There is a lot to like in this machine. Like most ½ inch routers, the motor is variable speed. Whether you are working softwood and need high speed to stop splintering, or need a slower RPM for hard lumber, this router can accommodate. Available in various combinations for added versatility (additional bases and attachments sold separately) The fine-tune rod in the plunge base allows you to adjust the depth very precisely so you can focus on various models and work on various materials. The fine-tune rod is easy to use and shows how versatile this machine is. And if that’s not enough, consider the three preprogrammed depth stops that increase your precision.

A transparent base and LED lights allow you to see your workpiece even in poorly lit corners without having to change the position of your router to reduce shadows. Extras The best routers boast powerful motors that you can use for different jobs. These motors allow high speeds and will also last for years, especially if they’re built from heavy-duty materials. Powerful motors allow you to cut through difficult materials, including aluminium or hardwood, so you can complete a variety of tasks. Soft Start Button A plunge router is heavier, better for professional use, and allows you to make depth changes on the go, so it’s best for grooves and carving letters or shapes. A fixed-base router is better for newbies who don’t need to change the depth on the go, so this device is best for cutting edges. Can you use a wood router to cut aluminium?

Plunge travel on the Makita RP0900X is also a paltry 35mm which is at the low end of the scale. However, this correlates with the low power of the router and emphasises the lighter routing and more detailed work that this machine is designed for. Accordingly, the Makita RP0900X router is one of the lightest plunge routers on the market with a weight of only 2.7kg, providing the main reason why it easier to handle than most other standard routers.

The Bosch POF 1200 AE is one of the best 1/4-inch plunge routers available in the UK for the DIY-routing newbie. It has been well designed, making it easy to change the router bits and bushings, and is perfectly balanced for ease of use. It has plenty of power with a variable speed setting and can chew through any type of wood in no time. It is well-built and accurate up to approximately ±0.5mm in depth, which is usually sufficient for any woodworking job. Besides, these protective sleeves offer you a good grip and optimal balance so the wood router doesn’t slip from your hands. The Bosch 1200 weighs just a little over 5 kg, which is another advantage grip-wise. The Makita 1-1/4 HP Compact Router (model RT0701C) delivers performance and precision in a compact design. With a full 1-1/4 maximum horsepower, the RT0701C is engineered for a range of precision routing applications. For something a little smaller and easier to manoeuvre, find compact, combination and variable speed fixed base routers. Offering smooth control and stability, fixed base routers are ideal for jobs with repeat application helping you to cut with precision. Twin LED joblights provide lighting which is designed to cast a minimum shadow of router bit on the workpiece

Parts diagram

Although it is more expensive than the Bosch 1200, this Dewalt Router is one of the best value router in its category because: Make sure that your router has a knob or a handle above the table so you can change the cutting depth. Otherwise, you will have to bend under the table, which can become unpleasant. Makita RP2301FCXK 1/2" Plunge Router & Fine Adjustment Guide in Heavy Duty Carry Case The Makita RP2301 plunge router is powerful, smooth and durable Dewalt D26204K is a premium, powerful combination router with electronic speed control, very precise adjustments and massive plunge depths for heavy-duty work.

Credit subject to status and affordability. Terms and conditions apply. Axminster Tool Centre Ltd trading as Axminster Tools is a credit broker and is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Credit is provided by Novuna Personal Finance, a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register no. 704348.Bosch 1200 is best for newbies and general cuts, it has a stellar design with adjustable speed and depth, it’s versatile and easy to cut through wood. One other notable issue some users of the Hikoki M12VE router have flagged is that router bits can sometimes be difficult to remove from the collet after routing, on occasion necessitating the use of more extreme methods of extracting the bits (such as pliers), and sometimes damaging the bits in the process. Some users have clarified the need to fully unscrew the nut that holds the bit within the collet, but this appears to be only a partial solution, working for some users and not others.