Best Plunge Router to Improve Your Woodworking

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best overall rating★★★★★

Makita RT0701CX7

  • Electronic speed control
  • Quick-release lock system
  • Variable speed control dial
best overall rating★★★★★

PORTER-CABLE 693LRPK

  • 27,500 RPM
  • Producing 1-¾ peak HP
  • Cam lock lever
best overall rating★★★★★

Avid Power MW104

  • Variable speed
  • LED lights
  • Powerful motor

Our reviews are unbiased, fact-based, and comprehensively researched to help you make the right buying decisions.

 
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Most people never realize the full potential of a plunge router until they’ve tried it out.

These game-changing power tools can improve your woodworking game by giving you the ability to produce fluted cabinets and smooth edges with minimal sanding.

In this guide, we’ll show you what the best plunge router is and how to find the best model for your shop.

We’ve researched over 40 models to find the best of the best that we know you’ll appreciate.

best overall rating

Best Plunge Router – Makita RT0701CX7

If you’re looking for the best of the best plunge router, the model that outclasses over 40 of its competitors is the Markita RT0701CX7.

Despite its tinier motor and collet, this high-speed plunge router is as reliable as they come. Plus, it’s a super-inexpensive model that would make any pro or hobbyist woodworker proud.

Here’s what the RT0701CX7’s key specifications look like—

  • 1.25-HP Motor
  • ¼-inch Collet
  • 10-30,000 RPM
  • Shaft Lock

The Makita RT0701CX7 is a compact router kit that many people love. Although the kit doesn’t include the plunge base, it’s sold separately for pretty cheap.

You could still expect so many great things about it. First of all, this router is available in a variable of different speeds, starting from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM.

For accuracy, it’s built with a smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system and easy-to-read depth scales.

A great quick release cam lock system is incorporated for easy base removals as well as installations.

The top is made flat for convenience when changing bits. Please note that this unit uses ¼-inch shank router bits!

Pros

  • Electronic speed control
  • Quick-release lock system
  • Variable speed control dial
  • Slim and ergonomically designed

Cons

  • Could come with plunge base

If you’re looking for something more compact to your everyday woodworking routine, the RT0701CX7 will more than excite you!

Top CNC Router for Aluminum in the Market Compared

Product Image
Product Name
Features
Price

Best Overall - Makita RT0701CX7
  • Motor Size: 1.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 in
  • Speed Range: 10-30,000 RPM
  • Shaft Lock



Best Premium - PORTER-CABLE 693LRPK
  • Motor Size: 1.75 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 27,500 RPM
  • Cam Lock Lever



Best Budget - Avid Power MW104
  • Motor Size: 1.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 3/8 in
  • Speed Range: 10-32,000 RPM
  • LED Work Light



Best for Beginners - DEWALT DW618B3
  • Motor Size: 2.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-24,000 RPM
  • Integrated Dust Control



Best for Pros - Festool 574692
  • Motor Size: 1.88 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 10-22,500 RPM
  • Dust Extraction Port



Best Cordless Plunge Router - Makita XTR01Z
  • Motor Size: 18V
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 in
  • Speed Range: 10-30,000 RPM
  • Brushless Motor



Bosch 1617EVSPK
  • Motor Size: 2.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-25,000 RPM
  • Constant Response Circuitry



DEWALT DWP611PK
  • Motor Size: 1.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 in
  • Speed Range: 16-27,000 RPM
  • Soft-Starting Motor



Bosch PR20EVS
  • Motor Size: 1 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 in
  • Speed Range: 16-35,000 RPM
  • Finger-Support Pockets



DEWALT DW618PK
  • Motor Size: 2.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-24,000 RPM
  • Through-the-Column Dust Collection



Triton TRA001
  • Motor Size: 3.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-21,000 RPM
  • Convertible Plunge and Fixed-Base



PORTER-CABLE 892
  • Motor Size: 2.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 10-23,000 RPM
  • Overmolded Grips



Metabo HPT KM12VC
  • Motor Size: 2.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-24,000 RPM
  • Fixed/Plunge Base



Makita RP2301FC
  • Motor Size: 3.25 HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 9-22,000 RPM
  • Shaft Lock



WEN RT6033
  • Motor Size: 2.5-HP
  • Collet Sizes: 1/4 & 1/2 in
  • Speed Range: 8-23,000 RPM
  • Hard-Shelled Carrying Case


Reviews of Best CNC Router for Aluminum

Best Premium - PORTER-CABLE 693LRPK

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 1.75-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 27,500 RPM
  • Cam Lock Lever

The Porter-Cable 692LRPK produces a hefty 1.75 HP that’s utilized for up to 27,500 RPM speed.

