A milling cutter is a real find for a woodworking master. It is not as bulky as a machine, and much more functional than a planer. A hand router is used for grooving, leveling edges, cutting niches for locks, making a figured profile and many other tasks. To choose the right model for you, you need to understand the types of routers and their design features.
Purpose
For decorative processing and the manufacture of curly edges, deep milling is not needed - you can choose a tool with a maximum value of 30 - 50 mm. If it is required to cut holes and grooves for connecting parts of building structures or furniture, the milling depth should be 60 - 80 mm. As a rule, heavy class models have such parameters.
Adjustment of the depth of milling is carried out by changing the overhang of the cutter on a scale with divisions. In models with a fixed body, the depth is set and the tool is driven in a rigid position. Plunge milling machines have a turret that limits the travel of the platform.
Snap fastening
Installation of milling cutters on the spindle is carried out by means of a collet clamp - each model of the milling cutter is designed for a certain diameter of the shank. The size of the working part of the cutters depends on this: the larger the shank, the larger the diameter of the cutter. As a rule, light and medium class tools are equipped with nozzles with a shank of 6 - 8 mm. Heavy-duty professional devices have more power, which means they are able to work with large tooling - the shank diameter can be more than 10 mm. Some routers come with several collets for tooling with different shank diameters, such as 6, 8 and 12 mm.
Serves for forced dust removal of cutting waste during operation.
Reference article based on the expert opinion of the author.
- Advantages
- Design features
- Varieties
- Power
- Principle of operation
- cutting element
- Model overview
- Bosch
- Makita
- Festool
- "Fiolent"
- "Interskol"
With the help of a manual milling machine, wood and some other materials are processed. The tool is similar to stationary samples, but more compact. In addition to performing basic carpentry operations: turning, trimming, it allows you to create complex ornaments and patterns on a given plane.
Milling a board, cutting skirting boards does not require special skills in carpentry. Manufacturers have introduced technologies that ensure the reliability and safety of products.
Advantages
Manual equipment is suitable for milling small parts.
The devices are compact, cost less than stationary analogues. Consume little energy, easy to use.
Design features
Many manual milling machines resemble a drilling machine (drill), understaffed with nozzles, a stabilizing element.
The engine is hidden behind a metal or plastic case. More affordable tools are made from durable polymer materials. The aluminum housing provides heat dissipation from the engine. The cutting element is mounted on a chuck or a miniature analogue of the spindle coming out of the engine. For convenience of use, reliable deduction the machine is supplied with handles.
The electric drive starts the cutter in motion. The number of revolutions, cutting speed depends on its power. Therefore, when choosing a unit, it is necessary to pay attention to the parameters specified by the manufacturer.
Manual milling machines are associated with a certain risk in their work. For protection, a chip removal plate is installed on some samples. This detail also regulates the cutting depth, stabilizes the unit. The device of manual wood routers is quite simple.
Varieties
Before buying equipment, you need to familiarize yourself with its types, deal with the features.
Power
Depending on the power of the product, household milling machines can be:
- light,
- average,
- heavy.
Models with a power of no more than 750 W are considered light. The second category includes samples with a power range of 750–900 W. This is the most common equipment in everyday life: it is versatile, easy to use. With it, you can assemble furniture, complement it with decorative elements. Heavy-duty manual wood routers have a power of 900-1200 watts. There are more powerful units, but they are not suitable for home use.
Principle of operation
Milling machines can be static (stationary) and submersible. The former are cheaper, but they have less functionality. These units may not have a stabilizing bar, and if it is present, element height adjustment is not possible.
The plunge mill allows you to perform more complex processes with high precision. An example is the Interskol milling cutter. With it, you can profile molded products, make a groove for connecting parts, create a hole for installing fittings.
cutting element
The cutter is the main element. The result of the work depends on its variety. Maybe with:
- whole base,
- guide bearing.
In the first case, milling is performed using a solid high-strength nozzle. The guide bearing changes the properties of the cutter. The choice depends on what processing of the workpiece will be carried out. A high-quality manual filler mill is necessary when assembling cabinet furniture, an edge mill will help to form a neat edge, a lamellar one will make narrow grooves.
Model overview
When choosing equipment, you need to focus on the specifics of the work performed. Based on this, purchase the unit.
Bosch
Household vertical milling machines allow for a variety of wood processing, creating decorative elements. Differ in high accuracy concerning the set parameters of cutting thanks to adjustment of turns and a course. For convenience, the tool provides illumination of the working area.
