Router Table

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E very woodworker should own a router table as it keeps the router mounted securely on the table so that your hands are free for maximum control during the cut. There are other benefits you reap with this addition to your workshop, and we will cover them later in our article. But first, let’s find out what the routing table market has best to offer.

Top 5 Router Tables Compared

	1. Bosch RA1181 Bench Top	2. Kreg PRS1045	3. Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style	4. Kreg PRS2100	5. CRAFTSMAN Combo
	BEST CHOICE	OUR CHOICE	Best for Beginners
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Specifications
Model	Bench Top	Bench Top	Cabinet Style	Bench Top	Bench Top
Dimensions (D x L x W)	18″ x 22.75″ x 27″	37.5″ x 25.5″ x 36.5″	15-7/8″ x 15.875″ x 25.5″	20″ x 28-1/4″ x 20-1/4″	14.7″ x 15.9″ x 26.3″
Working Length	27″	32″	25-1/2″	20-1/4″	11/16″
Weight	34.4 lbs	69.9 lbs	35 lbs	26 lbs	25.4 lbs
Amperage	15	N/A	15	N/A	9.5
Maxim Throat Opening	3-5/8″	N/A	3-5/8″	N/A	3-5/8″
Material	Clear-coated aluminum top, plastic legs	MDF, high-pressure laminate	MDF work top and metal base	MDF, high-pressure laminate	Plastic, metal, wood
Features&Accessories
Foldable Design
Storage Compartments
Dust Collection
Mounting Plate Instert Rings	3	3	3	3	3
Number of Featherboards	2	2	2	2	2
Adjustable Guard
Starter Pin&Guard					N/A
Miter Gauge
Accessories	Two 1/16″ thick outfeed fence shims, hardware for mounting Bosch and other competitive routers	Insert plate with Level-Loc reducing rings, precision insert-plate levelers, brass starting pin, dual fence locks, steel stand leg levelers, measuring scale	Two 1/16″ thick outfeed fence shims, hardware for mounting Bosch and other competitive routers	Adjustable faces, cam Clamps	5/8″ thick tabletop w/a laminate surface, hardware for mounting routers, 1/4″ collet, wrench, 1-3/4 HP motor, dust guard, fence that adjusts for proper bit clearance, double outlet power strip w/a safety lock
Warranty&Support
Product Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
30-Day Money Back Guarantee
Customer Support

1. Bosch RA1181 Bench Top

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Versatile

This workbench has been built to fit most routers. It is a versatile piece of equipment that will certainly serve as an indispensable part of any woodworking shop. It comes equipped with a 2-1/2 inch dust collection port that will provide a great dust collection for a very clean work environment. The large top is made of aluminum, and therefore, it is very durable and portable as well. The Bosch RA1181 Bench Top includes a mounting hardware, an aluminum router mounting plate, a tall aluminum fence with adjustable MDF face plates, and 2 outfeed shims.

Practical

It also includes the starter pin and a guard for curved workpieces in addition to the built-in cord wrap for a great storage and portability. The manufacturer offers for it a 1-year limited warranty, a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year service protection plan so that customers all over the world can be completely satisfied. With it, you will definitely be able to work with a variety of materials while a great precision with every cut will be ensured.

Functional

The rigid mounting plates and the large working surface makes the router fully efficient and practical. There are 6 variation options so it makes it adaptable to any router. In addition to this, it also has adjustable MDF face plates so you will be provided with full cutting support. As well as, it’s able to hold a large stock of wood in place against the aluminum fence so you don’t have to waste a lot of energy. The dual outlet switch and the dust port means that you can remove dirt easily from the table. The greatest thing about the dust port is the fact that you can attach a hose to it. This will make the cleaning process much easier.

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2. Kreg PRS1045

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This multi-purpose table is the model you need to get the job done professionally. It has been designed as a self-squaring fence system. It’s heavy-duty so you will never have to worry about it breaking down on you or catching rust. The easily-adjustable steel stand is corrosion resistant so you will be able to have this model for many years to come. In addition to this, you will find that this table is high-performance as it has a precision insert-plate system.

The 1” thick table surface will be able to absorb vibrations. The surface area measures 24” x 32” so you have enough space even for larger jobs. Furthermore, it weighs around 70 pounds so you have to be careful when you transport it. You will be thoroughly pleased to know that you will also receive numerous accessories.

