Best Plunge Router | Reviews of Top-Rated Models

Every woodworker who does routine work such as doing inlay patterns and mortising should get a plunge router.

You can probably do these chores with other woodworking tools, but the base of a plunge router and its internal mechanisms always allow precise depth cutting. 

If you are ready for this amazing tool to become a part of your woodworking arsenal, here’s a guide on which plunge routers in the market have the functionality, efficiency, speed, and accuracy you are looking for.

The Best Plunge Routers Are:

Product	Details
1. Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit	Top Pick	Speed: 8,000-25,000 RPM Motor: 12 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 18.2 pounds	Check Current Price
2. Triton TRA001 Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router		Speed: 8,000-21,000 RPM Motor: 3.25 HP Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 13.2 pounds	Check Current Price
3. Hitachi KM12VC Variable Speed Fixed/Plunge Base Router Kit		Speed: 8,000-24,000 RPM Motor: 11 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 9.9 pounds	Check Current Price
4. DeWALT DW625 Variable Speed Plunge Base Router		Speed: 8,000-22,000 RPM Motor: 15 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 11.2 pounds	Check Current Price
5. Makita RP2301FC Variable Speed Plunge Router		Speed: 9,000-22,000 RPM Motor: 15 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 14 pounds	Check Current Price
6. Porter-Cable 895PK Fixed/Plunge Base Router Kit		Speed: 10,000-23,000 RPM Motor: 12 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 14 pounds	Check Current Price
7. Ryobi RE180PL1G 10-Amp Plunge Router		Speed: 15,000-25,000 RPM Motor: 10 Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 8.5 pounds	Check Current Price
8. DeWALT DWP611PK Fixed/Plunge Base Router Kit		Speed: 16,000-27,000 RPM Motor: 7Amps Power Source: Electric-Powered Weight: 6.2 pounds	Check Current Price

1. Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit — Best Plunge Router Overall

If you cannot decide which between a fixed base or plunge router to get, choose this kit. You will get both. This 12-amp and 2-1/4 horsepower router tandem is the all-around solution to your wood cutting needs.

It runs on 8,000 to 25,000 RPM variable speed settings like nobody’s business, making this an excellent choice for those heavy-duty jobs. With its excellent speed control, the performance remains consistent no matter what type of cut you’re doing or the type of wood you are working on.

It can accommodate a variety of applications and is capable of withstanding some rough usage, thanks to its aluminum construction. This router features a spring-lock plunge release lever that enables top-notch control.

A standard feature on both bases is the Precision Centering Design unique to Bosch. It enables bits to be placed dead center or can be used with a template guide. If you have a hard time keeping the bit centered on the cutting line before, this feature should come handy.

This is a decent-priced wood router that can switch between fixed and plunge base for a more versatile solution. There is no need to buy them separately, allowing you to save more money.

Both bases have a rugged build. Their solid aluminum construction enables them to handle just about any load or application. So, whether you are a hobbyist or a professional woodworker, this is a great tool kit that will serve you well.

The soft grip handles on the plunge base make it easier to maneuver this tool, eliminating hand fatigue when using it for hours. This router also has features that make bit depth adjustments a breeze.

Aside from the durable build, the manufacturer also sealed the power switch to prevent dust from getting in it. This ensures that your unit will last for a long time. It comes with a convenient carrying case. You can use it to keep and organize your bases plus your accessories.

Bosch backs up your purchase with a 1-year limited warranty. It also comes complete with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Should you have issues with your unit, you can get it fixed through its service protection plan good for a year.

It has an EVS motor that delivers a lot of power. Speed adjustments and speed control are easy. It can also cut at constant speed, thereby giving you cleaner results.

Transitions are smoother with its soft-start function. This makes it easier to handle. Many of those who used this said it is quieter than their previous ones. Dust collection is better compared to the products of a similar price range.