Price - from 5 800 rubles.
Makita
The power tool from Makita has good technical data and is convenient in design. The rubberized handle allows you to securely hold the unit. There are additional functions: recess control, backlight, transparent base that improves visibility. You can adjust the speed.
Price - from 4 000 rubles.
Festool
Festool hand-held milling units can be both universal and highly specialized. The edge is neat, the grooves are precise due to the maximum traction. Manual adjustment of profile cutters is carried out quickly due to the removable base plate.
Price - from 31 900 rubles.
"Fiolent"
The manual milling cutter "Fiolent" allows you to process hard wood. It is convenient to use: it can be operated with one hand. The body is made of aluminum alloy, heat dissipation. If necessary, milling is carried out with the connection of a household vacuum cleaner.
Price - from 2 800 rubles.
"Interskol"
The unit is well equipped. Controls the depth of immersion due to the aluminum limiter. Electronic speed control is provided. Fine adjustment is possible with the upper handwheel.
Price - from 2 500 rubles.
Many home craftsmen think about how to choose a manual milling machine. And this is quite understandable, since this tool is truly universal: it can be used to process not only wood, but also plastic, plexiglass, artificial stone, composites and even non-ferrous metals. The most important thing is to know how to choose a manual router for the home, and be able to use it.
To decide how to choose a manual wood router, the prices of which are sometimes expressed in rather impressive numbers, and what you really want to get from this tool, you should know what it is capable of and what varieties it is represented by. And, of course, information about the price of the router is also important for choosing.
What is a manual router capable of?
The list of operations that can be performed using a manual router is very wide. In particular, it can be used to:
- perform edge profiling;
- form seats for fittings;
- grind;
- cut spikes to connect elements;
- drill holes;
- cut blanks;
- perform woodcarving and engraving;
Decorative finishing of wooden parts, made using a manual milling cutter
- customize furniture laminates;
- cut slots and perform a large number of other operations.
How to choose a manual wood milling machine based on its type
Milling cutters on the current market can be top, edge and lamella. Which one is better and how do they differ from each other?
Top routers
Machines of this type can be fixed and submersible. For stationary, the milling depth is adjusted by moving the tool in a vertical plane, which is quite difficult for an inexperienced person.
Appearance of the top router
In plunge milling machines, the motor moves along the guide. Due to the presence of rigid springs, the cutter can be lowered and raised while maintaining contact with the part. Such manual milling machines are also convenient for beginners.
Edge routers
As the name implies, these routers are used for processing edges.
Working with an edge router
Lamella routers
Milling machines of this type allow cutting grooves that connect parts.
A lamellar router is used for cutting slots
Common to all these types is that each of these manual machines has in its kit a large number of auxiliary devices - guides, clamps, stops, templates - which ensure the convenience of performing operations and their accuracy.
How to choose a manual wood router based on its parameters
In order for the router to successfully cope with the tasks that you set for it, you should carefully look at its characteristics.
Power
Naturally, the power must correspond to the nature of the work. However, for home craftsmen, low and medium power tools are often quite enough.
Speed and depth of processing
As a rule, the speed of milling machines is in the range of 7-24 thousand revolutions per minute. A high-speed tool is purchased when it is necessary to process materials that are stronger than wood. As for the depth of processing, then 30 mm in everyday life is quite enough.
Switch device
It is most convenient when the cutter switch is equipped with a latch, which greatly simplifies the entire work process.
Collet device
The most convenient and durable are cone-shaped collets made of hardened steel.
The appearance of the collet
Dust extraction
It is more convenient to work with a router if there is a gateway on its body designed to remove dust.
Router with a vacuum cleaner connected to the dust inlet
Rod mechanism
The rod mechanism provides convenience of movement of a mill. The device is better, the higher the accuracy of the level of adjustment performed. When deciding which wood router to choose, give preference to one that has a more accurate calibration and smoother movement of the rod mechanism controls.
This is what the rod mechanism looks like
- choosing a milling cutter for the home, you should not chase power;
- a big plus is the presence of a convenient operating speed regulator;
- pay attention to the depth of immersion. It is best that the collet protrudes or reaches the bottom edge of the sole;
- pay attention to ergonomics and, in particular, to the convenience of the handle and the sufficiency of the length of the power cord;
- check the smoothness of the movement of the rod mechanism and the possibility of its fixation in the selected position;
- make sure that auxiliary accessories are easy to install, the tool is rigid and there are no vibrations and extraneous noises during operation;
- If you intend to work without rails, choose a design that provides maximum visibility.