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3. Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style

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It features an aluminum mounting plate that is quite rigid and stays completely flat and precise so that accuracy is granted. The Bosch RA1171 has an accessory slot that accepts feather boards and 3/4-inch optional accessories like the miter gauge and 2 dust collection ports for standard 2-1/2-inch vacuum hoses so that you can have the working surface clean and clear at all times.

You should also take into account the fact that it has a dual outlet switch with a 6-foot power cord, and the clever lock helps prevent unauthorized use. Here are the accessories that you receive with the purchase: mounting hardware, starter pin, guard, a set of 3 mounting plate insert rings, 2 adjustable feather boards, an adjustable clear guard, and 2 1/16-inch thick outfeed fence shims. When it comes to backing, the manufacturer covers it on defects in material and workmanship during the first year after you acquire it.

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4. Kreg PRS2100

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With this precision routing table all of your woodworking projects will exceed expectations in terms of final product quality. The generous insert place of the table allows you to install even the biggest router out there, so compatibility won’t be an issue. It is made for your convenience and comfort, featuring a vibration and noise resistant MDF construction. Furthermore, the skin of the table is made of high-pressure laminate, thus allowing an easy slide of the work pieces across it.

The full-featured fence it comes with has quick-turn locking levers that allow you to make quick adjustments whenever needed. Additionally, it features a dust collection port that allows you to keep your workspace clean and clutter-free. But what makes it a tempting option the most is the perfect 16-inch by 24-inch surface of the table that allows freedom of movement when woodworking.

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5. CRAFTSMAN Combo

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It has a 1 3/4 horsepower motor that is robust enough to even work through hickory. The table provides 334 square inches of a working surface, on top of a quite sturdy cast aluminum base. The Craftsman Combo has been built with permanently lubricated and sealed ball bearings in order to increase the durability of the motor.

The fence can easily be adjusted for proper bit clearance, with the infeed and outfeed extending up to 2 inches, and the miter gauge can be adjusted up to 60 degrees in both directions as well. Furthermore, it comes equipped with a dust extraction port< that keeps the work area clean, and 3 insert rings that have opening diameters of 1-1/4", 1-1/2", and 1-3/4". If you are interested in it, you must know that the whole set includes a router, a fence, a 1/4" collet, 2 feather boards, a wrench, a dust guard, a miter gauge, 3 insert rings, and a manual. [one_second]

PROS

• Double outlet power strips with a safety lock
• Dust extraction port
• The router is manufactured with permanently lubricated balls

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6. Goplus New Electric Aluminum Benchtop

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The main table is made of aluminum, while the extension table is made of steel. When purchasing the workbench, it’s important to know both dimensions – the main table measures 450mm × 335mm or 13.1″ x 17.7″, and the extension table measures about 200mm x 335mm or 7.8″ x 17.7″.

Whether you are designing a project for your home or you are working on a project for your full-time business, this model is exactly what you are looking for. It is versatile, compact and very easy to use. Furthermore, it is an affordable purchase that will surely help you complete all your projects.

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7. SKIL RAS800

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If you’re on a budget, this router table might be exactly what you need. It is 13.75 inches tall, 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and it weighs 15.75 pounds. The table is mainly made of strong plastic while the top is made of laminated MDF. The assembly is not complicated as it comes pre-assembled. All the instructions on the setup are detailed in the included user manual.

With this table, you have the possibility to fold the legs. This makes it more portable. For storage convenience, you can use the storage containers and the storage bag to protect your accessories. You will receive a feather board, a miter gauge, a guard, and bit inserts.

The table is designed to help you finish the job faster and easier. The feather board improves accuracy providing guidance and the bit height gauge helps you achieve precise cuts. Both the starter pin and guard provide great support when dealing with curved edges.

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8. SKIL RAS900

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The SKIL RAS900 has an efficient folding design, which means that the legs fold for easy storage. Furthermore, it comes pre-assembled, which means that minimal setup is required on your part. The starter pin and guard help support your workpiece when routing curved edges, and the bit height gauge helps simplify set-up and improve the accuracy of your cuts.

Thanks to the 2 feather boards it has, you are able to guide the workpiece more accurately so that your woodworking projects end up successful every time. No leveling is required, and it ensures easy bit changes.