Verdict

Great for Professionals and Hobbyists: It is not the most heavy-duty plunge router out there but it has a mid-range functionality and built that can be used to work on various applications. This makes it a great choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

2. Triton TRA001 Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router

Triton takes pride in its lineup of versatile routers. This Dual Mode Precision plunge router can be expected to deliver the exact same versatility experienced in other routers.

They have such a great design when it comes to their rack and pinion depth adjustment that they patented it. This allows you to use your wood router from a plunge type to a fixed-base type. No need to buy these power tools separately.

The Triton TRA001 router weighs just about 13.2 lbs., nothing too heavy to lift, so you can maneuver it without putting so much load on your hands. A single wrench action makes way for seamless changes of bits, while the automatic spindle lock makes the process even safer. It is possible to cut larger and thicker stock, thanks to its stable material supporter.

Save so much time and room for gadgets as this tool enables easy switching from a plunge router to a fixed-based one. It minimizes the likelihood of static friction that often burns the sanding sleeve. It oscillates up and down, thereby spreading out the damage throughout the surface.

This can be a great option for professionals as well. Included in your purchase are 6 sanding sleeves. There are also router table inserts as well as rubber drums to complete your setup. Brushes can be accessed in front of the unit. This makes it easier to replace worn-out brushes.

It has many safety features. If you need to change bits, the Safety Switch Shutter automatically locks, so that you can avoid accidentally turning the wood router on. This unit is dust-proof. There are side air vents that prevent the machine from taking in dusty air, which can shorten its lifespan.

You can rely on the Triton TRA001 plunge router to create the most precise cuts as well. The 3-stage turret allows you to pre-set your preferred depth. Many people said it packs a lot of power. They were able to do a variety of applications without the machine lagging behind. Set up is easier and more convenient as well.

Verdict

Works on Heavy-Duty Jobs: If you often work with thicker and sturdier stock, you need this tool. It handles more difficult loads, which makes this a great choice for those who need something more powerful for thicker wood.

Be warned that it is not for light and basic routing. It is heavy, so you have to deal with the added heft if you are to accomplish heavy-duty tasks.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

3. Hitachi KM12VC Variable Speed Plunge/Fixed Base Router Kit

This might be the cheapest choice in this list, but it still has a lot of power and amazing features that will make you want to put this on your must-have list. It gets the cut done smoothly with its 11-amp motor.

Made with nickel-plated housing, this plunge router is something you can rely on to accomplish more difficult tasks without worrying that the router will end up getting damaged.

You can adjust its speed setting from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM with a simple dialing mechanism. No matter how varied the load gets, it still maintains constant speed.

The motor runs at only 79-1/2 decibels, making this one of the quietest routers in its price range. Aside from the noise, it also minimizes operational vibrations. That means you can get the best control to accommodate a more intricate cut.

The affordability of this wood router is a plus point. Those on a tight budget but want something that is still powerful should consider getting this. It is lighter in weight and more portable than many of the plunge routers out there. You can transport it to another job site with the help of its protective case.

It can withstand a lot of abuse with its durable build. It is backed by a 5-year warranty. People did not have issues with how accurately this router cuts. You can also make easy depth adjustments, making this an ideal choice if you are using a router table.

Verdict

Budget-Friendly Choice: You won’t break the bank with this router that has an accessible price tag and comes with a full range of features that will come handy when accomplishing a variety of tasks. It has a sturdy build and seems to work just as well even on more heavy-duty projects.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

4. DeWALT DW625 Variable Speed Plunge Base Router

With its 15 amp of a motor, it is a plunge router that can generate 3 horsepower, making this ideal for a variety of cut types. Its electronic variable speed setting is capable of running at 8,000 to 22,000 RPM while maintaining constant speed all the time. Pair it with a bandsaw.

Accurate and smooth depth plunges are achieved through its micro-fine bit adjuster as well as the bushings made from phosphorous bronze. It also has a soft start feature that prevents the machine from jerking the moment you start it.

