10 Best Wood Routers 2026 in the United States

The Festool 574689 Router OF 2200 Imperial is a strong contender in the wood-router category, especially for professionals or serious hobbyists seeking precision and efficiency. With a powerful 2200-watt motor, it delivers robust performance, making it suitable for a variety of routing tasks, from edge shaping to intricate designs. One of its standout features is the intuitive control panel, which simplifies adjustments with clearly labeled icons, allowing users to work more efficiently without constantly referring to the manual.

The router’s precision depth adjustment is another highlight, featuring a micro-adjustability dial that enables fine tuning for accurate depth settings—ideal for detailed woodworking projects. The magnetic spindle brake is a practical innovation as well, ensuring quick stops that enhance safety and extend the motor's lifespan.

On the ergonomics front, the design is well thought out, with a dust extraction column that helps keep your workspace clean by directing dust away from your line of sight. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize a tidy work environment. The router also integrates well with the FS guide rail system and various accessories, providing versatility for different routing tasks.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The Festool router is corded, which might limit mobility in larger workspaces compared to battery-operated models. Additionally, its premium build and advanced features come with a higher price tag, which may not be ideal for casual users or beginners who might not need all the capabilities the router offers. Lastly, while the weight of 12.7 pounds contributes to its sturdiness, it may feel cumbersome for some users during extended use.

The Festool 574689 Router OF 2200 Imperial excels in power, precision, and user-friendly design, making it an excellent option for dedicated woodworkers, though its cost and weight might be considerations for occasional users.

The Festool 2 3/4In Of 1400 Eq-F-Plus Plunge Router stands out as a premium option in the wood-router category, particularly for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who value precision and efficiency. With a powerful 2.25 horsepower motor and an 11.7-amp rating, it ensures ample power for various routing tasks, making it suitable for both soft and hard woods. The plunge base type allows for easy depth adjustments, enabling users to perform intricate cuts with precision.

A notable strength of this router is its ergonomic design, which enhances comfort during prolonged use, reducing fatigue. Its well-thought-out dust collection system is another highlight, keeping the workspace cleaner and improving visibility while working, a feature that is often overlooked in other models.

On the downside, the Festool router is relatively heavy at 18.56 pounds, which might not be ideal for users looking for a lightweight tool for more casual or mobile tasks. Additionally, while it excels in performance, it comes at a higher price point compared to other routers in the market, which may be a consideration for hobbyists or those with a limited budget. This router is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers who need a robust, reliable tool that can handle demanding routing jobs with accuracy. However, those new to woodworking or on a budget might want to explore lighter and more cost-effective alternatives.

The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10 Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is a solid choice for woodworking enthusiasts. One of its major strengths is the powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor that provides smooth and accurate routing, making it suitable for both heavy and light tasks. The soft start feature and speed control enhance the user experience by ensuring smooth operation and adjusting the speed according to the task at hand. The collet size flexibility, with both 1/4" and 1/2" collets included, adds versatility to use a variety of bits. The fixed base type offers stability, which is crucial for precision work.

Additionally, the tall fence with adjustable featherboards helps in handling tall stock with ease and maintaining control during routing. Ergonomically, it includes a user-friendly above-the-table adjustment and integrated bit storage, which makes the adjustment process more convenient and keeps the workspace organized.

However, there are some drawbacks. The router table's weight (41.4 pounds) could be cumbersome for some users, especially if they need to move it around frequently. Also, while the dust extraction adaptor is included, the dust collection efficiency depends on the user's vacuum system and might not be as robust as some standalone dust collection systems. This router kit is a strong contender for those looking for a comprehensive and versatile solution for their woodworking projects, particularly those who appreciate the convenience of an all-in-one kit.