If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, chances are you have a special place in your heart for the trusty plunge router. With its precision and power, it’s a tool that can elevate your projects to the next level – but only if you have the right one. Enter the world of plunge routers, and you quickly find yourself lost in a maze of technical jargon and dizzying options. That’s where we come in.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best plunge routers available today, exploring their features and capabilities. We have researched extensively in the field of woodworking to present you with the top plunge routers available. Along with that, we will guide you in selecting a router that best suits your needs and preferences, ranging from economical to professional-grade tools. So whether you’re just getting started with woodworking or are an experienced craftsman looking to upgrade your kit, we’ve got you covered.
So, put on your safety goggles and come along for the ride – we promise it won’t be a plunge into the unknown!
Table of Contents
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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1. BOSCH MRP23EVS 120-Volt 2.3 HP
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2. SKIL 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router
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3. Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP* Plunge Router
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4. DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit
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5. Bosch GKF125CEPK Colt 1.25 HP (Max) Variable-Speed Palm Router
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1. BOSCH MRP23EVS 120-Volt 2.3 HP
Specification
| Brand: | BOSCH |
| Type: | Router |
| Voltage: | 120 volts |
| Item Weight: | 12.6 pounds |
| Horsepower: | 2.3 HP (Max Tool) |
| No Load Speed: | 10000 – 25000 RPM |
| Variable: | SpeedDial |
| Cord Length: | 8 feet |
Features
- Powerful Motor
- Precise Speed Dial
- Depth Rods
- Spring Lock Plunge Lever
- Trigger Control System
- Always-On LED Light
- Cord Swivel for Added Mobility
- Soft Start
The BOSCH MRP23EVS is a top-of-the-line router that stands out in the crowd with its powerful motor and user-friendly features. Its impressive specifications make it an excellent choice for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.
WHAT WE LIKE
The BOSCH MRP23EVS impresses with its powerful 2.3 HP motor, which can handle a wide range of routing tasks with ease. The precise speed dial and always-on LED lighting significantly improve control and accuracy, making it suitable for intricate work. The cord swivel feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances user convenience, while the soft start feature ensures a smooth and safe operation.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
While the BOSCH MRP23EVS is a well-rounded tool, it might be slightly heavy for some users, especially during prolonged use. Additionally, while the always-on LED lighting is generally a plus, some users might prefer the option to switch it off when not needed.
PROS
- Powerful 2.3 HP motor handles a variety of routine tasks
- Precise speed dial and always-on LED lighting improve control and accuracy
- Cord swivel feature adds convenience
- Soft start feature ensures smooth and safe operation
CONS
- Might be slightly heavy for some users during prolonged use
- Always-on LED lighting can’t be switched off when not needed
2. SKIL 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router – Best Bang for the Buck
Specification
| Brand: | SKIL |
| Type: | Router |
| Voltage: | 120 volts |
| Item Weight: | 14.3 pounds |
| Horsepower: | 2.5 HP (Max Tool) |
| No Load Speed: | 0 – 25000 RPM |
| Variable: | Speed Dial |
| Cord Length: | 8 feet |
Features
- Powerful 14 Amp Motor
- Speed Control LCD Display
- Soft Start Technology
- Electronic Feedback System
- Live Tool Indicator
- Quick-Set Edge Guide Screws
- Vacuum Ports for Dust Extraction
The SKIL 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router offer an impressive blend of power, versatility, and affordability, making it a fantastic value choice for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.
WHAT WE LIKE
The SKIL 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router is an excellent value choice for woodworking projects. The powerful motor offers plenty of torque to take on various routing tasks, while the speed control LCD display and electronic feedback system ensure precise settings. The soft start technology increases user safety and convenience, while the live tool indicator adds an extra layer of protection.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
The SKIL 14 Amp Plunge and Fixed Base Router is a well-rounded tool, but some users might find the weight to be slightly heavy. Additionally, while the dust extraction ports are useful, some users might prefer a better system for collecting debris.
PROS
- Dual base design offers great versatility
- Powerful 14 Amp motor can handle most routing tasks
- Speed control feature for adjusting speed based on task
- Micro-fine depth adjustment enhances precision
CONS
- Might be slightly heavy for some users
- Dust extraction system not as effective as other models
- No LED lighting for added visibility and accuracy
3. Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP* Plunge Router
Specification
| Brand: | Makita |
| Material: | Reinforced Composite |
| Power Source: | Hand Powered |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 17.72 x 5.91 x 5.12 inches |
| Voltage: | 110 Volts |
| Item Weight: | 13.4 Pounds |
| Maximum Rotational Speed: | 22000 RPM |
| Amperage: | 15 Amps |
| Base Type: | Plunge |
| Corded/Cordless: | Corded |
Features
- Powerful 3-1/4 HP motor
- Variable speed control dial
- Soft start feature for smooth start-ups
- Electric brake for increased productivity
- Micro-fine depth adjustment
- Built-in twin LED lights
- Oversized ball bearing construction for longer tool life
- Ergonomic Handles
The Makita RP2301FC is a high-end plunge router with professional performance and features. With its powerful motor and advanced features, it’s an excellent upgrade choice for those who demand the best from their tools. It features a 15 Amp motor with variable speed from 9,000 – 22,000 RPM and electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router offers professional results with its powerful motor, variable speed control, and soft start feature. The micro-fine depth adjustment helps with precision cuts, while the built-in LED lights increase visibility in low-light situations. The ergonomic handles provide comfort for extended use, and the electronic brake adds an extra layer of protection. Additionally, it has an oversized ball-bearing construction that helps with longevity and durability.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
While the Makita RP2301FC is a high-end tool, it is also quite heavy, which might be a drawback for some users, especially during extended use. Additionally, it comes at a higher price point, which might not be suitable for everyone’s budget.
