Quick Comparison Table

Kreg PRS1045

Bosch RA1181

Bosch RA1171

Craftsman

SKIL RAS900

Kreg PRS1040

JESSEM

Bench Dog 40-001

PORTER-CABLE 698

Rebel W2000

Price $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
Weight 70 lbs 33.5 lbs 42 lbs n/a 32 lbs 85 lbs 96.7 lbs 43.2 lbs 37 lbs 67 lbs
Dimensions 40 x 30 x 7 in 27 x 18 x 14.5 in 25.5 x 14.5 x 15 ⅞-in 334 square inch work surface 27.7 x 19 x 9.5 in 41 x 32 ¼ x 24 in 39 x 9.6 x 40.2 in 26.8 x 22.8 x 5.1 in 20 x 30.5 x 10 in 24 x 18 x 17 in
Warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty n/a 2-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty
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How to Select the Best Wood Router Table?


It doesn’t matter whether you are a professional or a weekend warrior, buying a router table for your router could be the best decision you ever make.

Of course, there’s always going to be the chance one suits a professional more than it does a hobbyist, but the key to a good table is stability and accuracy – that’s something both kinds of woodworkers aspire to have.

Knowing that tools and their accessories hold an important part in many people’s lives, we’ve put together a buying guide that explains the ins and outs of router tables. We have also reviewed several different top-rated router tables that vary in cost, style, and features.

 

Work Type

Router tables are benches used to secure handheld routers, and they’re suitable for a range of tasks. You get better stability, more accuracy, and of course, a higher level of safety when you choose to use your router with a table.

Router tables can also be used for those who have several different shapes to cut out. You’re able to do so with far better precision, and can cut down the time spent on your project in the process.

By having a router table for your work type, you’re also able to use one hand for positioning, and one hand on the tool. This gives you more flexibility and freedom to produce the cuts you want.

 

Safety

There’s no denying that router tables make router use far safer, but there are still things you need to consider when you’ve installed your router into a table.

These will usually be outlined in your manufacturer’s guide – depending on the model or brand you buy – but we’ve included additional helpful tips below:

  • Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
  • Wear a dust mask, safety glasses, and ear protection when you’re using your router.
  • Ensure your workpiece is securely in place.
  • Make sure the table fence is set accurately.
  • Turn the router’s power supply off before you change bits.
  • If your workpiece is small, clamp it to the table.
  • Never attempt to operate your router with broken, worn or damaged bits.
  • Ensure your router and table are in good working condition.
  • Make sure the table is stable and even, with all legs evenly on the ground.

 

Efficiency

The entire job of a router table is to make your projects as a woodworker that little bit easier. However, you will soon find out if it doesn’t. You can quickly run into efficiency issues if you choose a router table that’s not fit for purpose.

Pay careful attention to the size capacity, as not all tables will fit all routers. It’s also helpful to understand how the fence works and ensure all your measurements are accurate.

 

Features

While the features are going to vary, depending on which brand or model you choose to buy, there are four main things to be on the lookout for. Without them, you might decide you’ve made the wrong purchasing decision.

The fence – Fences are available either as one piece or two, and they can be easily adjustable, or not. When you’re looking for the best router table for the money, it’s essential for your sanity, and for ease of use, that your router table has fences that are easy to adjust. However, once they adjust, it’s also vital that they stay in place. Fences that are lightweight and move around are no good for the accuracy of your project. The choice of your fence being in one piece or two pieces is all down to user preference.

The surface – If you find a router table that ticks all the boxes for you, but the surface doesn’t, walk away. A substandard surface can give you no end of grief, and its low-quality attributes can outweigh any conveniences the rest of the table offers. The ideal surface is smooth, robust, rigid and most importantly, straight. Remember, you’re looking for accurate cuts, and therefore, you need to be cutting on an accurate surface!

A dust collector – Not all router tables have them, but if they do, it makes your job a whole lot easier. It saves a lot of hassle during the cleanup process and helps you to see fine cutting lines correctly as well.

The base – Whether you buy online or in store, it’s a good idea to have a look at the structure of the table itself. Are the legs stable? Are they made of quality materials? Will they hold up to immense pressure? The last thing you want is for the base to collapse during use. Therefore, it’s best only to purchase one that can handle a lot of pain.

 

Maintenance

It’s easy to think a table doesn’t require any maintenance, but it’s helpful to give it the TLC it deserves to ensure it lasts the distance.

Therefore, on a regular basis, you should:

  • Vacuum the table top and wipe any dust off with a damp cloth. Avoid getting moisture near your bit.
  • Lubricate and grease the router bit on the table.
  • Remove sawdust from the mouth of the router.
  • Dismantle the cutting bit assembly and clean it.
  • Remove sawdust from the base plate.
  • Make sure the fencing isn’t damaged or warped.
  • Check the fasteners of the rail, detach them, and lubricate and grease them.

 

Budget

Router tables are relatively affordable, regardless of whether you’re looking for a basic table or something more advanced for professionals. However, even though the cheaper option might meet your budget a bit more comfortably, be wary of inexpensive materials being used.

Often, the more expensive the table, the higher the grade of materials involved in the manufacturing of it. In many cases, this equates to a better product that will stand the test of time. You can pick up a router table on Amazon.com for between $199 and $699.

 

Top 10 Wood Router Table Reviews


1

Kreg PRS1045

Kreg PRS1045

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s heavy-duty.
  • It’s customizable.
  • The steel stand can be easily adjusted.
  • It’s self-squaring.
  • It‘s very versatile.

