the tool was as comfortable and safe as possible for the user..
The housing has a backlight and a hole for a vacuum cleaner. Additionally, a soft start function is provided, which reduces the load on the engine and extends its service life.
Specifications:
- weight 6.1 kg;
- network cable length 4 m;
- cutter stroke depth 70 mm.
pros
- excellent Japanese assembly;
- high power allows you to work with workpieces of different thicknesses;
- The set includes two collets for different types of cutters;
- LED illumination of the working area is provided;
- Stably maintains speed under load.
Minuses
- the power button gets clogged periodically;
- Not a very high quality rip fence.
Existing types
Mounting plates made from:
- become;
- of stainless steel;
- aluminum;
- phenol;
- carbon;
- other durable sheet materials.
Standard plate size:
- 220x320 mm;
- 235x300 mm;
- 250x350 mm;
- thickness from 6 mm to 12 mm.
Standard replacement rings for copying bushings are available with internal diameters:
- 10 mm;
- 15 mm;
- 25 mm;
- 35 mm;
- 45 mm;
- 68 mm;
- plug ring.
Rings with additional diameters from 6 mm are produced upon request.
The main manufacturers of this auxiliary equipment:
- BLACK&DECKER.
- Bosch.
- DeWalt.
- Felisatti (Interskol).
- Makita.
- Hitachi.
- Triton.
- HAMMER.
- Kreg.
- and others.
In addition to mounting plates, mounting blocks as a whole are produced. They are capable of:
- lower and raise the drive with high precision;
- adjust the tilt of the cutters;
- perform other operations.
TOP 3 best manual edge milling cutters for wood (trimmers)
Edge routers are used only for a certain type of work, in particular, making grooves and creating edges. Due to their limited functionality, such devices are used primarily in production, but the models described below are also suitable for domestic use.
BOSCH GKF 550 Professional
One of the most inexpensive edge routers on the market today . Despite
affordable price, the manufacturer has equipped the device with all the necessary functions and characteristics for full operation.
Power of 550 W is enough to create grooves and edges in wooden workpieces of different thicknesses and hardness.
The ability to adjust the cutting depth and rotation speed allows you to create smooth and accurate cuts.
The weight of the tool is small, so it can be easily transported, and the extended configuration makes it easier to use.
The tool also has a soft start function. It reduces the load on the engine and extends its service life.
Specifications:
- weight 1.4 kg;
- power 550 W;
- rotation speed is 33 thousand revolutions per minute.
pros
- reliable proven manufacturer;
- excellent build quality;
- adequate cost;
- a light weight;
- thoughtful package.
Minuses
- There is not a single cutter included;
- there is no protection against accidental activation.
Makita RT0700C
An edge router from a well-known Japanese manufacturer will become an indispensable assistant in everyday life and at work..
The power consumption of the device is 710 W. In combination with a cutter stroke depth of 35 mm, this indicator allows you to create smooth and precise grooves and edges even in thick wooden workpieces.
There is a special hole in the device body for connecting a vacuum cleaner . With its help, the user can remove dust and sawdust from the work area.
Additional functions include adjusting the rotation speed, maintaining a constant speed under load, and locking the spindle for safe operation.
A soft start function is also provided . With its help, the user can easily start the tool without subjecting the engine to extreme loads.
Specifications:
- weight 1.8 kg;
- network cable length 2.5 m;
- cutter stroke depth 35 mm.
pros
- Compact dimensions allow you to comfortably hold the device in your hand;
- sufficient power level;
- high-quality materials and assembly;
- you can adjust the rotation speed and depth of the cutter;
- two types of collets included.
Minuses
- some users think the price is too high;
- The adjustment wheel may rotate randomly when the body vibrates strongly.
Makita 3709
This edge router from a well-known power tool manufacturer has all the necessary characteristics for easy operation..
Its power is 300 W. For a tool of this type, this is a fairly high indicator, which allows you to make grooves and create an edge even in thick wooden blanks.
The stroke depth 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 6 mm collet, a rip fence, a straight cutter, a contour guide and a set of clamping keys for assembling the device.
The device operates from the mains, and the sufficient length of the cable allows you to install the tool in any part of the workshop.
Specifications:
- weight 1.5 kg;
- network cable length 2.5 m;
- rotation speed 3000 rpm.
pros
- convenient depth adjustment;
- extended equipment;
- the power is sufficient even for professional use;
- excellent build quality;
- light weight makes it easy to transport.