One of its best features is the quick-release router mount that saves you time and effort as it attaches and detaches in seconds. Of course, we cannot overlook the 1-year warranty provided by the manufacturing company as it has you covered in case of defects in materials or workmanship, the costs for repair being supported by the company.

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9. XtremepowerUS Deluxe X5051

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The X5051 is the ideal routing table for those who take up small projects around the house. It is one of the more reasonably priced entries on this market, yet it provides a strong construction which ensures it is a long-lasting investment nonetheless. It measures 13-1/8” in width, and 34” in length. One of its most prominent features is the 2.5-inch dust collection port which perfectly fits the shop vacuum in order to help you keep a clean work area.

It features grooved surfaces that help keep the working surface clean as dust and chips are kept at bay. Another interesting feature is the built-in scale it comes with, feature that allows quick and accurate indexing to ease your work. With it, you can even take up jointing applications as it comes with a useful push out pocket fence.

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10. Jessem Mast-R-Lift Excel II

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We start off with its single actual flaw, more precisely the fact that it comes at an exuberantly expensive price. It is compatible with most cylinder router motors, which is a plus as it adds to its versatility. It provides a 34-inch by 24-inch work area and features an aluminum extruded miter track and T-track. Due to the built-in dust hook-up, you can conveniently keep the area clean while you work.

A height adjustment mechanism is present, so you can customize the table’s height to your personal needs. It features a built-in cam lock mechanism which adds to the security of the routing procedure, ensuring your safety while you are working on your projects. In addition, one of its most convenient traits is that it offers tool-less fence face adjustment.

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11. Woodhaven 6000

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This horizontal table is the safest choice for mortise and tenons, long molding bits, vertical panels and much more. You can bolt or clamp the unit for a workbench. This model has a maximum of 9” bit adjustment range above the table to bit center. When assembled, the product measures 23-3/4” in width, 18” in-depth, and 24” in height. In addition to this, it weighs 30 pounds. You will be pleased to know that the solid phenolic sides provide greater stability and strength. Therefore, you can rely on it for many years.

Furthermore, the knobs on the crack brace will provide an easier and faster coarse height adjustment. The hold-in and hold-down are included for safe and consistent results when machine molding. The under-table dust channels to help direct debris to the outlet. By purchasing this model, you will be provided with reliability and convenience.

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12. Dremel 231 Shaper/Router Table

If you like to get the most for your money, you will thoroughly enjoy this product. The reason for this is because you can convert this router table into a bench mounted wood shaper. Thus, preventing you to spend further money on other appliances.

Also, the adjustable fence combined with the large working surface that measures 8” x 6”, will allow you to get a range of jobs done regardless of their size. Hence, you can slot, groove, sand, and trim edges. To make the most out of this product, you should only connect it with Dremel rotary tools.

By considering this model, you will receive the flexibility and precision you need to create detail, shape, and sand a variety of woods. Regardless, of their thickness or make.

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13. Rebel W2000

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The precision-crafted Rebel W2000 delivers accuracy and ease of use like none other. It measures 24 inches in width, 17 inches in height, and 18 inches in depth, so it doesn’t take up too much space in the workshop, while the 64-pound weight makes it easy for you to relocate it if necessary. This precision-guard cast iron table features a safety guard system that is composed of a clear plastic guard and arm, and it even features a height adjustment bar.

For safety, the guard is designed to fit over the router bit when you are woodworking, and you can even connect it to a 3-inch flex hose to get rid of the dust that settles on the table as you work. It features 3 built-in adjustable stops, two of which are at 45 degrees, while the third is at 90 degrees, and you engage them by pushing in the stop pin. The two-part split fence it features allows offset or straight-line shaping – these independently adjustable fences measure 3 inches by 12 inches.

With it, you can joint, cove, miter, mold, bead, slot, flute, and perform other fine quality woodworking tasks, which makes it quite a versatile addition to your workshop. Furthermore, a 1-year warranty is provided by the manufacturer, which means that it is covered against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use during this period of time.

