10 Best Routers For Router Table Mounting [Reviews]

best router for router table

You can slap an “S” on your chest when you mount a router on a table.

Why?

Because a table mounted router gives you PRECISE control...

...and the option of using a more powerful router and larger bits in a safer way.

But, the tricky part is deciding which one is the best router for table.

Here's ten of the best routers that are perfect for table mounting -

Top Pick
Why it's our top pick:
  • Built-in lift system for bit heights adjustment.
  • Variable speed control
  • Fine precision
  • Powerful 3 ¼ HP motor

Routers

Variable Speed (rpm)

HP 

Price

2. Porter cable 892 

10,000-23,000 

2-1/4

3. Bosch 1617EVS (Best for the money)

8,000-25,000

2-1/4

4. Triton TRA001

8000-21,000

3-1/4

5. Porter Cable 895PK

10,000-23,000 

2-1/4

Table Of Contents

The Best Routers For Table Mounting In 2021

1. Triton TRA001 Router - Best For Table Mounting

For us The TRA001 is the best router for a router table. It's designed specifically for table mounting.

TRA001 Routers Specifications 

  • Motor power: 3-1/4 HP, 15 amp
  • Voltage: 120 Volts (For US)
  • Variable Speed: 8,000–21,000 rpm

At 3-1/4 HP, it will get through any stock with ease. Here you can check the best 3hp routers.

The first thing you notice with this router is the build quality. Everything feels solid in the hand, it’s sturdy and has a bit of weight to it. It doesn’t feel like it would break easily.

Here's the features that makes it ideal router for table mounting -

Stay Cool 

The TRA001 has side vents on the motor. Designed to prevent overheating when it’s inverted in a table. They’re sited to avoid dust build-up and keep the motor running cool and calm.

Single-Handed 

The router has a Spindle-Lock and a Safety Switch Cover. This means you only need one spanner and one hand to change the bits. This makes changing your bits fast and easy.

The spindle locks and the Safety  Switch Cover engages when you raise to full depth, automatically. So there’s no messing about bending under the table and the motor can’t start. You’re changed safely and ready to work again in seconds. 

Fine Times 

The router also has a really nice fine adjustment control. This takes the pain out of getting your setting just right. It has a really great range of variable speed control – 8000 to 21000 rpm. You can achieve very fine, detailed work with this machine

Above Table Height Adjustment

The TRA001 router has the best above table height adjustment, it can be carried out with a really cool winding handle. Combined with the rack and pinion system, it’s probably the best router for table that provides ease of use and accuracy.

The way I see it, this is what makes this already great router for table mounting . Other table mount routers fail on this feature with awkward-to-use T Wrenches. The depth of the cutter can be wound and set from your normal working position. Just like with a router lift but without the bill.

With rival machines, you’re spending double to get this feature. Or you’re bending double to adjust the bit heights – it’s as simple as that. This feature puts this table mount router in a different class. It’s a home run. 

If you are wondering what will be the best router table for Triton router it is Kreg PRS1045

  • Above Table Winder is the best of this bunch
  • Good range of settings
  • 3-1/4 Horsepower motor
  • Great controls and positions
  • You can’t legally marry it 😛

Looking to get most out of your mounted router? Here's some useful tip


  • You will feel frustrated each time you need to go under the table  to change or adjust the bit. Add to that, probably the height adjustment will be not precise. The solution is to get a high-quality router lift. Here check out our guide on the best router lift of 2020  to save your back!
  • Make sure you buy or build a router table that is compatible with the router you get. You can check our guide on the best router tables and bits to know more. Here you can find the best professional router table and the best router table combo

2. Porter Cable 892 Router – Best To Use With A Router Lift

It is a 2.25 HP router with a fixed base. It’s got a decent speed range. The 800 series Porter Cable routers aren’t for my money, as well suited to the table as the Triton in number one spot.

