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Top 5 Best Router Table Reviews & Must Read Buyers Guide
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Choosing The Best Router Table, Must Read Buyers Guide & Our Top Picks
The router table is a great addition for anyone who uses a wood router and is what you depend on to create precise incisions in wood. We have looked at some good routers just recently here where we compared some of the best models and was really impresses with a Bosch model. When looking for the best router table, there are no shortcuts. You have to understand what you need before purchasing.
If this is your first time purchasing a router table, there is no need to worry. Here you will find valid information that you can use to purchase a dependable model. The buying guide especially will be of great use as you select the best model for you among the presented products. In this review we look at two types of router table, ones which are just a table of which most routers will fit onto and models which come with a router built in. Both are very useful so let us see what is on the table.
Before we get into the buyers guide and our top recommended models, we would like to bring your attention to the winner of our 'Best Pick' which is the Lumberjack RT1500 Router Table with it's Integrated Router. We think this model is the best router table for most people as it offers everything needed, however if you already have a router you may want to opt for one of the router tables which we recommend which can be used with a wood router you already own.
Our top 6 recommended Router Tables that are included in our review
- 1Lumberjack RT1500 Bench Top Router Table with Integrated Router - Our score 4.5/5
- 2SKIL RAS900 Router Table - Our score 4.4/5
- 3FERM PRA1011 Router Table - Our score 4.5/5
- 4Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table - Our score 4.5/5
- 5PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Router - Our score 4.8/5
Router Table Buyers Guide
So what do you look for in a good router table? Do you understand what the different features are required to do? If you do then good for you as this will just be a refresher. If you know that you do not know much about router tables, we suggest that you go over this guide. It never hurts to have a little bit of insight.
First let us look at some of the benefits that router tables provide for the woodworker.
Some projects are too large or too small to be handled manually. The router table provides a safe environment where the router cannot slip or impact unwanted areas. The better the routers position the safer the user feels
Flat and firm table
Pressure is something we rely in woodwork to make the right impressions for different purposes. Whether it is joint work or pattern work, stability is essential. You do not want to work with a table whose legs are wobbly. If you apply too much pressure on an unstable unit you are likely to make irreversible mistakes.
Also be sure to check out if the table is fitted with rubber feet. These rubber fittings prevent the table from sliding across the surface when pressure is applied and help to absorb vibrations when using the rooter.
What material is used to construct the table?
If all router tables were constructed from one material, there is a high chance we would get bored. Different materials offer different benefits depending on the function intended. The following are the most likely in the market
Best Lightweight Router Table To Use With Separate Router
This title was bestowed upon the FERM PRA1011 Router Table. The reason that we picked this model can be easily see. The unit weighs around 5 kg which is way less compared to the larger table sizes.
Made for lightweight use, the router table has all the required accessories to facilitate effective operations. The price of the unit will not leave you bare even though the instructions will offer some frustration but its shouldn't be to difficult to work out. With a little tweaking and patience, this unit would make a fantastic beginner unit but remember it does not come with a built in router. This model us also one of the most affordable.
What of the base plate?
This is basically the unit that holds the router. Depending on the weight and the size of the router, you will notice that the thickness differs. It is very important to have a level and durable base plate.Materials that can keep up with this kind of pressure include aluminium or phenolic resin materials.
You can make sure that the material doesn't move by getting models that offer fixture. If you need a simple table, look for the ones with very heavy base plates. The heavier they are the less vibrations are able to rattle it out-of-place.
Fencing options
In the world of router tables, the fence acts as your guide. There are some applications that need you to produce precise work. There are two types of fences that you can access. These are the split and the one-piece fence.
Additional features
Not all the routing tables will come with these features. Some tables will have the bare minimum while others will have all these features. Walk through this list of these features and acquaint yourself with them. Even though you may not need them now, the information might help someone else.
- 1Feather boards - these are here to support you on your quest for stability. What they do is clamp down on the piece of wood preventing it from moving against the fence. Whether you want to make a joint or engage in moulding processes, these feather boards are essential. They come in different sizes so you can select accordingly.