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Routing Table Particularities

Router tables are everpresent in the workshops of professional woodworkers and casual DIYers due to the usefulness they provide. Due to the fact that the router is mounted securely onto the table, you are able to do things that you cannot safely do with a handheld model like routing narrow stock, for example. Available in a wide range of sizes, boasting variate designs, and coming with different features that add to ease of use as well as accuracy, one thing is for sure – you are bound to find the right model for you as there are plenty of products to pick between. When you search for a workbench of your own, you should opt for one that provides precision and comes with workflow improving features.

Among the important features, it is recommended for the table to come with are included a large working surface that provides you with comfort in use and makes working on large projects easier, a heavy-duty aluminum fence with adjustable sub-fences, a dust port so that the work area is kept clean at all times, a meter gauge that can be adjusted according to your needs for a perfect fit, and an accessory t-slot for mounting feather boards or any other equipment. Of course, its ability to reduce noise and vibration is important as it makes the work habitat better, while the dust collection port is another desirable feature as it helps keep the area clean.

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How It Helps with Your Woodworking Projects

If woodworking is your passion and you dream of creating as many projects as possible, yet you want to spend money only on the necessary equipment, you are probably wondering whether a routing table makes a considerable difference or not.

• High Accuracy
  It offers high precision, especially when it comes to small pieces. Due to the fact that the router is mounted well, you are able to use both your hands, which allows you to obtain only perfect results. This high accuracy is absolutely necessary for all woodworkers in order to create projects that actually sell.
• Easy to Use
  When it comes to DIY projects, you want to get the job done with ease and in a short time, and with the woodworking table it becomes possible. The work surface is very easy to use, and you will quickly learn how to maneuver it. Furthermore, it is extremely safe to use, and therefore, you won’t need to worry about any sort of injuries.
• Excellent Results
  If you have a woodworking business, then in order to attract increasingly more clients you need to make sure that all of your products look impeccable. What can you do in order to achieve this? It is very simple, you need to use a high-quality routing tool. With a quality workbench, you can be sure that all your masterpieces will be highly appreciated.
• Speed
  Since the router is well mounted on the table, the user can actually move the piece of wood at a very rapid pace and still obtain a decent cut. Therefore, this will result in a substantially improved output of the woodworker.
• Complex Cuts
  In case you deal with complex cuts, then a router woodworking table is absolutely perfect for your needs. Irregular pieces of wood require a fixed bit that allows the users to maneuver the wood to their liking, without adjusting the router in any way. Therefore, complex cuts stop presenting a problem and it will be less of a hassle to perform them.

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Routing Worktop Buying Guide

Are you planning to purchase a routing table in the near future, but you are kind of confused and you do not know what model would be best to choose? If so, then what you must do is take into consideration the following details when you shop to make sure your pick will cater to your needs and expectations.

• Go for a flat, solid top
  The table surface must be solid, rigid, and as close as possible to perfectly flat so that you can obtain very precise cuts. Opt for a top made of MDF, which is a very popular material as it is quite practical, and it will provide years of light to medium-duty service. Another excellent choice you could make would be an MDF top surfaced on both sides with HPL, that will definitely remain flat throughout its life. This is a more expensive option, but if you want a high-quality router table, then you should go for it.
• Opt for a rigid, flat base plate
  The layout and the quality of the base plate will have a huge impact on the functioning of the table, and your best guess is to choose one with a rigid, flat base plate. Furthermore, it needs to be solid and substantial, as it will have to remain flat while supporting the weight of the router. Make sure the base plate is compatible with the router, and if you want to use the router in and out of the table, then you must consider how much work is involved in getting it mounted.
• The fence must be accurate and easy to position
  A quality workbench comes equipped with an accurate and easy-to-position fence. In most operations, you will need to control the cut by keeping the workpiece pressed against the fence, while you are advancing it past the bit, and for that, the fence must be up to the task. There are 2 types of fences: a 1-piece and a 2-piece fence, and both types make for equally good selections
• A sturdy, stable base is essential
  For crisp, clean cuts, the user must keep the workpiece in consistent contact with the cutter. While doing this, the user must advance it at a smooth, fluid rate. This is very hard to obtain if the table is shifting and wobbling as working on an unstable base is quite difficult and it will not help you achieve your goals. Therefore, keep in mind that base sturdiness is one of the important elements to look into.

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Brands Worth Checking Out

When it comes to manufacturing routing tables, Bosch, Craftman, and Skil are renowned for delivering the best quality products on the market. All three companies have quite a generous background, their experience being visible in the tables they release.

