Best Router Tables 2022
Best Router Table Review
If you are serious about woodworking then you just have to own at least one wood router. These are incredible tools, allowing you to take your projects to a completely new level of quality by adding unique curves and shapes. The more skilled you get using a wood router the more you can do with skilled woodworkers using them to make smooth grooves and indents in their work to really finish off their work.
Just as with all tools, you need to take some safety precautions to protect yourself and others from harm when operating. The wood router is no different and at Wonkee Donkee we strongly advise you to never use a wood router without attaching a good router table. The router table is important when you are routing wood as it frees up both of your hands to control and guide the wood through the router. Using a wood router this way majorly increases your control over the process allowing you to be much more accurate in your work. It is also a much safer process again due to the control you have as the user, you are much less likely to slip or lose grip in comparison to using a wood router freely.
There is a range of different router tables available on the market. Each manufacturer claiming that their models unique and has special features that you cannot live without. Luckily for you, here at Wonkee Donkee we have gone through all that information as well as tested the best router tables available. We then spoke to a range of different professional woodworkers as well as keen DIY woodworkers to learn more about how these different models work when in use regularly. Taking all this into account we have compiled a list of what we believe to be the best router tables currently available to buy online.
Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style
At Wonkee Donkee we are still waiting for Bosch to come out with a power tool that doesn’t get us excited. The Bosch RA1171 is a uniquely designed router table that we just could not wait to test out. The inclusion of an extra tall fence provides you with the opportunity to work on much larger pieces of wood than standard router tables.We are also amazed by how well the cabinet style works so well as opposed to the typical bulky box router table options. This atypical design is also great for saving space and not taking up your whole workbench which means you have plenty of other space to carry out other tasks. It seems Bosch have thought of everything too with not one but two different dust collection areas, both of which can be fitted with a vacuum to keep your workspace tidy as you use the router.
The build of the Bosch RA1171 is also of high quality. The main structure is created using MDF with a laminate covering to provide a smooth surface to use whilst routing. There are also several different pre-drilled holes which are suitable to fit in a variety of different styles of a wood router, although Bosch routers will give the best results. To add to this the Bosch cabinet comes with adjustable featherboards for full customisation to suit the range of different wood sizes that need routing.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 4.8 x 27 x 24.2 Inches
- Weight: 45.2 Pounds
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Our Verdict
We have a soft spot for Bosch tools at Wonkee Donkee just because of the quality that they produce. However, the unique cabinet design of the RA1171 is enough to get any woodworking enthusiast excited. This design makes sense for space-saving reasons without having to compromise of wood routing capabilities whatsoever. This router table can complete nearly any wood routing task on any piece of material and is a great choice for people who take their work seriously.
Bosch RA1181 Router Table
If you search for router tables anywhere online then the top-rated table is normally the Bosch RA1181. As soon as we unboxed this router table it was easy to see why. The first thing we noticed was the clever design, allowing it to fit on top of whatever size workbench you have. To add to this it has a great level of portability which means that you are not restrained to just using it in one place. If you already have Bosch router tools as part of your arsenal then there is really no need to look any further.
The RA1181 includes specialist mounting stations for their own brand tools in addition to a convenient dust-collection feature that provides effortless clean up once you are finished working. We also love that the featherboards attached are adjustable providing you with the opportunity to customize your router table to your personal preferences. This router table is a real favourite with us at Wonkee Donkee but don’t just take our word for it, there are hundreds of online reviews praising the quality build and durability of this product. The inclusion of a one-year free warranty also provides that extra peace of mind that this is a really high-quality product from Bosch.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 22.8 x 18 x 14.5 Inches
- Weight: 33.5 Pounds
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Our Verdict
As we previously mentioned, if you already own or use Bosch router tools then it is an absolute no brainer. Saying this, it is also compatible with other router tools on the market, so don’t think that it only just looks after its own. The convenience, portability and ability to customise sections to fit your own preferences are some of the other reasons why this is one of our favourite router tables. At Wonkee Donkee we believe that you will never regret it if you do opt for the Bosch RA1181 router table, especially if you are a professional or a woodworking enthusiast looking for their first router table.