With the micrometer depth adjuster, you shouldn’t be worried about making precise adjustments because it could go down to 1/128 of an inch.

Next, the cam lock lever enables you to do coarse height adjustments and motor release simply and effortlessly.

This unit’s turret is adjustable and available to work in six different positions to make the plunge cuts even quicker and easier.

The ergonomic rubber handle is designed for a full comfort routing operation. The spring might get too stiff, but we guess that’s better than just being too weak and not usable.

Pros

  • 27,500 RPM
  • Producing 1-¾ peak HP
  • Cam lock lever
  • Micrometer depth adjuster

Cons

  • Spring could be less stiff

With its rather small size and convenient weight, you could easily choose this a good hand router. If you regularly work with oak and mahogany, this unit could still be as strong too.

Best Budget - Avid Power MW104

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 1.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and 3/8-inch Collets
  • 10-32,000 RPM
  • LED Work Light

You can count on the Avid Power MW104 for its 1.25-HP powerful motor, utilized to produce variable speeds from 10,000 up to 32,000 RPM.

The unit is also incorporated with LED lights for maximum visibility during operation, making cuts easier and more precise to create.

To ensure accuracy, the smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system allows you to operate on a range of woodworking duties, including cabinetry.

While this plunge router is the most comfortable due to its ergonomic design and rubber handle for better grip, its durability is juxtaposed to any of that.

Made of high-quality aluminum, you should expect this unit to work with you for a lifetime period.

Pros

  • Variable speed
  • LED lights
  • Powerful motor
  • Accurate depth adjustment system

Cons

  • Base finish could be smoother

Avid Power MW104 should get a full appreciation for its powerful motor. If you’re currently on a hunt for some units that are used to heavy-duty operations, then this could be the one.

Best for Beginners - DEWALT DW618B3

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 2.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-25,000 RPM
  • Constant Response Circuitry

The Bosch 1617EVSPK has a powerful 2.25-HP motor that produces a wide range of speed, starting from 8,000 up to 25,000 RP.

With the built-in Constant Response Circuitry, this unit will work under a maintained constant speed throughout any operations. This way, you’ll get more accurate cuttings and less hassle too, obviously.

Though the product description says that for each purchase you’ll get both the 1/4 and 1/2-inch collet chucks, many people have only received the ½ inch collet.

Other attachments are sold separately, like the dust collector, for example. So you’ll probably need to invest extra money to keep your work surface clean.

Pros

  • Very durable
  • Versatile in function
  • Rounded hardwood handles
  • Constant response circuitry

Cons

  • Could come with more accessories

By and large, this is a great companion of every woodworker due to its versatility. But, if you’re not willing to spend extra money on attachments, then maybe the only option is to declare it “on hold” for some time first.

Best for Pros - Festool 574692

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 1.25-HP Motor
  • ¼-inch Collet
  • 16-27,000 RPM
  • Soft-Starting Motor

The DeWalt DWP611PK has a powerful 1.25-HP motor to produce a broad range of speed, starting from 16,000 up to 27,000 RPM.

Built with dual LED lights, people just love how perfect they are positioned for better visibility when working.

Moreover, the plunge base allows you to depth-travel up to 2-inch, and it adjusts effortlessly using the lever provided.

DeWalt also designed this unit to ensure changes from fixed to plunge bases done smoothly in no time.

For precision, there’s a micro depth adjustment on the fixed base in 1/64″ increments.

The motor itself is soft-starting, so it’s much safer than those that don’t have this feature. The handle is specifically designed to promote full control and comfort.

Pros

  • Dual LEDs
  • Soft-starting motor
  • 16,000 to 27,000 RPM
  • Long-term durability

Cons

  • Could deal with heat better

If you’re a DIY hobbyist at home and have been thinking about getting a router, then you should try this unit.

Best Cordless Plunge Router - Makita XTR01Z

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 1-HP Motor
  • ¼-inch Collet
  • 16-35,000 RPM
  • Finger-Support Pockets

The Bosch PR20EVSNK is a great product due to its versatility.