A little about the price
Naturally, the price will largely be determined by the specific model that suits you the most, as well as its brand. The most famous manufacturers of hand tools, which experienced craftsmen most often turn to, are Makita, Skil, Metabo, Hitachi and others.
It is quite clear that when choosing an instrument, each buyer will proceed from the financial possibilities available to him. As for the cost of the product, the price range for wood routers is extremely high, from 3,150 rubles for the simplest models to 115,000 rubles for the most complex ones.
So, now you know in detail how to choose a manual milling machine and how much it can cost you. To make it even easier for you to choose this handy tool, we suggest you watch a video on this topic.
Video instruction: how to choose a manual router for home
The selection of goods is based on reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and brands and do not encourage the purchase of certain products. The article is informational.
To choose a good router, it will not always be enough to study the technical characteristics of the devices and their functionality. The quality of their work depends on many factors and an objective assessment can only be obtained from the owners of such devices. The basis for this collection was the reviews and opinions of users. They will help us understand which manual wood routers are better in terms of price-quality ratio, how convenient and practical they are in operation, as well as what pros and cons were discovered during the operation of these devices.
Best Inexpensive Hand Routers
A low price is usually the first sign of a not too high quality device, although there are exceptions to any rule and in the rating of wood routers there are models that are worthy in terms of equipment and characteristics, which can be purchased for relatively little money. The only difference with semi-professional and professional devices will be the need to periodically let the tools rest, i.e. not purchase them for long-term work.
Bosch POF 1400
Ryobi RRT1600-K
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Backlight |
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Speed control |
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Built-in spigot |
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Milling cutter Bosch POF 1400 ACE
Despite the budget orientation of the model, the manufacturer took the configuration and characteristics of the device quite seriously: engine power of 1400 watts, soft start, speed control, engine speed maintenance system with increasing load, the total weight of the device is 3.5 kg and a competitive price - enough reasons to think about buying. 
BOSCH POF 1400 ACE PROS
1. Existence of illumination of a working zone.
2. Sufficient power for domestic tasks.
3.Soft start system and power maintenance.
4. There is a possibility of installation in a milling table.
5. Well-calculated ergonomics.
6.SDS-system for fixing cutters, for their replacement without the use of additional tools.
7. Value for money.
CONS BOSCH POF 1400 ACE
1. The 12 mm collet no longer fits. If there is a need to use it, then you need to order an adapter for turners or purchase an additional milling cutter.
2. Excessively strong springs on the height adjustment bars.
3. The dust extraction system does not always work well.
4. Although there is a small, but play on the guides - it periodically affects fine tuning.
5.Short power cord.
The green color of the case speaks of the domestic purpose of the device, although in terms of overall quality this model is also loved by craftsmen who professionally install doors and similar repairs.
Milling cutter Ryobi RRT1600-K
A tool for small jobs at the domestic and professional levels, although in the latter case it is more often used in conjunction with other tools - due to its low weight, in some cases this router is preferable to more powerful analogues. 
PROS OF RYOBI RRT1600-K
1. Powerful engine - 1600 watts, this is rather closer to average devices in terms of power.
2. Convenient speed controller - displayed on the outer part of the body in the form of a wheel.
3.Function of soft start and maintenance of engine power with increasing load.
4.Additional cutters and copy sleeve included.
5. Light weight - according to the passport 3.95 kg.
6. For storage and transportation of the cutter, a branded case is provided, in which, in addition to it, all the components necessary for work are placed.
– CONS OF RYOBI RRT1600-K
1. The spindle lock button is pressed heavily.
2. The cutters that come with the kit are just different in size - the copy and cone cutters will have to be purchased separately.
3. Dust suction nozzle and cutter interfere with each other if replacement is necessary.
4.Flimsy factory compass - bends from the application of minimal effort.
5. The plastic ruler is put on glue - at any moment it can fall off the case.
Although the manufacturer positions this model as designed for working with wood, according to the assurances of users, the engine power is enough for processing other soft materials.
Best Medium Power Hand Routers
Far from always, average power means that the characteristics of the device will be closer to household models - if you work with a router for a whole working day, then electricity bills will sooner or later become an urgent issue. As a result, manufacturers strive to make the energy consumption of professional models as small as possible and the best wood routers do not have to be the most powerful at the same time.