The design, power level and weight and feel are all more akin to a hand-held machine. However, with its fixed base, table mounting is possible. It’s a good second choice based on cost and features.

Porter Cable 892 Specifications

  • Motor power: 2.25 HP, 12 amp 
  • Voltage: 120 Volts
  • Variable Speed: 10,000-23,000 rpm

Dual Power Switch

You know what the best feature on this router is?

It’s the dual power switch. These switches make this table mounted router a steady all-rounder. Switches in two different places make controlling the motor a lot easier hand-held.

The Need For Speed:

The speed range of this router is pretty good too. It goes from 10000 rpm to 23000 rpm and gives you scope for a nice finish on most timbers and with most bits.

A router with a good turn of speed is always a good thing, and this router does just fine in this department.

Power

Power comes from a decent, mid-range unit at 2.25 HP. This doesn’t reach the levels of a lot of the routers on the market.

It’s respectable and enough to do most jobs in most timbers, though. Even at this level of power, this router performs well.

Back To Base

Another notable feature of the PC 892 is that it comes supplied with a really nice, sturdy fixed base. It’s necessery for a router for table mounting.

And it’s nice to know that the point of contact between the table and router is well made.

  • Good speed range
  • Fixed base is well made
  • Dual on/off switches
  • Above-Table height adjust/ Over-Table bit change kit sold separate.

3. Bosch 1617EVS Router - Best Router For Bosch Router Table 

The Bosch 161EVS is another best router for table in the 2.25 HP mid-range. And again, it’ll handle most jobs in most wood types. It comes with both fixed and plunge bases. This is a big plus because its weight and power level make it ideal for using hand-held. 

The fixed base means it is a good router for table mounting. So it’s a versatile option and a good one for woodworkers planning on only owning one router.

Bosch 161EVS Specifications

  • Motor power: 2-1/4 HP, 12 amp 
  • Voltage: 120 Volts
  • Variable speed: 8000-25,000 rpm

Best Speed Range

The Bosch has one of the best ranges of speed control out of the ten routers we’re looking at here. And the controls and their positions add to the user experience with this router.

Collet A Day 

It’s well worth noting that this comes with both ¼ inch and ½ inch collets as standard. So you’re not limited so much in terms of what bits you can buy. And also that if you already own a trimmer router, you’ll be able to use the bits for that too.

Has All The Tools 

The Bosch isn’t too expensive. Though, it’s not the top router for table mounting in this list but it really does come with a lot of stuff in the box. It’s also really nicely engineered and everything feels great to handle and to use. It’s the best router for the money.

  • Good speed range
  • Comes with nice plunge and fixed bases.
  • No spindle lock, making bit changes trick
  • Above-Table height adjust kit sold separate .

4. Milwaukee 5625-20 Router - Best Router For Kreg Router Table

This router is a very powerful 3-1/2HP and comes with a fixed base. The speed range is a respectable 10000 – 22000 rpm and it’s a rugged unit that feels good in the hands.

As with the Bosch, this router is very well made and just feels great to use and to handle. The power of 5625-20 makes a great router for table mounting for me. And lack of a plunge base further indicates that.

Milwaukee 5625-20 Specifications

  • Motor power: 3-1/2 HP, 15 amp 
  • Voltage: 120 Volts 
  • Variable speed: 10000-22,000 rpm

Above Table Bit Change

The Milwaukee offers Above-table bit changing, which as we know is a great plus with a table router. The system is pretty easy to use and it does make life easier than with some of the other routers in this list.

Speed Adjustment

On this router is a fairly decent 10000 – 22000 rpm. It’s a narrower range than with some of the other routers in this list, which for the price is disappointing. It’s enough to get most things done, though.

Time for T

The 5625-20 comes with an Above-table T-wrench height adjuster. This is probably the second best adjuster in this list behind the Triton router system. It isn’t too bad at all and it does the job. The cost of this router does reflect this, though. But at least it’s a standard piece of kit with the Milwaukee.