KREG PRS1045 Router Table System
If you are a professional woodworker and you’re looking for a quality wood router to help you produce high-standard work then you should definitely consider the KREG PRS1045 router table system. The main reason we love this model at Wonkee Donkee is the overall high-grade design and build. When using this router table you can feel the quality of its construction, not only on the table itself but also with the stand and fence. For example, the frame is made from strong steel which is coated for protection. This makes it not only extremely stable as a structure but also durable and resistant to knocks and scuffs. The router tables top is manufactured using a coated MDF board, this ingenious design aids you as you slide your wood along the surface whilst routing.
It also offers a huge range of choice working height from 31-39 inches tall. This is a massive bonus as it improves the comfortability of using this router table, especially during long projects. You can also adjust the fence allowing you to place the wood in whatever position you wish before you start the process of routing. Another cool feature that we like is an outfeed point which a vacuum cleaner can be attached to in order to collect sawdust to keep workspaces tidy.
Specifications
- Style: Stand Alone
- Size Dimensions: 37.5 x 25.5 x 36.5 Inches
- Weight: 70 Pounds
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Our Verdict
If you are a woodworking professional or have a big budget to spend on your favourite hobby and you are after a very high-quality router table then the KREG PRS1045 may be perfect for you. It really is a classy piece of equipment for any woodworker and covers all the bases of being durable, easy to use and customisable for better user experience. It’s no secret that we love this router table at Wonkee Donkee. However, for beginners, amateurs or general woodworking enthusiasts this table may be a bit more than you need and as one of our more expensive options in our best router table review, other options may be more suitable.
Dremel 231 Shaper/Router Table
The Dremel 231 Shaper/Router Table is probably the stand-out option for value in this guide. If you are a beginner in woodworking and want to try your hand at routing wood before making a large investment in equipment and tools, then you can’t get any better than this choice. Dremel has created a compact fully functioning router table which saves both space and money whilst still being able to get jobs done. The Dremel 231 router table also has full compatibility with all the Dremel routing tools range as well as various other routing tools from other manufacturers.
As you can clearly see from looking at the product, the Dremel 231 is not the biggest router table. There is a work area of 8 x 6 inches with an adjustable fence which can be tailored to the user’s needs. To add to this it’s compact design makes it extremely versatile and able to fit on a wide range of surfaces, this means that the height at which you are working is completely up to the user. The table attachment is also extremely convenient and after a quick read of the instruction manual, it is easy to attach and detach from different surfaces. There are obvious drawbacks to this router table. The small work area makes it suitable for basic woodworking tasks with most pieces of wood. It can do more advanced routing with small pieces of wood but if you are completing large projects it is unlikely to be suitable.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Attachment
- Size Dimensions: 10.4 x 8.1 x 6.8 Inches
- Weight: 2.15 Pounds
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Our Verdict
It is difficult to knock the Dremel 231 router table for its convenience, portability and price. If you are new to routing tasks and want to try your hand then this is a great router table for a beginner. Don’t just take our word for it, the customer reviews speak for themselves with many people using the Dremel router table as a great piece of equipment to learn how to router wood. On the other hand, if you are a professional woodworker or you regularly undertake projects with large pieces of wood then this router table will not be enough to fit your needs.
Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax
This is another interesting router table which should definitely be taken into consideration depending on the current set up of your workshop or work area. The reason for this is that the Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax is uniquely designed as an extension to decent workbenches or cast iron table saws. Although it acts as an extension don’t be mistaken, it is extremely sturdy and fits easily on existing benches. Another benefit of this design means that it is extremely portable allowing you to adjust the height to where you feel comfortable as well as store it out of the way to make space when it is not in use.
It is also built of quality cast iron meaning it does not wear easily whilst also offering a smooth surface, perfect for sliding your wood along.The one drawback with this design is that the Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax is the space needed. For a good fit, benches need to be a minimum of 27 inches deep with a 1.5 inches thick. In terms of use and the results you can achieve, this router table is tough to beat. It can handle large pieces of wood allowing you to create high-grade work, whilst also being more than capable of helping you complete small intricate jobs. There is also a lifetime guarantee, what more could you possibly ask for as a show of trust by a manufacturer in their product?
