Best Router Lift for Perfect Adjustments

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Pressed for time? Check our best picks

best overall rating★★★★★

JessEm  02310

  • Affordable price
  • Easy height adjustment
  • Flat and heavy-built
best overall rating★★★★★

Jet 708124 XLIFT-K

  • Pre-drilled plate
  • Strong aluminum plate
  • Smooth height adjustment
best overall rating★★★★★

Bosch RA1165

  • Easy mounting
  • Quick clamp system
  • 3-¾ inch base opening

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

 
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Having a router lift can make life a heck of a lot easier for woodworkers.

A router lift allows you to make micro-adjustments to the tool, shaving off very tiny quantities of material with each pass.

However, finding the right router lift is the challenge, which is probably why you’re reading this post.

Today, you’ll learn what the best router lift is out of over 20 models we researched in depth.

best overall rating

Best Router Lift – JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310

The best overall router lift that outshines over 20 of its peers is the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310. This unit isn’t just a budget-friendly option, but it also comes with pre-drilled holes to make it mountable on all sorts of router models.

Let’s see what the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310’s key specifications look like—

  • 9-1/4 x 11/3-4 x 3/8-inch Insert Size
  • Cast Iron Construction
  • Compatible with 3-1/2-inch Diameter Routers
  • Pre-drilled Insert Plate

JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310 is probably one of the cheapest router lifts you could get in the market with many great benefits.

Made out of aluminum and a flat phenolic top plate, which also comes in three different sizes, 1-⅜-inch, 2-inch, and 2-½-inch, it’s sturdy and perfect for woodworkers who have just started making their router table more proper.

The spindle is built with a double sealed bearing for a smooth height adjustment.

While the basic installation of this router lift might cost you a lot of time, this case shouldn’t be a concern if you’re planning to have this router lift permanently on the table.

Since they only provide three different plate sizes, the bit that you regularly use might not fit in them.

Thus, you’ll need to allocate some money to buy additional plates. Also, each purchase only includes a single ring. This will cost you more if you require more rings for the lift.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Easy height adjustment
  • Flat and heavy-built
  • Include three plates

Cons

  • Could come with more rings

This unit is perfect for practical works in practical spaces. Once you want to get a bit heftier with the router work, you might want to upgrade the features to make this lift one flawless tool.

Top Router Lift in the Market Compared

Product Image
Product Name
Features
Price

Best Overall - JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310
  • Insert size: 9-1/4 x 11/3-4 in.
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: 3-1/2-inch Diameter Routers
  • Pre-drilled Insert Plate



Best Premium - Jet 708124 XLIFT-K
  • Insert size: 11-3/4 x 14-3/4 in.
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: XACTA TABLE SAWS
  • 10 leveling screws



Best Budget - Bosch RA1165
  • Insert size: N/A
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: Bosch RA Series
  • Tool-free Base Change



Best Cabinte Style - Bosch Cabinet RA1171
  • Insert size: N/A
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: Most Name-Brand Router Models
  • Dust Ports, Storage Compartment, Adjustable Featherboards



Best for the Money - KREG PRS5000
  • Insert size: 9-1/4 x 11/3-4 in.
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: Routers with 4.2-inch Base Plates
  • Bearing-Guided Carriage



Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table
  • Insert size: N/A
  • Construction material: Aluminum and Wood
  • Compatibility: Routers with 6-inch Base Plates
  • Table Extensions



JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120
  • Insert size: 9-1/4 x 11/3-4 in.
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Most Modern Routers
  • 5 Double-Sealed Bearings



Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R
  • Insert size: 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 in.
  • Construction material: Cast Iron
  • Compatibility: Most Name-Brand Router Models
  • 0.001-inch Height Increments



JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02121
  • Insert size: 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 in.
  • Construction material: Aluminum
  • Compatibility: Routers with 4.2-inch Base Plates
  • Backlash-Free Tensioning System


Reviews of Best Router Lift

Best Premium - Jet 708124 XLIFT-K

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 11-3/4 x 14-3/4-inch Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with XACTA Tables
  • 10 leveling screws

The Jet 708124 XLIFT-K’s plate is made of hefty ¼-inch aluminum to make sure your fitted router doesn’t wobble throughout the work process.

With an 11-3/4″ x 14-3/4″ x 3/16″ plate dimension, we reckon that you could do relatively heavy-duty works around here.

The plate is pre-drilled for you, but you might still need extra drillings for a more perfect fit.

The lifting function works smoothly while enabling you to do plenty of travels with the router. This lift has a fence that also includes a vacuum and a dust collector.

Also, the distance between the plate front and the opening is about 10 inches, so if you want to add more accessories, you’ll need to consider this pretty big gap first.

