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10 Best Trim Routers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita XTR01T7 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router Kit

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,382
Power
Ergonomics
Dust Collection

Most important from
2363 reviews

Power
The brushless motor delivers strong, efficient power with a variable speed range that adapts well to different materials and tasks.
Ergonomics
This compact 18V cordless router offers excellent maneuverability and control due to its lightness and size, making it ideal for detailed woodworking projects.
Dust Collection
Compatibility with Makita’s accessories, including optional dust collection and guide rail adapters, enhances versatility in various woodworking setups.

The Makita XTR01T7 is a cordless trim router powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, offering freedom from power outlets. Its brushless motor delivers fast, precise cuts and adjusts power efficiently to conserve battery life. With a variable speed dial ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM, the speed can be tailored to different materials and tasks. The included 1/4" collet is standard for trim routers, ensuring compatibility with many bits, and the plunge base allows smooth depth control for cuts.

While compact, the tool weighs about 20 pounds with batteries, which may feel heavy during extended handheld use. Makita’s design features a lock button to prevent accidental starts, enhancing safety. The router does not have a built-in dust collection system, so external solutions might be necessary to maintain a clean workspace. Ergonomically, the compact form aids handling, though the weight could affect comfort on longer projects.

This kit includes two batteries and a rapid charger, minimizing downtime between uses. For those seeking a reliable cordless router for woodworking or light carpentry, this Makita model provides strong power, versatile speed settings, and useful safety features, with the trade-offs of its weight and lack of integrated dust collection.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,382
Power
Ergonomics
Dust Collection

Most important from
2363 reviews

Power
The brushless motor delivers strong, efficient power with a variable speed range that adapts well to different materials and tasks.
Ergonomics
This compact 18V cordless router offers excellent maneuverability and control due to its lightness and size, making it ideal for detailed woodworking projects.
Dust Collection
Compatibility with Makita’s accessories, including optional dust collection and guide rail adapters, enhances versatility in various woodworking setups.
#2

Festool MFK 700 EQ Modular Trim Router Set

Rating
8.2
Power
Speed
Base Type

Most important from
14 reviews

Power
This router delivers excellent quality and functionality, justifying its premium price with reliable performance.
Speed
Variable speed control and precision depth adjustment enable cuts so fine that cleanup is virtually unnecessary.
Base Type
The additional base designed for trimming edge banding and veneers makes detailed work much easier and more precise.
Ergonomics
The tool is especially convenient for bringing the router to the workpiece, which benefits users who prefer handheld routing over stationary setups.

The Festool MFK 700 EQ Modular Trim Router Set is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and precise trim router. Its 720 watt (6 amp) motor provides enough power to handle most trimming and routing tasks smoothly, while the variable speed control lets you adjust for different materials and cuts. The fixed base type includes both vertical and horizontal extra-wide bases, giving you good stability and control, especially when working near edges or on narrow pieces. Precise depth adjustment is a strong point here, with micro-adjustments down to 1/256 inch for accurate, clean cuts.

The router’s aluminum build keeps it durable yet manageable in weight at about 12 pounds, though it might feel a bit heavy during longer use for some users. Dust collection is conveniently supported by a port for attaching a vacuum, helping to keep your workspace cleaner than many routers in this class. Ergonomically, the router is designed to offer good grip and control but does not have any special soft-touch handles or anti-vibration features.

This model is aimed at serious hobbyists or professionals who want a reliable, precise trim router with modular bases and good dust extraction, rather than casual users or beginners. Its price and features reflect a tool built for quality and accuracy, but the slightly heavier weight is worth considering.

Rating
8.2
Power
Speed
Base Type

Most important from
14 reviews

Power
This router delivers excellent quality and functionality, justifying its premium price with reliable performance.
Speed
Variable speed control and precision depth adjustment enable cuts so fine that cleanup is virtually unnecessary.
Base Type
The additional base designed for trimming edge banding and veneers makes detailed work much easier and more precise.
Ergonomics
The tool is especially convenient for bringing the router to the workpiece, which benefits users who prefer handheld routing over stationary setups.
#3

Bosch GKF125CEK Colt 1.25 HP (Max) Variable-Speed Palm Router Kit

Rating
8.2
Power
Collet Size
Ergonomics

Most important from
472 reviews

Power
This router strikes the perfect balance between power and size, making it ideal for finishing work without feeling bulky.
Collet Size
Changing bits is straightforward, and the collet wrench is thoughtfully branded to avoid confusion in a crowded toolbox.
Ergonomics
The weight distribution keeps the tool stable on the workpiece, making one-handed use comfortable and controlled.