  • Great motor
  • Above-Table adjust as standard
  • Good speed range
  • At the top end of the price range
  • No spindle lock
  • Small on/off switch can be awkward to use

5. Porter Cable 895PK Router - The All Rounder

The Porter Cable 895 Router is the cousin of the Porter Cable 892. The 895 version is the same motor as its cousin but comes with both plunge and fixed base as standard. 

Porter Cable 895PK Specifications

  • Motor power: 2-1/4 HP, 12 amp 
  • Voltage: 120 Volts 
  • Variable Speed: 10000-23,000 rpm

Power is the same as the 892, as is everything else – except the 895 comes with an Above-Table Height adjuster as standard. Which is a great feature to have. It isn’t the best system out of the four on show here, however.

Speed adjust is good on this router, same as with its cousin at 10000 to 23000 rpm. This router also features the same dual switches that were a hit on the 892. The motor is identical too, giving a decent 2-1/4HP.

  • Good speed range
  • Fixed base is well made
  • Dual on/off switches for hand-held use
  • Spindle lock
  • Travel in the plunge base when fitted

6. Skil RT 1323-10 Router - Best For The Money

Our Thought: The Skil RT1323-10 router is a powerful router for table mounting.  It allows you to adjust speed based on the materials.  


The Skil RT1323-10 router provides superior grip and control with its shaped handles and die-cast motor housing.  This makes it perfect for routing with both 1/2” and 1/4" shank router bits. 


This router has the power to cut through woods such as oak, pine, and common boards easily. This one is promising.

Skil RT 1323-10 Specifications

  • Motor power: 14 Amps
  • Voltage:  120Volts
  • Variable speed: 10,000-25,000 rpm

Bit Height Adjustment

The Skil RT1323-10 router is one of the best routers that come with ease in height adjustment.

Durable And Ergonomic: 

The Skil RT1323-10 router is made of die-cast motor housing that makes it have a long shelf life. 

Quick-Set Screws 

This is one of the most important features of a  Skil RT1323-10 router. It is used for fixing the edge guide. 

Alternate Dust Extraction 

The router has a built-in vacuum port; you can easily extract dust with this feature. 

Stay Safe  

The Skil RT1323-10 router also has a live tool indicator. Guess what this is used for, the indicator lights up when the router is connected to a power source. This will enable you to know how to handle the router when connected to power. 

Speed Control

Do you know you can adjust your speed on this router? You choose the exact speed needed based on each material. This advantage makes this router stand out.

  • Good speed range
  • Fixed base is well made
  • LEDs light up the immediate routing surface
  • Highly durable
  • On and off switch not in the handles

7. Metabo HPT Router - Best Heavy Duty Router

Our Thought: It's one of the best routers for a table.  The Metabo HPT router is a 2-1/4 HP router with a fixed base. It has a good speed range. It is designed for accuracy and precision.


The Metabo HPT router would be a productive addition to your workshop. It’s such a great pick for woodworkers looking for high performance and exacting control.

Metabo HPT Router Specification

  • Motor Power: 2-1/4 HP, 12 Amp
  • Voltage: 120Volts

Appears To Suit

Its porter-cable baseplates and accessories that are available are a big plus for any woodworker. 

Precise And Controlled Cut 

For us, the Metabo HPT router is one of the best routers for precision and controlled cut. This is possible because of its peak horsepower and other features.

Fine Depth Adjustment
The Metabo HPT router is one of our choices because it has a good precise depth adjustment 
  • Affordable price
  • Contains useful accessories
  • Powerful motor
  • The plunge base is difficult to move

8. Ryobi 8.5 Amp Router

Our Thought:  The Ryobi router is of good value and best for the price. It is ideal for trimming laminate and wood veneer.


It's one of our best picks because it illuminates the workpiece with its LED work light and it also has a transparent base to make workpieces visible.  


