Best Router Table Reviews

It's absolutely necessary to get a table with a flat and rigid surface. This will help you cut and shape boards with precision. Tiny bumps and irregularities won't help you do the job right. The table top must be durable because you will apply pressure while feeding boards. So, give great importance to the material of the surface.

Due to its low price and durability, MDF is the best choice on the market. It should be 1'' thick at the very least. The problem with this material is that it's not slippery enough to allow you to push boards, but there is a solution. Choose MDF tops surfaced with melamine. This material is slippery enough and will also protect MDF from wear. Another option is to get MDF surfaced with high-pressure laminate. It's even more durable, but also more expensive. So, go for it only if you are a professional.Are you a professional? In this case, you can forget about MDF altogether and select cast iron tops. This is the top material because it is extremely durable, flat and stable and absorbs vibrations, but it's also the most expensive choice.

This is the part, which is nestled in the hole at the center of the router table. It must be durable enough to support the heavy weight of the router. It must also fit perfectly at your router table so that the top surface will be flat. Since it hosts the bits, it must be easily adjusted to work with bits of all sizes.

Make sure the plate you choose is compatible with your router because some manufacturers drill them to match specific router models on the market. Also avoid one-size-fits-all plates because they often lack the required strength. If you are planning to regularly remove the router to use it manually, make sure the router is mounted and removed easily, or you'll waste time.

You might not need the miter slot in every job, but it's good to know that your router table includes the slot in case you want to create dadoes for example.Some tables have T-slots so that the featherboard and other accessories will be well-secured.

In order to control the cut, you need to apply pressure against the table but also against the fence. So, it must be very durable. You must be able to set it straight and adjust it easily. It must also stay in place otherwise your job will turn into a nightmare.

There are one-piece and two-piece fences. Although split (two-piece) fences allow you to adjust the two pieces closer to the bit, their alignment can be very difficult. And we remind you that the fence must be perfectly aligned or the board you are currently working on will bump in the protruding/misaligned part of the fence.

You won't have the same problem with one-piece fences since this is one solid piece of wood covering both the in-feed and out-feed sides. The downside of one-piece fences? You cannot adjust the opening around the bit, so it must be big enough to receive big bits. When you work with small bits, the board will not be supported when it travels along the opening. Another disadvantage with one-piece fences is that you won't be able to set the in-feed section of the fence at an offset in the out-feed part, but that's solved by using shims.

If it's not, your efforts might get wasted and your safety will be compromised. Remember two things: first, the cutting must be precise and second, you will apply pressure. The base must be sturdy enough to withstand force. It shouldn't wobble. Don't forget that the cutter spins rapidly and you must be able to rely on the base of the router machine. Make sure it's made of durable materials and has locking casters so that it will remain stable, but still be portable.

With so many jigs needed for router tables, consumers often leave dust collectors out of their shopping list. Don't do it! For starters, it suctions dust as you are working and not afterwards, and so you won't work amidst mountains of shavings. With chips and shavings out of the way, you will breathe better. Long exposure to dust can create serious respiratory problems let alone eye and skin irritation, headaches and nasal dryness. Dust collectors will also help you avoid accidents. Accumulated shavings make the floor slippery and can easily catch fire.

Top 10 Mistakes When Buying Router Tables

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It's easy to make a mistake when choosing a router table. There are so many options on the market to the point that it can get really confusing. We didn't list the following common mistakes by importance. We rather separated the 10 most common mistakes people make when buying router tables in two parts to make reading easier...

Top 5 Router Table for Professionals

1. Bosch-RA1181-Benchtop-Router-Table

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This router table is an excellent value for money. With 2 featherboards, which are easily adjustable, a dual outlet switch, a 2-1/2 inch dust collection port and a 6-foot cord, it's very convenient. It features an aluminum fence with MDF face plates. The router mounting plate is of aluminum too. The best thing is that it's compatible with most routers and so it includes hardware for several of them. The large workspace, which measures 18-inches by 27-inches, allows you to have plenty of room while you are working. It also has a 3/8-inch by 3/4-inch slots to use for accessories.