• Bosch
  Bosch tools are made of durable materials and they are extremely easy and safe to use. Most of the products in this category come equipped with hardware for mounting most Bosch routers, adjustable feather boards, and adjustable clear guard so that customer satisfaction is ensured.
• Skil
  Skil has a large range of products on the market today, that come in different dimensions and with different equipment. Depending on what you actually need, you are bound to find a woodworking table that will meet all your needs if you research what Skil has manufactured. Furthermore, you Skil commodities are not as expensive as others are, which makes their products accessible to a wider range of customers.
• Craftsman
  Craftsman products are without a doubt high quality, and they are much appreciated all over the world. They come with a 1-year warranty against any defects in material or workmanship. By choosing a Craftsman bench, you won’t regret your acquisition as you will make an investment in quality and durability.

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Testing Parameters We Used

Wondering what made us choose these specific products and rank them the way we did? Then stick with us to find out what were the elements that weighed most when we put together our top, this way better understanding the value of each routing table we have previously reviewed.

• The features
  We looked at the features of several tables that are available on the market, and we found the CRAFTSMAN Combo comes equipped with several features that help you obtain the desired results. The Combo has a table, a 1/4″ collet, a 5/8″ thick tabletop with a laminate surface that ensures a smooth work area, a wrench, a 1-3/4 HP motor that runs at 27,000 RPMs, 3 insert rings that have opening diameters of 1-1/4″, a fence that adjusts for proper bit clearance with the infeed and outfeed extending up to 2 inches, a dust guard, 2 feather boards, a miter gauge that adjusts up to 60 degrees in both directions, 1-1/2″, and 1-3/4, a double outlet power strip with a safety lock, hardware and a manual.
• Durability
  Once you decide to invest in a routing table, you certainly want your investment to be a long-term one. Therefore, we took into consideration durability, and we found the Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style to be the best option as it is features a MDF work top and metal base that ensure a long lifespan.
• The warranty
  The warranty plays an important role as it shows for how long the company is willing to back its product. The Bosch RA1181 Bench Top comes with a 30-day money back warranty, 1-year limited warranty, 1-year service protection plan so that customers are ensured any existing issues will be solved free of charge by the manufacturer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Whether you want a routing table to take up DIY projects around the house, or you are interested in the purchase for professional reasons, you should make a purchase that you can rely on for years on end. Accessories and features make a huge difference in the quality of your acquisition as the workbench will cater to different woodworking needs you have, and this was a primordial aspect in our selection as you probably noticed by this point.

Best Overall : Bosch RA1181 Bench Top
Coming from a reputable brand, while offering increased versatility, Bosch RA1181 Bench Top features a large aluminum top for enhanced durability. It comes with several accessories including a tall fence, outfeed shims, and a dust collection port, ensuring you can start your work immediately. It features rigid mounting plates which will provide you with a large working surface, while the adjustable MDF face plates will provide you with cutting support.

Our Choice : Kreg PRS1045
Another choice worth mentioning is Kreg PRS1045, as it features a multi-purpose design ensuring you’ll have all the support you need regardless of the woodworking project you decide to tackle next. Its steel stand is corrosion-resistant, so it will last you a long time, while its adjustability ensures you can set it up according to your needs. The precision system it is equipped with will provide increased accuracy while the thick table surface will reduce vibrations and sounds, so you won’t bother your family or neighbors as you work.

Best Router Table for Beginners : Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style
Perfect for beginners in the field, Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style comes with several accessories to help you start up your woodworking project. It is made from aluminum, thus it won’t rust nor corrode with time, while its ability to stay completely flat will provide increased accuracy. Even more, it comes with a dual outlet switch and a clever lock which will prevent unauthorized use, for increased safety.

Best Budget-friendly Router Table : XtremepowerUS Deluxe X5051
If you’re on a budget, yet you don’t want to compromise quality, XtremepowerUS Deluxe X5051 is a perfect selection. With an asking price perfect for all pockets, it is better suited for small, home projects. It comes with a large dusting port which will help you keep your working area clean, as it works perfectly with a shop vacuum. The built-in scale will provide you quick and accurate indexing for your work, while the sturdy construction will make sure to last you a long time.