Minuses
- no depth limiter;
- There is no soft start function.
Milling to a given depth
For comparison, we forced all models to cut the following into oak blanks using the same cutters:
- nests 13 mm wide and 38 mm deep;
- three shaped profiles in one pass (with cutters for counter-profile connections and a molding cutter), as well as a fold with a cross-section of 11 x 13 mm with fast manual feed;
- figurine profile with a cutter with a diameter of 89 mm after installation in the milling table.
All models impress with their confident operation without overload when feeding manually, even if you try to do it faster than usual.
The next stage: a milling table, where a 38 mm wide figurine profile was made in three successive passes of approximately the same depth. Again, all milling machines were able to achieve a feed rate of about 3 meters per minute.
Not everyone was able to cope with the task of forming a profile in two passes. This time, only Bosch MRC23EVS (GMF 1600), Freud FT3000VCE and Triton TRA001 (all with motors over 2 kW) managed without straining.
Large router or small, fixed base or plunge-cut, you want a router that can be quickly, accurately and easily adjusted to cut holes to the required depth.
Among the models with a fixed base (included in the package), we put first the Porter-Cable model, which has an adjuster with a rack, a lock and a handwheel for coarse and fine adjustments, which are very convenient to use. Milwaukee and Ridgid also have quick adjustment mechanisms that have proven to be effective.
The fixed bases of the Craftsman and both Bosch models snap onto one of three recesses in the case. This limits the amount of movement of the collet, and if it is necessary to extend the cutter further or, conversely, reduce its overhang, you have to move the latch to another recess and unscrew or screw in the threaded adjuster again.
Convenient solution. The large threads on the Ridgid router's adjustment screw allow for quick up-and-down movement, and the locking nut helps make it even faster.
Three depth positions. The depth adjustment range of the Bosch 1617EVSPK router when fixing the protrusion in the lower recess is greater than in the other two.
Ease of control of the router is no less important than simplicity and accuracy of adjustment. Two powerful plunge routers - Freud and Triton TRA001 - are too heavy, awkward and prone to tipping over due to the large weight of the motor, which is especially noticeable when processing the edges of parts. The Bosch MRC23EVS (GMF 1600) weighs more than other fixed base models, but its low center of gravity makes it feel more manageable than larger plunge routers.
This Bosch model has one more nuance - a switch built into the handle. In other similar models, to turn it on and off, you have to release one of the handles, loosening your grip. The Bosch MRC23EVS (GMF 1600) has the same switch as specialized plunge routers, and the router is easy to operate without changing the position of your hands.
Switching modes. For plunge milling, press the center button in the handle or release it to engage the depth adjustment screw mechanism.
TOP 3 best manual cordless wood routers
Cordless wood routers differ from corded models in their high autonomy. But it should be borne in mind that the operating time of such tools is limited, and the device will have to be recharged periodically, although cordless milling cutters are irreplaceable if the user has to work in rooms where there is no connection to a stationary power supply.
Makita DRT50ZJX2
The mid-priced edge router differs from previous models in that it does not work from the mains, but from a built-in lithium-ion battery.
This ensures high autonomy and does not limit the user’s movement.
At the same time, other technical characteristics and capabilities still remain high.
In particular, you can connect a vacuum cleaner to the device to clean the work area from dust and sawdust, and the accuracy of work is increased by conveniently located LED backlighting.
The tool also has all the functions typical for Makita corded routers..
The user will be able to independently adjust the rotation speed and depth of the cutter.
For safe operation, the spindle is secured and instantly stopped, and the soft start function allows you to quickly start the device without additional load on the engine.
Specifications:
- weight 2.1 kg;
- cutter stroke depth 40 mm;
- rotation speed is 10-30 thousand revolutions per minute.
pros
- optimal ratio of price and build quality;
- there is convenient illumination of the working area;
- high power with compact dimensions;
- complete autonomy;
- The kit includes everything you need for work and a storage case.
Minuses
- Some users find the router a bit heavy;
- Not very high quality cutters included.
RYOBI R18TR-0
This manufacturer of power tools is little known to domestic consumers, but the cordless trimmer has optimal build quality and thoughtful technical characteristics.
The rotation speed reaches 29 thousand revolutions per minute, and the cutter stroke depth of 39 mm allows you to work with wooden workpieces of different thicknesses.