The box also includes 3 rings, a starter pin and guard, shims and an adjustable clear guard

Things We Liked

• Easily adjustable plate

• Easy to adjust and sturdy fence

• Strong, solid plate

Things We Didn't Like

• Not helpful for precision cuts

• The legs are made of plastic

2. Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table

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It's designed to work with several routers, its price is low, there is a comfortable cabinet, it collects dust and makes less noise, and the box also includes shims. It’s an excellent choice. So, let’s check out some of its characteristics. First of all, it’s tall. That’s a good thing. It has adjustable MDF face 4-7/8’’ x 25-1/8’’ plates and the aluminum plate is easily adjusted and stays flat. There is a slot for the use of featherboards and other ¾-inch accessories and it features 2 dust collector ports with 2-1/2-inch vacuum hoses. It also has a dual outlet switch with 6-foot cord. It’s stable, flat and helps for accurate cuts. It’s a superb choice.

Things We Liked

• Easily assembled and adjusted

• Easy to level the plate

• The cabinet reduces the noise

• Great aluminum plate pre-drilled for several routers

Things We Didn't Like

• The surface are is not big enough

• Speed control cannot be set easily

3. Kreg PRS1040 Precision Router Table System

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This is a great choice. It's not the cheapest product on the market but if you consider that it's designed for professional use, it's a great deal. If you are a professional, you know that most pro router tables cost over $1k. So, it's a good bargain considering the machine's characteristics. It has a T-squarefence made of aluminum which helps for precise cuts and allows you to easily use the miter slot. It's a good deal if you consider that it features a durable MDF top with easy-slide micro-dot surface, which enables you to slide boards easily. It absorbs vibrations as well as noise.

The plate works with any router and that's extremely helpful. The individual fence faces allow you to use the table as a vertical jointer. It has dual rings, a steel stand that is adjustable from 31 to 36 inches in height, and enough workspace. It's very durable.

Things We Liked

• Easy to assemble

• Holes line up perfectly

• The stand is sturdy

• The fence is easy to align and strong

Things We Didn't Like

• Some parts are fragile

• It's expensive

4. Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax

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It's an exceptional choice if you consider that you get a great router table at a low price.It's a sturdy machine and features a cast iron surface. It fits perfectly all 27-inch deep x 1-1/2-inch thick right-tilt cabinet grade saws and contractor-grade table saws. So, pay attention. The motor protrudes to the left. If you use the table as a tablesaw, you can remove the fence and hang it on j-hooks provided easily. The plate has an 8-1/4 by 11-3/4 inch opening and the table has a miter gauge track.

The dual fence slot configuration allows you to use the table on both sides so you won't have space issues. That makes it perfect for small workshops. It features a T-slot and so accessories will be well-secured. It's durable, the fence comes with a bit guard, and has a dust collection port.

Things We Liked

• Easy to level plate

• Great dust collector

• Easy to adjust and durable fence

• No vibration – very sturdy machine

Things We Didn't Like

• Way too heavy

• A bit noisy

• Hard to assemble

5. Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table

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This is a very good deal. You get a sturdy router table from a reliable brand and pay a low price. It has a high quality (to industrial standards) fence with adjustable faces and also a dust collector, new cam clamps and vertical jointing. The machine has a full size insert plate and 3 Level-Loc reducing rings, which twist into place and lock. The table measures 16'' x 24'' and features MDF surface with an easy to slide top to make your work much easier. It's pretty stable and sturdy since the table is made of heavy-duty steel, and so you can forget about vibrations

Things We Liked

• Easy to adjust fence

• Easy to add the router

• Sturdy table

Things We Didn't Like

• The fence is made of cheap materials

• The miter gauge slot is not properly manufactured

• The plate leveling screws come loose after a while

Top 5 Router Tables for Hobbyists

1. Bench Dog 40-001 ProTop Contractor Benchtop Router Table

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It's a top choice and  has a fair price if you consider that the Bench Dog 40-001 is a real dog!!! It has won a prize for its one-of-a-kind forward offset router location and despite its apparent compact size, it offers plenty of workspace.The table is 22-inch by 16-inch large and features a plastic laminate top.

