10 Best Woodworking Routers 2025 in the United States

The Milwaukee Cordless Compact Router is a lightweight, battery-powered tool that offers a good balance of portability and power. With an 18-volt battery, it provides adequate power for most woodworking tasks, making it suitable for users who need mobility and convenience. The compact size and light weight (2.95 pounds) contribute to its ease of use and maneuverability, especially for detailed work and extended use without causing fatigue.

The product's dimensions (4.79 x 3.23 x 6.86 inches) make it easy to handle and store, adding to its practicality for both professional and hobbyist woodworkers. The Milwaukee Cordless Compact Router is a strong contender for those prioritizing portability and ease of use.

The Festool 576213 Plunge Router OF 1400 EQ-F-Plus stands out as a powerful and precise woodworking tool. With a 2.25 horsepower motor and 11.7 amps of power, it can handle demanding tasks efficiently. The plunge base allows for smooth 2-3/4 inch plunge action, making it versatile for various applications.

The micro-adjustable depth control offers high precision, down to 1/256 inch, which is perfect for detailed work. Users will appreciate the ergonomic handle designed to reduce fatigue and improve control, along with fingertip power switch and speed control, adding to its user-friendly design. The MMC electronic controls maintain constant speed under load and provide thermal and overload protection, ensuring durability and consistent performance.

The tool, however, lacks compatibility with the Router Table CMS for units produced after 2021, which may be a drawback for those looking to use it with existing setups. Its weight of 18.56 pounds and relatively large dimensions might make it less ideal for prolonged handheld use.

The Makita RP2301FC is a powerful plunge router ideal for woodworking enthusiasts who need strong, consistent performance. With a 15-amp motor delivering up to 3.25 horsepower and speeds ranging from 9,000 to 22,000 RPM, it offers plenty of power for a variety of routing tasks. Its electronic speed control helps keep the speed steady under load, and the variable speed dial lets you adjust the speed to match the material or bit size, which is great for precision and versatility. The plunge base type is useful for tasks requiring depth adjustment during operation, making it suitable for detailed work like mortising or inlaying. The router also includes a soft start for smooth power-up and an electric brake to stop the bit quickly, which improves safety and productivity.

It weighs around 16.75 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for extended use or for those who prefer lighter tools. While its reinforced composite construction helps with durability, it does not have a built-in dust collection system, so you might need an external vacuum attachment to keep your workspace clean.

With a well-known comfortable grip and control layout, the router offers good ergonomics, though its weight is a consideration for some users. Its corded design means you won’t worry about battery life, but you’ll need a nearby power source. If you need a robust, variable-speed plunge router for moderate to heavy woodworking projects and don’t mind a bit of weight, the Makita RP2301FC effectively balances power, control, and safety features.