Bosch GMF 1600 CE Professional
Metabo OfE 1229 Signal
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Vacuum cleaner nozzle |
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Milling cutter Bosch GMF 1600 CE Professional
Although the price of the device is significantly higher than average, it is more than compensated by the configuration and capabilities of this router, which combines the capabilities of submersible and copy models. A big advantage over analogues from competitors is the ability to work out of the box with 12 mm collets. 
BENEFITS BOSCH GMF 1600 CE PROFESSIONAL
1.Reliability and durability.
2.LED backlight and transparent base allow you to see the workpiece in the process.
3. Spindle lock for comfortable cutter replacement.
4. All originally necessary parts are included in the factory package.
5. Versatility - designed for a wide range of work.
6. Adjustment of rotation speed.
7. The milling cutter is designed for collets 8-12 mm.
8.Cutter stroke 76 mm - in most workpieces, you can make a through hole and process it from the inside.
CONS BOSCH GMF 1600 CE PROFESSIONAL
1. The electronics of the device is sensitive to perceptible voltage drops.
2. The instruction manual for the device warns that the kit may not contain thumb screws for the side stop guides.
3. The case is not durable in appearance, but roomy enough for the router and accessories.
4.If the router breaks, then fixing it will cost more than buying a new one.
The blue color of the body of the device speaks for itself - the GMF 1600 CE is a versatile professional router designed to solve the widest possible range of tasks.
Router Metabo OfE 1229 Signal
In addition to the quality and reliability of work, this milling cutter has a separate "chip" - fine adjustment of the cutting depth, which is performed by means of a mechanical dial indicator. 
PROS OF METABO OFE 1229 SIGNAL
1. Wide range of speed adjustment. The lower threshold starts at just 5000 rpm. Maximum - 25 thousand rpm.
2.Sistema maintain engine speed - increases its power when the load increases.
3. The depth of milling is very clearly shown - not with a ruler, but with a mechanical dial indicator.
4. Overload protection with self-switching brushes.
5.Comparatively small weight of the device.
6. Versatility - shows itself well when working with various materials.
7. The manufacturer's country corresponds to the brand's homeland - Germany.
– CONS OF METABO OFE 1229 SIGNAL
1. There is no soft start system - it must be borne in mind that the router can noticeably twitch when starting.
2. The start button requires considerable effort when pressed.
3. Difficulties may arise if you need to find the original equipment.
4. The maximum collet size is 8 mm.
5. There is no illumination of the working area - if there is a habit of using this function, then you will have to organize additional lighting.
A universal tool for solving professional and domestic problems, although in the second case, you need to consider how often it will be used, since the cost of the device is quite high.
Milling cutter AEG MF 1400 KE
Among analogues, this router stands out not only for the quality of work, but also for the solid equipment “out of the box” that the manufacturer supplied it with, as well as a bag that is used instead of a standard tool case. 
BENEFITS AEG MF 1400 KE
1. The factory equipment has almost everything you need for comfortable work.
2. Possibility to use 8-12 mm collets.
3. The dust removal system is designed for various types of work.
4. Powerful motor and sophisticated soft start and fast braking systems.
5. Blocking of a spindle for replacement of mills.
6. Comparatively large stroke of the cutter - 64 mm.
7. General ratio price-quality-equipment.
– CONS AEG MF 1400 KE
1. With constant use, the plexiglass sole wears out quickly - you will have to constantly cut out new ones.
2. The base for vertical movement periodically wedges, which is why it is not possible to perform a sufficiently soft immersion of the cutter into the material - a critical drawback for fine work.
3. With an engine power of 1400 watts, the weight of the device is 5.7 kg - much more than some analogues.
The tool belongs to the professional class, but the power of its engine limits the amount of materials it can work with - the manufacturer positions it only as a wood router. As a result, this device is a welcome guest for carpentry workshops, but you should not rely on its versatility.
The best high power handheld routers
Some professional tools are designed to work smoothly throughout the work day, while others also need versatility. To solve both of these tasks, a number of models are equipped with more powerful engines, which allow you to customize the tool for working with different materials.
Makita RP2300FC
DeWALT DW 625 E
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Milling cutter Makita RP 2300 FC
It is equipped with a motor with a power of 2300 watts, a soft start system, a speed controller and a power compensator when the load increases. Combined with an available depth of 70 mm, this tool allows you to perform any task available to a manual router at a professional level. 