What compensates for the high price is that it works with most routers since the bottom cabinet is 15'' in height and also helps to reduce noise and minimizes dust. It has an aluminum dual position fence and a T-slot.

It comes with the necessary hardware and it's versatile and portable. Although it is often recommended to hobbyists, it's an outstanding choice for professionals, too

Things We Liked

• Excellent quality parts

• Easy to assemble machine

• Heavy and sturdy

• Easy to move around
  

Things We Didn't Like

• Not easy to turn router on and off

• Not tall enough

• New hole must be drilled for height adjustments

2. Dremel 231 Shaper/Router Table

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This is a tool, which is directly attached to the workbench. It's a small router table for those with minimum expectations. It's very cheap and for a small router table it features a relatively large worktable – 8'' by 6''. It's also versatile and fits the following tool models: 4000,400, 3000, 398,395,300,275,285,100,200,8220,8200,780,800,770 and 7700. Although it is functional and can help you with several tasks, it might move a lot if it's not well-adjusted on the workbench. Basically it helps you convert rotary tools into a wood shaper.

If you are looking for a small router table, it's an excellent choice because it has a smooth surface and helps you edge, slot, sand and groove items easily even if they have irregular shapes.

Things We Liked

• It is solid

• The surface is smooth

• Great for small items and soft wood

Things We Didn't Like

• Low torque – difficult to cut hard wood
  

• Plastic screws loosen up easily
  

• Dust falls on the machine
  

3. SKIL RAS900 Router Table

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One of the greatest things with this router table is that it comes pre-assembled and its price tag will surprise you. The price is more than reasonable considering what it offers.It has MDF top and two accessory storage containers, which are actually very convenient. There is a slot and two featherboards to help guide the workpiece. It also includes a starter pin in case you want to work with arched workpieces. The bits change easily and no leveling is required. Although it is designed to fold (that's why it is very easy to set up), it's very stable and also features a tall fence.

It's a great table for hobbyists and is offered at an excellent price.The mounting template is designed to work with many routers.

Things We Liked

• Flat top

• Easy to set up

• Functional and easy to use

• Excellent for its price

Things We Didn't Like

• Hard to plug in the router

• Small working area

4. PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table

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This is a top choice for hobbyists, who can afford a tad over $100 and want their job done accurately. It's a fair bargain. It has a large aluminum top (19-3/4-inch 16-3/4-inch), a 3/4-inch miter gauge slot, cast-in lip for table extensions support and several starter pin locations. It features a split fence for laterally or front-to-back use, and a large 3-5/8-inch hole on the table and so you can use 3-1/2-inch diameter bits. The legs are pretty tall and therefore many routers can be used.

Things We Liked

• Easy to move

• Great deal for its money
  

• Pretty sturdy
  

Things We Didn't Like

• Hard to align the fence

• It wobbles

• The miter slot is very rough

• Cheap, light-weight materials
  

5. Trim Router Table

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If you are interested in a small router table at a relatively low cost, this one will do the job. Its dimensions are ¾'' x 11-1/2'' x 15-1/2''. It is durable and made of vinyl, which is surfaced with MDF. It's compact and, thus, excellent for hobbyists interested in working on small projects. It's adjustable and you can take it just anywhere. The pre-drilled holes at the back allow you to clamp it on the table. The base is drilled to fit most trim routers and the fence is compatible with the Rockler router table dust collector (this part is sold separately).