In fact, for every purchase, you get many accessories to perform a great number of tasks, including laminate trimming, as it is the ideal tool for putting round-overs, mortising for hinges, slot cutting, and other edge forming tasks.

Now, although it seems very soft, this unit is reliable enough to produce an ample amount of power, starting from 16,000 up to 35,000 RPM.

It’s strong just like a large router, but more efficient in use.

The unit is compatible with smaller bits, and the changing bit experience according to some people has been very quick and easy.

Here’s a quick video that showcases the PR20EVSNK’s features and performance. 

 

Pros

  • 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
  • Versatile in function
  • Self-releasing collet
  • Macro and micro-adjustment

Cons

  • Could hold depth setting better

Bosch has been a great value to many woodworkers for a long time now. This unit might have its downsides, but nothing could beat an amply powered plunge router at such an affordable price.

Bosch 1617EVSPK

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 2.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-24,000 RPM
  • Through-the-Column Dust Collections

The Dewalt DW618PK has a 2.25-HP motor that allows you to cut to tough materials perfectly.

For specific applications, you could always select the appropriate speed, ranging from 8,000 up to 24,000 RPM.

As this unit relies on a fully electronic system, you could expect it to maintain constant speed under operation, so no need to worry about not having a smooth finish ultimately.

The fixed base includes a micro-fine depth-adjustment ring to provide you precise adjustments on the bits in 1/64-inch increments.

The plunge base itself features a turner stop that’s adjustable in five positions.

For even more convenience, there’s a lever and a switch for optimum control at your fingertips during the routing operation.

This handy video will teach you how to make fluted trims with the DW618PK plunge router. 

 

Pros

  • Rubber handles
  • Dust-sealed switch
  • Quick-release motor latches
  • Pro 3Spindle lock button

Cons

  • Could be easier to change bases

Every purchase of this unit includes so many attachments that are very useful. It’s a great choice for anybody who wants to land on something reliable, both on function and price.

DEWALT DWP611PK

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 3.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-21,000 RPM
  • Convertible Plunge and Fixed-Base

The Triton TRA001 works either as a handheld or table-mount router.

The change between these modes is relatively easy, too. Whenever you want to change from the plunge base to the fixed one, make use of the single button switch.

The fixed base of this router also features the smooth rack-and-pinion adjustment mode that should aim for perfect precision.

Some routers make you spend a lot of time in bit changing, but this one has an acclaimed automatic spindle lock that secures the bits you’ve changed.

The process is also relatively easy using the provided single wrench. Moreover, it features a 3-Stage Turret with scales that ensures precise cuts.

This promotional video by Triton will teach you everything you need to know about the TRA001. 

 

Pros

  • Single-button switches
  • Automatic spindle lock
  • Side air vents
  • 8,000 to 21,000 RPM

Cons

  • Could produce less heat

Triton TRA001 promises you a lot of safety during operation while still maintaining powerful motor work.


Bosch PR20EVS

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 2.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 10-23,000 RPM
  • Overmolded Grips

The Porter-Cable 892 provides you a reliable operation from a range of speed options, starting from 10,000 up to 23,000 RPM.

Like many plunge routers, this unit is also an easy-to-use tool that’s great for handheld or table-mount functions.

The motor is soft-starting, and it features full-time electronic feedback to ensure it maintains a constant speed under an on-going operation.

The spindle lock feature allows you to change between bits easily by loosening the collect with the provided single-wrench.

The overmolded grips are also designed for guaranteed comfort in your palms.

For each purchase, you get the router motor, a fixed base, 1/4- and 1/2-inch collets, collet wrench, carrying case, and operating manual.

Pros

  • 10,000 to 23,000 RPM
  • Dual-position switch
  • Overmolded grips
  • Spindle lock

Cons

  • Could be easier to start

Many people have relied on Porter-Cable tools now. This one is surely a powerful tool to add to your workshop for an efficient routing operation.

DEWALT DW618PK

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 2.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-24,000 RPM
  • Fixed/Plunge Base

The Hitachi HPT KM12VC has a 2.25-HP motor that produces powerful speed for any applications.

We say it’s versatile in function because they add many useful accessories that you could attach to the router for different purposes, including groove cutting, chamfering, window cutting, trimming, shaping, and cutting patterns.