The routing depth can be precisely adjusted to create smooth, quality cuts . Due to this, the tool can be considered suitable even for professional use.
For ease of use, the case is equipped with spot LED illumination of the working area.
Along with the tool itself, the user receives a rip fence, a straight cutter, a set of collets and a key for replacing components.
Charger and spare battery are not included.
Specifications:
- weight 1.3 kg;
- cutter stroke depth 38 mm;
- 18 V battery.
pros
- there is illumination of the working area;
- extended equipment;
- adequate cost;
- the immersion depth of the cutter can be adjusted;
- comfortable transparent base.
Minuses
- no speed controller;
- not always on sale.
Makita DCO180Z (18V, Li-Ion)
The convenient and inexpensive edge router is equipped with a built-in battery, so it can be used even in workshops where there is no connection to a stationary power supply..
At the same time, the model is not inferior to network tools in terms of power and performance.
The rotation speed is 30 thousand revolutions per minute, and two collets included allow you to change cutters to create different types of edges.
For long-term and comfortable use, the device has additional functions..
For example, to create precise and even cuts, the user will be able to adjust the rotation speed directly during operation, and reliable fixation of the spindle will ensure complete safety of work.
The tool also has a soft start function . With its help, the owner will be able to start the tool without any problems without subjecting the engine to additional loads.
Specifications:
- weight 1.4 kg;
- 18 V battery;
- rotation speed is 30 thousand revolutions per minute.
pros
- reliable and proven manufacturer;
- excellent quality of Japanese assembly;
- high work autonomy;
- allows you to get smooth and precise cuts;
- adequate cost.
Minuses
- non-standard cutters;
- Supplied without charger and spare battery.
Characteristics of milling cutters
Finishers, installers of interior doors, furniture makers and other specialists know exactly for what work which router is best suited, but for the average person choosing a tool for the home for the first time, it is not so easy to decide on both desires and capabilities. Therefore, the choice should be made based on the main characteristics and assuming the most universal capabilities without professional additions.
- Power and performance. In this case, they have an inextricable connection, directly proportional. There are light options, and the indicator up to 700 W also determines the weight, which is a priority if a manual router is required. Semi-professional models can consume up to 1500 W, while professional models boast a power of 2300 W.
- Adjusting the intensity of rotation. The equipment is capable of setting speeds up to 30,000-35,000 rpm, but in some cases, for example, when working with metal structures or glass, such parameters can lead to overheating and melting of materials. In these cases, very fine, or better yet, stepwise adjustment is needed.
- Start. Just imagine the rapid increase in speed. A sharp jerk of the motor can cause the head to dislodge and, as a result, damage to the part. A smooth start is very important for precision work. While a table-mounted router can maintain accuracy, a manual router is unlikely.
- Stops and guides. Reliability of fixation and maximum accuracy of the established parameters guarantee an ideal result, without which the undertaking hardly makes sense. Fasteners and clamps can be adjustable; some manufacturers take care of this and include it in the basic package of devices.
And now directly the rating of the best routers of 2021 for working on wood, plastic and other materials. The Top includes models that have earned the trust of consumers and have extremely positive reviews in terms of performance, reliability and quality.
TOP 2 best manual lamellar (keyway) routers
Key cutters are rarely used in everyday life, as they are intended for a narrow range of jobs. But they are used quite often in furniture production, although the choice of lamella cutters on the domestic market is not very extensive.
Makita PJ7000
The price of this keyway router is average, but most users consider it acceptable, since the production is carried out by a reliable and time-tested company.
The power of the tool is 960 W, so it will successfully cope with a wide range of tasks, and the reliable motor will ensure long-term and uninterrupted operation even under increased loads.
To reduce engine wear, the manufacturer has equipped the tool with a soft start function..
The cutting depth of the cutter is only 20 mm, but this indicator is enough to perform basic tasks.
Another advantage of the device is its extended configuration . Along with the tool itself, the user receives a key cutter, a front handle, a removable dust container and a convenient case for storing the device.
Specifications:
- weight 2.5 kg;
- network cable length 2.5 m;
- cutter stroke depth 20 mm.
pros
- excellent build quality;
- everything necessary for work is included in the kit;
- reasonable cost;
- high-quality storage case included;
- fits comfortably in the hand.
Minuses
- hard network wire;
- there is play in the guides.
