10 Best Trim Routers 2026 in the United States

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.

The Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus is a powerful tool with a 2.25 horsepower motor and 11.7 amps, making it strong enough for most trimming tasks. Its plunge base is designed for precision, offering a smooth 2-3/4-inch plunge action and micro-adjustable depth control to 1/256 of an inch, which allows for very accurate cuts.

The ergonomic handle with a full grip and integrated power switch and speed control helps reduce fatigue and gives you greater control over the tool. The router includes MMC electronic controls to maintain constant speed under load, which is ideal for maintaining cut quality and protecting the tool from overload and overheating.

This router is quite heavy at 18.56 pounds, which could be a drawback for extended use. Additionally, it is not compatible with the Router Table CMS if you need that functionality. The tool also seems to lack a dedicated dust collection system, which might be an issue in maintaining a clean work environment. If precision, power, and ergonomics are your top priorities and you can work around the tool's weight and dust collection limitations, this router could be an excellent choice.

The DEWALT DCW600B 20V MAX XR Compact Metal Fixed Base Router is a lightweight, battery-powered tool weighing just 3.9 pounds, making it easy to handle during trim or edge routing tasks. Its 20-volt lithium-ion battery provides cordless convenience, allowing you to work without being tethered to an outlet, which is great for mobility but means you need to manage battery life. The fixed base design offers stability and precision, ideal for steady, detailed work, though it lacks the versatility of plunge bases for deeper cuts.

Ergonomics are decent given the compact size and relatively low weight, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use. However, the plastic construction might not feel as robust as metal-bodied routers. Users seem satisfied with this router, especially appreciating its power and portability, as reflected in a strong customer rating of 4.8 out of 5.

This router is suited for hobbyists or DIYers looking for a stable, easy-to-handle tool for light to moderate trimming jobs, but professionals needing variable speed control or plunge routing might want to consider other options.