+ PROS OF MAKITA RP 2300 FC
1. The motor power of 2300 watts allows you to work with various types of materials.
2.Ergonomic rubberized handles - do not slip in your hands and are just comfortable to hold.
3.High-quality soft start system - no jerks when starting the engine.
4.Comparatively low engine noise.
5.High-quality illumination of the working area.
6. The length of the power cable is 4 meters - enough for comfortable work.
7. The dust extraction system is built right into the rack - you just need to connect the vacuum cleaner hose to the body.
– CONS OF MAKITA RP 2300 FC
1. During continuous operation, the lower bearing is heated.
2. A slight play of the guides is felt - from time to time they can wedge a little when lowering.
3. Periodically, the right handle begins to “backlash” - for treatment, it is necessary to disassemble and tighten the fasteners.
4. The package does not include a case.
The cost of the device is clearly not suitable for purchasing it for occasional work, although the overall price-quality ratio is quite good.
Milling cutter DeWALT DW 625 E
Manual plunge router for working with various materials: wood, aluminum or plastic. The high power of the device is combined with a high-quality control system for the number of revolutions, which allows you to change their value in the range from 8 to 20 thousand / min and maintain stable power with increasing engine load. 
+ BENEFITS DEWALT DW 625 E
1. Large cutter stroke - significantly increases the possibility of processing workpieces, up to making through holes.
2.Electronic speed control and power retention when working under load.
3.Quality of components and materials used.
4.Visual control system for the depth of immersion of the cutter.
5. The inevitable small play on the guides does not lead to their wedging.
– CONS DEWALT DW 625 E
1. Weight is proportional to power - especially felt when working with small workpieces.
2. Only a 12 mm collet is included in the kit - if you need 8, then you will have to buy it separately.
3. The actual travel of the cutter after the zero mark is 62 mm. The rest of the distance from the declared 80 mm, it passes inside the tool.
The milling cutter is more intended for professional use - if you purchase a device for domestic needs, then its power and other capabilities may not be fully in demand.
Updated: 06/14/2018 23:24:40
In a modern carpentry workshop, one of the places of honor is given to a manual milling cutter. This power tool allows you to speed up the performance of many types of work. Often a good milling cutter can replace several devices at once, for example, an electric plane, a circular saw or a drill. With it, you can cut edges, grind the surface, cut spikes, cut grooves and slots, make grooves of various shapes, form holes and seats for fasteners. After working with a milling cutter, the master will not have a desire to pick up a chisel and a hammer. Today, a wide range of universal and highly specialized models is presented on the domestic market. When choosing, questions and doubts often arise, so you should listen to the opinion of experts.
Criteria for choosing a router
Like any other electrical appliance, the router is equipped with a motor. The more powerful and revving the motor, the higher the performance of the device. If the power affects the depth of the layer to be removed, then the spindle speed determines the quality of the finish.
In inexpensive milling machines with a low-power motor, with an increase in load, an inevitable drop in speed occurs. But many modern models are equipped with a regulator with stabilization of the rotation speed. This option has a positive effect on performance and processing quality.
As for the purpose of the router, the universal tool can only be advised to home craftsmen or assemblers of wood products. But professionals need a specialized milling cutter that provides the necessary accuracy and processing speed.
Our review includes the best routers. When compiling the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:
purpose of the tool;
technical capabilities;
expert opinion;
consumer reviews.
Advantages and disadvantages of various routers
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Router type |
Advantages |
Flaws |
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Vertical |
Large working depth High performance Affordable price Ease of use |
Radius at corners Limited set of cutters Big weight |
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Kromochny |
Move on a ruler or pattern Application versatility Acceptable price light weight |
Small working depth Lack of electronic speed control |
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Keyway |
Large working depth Machining accuracy Lightness and mobility High performance |
High price Vibration during operation |
Rating of the best routers
| Nomination | place | Name of product | price |
| The best routers | 1 | 19 810 ₽ | |
| 2 | 21 820 ₽ | ||
| 3 | 37 049 ₽ | ||
| 4 | 8 401 ₽ | ||
| 5 | 4 899 ₽ | ||
| 6 | 7 729 ₽ | ||
| The best edge routers | 1 | 11 490 ₽ | |
| 2 | 15 984 ₽ | ||
| 3 | 7 499 ₽ | ||
| The best keyway routers | 1 | 16 210 ₽ | |
| 2 | 19 990 ₽ |
The best routers
The optimal power tool for the formation of grooves and undercuts is a router. In some models, the processing depth has to be set before the start of the operation, while other models allow you to adjust this indicator along the way. The only drawback of the device is the radius in the corners of the sample. The experts have selected some of the best routers.