Makita DPJ180Z
Another lamellar router from the famous Japanese brand . This model is actively
is used in furniture production, so the manufacturer made sure that the tool has all the characteristics for long-term and trouble-free operation.
In particular, the device provides an increased rotation speed (up to 10 thousand revolutions per minute) and an optimal cutting depth (20 mm).
These characteristics are sufficient to perform industrial work with wood.
The device is powered by a reliable lithium-ion battery, which provides high autonomy and allows you to use the tool even on the road or in workshops where there is no connection to a stationary power supply.
However, a spare battery and charger are not included in the kit: they will have to be purchased separately.
Specifications:
- weight 3.2 kg;
- 18 V battery;
- maximum cutter diameter 100 mm.
pros
- fits comfortably in the hand;
- runs on built-in battery;
- acceptable power for industrial use;
- high-quality materials and assembly of the case;
- democratic price.
Minuses
- no charge level indicator;
- supplied without charger.
Speed. Cutter rotation speed
For large cutters, it is necessary to reduce the rotation speed, and for most models it is 8000-10000 rpm. But the Craftsman model has a slowest speed of 12,000 rpm. While this did not cause any problems in our testing, lower RPM is still preferred for rocks that are prone to chipping and scorching.
For Porter-Cable and Ridgid models, the regulator dial indicates the actual spindle speed. Almost as convenient are Craftsman, Freud and Milwaukee, whose nameplate allows you to easily determine the rotation speed in accordance with the digital value of the speed controller. For other routers, you will have to look in the manual to find out how the numbers on the wheel relate to the spindle speed.
Once you've set the speed you want, you want it to stay the same throughout the milling process. We measured these milling abilities using a phototachometer while milling a fig profile. In no case did the rpm drop by more than 1500; the average deceleration was only a few hundred rpm.
The Ridgid model was the most surprising, never slowing down by more than 35 rpm. This is surprising, given that its engine is the least powerful among its competitors. However, this model experienced a sharp increase in current draw during this test, resulting in an average temperature increase of 3° after each pass.
TOP 3 best manual inexpensive milling cutters
If you need to purchase a manual router for working with wood for rare use, you should not buy expensive models. The lines of many domestic and foreign brands include inexpensive devices that are not inferior to more expensive analogues in terms of technical characteristics and functionality.
Kolner KER 1200V
At a cost of about 4 thousand rubles, this vertical manual router has all the necessary characteristics for use in everyday life and in production..
Power consumption is 1500 W, and the cutting depth is 50 mm. Thanks to these characteristics, the device can be used when working with thick pieces of hardwood.
The kit includes two collets for 6 and 8 mm, which allows you to use the device with different types of cutters.
So that the user can get an accurate and even cut, the manufacturer has equipped the device with a function for adjusting the speed and depth of milling.
It also provides reliable spindle locking, ensuring high operating safety, and a soft start, which reduces the load on the engine and allows you to quickly start the tool.
Specifications:
- weight 4 kg;
- network cable length 2 m;
- cutter stroke depth 50 mm.
pros
- costs less than analogues;
- high-quality assembly without backlash;
- ideal for household use;
- flexible settings and adjustments of the cutter stroke;
- Comfortable, ergonomically shaped handles.
Minuses
- not very high quality plastic body;
- very noisy.
Bort BOF-1600N
This milling cutter is produced by a little-known company, but the tool is distinguished by excellent quality and acceptable technical characteristics.
The power consumption is 1500 W, so the device is suitable not only for household but also for industrial use.
The maximum cutting depth is 50 mm . Due to this, the tool can be safely used even for working with thick workpieces.
The device is equipped with a cast sole, which ensures reliable fixation of the tool on the desktop.
Despite the low cost, the device has all the necessary functions for safe and long-term operation.
In particular, the user will be able to independently adjust the rotation speed of the cutter, focusing on the type of material being processed, and the spindle lock and turret stop ensure high operational safety.
Specifications:
- weight 4.8 kg;
- maximum depth of cutter stroke 50 mm;
- power consumption 1500 W.
pros
- affordable cost while maintaining thoughtful functionality;
- decent build quality;
- compact dimensions make it easy to use;
- fits comfortably in the hand;
- The power is sufficient for industrial use.
Minuses
- There are often manufacturing defects;
- There is a very noticeable backlash.