- 2Dust Collection - this feature is a life saver. You can imagine having to clean up the floor at the end of a long day. It can be utterly frustrating. Select a table that has a dust port fitted. According to the workshop vacuum you have, a suitable adapter to make cleaning possible. If you are not sure which size to get, you can grab the universal adapter. It will do just fine for most models.
- 3Adjustable features - in some cases you find that models come with adjustable height. This allows the user to find the right working posture. Another feature that is found in some models is micro-adjustment. This allows the operator to make tiny but remarkable changes when engaging in detailed work.
- 4Mitre gauge - this feature cannot be found in every model. A mitre gauge comes in handy when you want to undertake bevelling or dadoing or mitre applications. Depending on the design some come with stabilised bases to avoid erratic movements.
- 5Drawers - this is not essential but it is convenient. You can store away various tools that you need nearby. Some drawers are lockable to avoid any theft or misplacement.
- 6Lockable fences - these are just additional support features. There are models that have these secured clamps. They wont cost you a fortune but they will ensure to avoid unnecessary slips.
Our Top 5 Router Table Reviews
Lumberjack RT1500 1500W Bench Top Router Table with Integrated Router Review
OUR BEST PICK
Lumberjack RT1500 1500W Bench Top Router Table with Intergrated Router
Our rating:
The Lumberjack RT1500 Bench Top Router Table with it's Integrated Router which is powered by a 1500 watt motor and features adjustable speeds with varied speeds of between 8,000-26,000 rotations per minute for precise work.
To hold the bits into place, this router table features 1/2 and 1/4 inch collets. Accompanying the collets, are 3 featherboards that you can use to keep your work material in place. You also get access to an adjustable fence and a mitre fence. All these can be used when working different wood applications and make this model one of the most versatile router tables.
At around 19kg, its fairly substantial yet light enough to move around but heavy enough to be stable and robust, the multicoloured unit offers a table size of 59.7cm by 45.7cm. The height of the table 35.5 cm. For cutting applications, the vertical travel can be set between between 0-4 cm using a small wheel which ensures accurate step less adjustments to achieve that finer level of precision and accuracy you expect from the best routers. The table insert has a measuring a diameter of 7.5cm.
They have also made provisions for dust collection. With a dust collect tube having a diameter of 7cm, you can attach it to your dust vacuum. Find a suitable adaptor depending on the dust vacuum model.You also get 2 compartments that you can use to store tools for use.
This unit is supplied with a build in 1500w router, collets, a guide assembly, mitre guide, featherboards, storage compartments and an adjustable fence ensuring excellent value for money and is nearly ready to use out the box. Simply fix the rear rail and finger guides and your ready to go.
Pros
Cons
Thoughts and recommendations
The Lumberjack RT1500 1500W Bench Top Router Table is a good choice to work with and a great choice for anyone buying them first rooter table or professional woodworkers alike. We like that it comes with a powerful 1500w router build in which features electronic speed control. This is perfect for those who don't have a router already or even if you do, this is still a great . choice as its nice to have the router built in anyway.
We love that it has an adjustable fence and mitre guide provided and comes with pretty much everything you need out the box and comes almost fully assembled. For such a sized machine, it will provide you with all the essential functions needed.
The quality of the machine is top-notch, we just wish that the instruction manual were better. Overall we decided that this was probably the best router table for most people which is why we awarded it our 'Best Pick' and it offers excellent value for money and is a top notch product. We never found that perfect router table during out research but this model was as close as it could get to perfect.
This is personal choice but another alternative to this model which is just as good, maybe even better, but its also more expensive, is the PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Built In 1500w Router which we review further down.
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SKIL RAS900 Router Table Review
SKIL RAS900 Router Table
Our rating:
The SKIL RAS900 Router Table features an easy to fold design and can be stored in a small space making it a compact model. This design facilitates easy set up every time it is needed. This also affects easy storage and transportation from job to job if needed.
This unit features a 26 in. x 16.5 inches MDF table. The table is flat and smooth so that the wood moves smoothly. Together with this feature you get to experience the adjustable fence. The fence is created from MDF materials and features durable shims for jointing applications.
For more precise routing, featherboards and mitred guides are always advised. This unit features 2 featherboards which are impact resistance contributing to overall durability. Now when you need to make curves on wood you need a tool that will assist. That is why the starter pin and guard are present in this model, something our 'Best Pick' does not have which would be handy.
