10 Best Palm Routers 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router is a cordless palm router that stands out for its strong motor and versatile features. With 2.25 horsepower, it offers plenty of power for tough tasks, making it ideal for demanding woodworking jobs. Its speed is adjustable between 11,000 to 23,000 RPM, allowing you to match the speed to different materials or cuts, which is great for precision and control. The router comes with two collet sizes, 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch, giving flexibility in the bits you can use.

Ergonomics are thoughtfully designed: it weighs around 8 pounds and has a balanced, compact shape, making it fairly comfortable to handle for extended periods. The plunge and fixed base options add versatility, letting you use the tool for various routing styles. For depth control, the tool-free adjustment system and micro-fine adjusters let you make quick and precise changes without extra tools, which is very convenient.

Dust collection is well-addressed through an integrated system compatible with AIRLOCK and external dust extractors. This setup can capture up to 97% of dust, helping to keep your workspace cleaner and improving visibility on your workpiece. Additionally, safety features like an anti-rotation system help prevent accidents by shutting the tool down if it detects excessive movement. The router is sold as a tool-only kit, so you need to buy the battery and charger separately. While cordless, battery life depends on the battery used, and heavy use might require spare batteries for longer projects. The weight might be a bit much for those looking for an ultra-light model, especially beginners or those doing delicate, detailed work. This router suits woodworking enthusiasts or professionals who need a powerful, portable, and precise tool with good dust management. For those seeking a reliable cordless router with adjustable speed and solid ergonomics, the DEWALT DCW620B is a strong candidate to consider.

The DEWALT 20V Max XR Cordless Router is designed to cater to both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile tool for various routing tasks. One of its significant strengths is the powerful brushless motor, which delivers a maximum speed of 25,500 RPM, allowing for clean and precise cuts. The variable-speed dial is a handy feature, enabling users to adjust the speed according to the specific application, which is particularly beneficial for different materials and cut types.

Ergonomically, the router is lightweight at just 2.6 pounds, making it easy to maneuver during extended use. The dual LED lights help illuminate the work surface, enhancing visibility and accuracy. The depth adjustment ring allows for quick and easy height changes, a must-have for varied projects.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Since this model is a tool-only option, you will need to buy a compatible battery separately, which can add to the initial cost. Some users might also find that the fixed base limits versatility compared to routers that offer plunge capabilities. Additionally, while the soft start motor provides a smooth start, it may take some time to get used to for those transitioning from corded routers. Dust collection is another aspect where this router could improve, as it doesn’t come with an integrated dust collection system, which can leave the workspace a bit messy during use.

The Makita RT0701CX7 is a versatile palm router known for its solid 1-1/4 horsepower motor, which provides reliable power for a variety of woodworking tasks. Its variable speed dial, ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM, allows you to easily adjust the speed depending on the material and type of cut. This flexibility is great if you work with different woods or need precision at lower speeds.

Ergonomically, the router has a slim, lightweight design (about 3.9 pounds) making it comfortable to hold and control during extended use. It includes both fixed and plunge bases, which adds to its versatility, letting you do shallow edge routing as well as deeper plunge cuts. The fine depth adjustment uses a rack-and-pinion system, which helps achieve precise cutting depths, an important feature for detailed work. The quick-release cam lock system makes changing depth settings and swapping bases straightforward, saving time on setup.

The router uses a standard 1/4-inch collet size, which fits most common router bits, making it easy to find accessories. Being a corded electric model, it provides consistent power without worrying about battery life, but it does require access to an outlet. If dust collection is a priority, additional equipment such as an external vacuum attachment may be necessary. This Makita palm router is a reliable, adjustable-speed tool that’s comfortable to handle and versatile enough for a range of woodworking projects. Its durability and precision features make it well-suited for both hobbyists and more serious woodworkers who need a compact but capable router.