VORTEX FM-1300
This inexpensive hand router is ideal for users who want a quality tool for infrequent use..
Despite the affordable price, the technical characteristics and functionality of the device are very decent.
Power consumption is slightly lower than other models in the same category (1300 W), but it is quite sufficient for working with medium-thick wood..
The optimal depth of travel of the cutter (50 mm) and the ability to adjust the rotation speed allow you to obtain accurate and even cuts, even if the user does not have sufficient skills to work with such tools.
For safe use, a spindle lock and a turret stop are provided, and a vacuum cleaner can be connected to the device body to remove sawdust from the work area.
Specifications:
- weight 3.6 kg;
- cutter stroke depth 50 mm;
- power consumption 1300 W.
pros
- adequate cost;
- sufficient power for domestic and industrial use;
- the number of revolutions can be adjusted;
- there is a hole for connecting a vacuum cleaner;
- allows you to get precise and even cuts.
Minuses
- not very high-quality assembly of the case;
- not always on sale.
Types of milling cutters and their brief description
There are several types of manual wood routers.
They are designed to perform different types of work:
- Vertical (submersible) are universal models with which you can perform a wide range of work, from forming holes and grooves to removing chamfers. Suitable for both professional and household use.
- Edge trimmers are used to remove chamfers, create grooves and grooves. Typically, these models are used by professional carpenters.
- Rotary - used to create holes in wood, ceramics, plastic and drywall. Can also be used to decorate edges.
- Lamellar - used only to create grooves.
- Fillers - usually used in furniture production to create paired holes.
Equipment
The Bosch MRC23EVS and Craftsman come with standard accessories that you don't have to purchase separately. The Bosch kit includes a centering cone, three connections for connecting a vacuum cleaner, three copy sleeves and an adapter for Porter-Cable standard copy sleeves.
Bosch copy bushings are only suitable for Bosch routers. They snap into a special holder. Standard Porter-Cable bushings attach with a nut to the hole in the soleplate of any router.
The Craftsman comes with three nozzles, a side support and a fixed base with a handle-bracket - a great option if you decide to install a regular fixed base in the table. All routers except the Bosch 1617EVSPK model are equipped with at least one nozzle for connecting a vacuum cleaner. True, in several models these pipes have the same diameter, and you will have to look for adapters or use tape.
Which company should you choose?
When choosing a manual wood router, you should pay attention not only to the technical characteristics, but also to the brand of the tool.
Even for home use it is better to buy devices from well-known manufacturers.
They do not skimp on materials and carefully control all stages of production, so the finished tools are of high quality and reliability.
The best manufacturers of manual wood routers are Makita, BOSCH, ELITECH and Kolner.
Devices from these exact brands are included in the selection.
FAQ
How to use a router correctly?
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Features of the work largely depend on the type and purpose of the model.
- Before starting operation, you should install the cutting element, securely fix the workpiece and apply control marks.
- After positioning the tool on the base, the processing depth and rotation speed are adjusted taking into account the specifics of the material.
- The cutter must be immersed as the number of revolutions increases, moving strictly along the lines drawn in advance.
For more comfortable and accurate operation, you can use guides, stops and templates.
Strictly follow safety precautions! Using a router is associated with the formation of a large amount of sawdust and shavings. To protect your respiratory and vision organs, you must work only in a protective mask and goggles. In noisy environments, the use of headphones is justified.
For safety reasons, we also recommend removing the power cable when changing equipment, securely fixing the workpiece, maintaining high quality sharpening of the cutting element, and avoiding sudden movements while operating the tool.
How to extend tool life?
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Sawdust, resin, and dust can contaminate not only the router body, but also the main internal components. To clean them, you can periodically blow with compressed air.
To maintain the working condition of the guides, use graphite or Teflon lubricant.
If sparking occurs in the commutator, it is worth checking and, if necessary, replacing the carbon brushes. It is important to store the instrument in a dry place and avoid sharp impacts and falls.
Which router manufacturer is better to buy?
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Household-class models are not designed for intense and increased loads, but they have an affordable price and are widely represented on the market. Among the reputable foreign manufacturers of such equipment, we note Favorite, Wert, DWT.
Domestic milling cutters: Vikhr, Kalibr, Enkor are also characterized by high quality and moderate cost.
If you need a professional tool for regular use in a workshop or production, you should pay attention to models from Bosch, Makita, Metabo or DeWALT.