Do you want to make trimming, edging, and decorating your workpiece easy tasks? Then, this might be your best option. 

Ryobi Router Specifications

  • Motor Power: 1.5 HP, 8.5 Amp 
  • Voltage: 120 Volts
  • Variable Speed: 25,000 RPM
High Visibility
The Ryobi router makes woodworking pieces visible when operations are carried out. This is possible because of its built-in work light and transparent base.


Accurate Depth Control 

Can you guess one of the best features of this router? It’s the quick-release lever for controlling depth precisely. 

The Need For Stability

The base of the Ryobi router is made of aluminum; this increases its accuracy, efficiency, and stability. 

Comfortable

This router comes with ergonomic handles to allow ease and comfort while in use. 

The Need For Speed

The speed of the router is pretty good. It is 25, 000 RPM which gives you the fastest and cleanest cuts.

Soft Start

The Ryobi router saves the torque which is wasted when the machine is switched on.

  • The switch is conveniently located
  • Quick and easy adjustment
  • Enhanced visibility during routing
  • Install the router is bit difficult

Things To Consider For Picking The Best Router For A Router Table -

things to look for getting the best router for a router table

Some routers are for hand-held use and some routers for table mounting. If you’re starting out, then the router can seem a little scary.  So let’s take a look at the features that make a router good for table mounting.


1. Power

Release the horses!

With a mounted router you don’t need to worry about losing control of the machine.

So it’s good to have power. 

You’ll be able to bite off bigger chunks and get your work done quicker. The more powerful the router, the less it will struggle with harder woods.


2. Voltage Rating

Before picking up a router for table mounting check your workshop voltage rating and make sure the router is compatible with the rating.


3. Controls

Heads up! 

You’ll be fitting the router upside-down in a table.

So we need to think about position of controls. 

The more you can adjust and control from above, the less bending you’ll do.

The more controls on the front of the router, the more time you’ll spend cutting.


4. Changing Router Bits Should Be Easy

No spin.

You want to be able to lock the spindle – which is the shaft that holds your bit.

And change your bits easily from above the table.

Without having to remove the router from the table every time. 

One-handed bit changes above the table using one spanner are the target. This will save you hours of messing around when you use your new router.


5. Height/Depth Adjustment:

Let’s get deep.

This is a big deal when choosing a router for router tables.

Depth adjust is just moving the router up and down in the table, to give you a shallow or deep cut.

One of the number one things you need with a table router is above-table adjustment.

And you want a good method for doing this.

This is a feature that can either save you lots of time and effort, or cost you lots of time and effort. It’s that simple.


6. Speed Adjustment

Slow it down…

This isn’t complicated. Some routers spin at a fixed speed.

Others have a speed adjuster to control the rate the router bit spins. Different bits and types of wood work best at different speeds.

A variable speed router will have a simple speed control.

Often just a wheel that goes from fast to slow and everything between.

With trial and error, you’ll soon figure out how to get a great finish on all types of stock, with all types of router bits.

It's that simple really. All you need to keep in mind is

  • Power. 
  • Controls.
  • Bit changing.
  • Depth adjust.
  • Variable speed. 

It’s all you need and it narrows the choice down. A lot. 

Ignore other features when you’re looking for a good router for table mounting.

Keep it simple and just look for the features you’ll need. And you’ll soon be set up.


To Sum It All Up

I’ve told you how a router works and how versatile it is. We know it’s a simple device that performs the tasks of many tools. You’ve figured out what features you need in a router for table mounting. And we’ve looked at the best router available.

By now you’ll also have realized that a router in a table increases what you can do. And that it makes life in the shop a lot easier. It’s safer and more fun to use a fixed router. And a router table is great for repeat jobs and accurate work.

The truth is. There is no mystery to the router. It’s just a case of jumping in. Once you start, you learn quick.

So, give it a go! It’s easier than you thought. And trust me – you’ll be glad you did.

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