Best Router Tables & How To Choose One

by

A handheld router can do many things without other tools, but it does have limitations. Routers are pretty heavy and require two hands to operate. This can limit how you can use larger stationary objects. If the router is securely mounted to a table, it leaves your hands are free to control the piece your working on.

A router table allows the user to accomplish various tasks this can include planing straight edges of boards, molding, and routing precise cuts into small pieces of wood. This guide will have all the information you need when it comes to the best router tables and how to choose one. Let’s jump right in and discuss the best router tables available today. Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs on this list!

Before we begin, are you looking for some general information on tools like miters saws, chainsaws, table saws, etc? Check out our complete resource guides on Miter Saws, Table Saws, Chainsaws, Band Saws, and Circular Saws. 

What Should You Consider Before Buying a Router Table?

A router table is easier to shop for than a router but there are still some key things that can make the difference between a successful and a regretful purchase.

  • Price: Of course price is important, but it shouldn’t be the driving factor. Paying more will not necessarily give you a better table. But paying an extremely low price may just waste your money.
  • Size: The router table will be used regularly and for long periods of time, a large solid tabletop is crucial. Stability is the next most important factor. A heavy top on a flimsy base will prevent accurate work.
  • Material: It’s essential that the material used to create the product is durable, the top should be flat and stay flat. 
  • Base: The more stable the router table is, the better.
  • Fences: The fence is usually the weak link of a router table since most lack accurate adjustment. A good fence will have adjustable sliding cheeks to allow for different cutter diameters.

Our Top Picks

Below are some of the best router tables from esteemed manufacturers in the tool market. Read on to find a model that’s suitable for you.

Best Overall: Bosch RA1141 Portable Benchtop Router Table

This router table has a sturdy construction and a long list of features, it’s definitely a worthy addition to any workshop. It has a 26-inch by 16.5-inch workspace, which can handle boards up to 7 feet long. The 1-inch-thick top provides a sturdy place to work.

It has a tall fence with two featherboards that are adjustable, they serve as a guide when running material through the router. The base plate uses a click-mounting system that attaches to the router in mere seconds. The good news is it’s compatible with most major tool brands, like DeWalt, Craftsman, Hitachi, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Bosch, and Makita.

This router table has bins integrated into it. The bins are on the legs so you can store extra base plates and bits. A t-slot runs the table and works with the included miter gauge. 

Pros

  • Holds boards up to 7 feet long
  • The top is 1-inch thick
  • Click-mounting system
  • Miter gauge and t-slot included

Cons

  • Not very portable

Best Budget: Dremel 231 Portable Rotary Router Table

If you have limited space in your workshop, there’s still room for this router table. It measures only 8 inches by 6 inches, this might just be the smallest router table you can buy. This attachment connects to a Dremel corded or cordless rotary tool and transforms the device into a wood shaper.

This router table is durable and made of lightweight plastic, meaning it’s easy to store or carry to the jobsite. This table mounts to a workbench easily with standard C-clamps. If you want to permanently mount it there are screws provided that fit the pre-molded mounting holes.

Other important features on the Dremel 231 are the included fence for precision cuts and a plastic safety guard. However, there is one limitation when it comes to this router table, it’s only compatible with Dremel cordless and corded models.

Pros

  • It can be permanently mounted
  • Cordless or corded options
  • Has a built-in safety-guard
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Being made of plastic means it’s less durable than other options
  • Dremel products are the only products compatible with it

Best Universal: RYOBI Universal Router Table

​​

A router table is only useful if it can work seamlessly with your router. RYOBI’s universal router table works with all major router brands. This includes some older brands and models. In addition to this router tables impressive compatibility, this table is also very durable and has great performance.

It has a large and laminated work top and sturdy legs that provide a steady work surface. Other important features include an adjustable fence, throat plates in five different sizes, and an aluminum T-track for mitered cuts.

Pros

  • It’s compatible with all major router brands
  • 5 throat plate sizes
  • Adjustable fence
  • Built-in vacuum port

Cons

  • Not really portable

Wrapping Up

There are the Best Router Tables of 2022! We hope this buying guide helped you find a router table that’s best for you! Do you have a favorite router table from this list? Do you own a roter table already? If not, are you considering purchasing one now? Please feel free to leave a comment, we would love to hear from you! 

Did you enjoy this article? Check out some other articles I have written: 

About Dirk Val

Leave a Comment