This plunge router is powerful enough to accomplish more difficult tasks and applications. You can rely on it to cut through thicker stock and surfaces. Your purchase is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.

The padded handles are comfortable. You can guide the unit without tiring your hands out. The soft-start function comes handy when you have set it to its highest speed. Changing bits is easy due to its spindle-lock button.

Your purchase comes with an adapter for dust extraction. It is built like a tank. It feels sturdy. The base is stable and even as well. It runs quietly. You can work in a small work area and not worry that it is too noisy.

Verdict

More Powerful Choice: If you are looking for a plunge router that does not disappoint when it comes to power, get this. It does a variety of jobs because of its more powerful engine, and certainly makes the cut.

It still comes complete with a host of features including variable speed setting and it also has a good build. For all these amazing features, this unit has a decent price tag.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

5. Makita RP2301FC Variable Speed Plunge Router

Easily the most compact plunge router out there is this one from Makita. Despite its smaller size, it is still powerful with an RPM variable speed setting of 9,000 to 22000. It performs smoothly, thanks to its electronic speed control and linear ball bearings.

It prevents the nit from sagging. It has a good depth penetration and capacity and comes with an adjustment system for quick-plunge depth to achieve the depth results you want.

Aside from its compact size, this router is also easy to use because of its rubberized handles. There are built-in switches on the side to make your unit easier to control. It comes with a handy LED light to help you see your work area better.

Plunge depth adjustments are a cinch. The micro control settings allow you to make depth presets for better precision. No need to get a tool to change bits. The shaft lock releases the bits easily. Your purchase is backed by a 1-year warranty.

Verdict

Compact Choice: You will like this router because of how compact it is. It is easier to handle, even for beginners. It is still powerful despite its size, so you can still use it for a variety of surfaces and applications. You can also rely on this to last for a long time given its sturdy build.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

6. Porter-Cable 895PK Plunge/Fixed Base Router Kit

If you are looking for the best plunge router that you can use to handle a wide range of projects, then you might want to consider the Porter-Cable 895PK router kit.

This is also one of the most inexpensive routers on our list. It is very powerful and it comes with two power buttons. One of the buttons is a trigger button while the other is to control excess current. We also love this tool for its soft start feature.

It comes with a powerful 12-amp motor and full-time electronic feedback that helps to maintain the speed of the motor through the toughest applications. Talking about speed, this tool offers a variable speed ranging from 10,000 RPM to 23,000 RPM. This allows you to optimize the speed of the bit for different applications.

This dust system of this router is very effective, as it comes with a fan under the motor that blows dust away. The collet that comes with this unit is 1/2 inches in size. This tool is a bit heavy, but it comes with several great features that offer great value for money. Changing the plunge and depth profile is very easy and quick, thanks to its depth gauge.

This plunge router also comes with a plastic screen, which is one of its most amazing features. The plastic screen prevents the dust from spraying all over your body. The plunge base also has steel guide rods and machined-brass brushings for free-flowing, smooth plunge stroke.

It features a depth rod with a 6-position adjustable turret that allows for repeated or stepped plunge cuts. The over-molded grips of this tool also make it very easy and comfortable to operate. The plunge base has a flat side that allows you to use it in tighter corners and provides a straight reference point.

Verdict

Versatile: If you are looking for a highly versatile plunge router, then you should consider this option. It comes with a very powerful motor that allows you to use it on a wide range of projects.

It is very easy to use and it was designed with safety in mind. It also offers variable speed control, allowing you to match the speed of the bit to your application. The motor generates up to 2 horsepower, which is ideal for several applications.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

7. Ryobi RE180PL1G 10-Amp Plunge Router

Next up is the Ryobi RE180PL1G 10-Amp Plunge Router from Ryobi. This is another powerful router that comes with a 10-amp motor. The powerful motor delivers quiet operation and a smooth finish. It is also highly versatile, making it a perfect wood router for any routing job.