Mounting the router is not hard work and neither is bit placement. You can change in between your 1/4 and 1/2 inch bits in no time. When these bits are not in use, you need somewhere to store them. That is where the storage compartments provided come in.
You can adjust the height of the bit so as to make the right cuts. A dust port collects all the trimmings from the wood if connected to a vacuum dust extractor. The unit also features a dual outlet system that protects the unit from overloading. This unit weighs 14.5kg and measures 70.4 x 48.2 x 24.2 cm.
Pros
Cons
Thoughts and recommendations
The SKIL RAS900 Router Table is a very convenient model and in truth probably as good as our 'Best Pick' but it has one problem, Amazon ship this model from the USA and we are sure it does not come with warranty for this reason. We especially enjoy the fold-able design. You can imagine how convenient it is to store this item when you are pressed for space. Simply, this model contains quaint but effective features.
The storage compartment, starter pin and mitre guide among others make this tool effective company for any DIY enthusiast. The build is stable and you can easily adjust it to your preference, ideally if you can find this model in a UK store it would be a great alternative to our 'Best Pick'.
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FERM PRA1011 Router Table Review
FERM PRA1011 Router Table
Our rating:
The FERM PRA1011 Router Table is a dependable lightweight model perfect for the woodworking enthusiast looking for a table to use with a separate router. Weighing in at 5 kg its certainly one of the lightest router tables but don't forget the router you use will add a few kg's on. This unit measures 48 x 35 x 12 cm giving you plenty of space for most of your projects. The 250 watt corded electric unit is made of aluminium which ensures is lightweight while still be strong which is probably why it is so light compared to the other models.
To make sure that you are working smart, a dust port is featured. The dust port using the right adaptor can be connected with utmost ease. The routers that can comfortably fit on this table have to have a router with a plate diameter up to 16.2cm so be sure to check before purchasing or use with the FERM PRM1015 Precision Router. The dust free feature keeps the key active and away from dust obstructions.
The table is not so large but it offers a working table of 45.5 x 33 cm. You will find a mitred guide supplied for use. Together with the fence, you can be able to make precision cuts. The fence is not made of metal thus be careful not to damage it.
For those wondering about adjusting The table to fit the router, have no worries. This model uses secure clamps that wont dislodge easily. Finally the rubber feet keep the unit in position despite of the pressure being applied and also help obsorb the router vibrations.
Pros
Cons
Thoughts and recommendations
The FERM PRA1011 Router Table would make a good beginner model for anyone who already has a router. Being that it cannot handle heavy applications, it can only serve DIY enthusiasts and not really made for professional extensive use.
This model is made of light material and it is only capable of supporting a certain size of router. Check to see if your router specifications will be managed by the specifications of this table. It may have a few faults but the price that you are charged for this router table is very reasonable. If it is within your budget range and you are not engaging in heavy-handed wood work, this is a great model, if you have a Bosch router which we have also recently reviews then this table should be compatible.
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Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table Review
Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table Router
Our rating:
The Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table would be perfect for a DIY/hobby enthusiast. The 8kg unit measures 40 x 43 x 45 cm, this unit is lightweight compared to large units and thus would handle light applications well.
As for the working table, it is constructed from MDF material with melamine sides. This provides a level and smooth surface to work with. The unit also features vertical clamps to hold the material in position against the fence.
For your different applications, this unit has been provided with a horizontal featherboard. You can also find a sliding mitre fence to improve on precision cuts. The adjustable fence will offer valid support thus ensuring that you get the right measurements for your different projects. Once set up its perfect for jobs such as edge moulding, trenching and tenoning
The maximum route cutter diameter prescribed is up to 35mm. Also, this unit can accept compatible 1/4 inch routers. If you happen to own one of these it should be compatible.
The working table size measures 43 cm x 40 cm. Finally it comes with 2 year warranty for full peace of mind, vertical clamps, plastic plate, featherboard, an adjustable fence, and a mitred guard. Be sure to connect an appropriate dust vacuum supported by a compatible adapter for keeping the work area clean.
