Woodworking is a creative and challenging hobby that can be both rewarding and frustrating. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any woodworker is a router table. A router table allows the woodworker to create intricate designs and patterns that would be difficult or impossible to create with other tools. There are many different router tables on the market, so it is important to choose one that will best suit your needs. The following is Best Tool Center‘s list of the best router tables for woodworking, based on reviews and ratings from customers and experts.
1. Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table
- Benchtop router table design – Features a large aluminum top for extended work area, durability and precision
- Rigid aluminum mounting plate – Pre-drilled for compatibility with a variety of routers and for above-table height adjustment
- Extra tall aluminum fence – Has adjustable faceplates and feather boards to maximize precision and versatility
- Dedicated standard dust-collection port – Fits standard 2-1/2 inch vacuum hoses for debris-free operation to help keep your work area clean
- Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards – Attach to fence and table, providing additional guidance and kickback protection
– The Bosch RA1181 is a well-made and versatile router table that will serve the needs of most woodworkers.
– The table is easy to set up and use, and it comes with a comprehensive set of instructions.
– The table is very sturdy, and the fence is easy to adjust and keep in place.
– The integrated dust collection system is effective and easy to use.
Cons:
– The Bosch RA1181 is more expensive than some other router tables on the market.
– The table is large and heavy, and it may be difficult to transport and store.
- 24" x 32" router table top includes a router insert plate with three molded Level-Loc reducing rings
- 36" T-square style router table fence features a micro-adjust wheel for precise setups
- Outfeed anchor has been redesigned for more usable table space and easier removal
- Multi-purpose steel stand is adjustable from 31" to 39" in height
- Includes Router Table Top with insert plate, Router Table Fence and Multi-Purpose Steel Stand. #148166 KREG 4pc Casters Set not included.
– Heavy-duty construction for stability and durability
– Large work surface for plenty of workspaces
– Onboard storage for easy access to bits and accessories
– T-slot miter gauge for making precision cuts
– Dust collection port for keeping the work area clean
Cons:
– The table is not compatible with all router models
3. Ryobi Universal Router Table
This router table is incredibly versatile. It can be used with any router, and it has a variety of routing capabilities, including edge routing, jointing, and even mortising. Plus, the table is adjustable to fit any workpiece size. The Ryobi Universal Router Table is also easy to set up and use. It comes with an easy-to-follow instruction manual, and the table is ready to use right out of the box.
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
Pros:
– The Ryobi Universal Router Table has a simple design that makes it easy to set up and use.
– It is also lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you to different worksites.
– The table is also very affordable, which makes it a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Cons:
– The table is not as sturdy as some of the other options on the market, and it does not have as many features as some of the more expensive models.
4. Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table
Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table is perfect for routing small parts and cabinetry. It includes a precision-machined aluminum fence with a T-slot for mounting a guide rail and a dust port for attaching a dust collector. The table top is covered with a durable phenolic resin surface that’s easy to clean. The Leegol Electric Benchtop Router Table is easy to assemble and includes all the necessary hardware.
- Extra Large Extension Table: Besides the main table, this router table features extension tables at both ends. Each extension table comes with an extra-large size of 8" × 18" and an easy-slide surface.
- Retractable Guard: There is a transparent guard inserted into the fence with no binding to keep wood chips from flying around. This router table is designed for routers with up to a 6-inch (152.4mm) diameter base plate. Router bits with base plates within this size all works.
- Multifunctional Fence and Exact Miter Gauge: The fence is able to provide work piece support around the bit and with the combination of jointing fence to make the table be used as a vertical jointer. On the tabletop, it includes a precise miter gauge for aiding in straight and predictable cuts. It can be used to help measure angles.
- Material and Frame: Consists of aluminum alloy do of the main table and steel do of the extension table and structure, this router table is rugged durable. The aluminum table is rustproof and lighter for easy moving, and the wide stance heavy-duty steel stands increase the stability.
- Satisfaction Guaranteed: With a manufacturer warranty you can be sure you will get a quality gift.If you get a poor one,contact with us,we will supply a new one.
Pros:
– The table is very durable and will last for many years.
– It is very easy to set up and use.
– The table is very affordable.
– It comes with a warranty.
Cons:
– The table is not very stable and may wobble during use.
– The table does not come with a dust collection system.
5. SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table
The SKIL RT132301 Router Table is a great addition to any workshop. It is made of durable materials and is easy to assemble. The table is also adjustable, making it perfect for any size project. The SKIL RT132301 Router Table is a great value for the money. It comes with a variety of features that are not found on other tables. For example, the table includes a miter gauge and a T-slot for added versatility.
- ROUTER TOOL COMBO KIT - Includes SKIL Router Table (SRT1039) and SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Corded Router (RT1323-00)
- SKIL ROUTER TABLE - Equipped with Above the Table Adjustment, Integrated Bit Storage, Aluminum Mite Gauge Slot, Router Clamp, Starter Pin, and Two Featherboards for precise routing
- SKIL 10 AMP FIXED BASE ROUTER - Powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor provides smooth and accurate routing from start to finish; equipped with soft start, speed control, and a live tool indicator
- TALL FENCE WITH ADJUSTABLE FEATHERBOARDS - Tall 16-inch aluminum fence measures 24 inches wide and handles tall stock with ease, complimented by two featherboards, adjustable MDF face plates, and starter pin and guard
- PRECISION ROUTING - Use the Router Table for the heavy routing and the Fixed Base Router to complete the task
Pros:
– Lightweight and easy to carry around
– Inexpensive
– Easy to set up and use
– The table is sturdy and the fence is adjustable
Cons:
– The table is not as sturdy as some other router tables on the market
FAQs
1. Is the router table a must for woodworking?
No, router tables are not a must for woodworking. There are many woodworkers who do not use them. However, they are very useful for specific tasks such as shaping edges and making rabbets.
2. What are the best router tables for woodworking?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best router table for woodworking depends on the specific needs and preferences of the woodworker. Some of the factors that should be considered include the type of router being used, the size and shape of the workpiece, and the type of woodworking being done.
3. What is the difference between a router table and a workbench?
A router table is a specialized piece of equipment that is designed to hold a router and allow the user to guide the router along a workpiece. A workbench is a general-purpose piece of equipment that can be used for a variety of tasks, including woodworking.
4. What are the best router bits for woodworking?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific project you are working on. However, some of the most popular router bits for woodworking include straight bits, chamfer bits, and round-over bits.
5. What does a router table cost?
A router table can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on the features and quality you are looking for.