This tool also allows for quick depth adjustments up to 2 inches. Adjusting and changing speed is also very easy. It also comes with several vital accessories that come in handy in several cases. It comes with ergonomically designed handles, making the tool very comfortable to use.

This plunge router weighs only 8.5 pounds, making it a lightweight option. It comes with a 1/2-inch collet with a 1/4-inch adapter. The soft-start electronic variable speed is from 15,000 RPM to 25,000 RPM. The automatic spindle lock allows for easy one-wrench bit changes. The depth of the plunge is from 0 to 2 inches.

Verdict

Additional Accessories: This plunge router comes with some relevant accessories that you can use to handle several woodworking projects. It is not the best option for heavy-duty projects but it still delivers great power, accuracy, and smooth results.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

8. DeWALT DWP611PK Plunge/Fixed Base Router Kit

Yeah! Another DeWALT plunge router made it to our list. This is because DeWALT is at the top of the game when it comes to producing power tools and accessories. This best plunge router contender also doubles as a fixed router, and that versatility is pretty cool.

This router kit comes with a motor that generates up to 1.25 horsepower. The motor delivers more than enough power to handle even the toughest applications. It also offers variable speed control with a no-load speed range of 16,000 RPM to 27,000 RPM. If you are looking for a very fast plunge router, then this is it.

The motor has a soft-start feature, and it also features full-time electronic feedback that helps to maintain the speed of the motor through the cut.

You can use this tool to work in low-light conditions, thanks to its dual LED light; this provides you with more visibility in operation. With a plunge base, the depth travel of this tool is 2 inches while it can travel up to 1.5 inches with a standard base. When in fixed mode, you can change up the bit depth using its depth adjustment ring.

For added comfort and ease of operation, this tool comes with over-molded rubber handles. It is also highly durable and stable, thanks to its aluminum motor housing and base construction.

The stability of this wood router is enhanced further by its large base platform. This makes it ideal for heavier applications. The weight of the tool is 6.2 pounds (plunge) and 4.6 pounds (fixed).

It comes with a ¼-inch collet and the spindle lock has 12 positions. Bit changes are very quick and simple, thanks to the multiple shaft-lock detents. Being a 2-in-1 tool, you can transition the motor between plunge and fixed bases easily and quickly.

Verdict

Great 2-in-1 Router: This plunge router doubles as a fixed base plunge router also. Having that adjustment ring feature makes it highly versatile and powerful, and that motor delivers great speed and performance for handling any routing job.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

Things To Consider When Looking For The Best Plunge Routers

On your quest for the best plunge routers, there are certain features you must look out for. To help you make the right choice, here is a guide on some of the vital things you need to consider before buying:

Variable Speed Control

This is a very important feature in plunge routers, and one you should not ignore. You should make sure your plunge router has variable speed at any cost. This provides you with a lot of flexibility and ease of use.

You can customize the speed of the tool to suit the wood you are working on. Not all materials require the same speed, which is why the best plunge routers have variable speed options.

Power

This is one of the most important things you need to consider. However, you need to consider how powerful you want it to be. Plunge routers come with different power ranges.

In this article are varied options of plunge routers to handle any type of project. If you want to use the tool for light to mid-duty tasks around the workshop or home, then you do not need the most powerful router on the market.

Weight

You also want to make sure your plunge router is not heavy to handle. Go for one of the lightweight plunge routers that also come with an ergonomically designed handle for comfortable handling.

Soft Start

This is another vital feature you do not want to ignore. Without this feature, your wood router will start-up to full speed immediately you switch it on. This is not really safe and the noise can be startling.

How to Operate a Plunge Router

Conclusion

Need more help in finding woodworking power tools? Check out our homepage for more tips and product reviews.

Our top recommendation for the best plunge router is the Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit because of its powerful motor that delivers great speed. It is very powerful, it comes with many great features, and you can use it to handle any routing job.