Pros

  • Pre-drilled plate
  • Strong aluminum plate
  • Smooth height adjustment
  • Replacement rings included

Cons

  • Fence could be more effective

Sadly, the Jet 708124 XLIFT-K’s fence doesn’t live up to the hype, but it’s still one of the sturdiest, most reliable router lifts you can get.

Best Budget - Bosch RA1165

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • N/A Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with Bosch RA Series
  • Tool-free Base Change

The Bosch RA1165 is an effort of improvement based on its predecessor, RA1164.

Specifically made for 1617, 1617EVS, 1617EVSPK, 1618, 1618EVS routers, many have advised to just stick with the router’s standard base rather than buying this unit because they don’t have any significant differences.

For increased height adjustment convenience, you can use a T-wrench access addition above the table, so you just need to make use of that T-shaped handle without any additional setups.

The 3-¾ inch base opening is made to work with larger bits.

Pros

  • Easy mounting
  • Quick clamp system
  • 3-¾ inch base opening
  • Convenient depth adjustment

Cons

  • Could have a stronger clamp

If you’re looking for an additional base for your Bosch routers that allows you to mount and dismount different models regularly, then this is the one.

Best Cabinte Style - Bosch Cabinet RA1171

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • Insert Size N/A
  • Aluminum and Wood Construction
  • Compatible with Routers with 6-inch Plates
  • Table Extensions

The Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table serves you with 450 square inches of a sturdy aluminum work surface.

If you need to extend the surface, Goplus has provided you an 8″ × 18″ easy slide surface each for both wings.

These extensions are made of plastic, however, not aluminum like the main work surface.

Moreover, the included precise miter gauge aids for straight cuts. The unit itself works effectively with a 6-inch diameter router plate.

The fence is said to be made of aluminum, but many complained about how it turned out to be a simple piece of plastic. You could use this fence as a support to the table if you need a vertical jointer.

Pros

  • Precise miter gauge
  • Tall aluminum fence
  • Plastic guard dust port
  • Provides extension tables

Cons

  • Plastic guard could be less restricting

Although the Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table doesn’t really live up to the initial expectations, this unit should still be considered a great effort.

Best for the Money - KREG PRS5000

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 9-1/4 x 11/3-4-inch Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with Most Modern Routers
  • 5 Double-Sealed Bearings

The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 is built with five double-sealed bearings that ensure longer durability even if you’re working with the heaviest router plates ever.

JessEM claims that they gladly fit most routers in the market today, so maybe if you have older models, you’ll still need some adapters.

The most definite thing about JessEm router lifts is that they make these hard-anodized plates that guarantee a lifetime service than your regular aluminum plates.

Their shafts are all pressed into shaft mounts with hydraulic pressure.

The downside of this router lift is probably the fact that it only comes with a set of three rings. Wobbling can be a problem with this unit.

Pros

  • Hard anodized plate
  • 5 double sealed bearings
  • Above-the-table adjustments
  • Fits most routers

Cons

  • Rings could be less wobbly

This unit is perfect for your at-home DIY projects; it’s easy to use and incredibly durable.


Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 8-1/4 x 11-3/4-inch Insert Size
  • Cast Iron Construction
  • Compatible with Most Name-Brand Router Models
  • 0.001-inch Height Increments

The Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R is designed with the exclusive MagnaLOCK reducing ring system that basically automatically changes rings for you in perfect fittings.

Another good news is that you’re already able to make down to 0.001-inch increments just from above by using this unit.

Incra calls for the five sealed ball bearings for super-smooth operation when using the lift screw and cam lock. This lift router comes in different models that fit different router tables.

Don’t be mistaken with the “-R” in the title because that implies that the router lift only works for Rockler tables.

The regular ones don’t have the “-R” and are sold in two sizes. The first one is the 8-1/2″ that fits most of the BenchDog Router Tables, while the 9-1/2″ fits the Jessom & Kreg tables.

Pros

  • 5 sealed ball bearings
  • Above-the-table adjustments
  • 0.001-inch height increments
  • MagnaLOCK reducing ring system

Cons

  • Could be more durable

The Incra’s Mast-R-Lift-II-R is a game-changer, especially for beginner woodworkers.

JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120

best overall rating

Key Specifications

  • 8-1/4 x 11-3/4-inch Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with PC, Bosch, DEWALT Routers
  • Low-Friction Surface

The Rocker Router Lift FX is a perfect router lift for your small to medium-sized routers that work heavily.

Sometimes buying a router lift for a tiny baby makes you think that it’s not worth the money, but Rocker surely makes you change your mind.

It’s very easy to assemble too, so don’t worry about not getting there. The only downside about this unit is probably the absence of the height lock.

This way, you’ll have to measure everything all over again on the other pieces you want to work on.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Heavy-duty plate
  • Above-the-table adjustments
  • Perfect for small routers

Cons

  • Could come with height lock

This unit is only perfect for smaller to medium-sized routers. If one of your relatives is an aspiring woodworker at home, this could be a perfect gift for them.

Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R

best overall rating

If you want a table along with your router lift, then the Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171 is your best bet. You’ll get all of the parts you need (minus to router) to begin cutting grooves into your wooden workpieces.

Below are the Bosch RA1171’s key specifications—

  • N/A Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with Most Name-Brand Router Models
  • Dust Ports, Storage Compartment, Adjustable Featherboards

The Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171’s stability is guaranteed through its cabinet-style design that also makes a good benchtop solution for your router.

The plate is made of very rigid aluminum that stays flat to support a smooth working process.

People love how the aluminum fence’s sturdiness. It allows extra control of your work since it’s fully adjustable. You’ll need a bit of extra energy when locking it in, though, because if not, then it’ll get very wobbly.

Pros

  • Tall aluminum fence
  • Rigid mounting plate
  • Two dust collection ports
  • Includes many free add-ons

Cons

  • Fence adjustment could be more flexible

Bosch has probably been your to-go tool company for so many years now. This unit is not the best of the best, but it will serve you well at the job site or in your workshop.

JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02121

best overall rating

However, if you want the most value for your dollar, then the Kreg PRS5000 is arguably the best option for your on-a-budget woodworking needs.

Here’s what the KREG PRS5000’s key specs look like—

  • 9-1/4 x 11/3-4-inch Insert Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Compatible with Routers with 4.2-inch Base Plates
  • Bearing-Guided Carriage

The Kreg PRS5000 promotes above-the-table adjustments to your router bits, but not the router plates.

This also allows you to change bits without having to crawl under the table, a big win for efficiency.

In fact, the crank moves in full revolution to move and adjust your bits down to thousandths of an inch.

The plate is pre-drilled to fit KREG routers and other popular brands.

To be sure, just check a list of what’s compatible first. Some people found that the crank handle doesn’t really fit the micro-adjustment dial properly, so the function that’s supposed to be helping you in dialing an accurate height for your bit isn’t met properly.

Also, the fence tends to block the lift control so you’ll have to set the height of your bit first before installing the fence.

Pros

  • Precise adjustments
  • Crank to adjust heights
  • Fits popular brand routers
  • Above-the-table adjustments

Cons

  • Plate could be more level

This unit works in the simplest way possible, really projecting the ease and convenience it claims. However, the promised precision isn’t that bold.

Best Router Lift Buying Guide

Finding the best router lift involves knowing the basics. Here, we’ll explain the most crucial components of what to look for in the best router lift.

Compatibility

This is the most important thing to consider.

Router lifts may or may not be compatible with your router table at home. Take a look at what kinds of routers and router tables the router lift works with before checking out your order.

Durability

Obviously, a router lift made of durable materials are longer-lasting than those that use cheap, flimsy plastics. Ideally, you’ll want a cast-iron, aluminum, or steel router lift.

Locking System

The locking system offers both versatility and precision when locking the bit in place.

With a reliable locking system, the bit will wobble less frequently, ensuring that your routing work looks as beautiful as you initially planned.

FAQ’s

How do router lifts work?

A router lift consists of a built-in carriage on a plate insert. The insert sits flush on top of the router tables. The carriage keeps the router and motor in place, while the plate allows you to adjust the height of the router bit from above. This system can help you save time in the workshop by altering the router height with a few quick turns with the included wrench.

Do I need a router lift?

Let’s get one thing straight. A router lift will not improve your routing performance. However, it will allow you to adjust the height of the router bit a lot easier and at tinier increments. The greatest benefit you’ll get from a router lift is maximum cutting precision without fumbling around with the router bit adjustment mechanism.

Will a router lift work with my router table?

It depends on whether the table insert is the right size. There are two standard plate sizes: 9-1/4 x 11-3/4 inches and 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 inches. After that, you need to make sure that the router lift is also compatible with your plunge router. The manufacturer will typically provide a detailed list of which products work with their router lift.

Can I remove the motor from the base?

A router lift can make it difficult to detach the motor and use the router as a handheld tool. However, as most customers found, attaching and detaching the plunge router becomes a lot easier over time. That said, if you need both systems but don’t have the time to move the plunger back and forth, we recommend taking a look at backup plunge routers.

Summary

In this guide, we’ve shown you which is the best router lift out of 20 different models.

However, even though the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II 02310 is arguably the best router lift available, the ideal router lift is one that fits your current router table and can meet all of your woodworking demands.

Our guide on finding the best router lift will assist you in choosing the most suitable router lift for your projects.

If you have any questions, we’re always ready to lend a helping hand in the comments section.

About Jerry Ward

Jerry has been fascinated with power tools, especially saws and drills since his childhood days. He loves to travel and contributes to various online platforms.

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