The Makita RP2300FC router has a number of advantages over its competitors. Japanese quality and excellent technical parameters made it possible to lead the rating of the model. The equipment is powered by a powerful engine (2.3 kW) that develops up to 23,000 rpm. This was also reflected in the mass of the router (6.1 kg). Gives reliability and a platform made of aluminum alloy, which is not afraid of mechanical stress.
Some users may be put off by the high price, but the kit comes with a special device. With its help, it is possible to accurately copy the grooves of a complex configuration. Adds convenience in work and LED backlight, especially when you have to work in rooms with insufficient lighting.
Advantages
powerful high-speed engine;
durable aluminum base;
quality assembly;
smooth start.
Flaws
- high price.
The tool for real professionals is the DeWALT DW 625 E router. Experts gave it the second line of the rating for its quality workmanship and versatility. With the help of the model, you can process wooden products or aluminum and plastic. The vertical stroke of the cutter (80 mm) looks very advantageous, although in the reviews users consider this parameter to be too high. Of the positive properties of the tool, it is especially worth highlighting a soft start, a powerful electric motor (2 kW) and high spindle speeds (20,000 rpm). At the same time, the mass of the device remained at a fairly acceptable level of 5.6 kg.
As for the configuration, experts regret the absence of the most popular collet (8 mm) in the set. To purchase it, you will have to pay several thousand rubles.
Advantages
quality assembly;
smooth start;
powerful and revving motor.
Flaws
overestimated course of the milling cutter;
there is no 8 mm collet.
The famous German quality also did not escape the keen eye of experts. The Bosch GMF 1600 CE milling cutter took the third line in the rating for its pleasant design, high level of service and thoughtful ergonomics. The tool is driven by a 1.6 kW electric motor. Soft start and speed maintenance system allow you to choose the optimal processing mode. The spindle speed can be adjusted within 10-25 thousand rpm. The maximum immersion depth of the cutter is limited to 76 mm, and a special AfterLock system is responsible for feed accuracy (up to 0.1 mm).
It is convenient to work with the tool, its weight is 5.8 kg. The milling cutter easily moves on the processed material. The transparent base and LED illumination allow the operator to follow the processing even in low light conditions.
Advantages
nice design and thoughtful ergonomics;
smooth start;
exact immersion depth.
Flaws
- high price.
For jewelry work with different types of wood, a BOSCH POF 1400 ACE router has been created. The model is inferior to the leaders of the rating in engine power (1.4 kW), but it wins in spindle speed (28,000 rpm). Given the possibility of speed adjustment, it turns out a nimble tool for milling the hardest woods. The manufacturer equipped the device with two collets (6 and 8 mm), which are optimally suited to the capabilities of the motor.
For safe transportation, the router can be packed in a special case that comes with the model. Professionals note the lightness of the product (3.5 kg), you can hold it in your hand for a long time without getting tired. But the lack of a soft start was an unpleasant surprise.
Advantages
acceptable price;
high speed motor;
case included.
Flaws
- there is no soft start.
The Hammer FRZ1200B router can attract buyers with the most affordable price. The device cannot boast of motor power (1.2 kW), therefore, a high spindle speed (30,000 rpm) allows you to cope with the processing of hard materials. The tool is not distinguished by the depth of milling (55 mm), but it provides for the adjustment and maintenance of engine speed. Of the useful functions, experts note the fixation of the spindle and the presence of a turret.
You can connect a vacuum cleaner to the tool, it comes with an adapter. With a weight of 4.3 kg, the model is an excellent option for the home craftsman. Two collets (6 and 8 mm) will be enough for most types of work.
Advantages
high speed engine;
spindle lock;
affordable price.
Flaws
weak motor;
small immersion depth.
Despite a low-power motor (900 W) and a small working stroke (35 mm), the MAKITA RP0900 router managed to get into our rating. Experts appreciated the reliability of the model. The platform of the tool is made of cast aluminum, durable plastic is chosen for the body. Comfortable work with the device are designed to provide rubberized handles. The manufacturer managed to maintain the high quality of processing due to the speed of the motor (27,000 rpm). You can choose the optimal mode by adjusting the spindle speed, turret and fine-tuning the immersion depth.