Things We Liked

• Excellent for its price

• Well-drilled holes

• Stable machine

• Great for trim work

Things We Didn't Like

• Big fence gap

• Blemished surface

Frequently Asked Questions about Router Tables and their Answers

• What's the use of router tables? For most woodwork, ranging from cutting molding and creating dadoes to shaping edges, making raised panels, routing grooves, sawing, making box joints, slots and dovetails, trimming boards and giving shape to cylindrical boards.

• Why router tables are considered useful? It is a complete, stationary machine as opposed to hand-held routers and they allow you to use both hands to work and have full control over your work. They also provide extra safety, especially when it comes to small boards.

• Which are the cheapest router tables? The compact ones, which can be adjusted on the workbench! These ones are priced under $100, but if you are willing to spend a tad over $100, you will get a more complete solution. Although compact router tables are portable to just any place, router tables with real legs have more accessories, larger workspace and are more stable.

• How do table and table top materials affect the lifespan of a router table? It's obvious that sturdy materials keep the table from wobbling and withstand vibrations. So it won't wear and tear easily. By choosing rigid tops and tables, you are sure that the pressure applied against them during the job doesn't affect them. They are durable enough and consequently they last longer. So, you save a considerable amount of money since you won't have to replace them soon.

• Which fence is ideal for a small workshop? It's best to get a one-piece fence so that you won't have to bother with the alignment of two-piece fences. Just make sure the opening is big enough to fit big bits.

• Which table should I get to use a variety of routers, including big ones? Tall ones enable you to use bigger tools. The most important thing is the hole at the center of the table where the router is mounted. You must get a table, which can host various router plates that can use bits of any size.

• Should I use a starter pin? Most router tables have a little space, which allows the starter pin to sit vertically. It's helpful to use it when you have to work on non-linear boards, like circular or rounded edges. With such objects, you cannot use the fence. The starter pin will help you ease the board into the bit so it won't bang against it.

• Which router table is ideal for a small workshop? Avoid getting a huge one, but also make sure there is enough workplace. Some router tables have a dual slot configuration. These router tables have a fence that can be swiveled out on both sides and so you will have more workspace. Some have a folding design. Invest in accessories too so that you will not be limited to the tasks you undertake
  

Your Safety Is Important – Check out What to Do and What to Avoid

Bits spin with incredible spin and are sharp. Injuries can happen easily. There is a lot you can do to avoid accidents and health problems. Here are some simple safety tips.

• When using the router freehand, clamp the board on the table. Avoid using the router manually with small workpieces.
  

• It's imperative to unplug the router every time you change the bit or do any other adjustments.
  

• Wear safety glasses, a dust mask and hearing protection.

• Keep the fingers away from the bit by using push boards and featherboards.
  

• Never feed the workpiece from the left – always from the right to the left and against the fence.
  

• Make sure the fence is well-aligned and stable.
  

• If it's possible, cover the bit with a guard.
  

• Make sure the bit is well-placed so it won't come loose during the job.
  

• Don't start the router when the board is already in contact with the bit.
  

Conclusion

When you have to paya few hundred dollars on one machine, you surely want the best router table for money spent. Although there isn't such a thing as a bad router, some router tables are better than others in regard to their quality and the price you pay for them. What we tried to do here was to give you an account of the best router table machines available on the market taking into consideration their characteristics in relation to their cost. We have offered options to both professionals and hobbyists since needs vary.

Though, at the end of the day what's important is to do the job with precision and without jeopardizing your safety. So, make sure you get a durable table with a flat and easy to slide surface top and a T-slot, an easy to adjust fence and accessories.If the fence is not well-adjusted, the job won't be done properly.

Remember that it's best to push the board with another piece of wood. With a push board, you make sure that the wood you are currently working on is flat against the bit and keeps it from tearing. It's also important to get a plate, which can host bits of all sizes. Getting the best router table possible in terms of characteristics and stability, and still stay on budget is essential. We hope our router table reviews were helpful and just wish you super-great wood creations!