Hitachi claims to be a class-leading noise level, with only a 79.5 dB noise level when being used. Perfect if you prefer working in quiet spaces.

This kit offers fixed and plunge bases, 3 plexiglass baseplates, 2 wrenches, a 1/4″ collet, and a 1/2″ collet, 5 aluminum guide bushings, a dust guard, and a large plastic case.

Pros

  • 2-stage motor release clamp
  • Versatile in function
  • Doesn’t produce much noise
  • Fine depth adjustment

Cons

  • Switch location not effective

This Hitachi unit is a good affordable choice that does its job wonderfully. The fact that the company is humble enough to give away those free add-ons is reason enough to give it a try.

Triton TRA001

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 3.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 9-22,000 RPM
  • Shaft Lock

The Makita RP2301FC offers you a powerful routing precision with its 3.25-HP motor, speeding from 9,000 up to 22,000 RPM.

They also add extra features like variable speed, electronic speed control, and an electric brake for more convenience in use.

The function of this router is pretty versatile as you could apply this unit for several projects, whether for fine woodworking, windows, doors, cabinetry, and more.

While the electronic speed control aims to maintain constant speed during operation, the motor is also soft-started which promotes very smooth start-ups.

Moreover, this unit has a 0” – 2-3/4” plunge depth capacity intended for easy penetration into any of your workpieces, supported by the added linear ball bearings for even smoother action.

Pros

  • Shaft lock
  • Oversized ball bearing construction
  • Twin LED lights
  • Ergonomic rubberized handles

Cons

  • Could have sturdier locking nuts

Manufactured in Japan, this unit’s quality is nothing to be doubtful of. It also provides you versatility in function, and comfort as well as safety at the same time.

PORTER-CABLE 892

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 2.5-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-23,000 RPM
  • Hard-Shelled Carrying Case

The WEN RT6033 comes with an impressive motor for its cost.

The 2.5-HP motor drives bits at speeds of between 8,000 and 23,000 RPM, allowing you to cut smooth grooves through all kinds of board thicknesses. It has a maximum plunge depth of up to 2-3/8 inches.

Thanks to the micro-adjust can advance the depth stop by just 1/128 of an inch per 90° turn. This router also comes with a 2-in-1 base that lets you easily convert this from a plunge to a fixed router.

It’s a bit on the heavy side, but some users found that the extra weight helps at providing consistent routing depths on all materials.

Pros

  • Comfortable grip
  • Functions as plunge and fixed router
  • User-friendly features
  • Comes with dust collection port

Cons

  • Could be lighter

The WEN RT6033 is easily one of the most reliable plunge routers for beginner and advanced woodworkers.

Metabo HPT KM12VC

best overall rating

If you’re just starting your wood-routing journey, the one model we’d recommend over the rest is the high-powered DEWALT DW618B3.

Here are the DW618B3’s key specs at a glance—

  • 2.25-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 8-24,000 RPM
  • Integrated Dust Control

With its 2-¼ HP motor, the DeWalt DW618B3 cuts at speeds of between 8,000 and 24,000 RPM.

To reduce start-up torque, this unit has been designed with a soft start for improved control.

You will notice a micro-fine depth-adjustment on the unit’s fixed base that allows you to make very precise adjustments in 1/64-inch increments.

The D-handle base is designed with a low center of gravity to promote full and balanced control, as well as comfort while doing any routing operations.

In fact, the handle is made of rubber for a better grip. The plunge base itself includes an adjustable turret stop in five positions, very useful when making replicated cuts.

Pros

  • Soft-start
  • Up to 24,000 RPM
  • Precise depth adjustments
  • Includes 3 router bases

Cons

  • Produces too much noise

DeWalt DW618B3 is a good go-to handheld router you could choose from the market. This is perfect for woodworkers who have started thinking about landing on a brand-new router tool.

Makita RP2301FC

best overall rating

As for those who want to upgrade their routers into a more professional one, then the Festool 574692 is your best option.

Here’s what the Festool 574692 has in store for us—

  • 1.88-HP Motor
  • ¼ and ½-inch Collets
  • 10-22,500 RPM
  • Dust Extraction Port

The Festool 574692 is designed with ergonomic handles to promote full control and less fatigue when doing any routing operations.

This unit utilizes 1.88-HP power for 10,000 to 22,500 RPM, a reliable choice if you’re working on tough materials.