The Bosch GKF125CEK is a solid choice for a trim router, offering a good balance of power and precision. Its 1.25 HP motor delivers strong performance with variable speeds from 16,000 to 35,000 RPM, allowing you to adjust the speed for different tasks easily. The fixed aluminum base is durable and accepts wide bits up to 1-5/16 inches, which is helpful for a variety of cuts and profiles. The depth adjustment system stands out for its accuracy, making it easier to get precise cuts, which is key in trim work.

Ergonomically, it's designed to be compact and comfortable to hold, with finger-support pockets and a soft-start feature that reduces sudden torque when turned on. The translucent polycarbonate subbase aids in smooth guiding along templates, enhancing control. LED lighting helps visibility on your cutting area, which is a nice touch.

This Bosch model suits woodworkers or DIYers looking for a dependable, easy-to-use trim router with good speed control and precision depth settings. It features a fixed base and weighs 8 pounds.

Rating
8.2
Power
Collet Size
Ergonomics

Most important from
472 reviews

Power
This router strikes the perfect balance between power and size, making it ideal for finishing work without feeling bulky.
Collet Size
Changing bits is straightforward, and the collet wrench is thoughtfully branded to avoid confusion in a crowded toolbox.
Ergonomics
The weight distribution keeps the tool stable on the workpiece, making one-handed use comfortable and controlled.

Buying Guide for the Best Trim Routers

When it comes to picking a trim router, it's important to understand that this tool is essential for woodworking tasks such as trimming, edging, and cutting. A trim router is a versatile and compact tool that can help you achieve precise and clean finishes on your projects. To choose the best trim router for your needs, you should consider several key specifications that will impact its performance and suitability for your tasks.
PowerPower in a trim router is measured in amps or horsepower (HP). This spec is important because it determines how efficiently the router can cut through different materials. Lower power (around 1 HP or 5-6 amps) is suitable for light-duty tasks and softwoods, while higher power (above 1.5 HP or 7-8 amps) is better for heavy-duty tasks and hardwoods. Choose a power level based on the type of materials you will be working with and the intensity of your projects.
SpeedSpeed in a trim router is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). This spec is crucial because it affects the smoothness and precision of your cuts. Routers with variable speed settings (10,000 to 30,000 RPM) offer more versatility, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the material and the type of cut. For general use, a router with a speed range of 16,000 to 27,000 RPM is usually sufficient. If you work with a variety of materials, a variable speed router is a better choice.
Collet SizeThe collet size determines the size of the router bits you can use. Common sizes are 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. This spec is important because it affects the range of bits available to you and the types of cuts you can make. A 1/4 inch collet is suitable for light-duty tasks and smaller bits, while a 1/2 inch collet can handle larger bits and more demanding tasks. If you need versatility, look for a router that can accommodate both sizes.
Base TypeTrim routers come with different base types, such as fixed, plunge, and tilt bases. The base type is important because it affects the router's stability and the types of cuts you can make. A fixed base is ideal for edge work and simple routing tasks, while a plunge base allows for more complex cuts and depth adjustments. A tilt base offers angled cuts. Choose a base type based on the specific tasks you plan to perform. Some routers come with interchangeable bases for added versatility.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to the design and comfort of the router. This spec is important because it affects how easy and comfortable the router is to use, especially during extended periods. Look for features such as a comfortable grip, lightweight design, and easy-to-reach controls. If you plan to use the router frequently or for long sessions, prioritize ergonomics to reduce fatigue and improve control.
Dust CollectionDust collection is a feature that helps manage the debris created during routing. This spec is important because it keeps your workspace clean and improves visibility while working. Some routers come with built-in dust collection systems or ports that can be connected to a vacuum. If you work in a small or enclosed space, or if you want to maintain a clean work environment, consider a router with effective dust collection capabilities.

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