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 18 x 29 x 4 Inches
- Weight: 60 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The workshop can be a crowded place sometimes with a lot of different tools and pieces of equipment which you need being bulky and taking up prime space. This is where the Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax is a welcome alternative. The fact it can be attached and detached from workbenches or table saws means that it is a great tool if you need to complete professional wood routing jobs in tight spaces. When you hold the cast iron body you can feel the quality of the build and with a lifetime guarantee, you may have just found your next and last table router.
Skil RAS900 Router Table
If you are serious about woodworking but don’t have a huge budget for tools and equipment then the Skil RAS900 is definitely a router table that you should consider. The durable design which includes a hard plastic base which is topped with an MDF coating makes it easy to control your material as you glide them through the router. There are also cleverly built storage containers that allow you to keep all your wood routing accessories in one place.
In terms of operation, the Skil RAS900 router table uses a clamp system. This makes wood routing tasks quick and easy. In addition, the router table allows you to adjust the two featherboards, fences and more to tailor to your needs. The ability to customise this table to your own personal preferences allows you to feel more comfortable when routing wood, increasing efficiency and control over the end product. Finally, at Wonkee Donkee we love how the router mount is also highly adjustable. This allows you to customise the table router to your specific wood router tool, adding more control as well as not tying you down to a specific power tool brand.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 28.1 x 18 x 9.4 Inches
- Weight: 32 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The Skil RAS900 is a great and affordable router table for beginners and intermediate woodworkers who want a full table as opposed to just using cheaper mountable router tables. The great design which allows for full customisation to the user, as well as the different wood router tools available, is second to none. Skil has really made a classy router table with the RAS900 which provides incredible control over your wood as you slide it through the router.
Craftsman Combo 37595
The Craftsman Combo 37595 is the only product included in our best router table review that comes with a router tool included. We typically do not typically choose to include combination sets in our Wonkee Donkee reviews as they tend to be low quality and a budget version of tools or equipment. However, in this case, there has been no compromise on quality at all with the manufacturers Craftsman offering a great value starter router table to beginners.
The router is no cheap power tool and packs a decent amount of power with its 9.4 amps motor producing up to 27,000 RPM. As you’d expect it is a perfect match for the table which also includes a power strip with an extra-long cable allowing you to plug in extra tools and save space. There is also a dust extraction port that has hoover attachments which are cleverly placed behind the router helping to keep your workspace clean as you operate. The main body of the router table is made from heavy-duty plastic and its top is laminated MDF which is typical of router tables providing a smooth surface. The overall size of the tabletop is 11 x 16 inches which makes it a great piece of equipment for any small to medium-sized routing jobs.
Specifications
- Style: Table Top
- Size Dimensions: 26.3 x 15.9 x 14.7 Inches
- Weight: 25.4 Pounds
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Our Verdict
As we previously mentioned, at Wonkee Donkee we are not normally fans of combo sets as they can be cheap and tacky. The Craftsman Combo 37595 router table and router set is an exception to this. This affordable table router is everything you need to start routing as a beginner. The reasonably powerful accompanying router is also a great tool in its own right, able to take on small and medium-sized router jobs with ease. Looking for an all-in-one router starter kit? Then you’ve found it.
KREG PRS2100 Router Table
At Wonkee Donkee we don’t tend to include two models from the same manufacturer in our product reviews as they are normally very similar with only a couple of different design features. In this case, KREG has made two uniquely different router tables, both of which are too good in their own right not be included in our list of top 10 best router tables. The KREG PRS2100 is a small and easily portable router table that is a great option for anyone who is short on space as well as budget.
The size of this router table doesn’t have an impact on its performance though. Instead, it makes it so much more convenient as it requires no clamping down and can simply sit directly on top of a workbench. Although it is relatively small in size in comparison to other router tables the top of this model measures at 16 x 24 inches. This makes it able to deal with all types of projects including large ones, which is not usually the case with such a portable router table. The base is made of high wearing steel and is topped by a laminated MDF board allowing for easy transition of wood through the router. This durable and tough build is accompanied by an intricate dust collection port making the device easy to clean after use.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 19.2 x 30 x 4.8 Inches
- Weight: 28.4 Pounds
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Our Verdict
The KREG PRS2100 router table is not really comparable to any other router table that we have included in this list. If you put it against portable router tables as that is essentially what it is conceptually then it is far more expensive. However, this router table can do so much more than all of the other portable options. Do not be fooled by it’s small and compact design, this router table can complete even large routing tasks and is a real contender for the best tool included in our list. If you need a portable router table that has all of the attributes of a benchtop model then the KREG PRS2100 router table is for you.