Festool also promises no fear of irregular finishing as it incorporates the Ratcheting Spindle to make bit changing quicker and easier.

You’re going with maximum precision with Festool because of its micro-adjustability dials down to 1/256″.

If you’re working on top of templates, the 2-3/4″ Plunge Depth could come in handy. There’s also a dust extraction that you should expect to make your workspace mess-free from dust or chips from routing.

Learn how to set up and use your Festool 574692 in this video. 

 

Pros

  • Ergonomic handles
  • Precision depth adjustment
  • 10,000 to 22,500 RPM
  • Dust extraction

Cons

  • Could come with more bits

This unit might get a little pricey compared to any other routers out there with similar features. However, great quality routers couldn’t really lie when it comes to a very smooth operation.

WEN RT6033

best overall rating

For our readers who prefer a more portable option—one they can take to various job sites without being tied down by cables—then the Makita XTR01Z is the plunge router for you.

Here’s a quick look at the Makita XTR01Z’s key specifications—

  • 18V Li-Ion Battery
  • ¼-inch Collet
  • 10-30,000 RPM
  • Brushless Motor

This cordless router is a perfect solution if you’re working mobile, on doors and jambs scattered throughout a 6-story condominium.

The Makita XTR01Z is electrically controlled to match the needed torque and RPM for specific applications.

The control dial varies widely, too, from 10,000 up to 30,000 RPM. The brushless motor used in this unit is for up to 50% longer run time.

This unit is compatible with the Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery.

This unit has the smooth rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment system for more precise and convenient settings.

For better visibility when working there are dual LED lights to illuminate your work surface. Dual LED lights to illuminate the work surface.

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • 10,000 to 30,000 RPM
  • Soft start motor
  • Dual LED lights

Cons

  • Could come with larger collet

The Makita XTR01Z is a great compact router that has a longer run time compared to others. The brushless motor really does great justice to it.

Plunge Router Buying Guide

You can use this guide to determine which of the 15 plunge routers will benefit you the most in your woodworking shop.

Power

Perhaps the first thing you should look at is the size of the router’s motor. This will indicate how powerful the router is and how easily it can dig grooves or smoothen the edges of your workpiece.

Routing Speed

The speed at which the plunge router cuts into hard materials will affect how clean the cut it when using narrower or wider bits.

Bit Sizes

The size of the bit will determine how wide or how easily the plunge router can produce grooves and flutes in certain material. Wider collets of half an inch work better for heavier-duty woodworking jobs.

2-in-1 Plunge and Fixed Bases

Even though plunge routers are more versatile, there might be instances where you would benefit more from the enhanced controllability of a fixed-based unit.

With a 2-in-1 base, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

FAQ’s

Which is better, plunge or fixed router?

Overall, plunge routers are the more versatile option. They can do most of what a fixed router can do, including cutting material from the top (plunging). However, making joinery is one area where plunge routers are outperformed by fixed-base models. Plus, plunge models, in general, are a bit more expensive. That said, you can get a lot more work done with a plunge router than a fixed-based one.

Can you mount a plunge router in a router table?

Yes, you can, but we wouldn’t recommend doing so. You’ll lose all of the versatility that a plunge router has to offer by using it in a router table. However, if the plunge router doubles as a fixed-based router, you always pop it in your router table when needed. This is another reason why you should look for a 2-in-1 tool!

What is the best plunge router?

The best plunge router is one that meets your every woodworking need. So, you first need to understand what you need the router to determine whether a certain model is the right fit for your shop. Please note that even though we crowned the Makita RT0701CX7 as the overall best plunge router, it might not meet your exact needs. Take a look at different models to see whether any of the alternatives are right for your shop.

Can I use a router on plywood?

Yes, you can. We recommend using a more powerful router—2 HP or more—for plywood and other workpieces that use glue or other adhesives. Plywood tends to wear down router bits more quickly than straight-up wood, so you might want to keep a couple of router bits on hand if you work with plywood regularly.

Summary

And that concludes our guide on the best plunge router the market has to offer.

After analyzing over 40 different plunge router models, we’re more than certain that you’ll find our top picks to provide you with the best value for your buck.

If you have any questions, we’d love to hear them! Just let us know in the comments section below.

About Donald Parker

Donald has more than 15 years of experience of working with power tools. But his main area of expertise is working saws, especially chainsaws.

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