Lightweight router (2.7 kg) complete with long cable (4 m), collet chuck (8 mm), vacuum cleaner adapter, chip deflector and rip fence.
Advantages
light weight;
reliability;
rich equipment.
Flaws
low power motor;
there is no soft start.
The best edge routers
For chamfering and processing edges, there are edging (edge) milling cutters. The platform of the tool is designed to guide the cutting part along a template or ruler. Some models can do the work of routers, making them versatile. Several devices have proven themselves from the best side.
The best edge router, according to our experts, was the model from Japan Makita RT0700CX2. The tool in many respects looks better than its competitors. And even a modest equipment did not prevent him from taking first place in the ranking. The manufacturer equipped the device with a 710-watt motor that can spin up to 30,000 rpm. Such characteristics make it possible to process both hard and viscous wood species. The immersion depth of the cutting part is limited to 35 mm.
During operation, it is convenient to control the milling process thanks to a transparent platform made of polycarbonate. The device weighs only 1.8 kg, so even prolonged use does not tire the operator. The kit includes two collets (6 and 8 mm), an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner, a capacious bag.
Advantages
powerful motor;
quality assembly;
ease of use;
light weight.
Flaws
- unreliable platform.
The DeWALT D 26200 edge router is on the second line of the rating. The model is balanced in all main indicators, and the high price and poor equipment did not allow it to rise higher. The tool boasts a powerful engine (900 W), whose rotation speed is in the range of 16-27 thousand rpm. The device has a function of regulating and maintaining a constant speed of rotation. Milling depth is limited to 55 mm.
The kit includes one collet with a diameter of 8 mm, an adapter for a vacuum cleaner, a parallel guide. Thanks to the illumination of the working area, it is possible to mill in conditions of limited visibility. Useful options include soft start and spindle lock.
Advantages
powerful engine;
deep milling;
smooth start.
Flaws
high price;
modest set.
Due to the wide range of applications, the Hammer FRZ710 PREMIUM router is in the top three in the ranking. The tool comes with a vertical base equipped with handles. Therefore, in some cases, the device can be used as a vertical router. But the motor power (710 W) and the immersion depth (30 mm) give out an edge accessory in the device. Yes, and using a router in a vertical position is inconvenient.
Among edge competitors, the model stands out for its low weight (1.75 kg) and affordable price. Therefore, experts assign him a place in the home workshop. Of the additional functions, it is worth highlighting soft start, speed control, precise depth setting. The kit includes three collets (6, 8, 10 mm), parallel stop, bag and even spare brushes.
Advantages
affordable price;
rich equipment;
versatility.
Flaws
- vibration during milling.
The best keyway routers
A keyed (lamellar) milling cutter is considered a professional tool. These devices are designed to cut a large number of the same type of grooves. Such a tool is in demand in the production of windows or doors made of wood. Professionals have identified several promising models.
The Japanese key router Makita PJ7000 surpassed its competitors in many key indicators, for which the experts gave it the palm. The tool combines reasonable price and good performance. With a motor power of 710 W, the spindle spins up to 11,000 rpm. In this case, it is allowed to use cutters with a diameter of up to 100 mm. It should be noted that the tool is sensitive to the quality of balancing of large cutters, the slightest imbalance leads to strong vibration.
The design of the base turned out to be very well thought out. You can set the desired processing angle quickly and accurately. To adjust the depth of cut, there is a step adjustment within 8-20 mm.
Advantages
high performance;
optimal cost;
efficient dust collector.
Flaws
- There are no rubber pads on the case.
Despite the professional appointment of the BOSCH GFF 22 Professional keyway router from Germany, he could not bypass the eternal Japanese rival. The stumbling block for many buyers is the high price. At the same time, the device does not surprise with power (670 W) or rotation speed (9,000 rpm). Only the maximum cutter diameter can be used slightly larger (105 mm).
Experts note the comfortable grip of the handle and case. Right-handed operators receive maximum comfort during operation, for left-handers the device is not entirely ergonomic. Many users are not satisfied with the regular dust collector, it is more efficient to use a vacuum cleaner with the tool. The milling cutter is made soundly, its mass is 2.9 kg.
Advantages
quality assembly;
ergonomics;
high performance.
Flaws
high price;
inefficient dust collector.
Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