PROS
- Powerful 3-1/4 HP motor handles heavy-duty routing tasks
- Variable speed control and linear ball bearings improve control and performance
- Quick depth adjustments and ergonomic handles enhance user convenience
- Designed for comfort and reduced fatigue during prolonged use
CONS
- A higher price point might not suit everyone’s budget
4. DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit
Specification
| Brand: | DEWALT |
| Power Source: | Corded Electric |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 21.88 x 6.88 x 12.56 inches |
| Voltage: | 120 Volts |
| Item Weight: | 10.1 Pounds |
| Amperage: | 12 Amps |
| Base Type: | Fixed and Plunge Base |
| Corded/Cordless: | Corded |
Features
- Dual Base
- Design
- 2-1/4 HP Maximum Motor HP
- 12.0 Amp Electronic Variable Speed Motor
- Micro-Fine Depth Adjustment Ring
- Adjustable Motor Cam Lock
- Integral Through-the-Column Dust Collection
- Quick Release Motor Latches for Base Changes
The DEWALT Router with Fixed and Plunge Base Kit is an excellent choice for beginners who are just getting started with woodworking. With its user-friendly features and reliable performance, it’s a tool that makes routing tasks accessible and enjoyable for novices. It features a powerful 2-1/4 HP motor, electronic variable speed control from 8,000 – 24,000 RPM, and a soft start to reduce start-up torque.
WHAT WE LIKE
The DEWALT Router with Fixed and Plunge Base Kit stands out with its dual base design, offering great versatility for beginners. The powerful 12 Amp motor can handle most beginner-level routine tasks, while the speed control feature allows you to adjust the speed based on your needs. The soft start feature is a safety plus, and the clear sub-base enhances visibility, precision, and safety in your work.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
While the DEWALT Router with Fixed and Plunge Base Kit is an excellent choice for beginners, some users might find it lacks a dust extraction feature, which could make cleanup a bit more time-consuming.
PROS
- The dual base design offers great versatility for beginners
- Powerful 12 Amp motor can handle most beginner-level routing tasks
- Speed control feature for adjusting speed based on task
- Clear sub-base enhances visibility, precision, and safety
CONS
- Lacks a dust extraction feature, making cleanup more time-consuming
5. Bosch GKF125CEPK Colt 1.25 HP (Max) Variable-Speed Palm Router
Specification
| Brand: | Bosch |
| Material: | Aluminum |
| Power Source: | AC |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH: | 5.8 x 11 x 10.5 inches |
| Voltage: | 120 Volts |
| Item Weight: | 4.1 Pounds |
| Amperage: | 7 Amps |
| Base Type: | Fixed and Plunge Base |
Features
- Compact Size
- 1.25 HP (Max) Motor Power
- 7.0 Amp Variable Speed Control
- Micro-Fine Depth Adjustment System
- 360-Degree Aluminum Base Housing
- Smooth-Action Plunge Lever
- Quick Clamp System for Switching between Bases
- Straight-Edge Guide and Carrying Case
The Bosch GKF125CEPK Colt Palm Router is a compact and lightweight tool that’s perfect for small projects. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with its powerful motor and variable speed control, making it an excellent choice for detailed work on smaller pieces.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Bosch GKF125CEPK Colt Palm Router stands out with its compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for small projects and detailed work. Despite its small size, its powerful motor and variable speed control offer a surprising amount of versatility. The soft start feature is a safety plus, and the precision depth adjustment system enhances accuracy in your work.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
While the Bosch GKF125CEPK Colt Palm Router is excellent for small projects, it may not be suitable for larger, heavy-duty tasks due to its smaller motor.
PROS
- A compact and lightweight design is ideal for small projects and detailed work
- Powerful motor and variable speed control offer versatility
- The soft start feature ensures smooth and safe operation
- Precision depth adjustment system enhances accuracy
CONS
- May not be suitable for larger, heavy-duty tasks due to smaller motor
Conclusion
In the symphony of routers, the BOSCH MRP23EVS 120-Volt 2.3 HP plays the lead. It’s not just a tool; it’s a maestro, orchestrating your woodworking tasks with precision and power.
Its 2.3 HP motor is like the robust backbone of an orchestra, driving the rhythm and pace, while the precise speed dial is the conductor, guiding the tempo and dynamics. The always-on LED lights are like the stage lights, ensuring every detail is visible, and the cord swivel feature, much like the choreography, ensures everything moves in harmony.
Even the soft start feature plays its part, like the gentle rise in a musical piece, ensuring a smooth and safe operation from the get-go. This router isn’t just a tool; it’s a performance, a show it puts on every time you switch it on.
If you liked this article about the best plunge router, consider checking out the other articles below —
- Best Knife Grinder for Beginners
- Best Knife Grinder
- Best Knife for Cutting Leather
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I am a woodworker with over 21 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.