Rockler Trim Router Table
The Rockler trim router table is easily the smallest and most compact selection included in our review of the best router tables. The smart design of this model probably makes it the most portable router table we have reviewed. It uses a strong clamp which makes it really easy to mount and dismount to even the smallest of benches. As for the router table itself, the fence includes a dust collection port which is compatible with most vacuum cleaners to clean up as you work.
The cool design features don’t stop their either, the Rockler Trim router table is also compatible with most wood routers available on the market. If your router does not fit then you can easily drill more holes to customise your router table to accommodate it. Add to this that the guard and fence are both adjustable the Rockler Trim can really be customised to your needs. It is also well built with an MDF board coated in a high-quality vinyl making it easier to control your wood as it slides through the router. For a portable router table, it has a reasonably large 11.5 x 15.5 inches making it suitable for small to medium-sized projects.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 17.5 x 12.6 x 3.8 Inches
- Weight: 6.72 Pounds
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Our Verdict
This is another great portable router table if you are limited in your amount of workspace. The convenience of being able to clamp this device on any surface and start routing wood makes it a handy tool to have around. Don’t just take our word at Wonkee Donkee that this is a good quality router table. There are many glowing customer reviews which highlight its ease of use and durability.
Goplus FM31495 Benchtop Table Router
The last router table we have reviewed is the Goplus FM31495. This is another great small table router best suited for people without much space and beginners looking to get to grips with routing wood on small to medium-sized projects. Although it is a small device it is unfortunately not portable. To get the best results the Goplus FM31495 is required to be bolted in. To make up for this, the loss of convenience is made up by in sturdiness. Wood routers up to 6 inches are compatible with this benchtop router table and can be plugged in along with other tools in the handy power strip located underneath the unit.
In contrast to other models, the Goplus FM31495 is manufactured using aluminium which is a great durable alternative to normal materials used. There is also a nifty extension table that maximises the workspace up to 18 inches. The whole working surface includes grooves which aid in the cleaning up process through chipping away sawdust and other debris.
Specifications
- Style: Bench Top
- Size Dimensions: 13.1 x 17.7 Inches
- Weight: 44 Pounds
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Our Verdict
If you are after a small router table to be a permanent fixture in your workshop which doesn’t use up much space then the Goplus FM31495 is a great option. However, for a small router table that is only really capable of small to medium-sized projects the lack of portability is a stumbling block. One feature we really like at Wonkee Donkee is the extendable table which no other router table models have fully developed like Goplus have. This does give you the opportunity to try out larger routing tasks, however, if you are frequently taking on these type of tasks then we think there are better router table options out there.
Router Tables - Buying Guide
As with all power tools and manual tools, there is a range of things that you need to consider before you make a purchase. It is always important to read up about what different tools key functions are to ensure that they can carry out the tasks you are buying them for. Research also provides you to find out about extra features that some models have in comparison to competitors meaning that if you make the right decision you can get more bang for your buck. In all of our Wonkee Donkee guides, we offer advice on what you need to consider when choosing the right tools for you. This section includes our router table buyers guide which we suggest you read first, to make sure you get the perfect tool for you.
Safety Features
At Wonkee Donkee we talk about the subject of safety in every single one of our buyers’ guide. The reason for this is because it is so important to ensure that when you are operating manual or power tools that you take safety precautions in order to protect yourself and others. This is especially important when carrying out woodworking tasks as typically workshops are loud and contain a lot of large pieces of machinery. The first place where you should look for safety information on a product is in the product description.
In our Wonkee Donkee digital caliper review, we have included as much safety information on each of the products to help you out. However, if you are after more information then the manufacturers website is always the best place to go. Some extra tips when looking at the safety of tools is to see where they are produced as well as see what accreditations they hold. If tools are built and produced in the US, Europe or Canada then by law they have to comply with American manufacturing standards. Tools produced outside of these areas should also comply with these regulations but it is always important to check.