Pros
Cons
Thoughts and recommendations
The Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table is not a large table but is perfect for most DIY enthusiast looking for a decent table. The build of the unit is dependable but could do with some few upgrades. The addition of adjustable legs would have made this unit just perfect for some works. We like that it is adaptable to a wide range of routers and support features provided.
What we do like is that it comes with a insert plate which you drill to suit your routers fixing points which is a great design.
For light handed work, this model would perform wonderfully. Those who need something larger than this can take a peep at the Charnwood W012 Bench Top Router Table.
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PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Built In 1500w Router Review
PINGTEK BLUELINE 240V BENCH TOP ROUTER TABLE WITH BUILT IN ROUTER
Our rating:
The PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Built In 1500w Router is worth every penny and is probably the best router table with a built in router we have seen but its also the most expensive. Operating with a 1500 watt router, this machine is everything you need under one roof. It even offers adjustable speeds so that you have a wide range of finishing options to work with.
To provide easy working conditions, standard collets have been provided. The size of the collets are 1/2 and 1/4 inch. The collet unit will rise and fall between 0-4cm to make effective indentations using the ergonomic wheel provided will make operations much easier and comfortable for the user.
The working table provided measures 60 cm x 46 cm. That is enough room to work on sizeable projects. The unit weighs around 20 kg so its fairly heavy, robust and measures 62.5 x 48.5 x 40cm. Whether you are using it for professional or or are a woodworking or DIY enthuseast, this unit will prove dependable.
A dust extraction port is very important for a clean working environment. This unit features a 70mm dust port that can be connected to a compatible workshop vacuum using the universal adapter. You will also find feather boards to hold the fence and material in position. All these features are supplied with a 1-year warranty for full peace of mind.
Pros
Cons
Thoughts and Recommendations
The PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Built In 1500w Router can serve both sides of the spectrum. For the professional user it has features that can be used to create different wood products. For the beginner, it offers an excellent ground for experimentation and growth. If you need a large unit with all the convenient features then this should be top of the list and with the built in router you don't need to attach your own router which is always a bonus in are eyes.
Since it does not come cheap make sure that you have all the necessary arrangements in place. This model, had it not been quiet as expensive would be been our 'Best Pick.
Overall you will struggle to find a better model but be prepared to pay a little expensive.
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Our Final Conclusion
Selecting a router table for the first time can seem exceedingly daunting at first. The secret to combating this is by gathering all the information that you can on prospective models.
Router tables vary in size so be sure that you have proper storage for them. Those who want to mount the unit on a workbench should ensure that the fixtures are provided.
The main question to ask yourself is do you need a router table with a built in router of which we found two very good models or do you already have a router and want a router table to use with your own router, remember to check if its compatible wit your rooter first though, we found the Bosch router where compatible with most tables as a guide.
If you want to find a good router to buy we also did a review on the best routers which you can read here
Below is a quick overview of two of our favourite models as a gentle reminder.
Our Best Pick
Though facing stiff competition, we came to the conclusion that the Lumberjack RT1500 1500W Bench Top Router Table with it's Integrated Router was the best router for most people as it easy to use, offers great features and comes at an affordable price.
You have all the required features such as an adjustable fence to aid with neat cuts. They also added compartments for tool storage which helps keep track of your tools. Whether it is to be used for light commercial purposes or domestic work, this is a great router table to have and we are sure you will find it a joy to use and very reliable.
Only the PINGTEK BLUELINE Bench Top Router Table With Built In Router is worth investing in over this model but it's also more expensive which is why it did not win our 'Best Pick' spot.
Best Lightweight Router Table To Use With Separate Router
This title was bestowed upon the FERM PRA1011 Router Table. The reason that we picked this model can be easily see. The unit weighs around 5 kg which is way less compared to the larger table sizes.
Made for lightweight use, the router table has all the required accessories to facilitate effective operations. The price of the unit will not leave you bare even though the instructions will offer some frustration but its shouldn't be to difficult to work out. With a little tweaking and patience, this unit would make a fantastic beginner unit but remember it does not come with a built in router. This model us also one of the most affordable.
We hope you have enjoyed reading our guide to the best router tables and have gone away with some useful insights and a better understanding of which model would be the best choice for you.
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below.
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