Durability
Along with your new router table being safe to use another major factor is the durability of the product. The fact they are built to American manufacturing standards is always a good sign that tools and power tools are reasonably durable so that is another bonus to finding this information out. In addition, warranties are another major trust signal that the tool you are buying is durable. Some router tables come with a warranty of up to two years which needs to be registered upon purchase whilst some other models provide lifetime warranty which means you’ll never have to buy a new router table again. Customer reviews are also a great place to find out about how durable a tool is. At the end of the day, reviews are written by like-minded woodworkers like you providing you with an unbiased insight into how the router tables work in day to day use.
Weight
As for most power tools you need to consider the weight when making your purchase choice. MIG welders are no exception and although on average they tend to weigh around 50 pounds, models vary a lot with some weighing less and others weighing a lot more. The importance of the weight of your MIG welder goes hand in hand with your physical capability. If you have no issues with your physical health then a heavy MIG welder may not be a hindrance to you.
However, if you do or may do in the future then you may want to consider a lighter MIG welder option or alternatively purchase another tool such as a stacker truck or wheeled cart to help move your MIG welder. Unfortunately, we cannot make a recommendation as to what weight MIG welder is best as lightweight options lack extra features which heavier models really benefit from so it really is a personal decision for you based on your capabilities.
Compatibility
The compatibility of tools with other tools is something that can come in handy most of the time but does not really make a lot of difference. However, when it comes to router tables the compatibility with router power tools is one of the most important components. Typically router tables are most compatible with table routers of the same manufacturer. This is due to the fact that the router tables are designed specifically to suit that brands own router tool. This does not mean that they are not compatible with other manufacturers router tools, just that for the best performance it is suggested to have both tools from the same manufacturer.
In our router table review, we have highlighted which router tables are most compatible with a wide range of router tools. We have also outlined the steps you may need to take if your router table and router tool are not compatible such as drilling new holes. One thing you will need to check for is to ensure that there is enough space on your router table to fit on the router table. Checking the compatibility is most important if you are wanting to keep the router tool you have and just purchase a new router table. However, if you are looking at buying both then it may be a good idea to consider purchasing both from the same manufacturer to maximise the value of both products.
Budget and Usage
Unfortunately, we all do not have an unlimited budget when purchasing tools, if only we all did! The first thing you need to consider is how big your budget as well as how much you tend to use the router table for. It is obvious that the more you spend on a router table the more high-quality product you will receive and the more tasks you will be able to complete. However, if you will not regularly be using all of the shiny extra features included with a high-end router table then the extra expense may not be worth it. A prime example with router tables is the comparison between clamp router tables that are easily portable and fixed router tables that are typically bulky. Portable router tables will be much more suited to DIY enthusiasts that want to route wood in small projects, whilst fixed router tables are more suited to professionals who carry out large projects.
Router Tables - FAQ's
How to use a Router Table?
To use a router table it is relatively simple. Firstly, you fix the wood router into the table in it’s designated position this is typically a screw-in module which holds the tool in place. Next, you take a piece of wood that you wish to route and slide it through the router tool. This is done best by pressing the wood against the table and sliding it through the router as it provides the user with more control. Once you have completed the routing task on your wood simply turn off the wood router and remove the wood.
It is important to note that whenever you operate a router table or a wood router that you should always wear personal protective equipment. At Wonkee Donkee we recommend that for wood routing tasks the operator wears protective goggles and gloves to reduce the risk of injury to themselves. Another suggestion from us is to always attach a vacuum if the router table has this option. This not only helps reduce the amount of cleaning up afterwards but can also prevent sawdust from getting into the air.
What can you do with a Router Table?
The thing about routing wood is that it really cannot be done without using proper wood routing tools. The unique curves, shapes, curved edges and grooves that wood routing produce can really make a difference in the visual quality of the end product. Router tables are vital in order to help keep the process of routing wood safe, whilst also providing the operator with two free hands in order to control their wood. Some router tables also offer additional features that can come in useful in a workshop. The inclusion of extra plug sockets allow it to become a makeshift extension cable whilst you use other tools. To add to this, the table-top is sturdy and can be used as a hard surface for a range of other tasks.