Cons:

  • It’s costly.
  • The tabletop can sag.
  • It doesn’t have a miter slot.

What’s included

  • Kreg Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 70 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 40 x 30 x 7 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat router will it fit?

AAny router, you cut the insert to suit your particular router size.


QWhat is the widest bit this table can handle?

A4 inches.


QDoes it have an aluminum insert?

AYes.

Overview

This Kreg router table ticks all the boxes for both professionals and beginners. While it’s quite pricey, in the grand scheme of things you’re paying for quality. It’s most definitely built to last and is solidly constructed to ensure it’s well-balanced and sturdy on the ground.

It also suits every kind of wood router, which makes it highly sought after in the woodworking industry. This router table is leagues ahead of others for sale.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Kreg PRS1045 wood router table reviews.

 

2

Bosch RA1181

Bosch RA1181

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • You can choose to purchase it on its own, with a router, with bits, or with a dust extraction system.
  • It’s top-rated on Amazon.
  • It’s from a well known and reliable manufacturer.
  • It has two adjustable featherboards.
  • It has a dust collection port to attach any shop vac.
  • The power cord is six feet long for convenience.
  • The fence is made of aluminum for durability.
  • It’s very affordable.

Cons:

  • Many people notice their top surface is warped by approximately 1/16th-inch.
  • The featherboards aren’t very well made.

What’s included

  • Bosch Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.
  • 3 mounting plate insert rings.
  • Mounting hardware for most Bosch routers.
  • 2 featherboards.
  • Adjustable clear guard.
  • Starter pin and guard.
  • Outfeed fence shims.

Specs

  • Weight: 33.5 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 27 x 18 x 14.5 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat are the work surface dimensions?

A27x 18 inches x 6 feet.


QWhat routers are compatible with this table?

ABosch Models: 1613 series, 1617 series (fixed base only), 1619EVS. Craftsman routers with ½-inch collets. DeWalt: DW616 and DW618 (fixed base only). Hitachi M12VC. Makita: RF1100 and RF1101. Milwaukee: 5615 and 5616. Porter Cable: 690 Series, 7529 plunge router, and 892-895 series (fixed base only). Ryobi: R161, R162, RE170, and RE180 PL. Skil: 1810, 1815, 1820, and 1825.


QWhat is the distance between the track and the center of the table?

A5 inches.

Overview

This Bosch router table ticks all the boxes for versatility, reliability, and strength. It’s strong enough to handle a heavy workpiece, yet is easy enough to maneuver from bench top to bench top as well.

It’s affordable when you buy online, and you can even purchase it with various features and accessories – or without. It also suits a vast range of routers, so it’s clear to see why it’s a top-rated router table on Amazon.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Bosch RA1181 wood router table reviews.

 

3

Bosch RA1171

Bosch RA1171

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very affordable.
  • The MDF face plates are adjustable.
  • It suits both short and tall workpieces.
  • The outfeed can be offset for jointing.
  • The mounting plate is flat and precise for accurate routing.
  • It’s pre-drilled to be suitable for a range of routers.
  • It has accessory slots for featherboards and miter gauges.
  • It has two dust collection ports to attach 2 ½-inch vacuum hoses to.
  • It has a dual outlet switch and 6-foot power cord for convenience.
  • It fits into any workshop environment well.
  • It’s built to last.

Cons:

  • The mounting plate isn’t flush with the table in many cases.
  • Snap rings and tabs are all made of easy-to-break plastic.
  • The fences are often not flush with each other.
  • The manual says several adaptor plates are available to fit different routers – but many aren’t being produced anymore.

What’s included

  • Bosch Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.
  • Mounting plate.
  • 3 mounting plate rings.
  • Mounting hardware.
  • 2 adjustable featherboards.
  • Adjustable clear guard.
  • Starter pin and guard.
  • 2 outfeed fence shims.

Specs

  • Weight: 42 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 25.5 x 14.5 x 15 ⅞-inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat is the maximum opening measurements of the fence and throat?

AThe fence is 3 3/16-inches and the throat is 3 ⅝-inches.


QWhat are the fence measurements?

A4 ⅞ x 25 ⅛-inches.


QWhat are the mounting plate dimensions?

A1.5 x 9 ⅛-inches.

Overview

There are so many reasons woodworkers are choosing to purchase this router table, but there are equally as many reasons why people aren’t. There’s no denying this solid, well-built table will serve its purpose well, but for those who require complete accuracy and don’t want to fiddle around with parts to get it to be so, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Several people have been unhappy with the mounting plate not being flush with the table, the poor quality plastic tabs, the uneven fences and the lack of adaptor plates. However, if you happen to have a router that fits this table correctly, and you don’t mind making your own adjustments, there’s no reason why you won’t be pleased with this router table.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Bosch RA1171 wood router table reviews.

 

4

Craftsman

Craftsman

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s suitable for both hobbyists and professionals.
  • The miter gauge is easy to adjust.
  • It has three insert rings for better compatibility.
  • It has a dust extraction port.
  • It holds the router securely.
  • It’s quite accurate to use.
  • It has an adjustable extended fence.
  • It has an above-the-table cutting height adjustment piece.

Cons:

  • It’s cheaper in store than it is online.
  • It’s not suitable for large workpieces.
  • The tabletop is made out of low-quality laminate and chips very easily.
  • There is a lot of looseness on the track, so the miter gauge doesn’t work very well.

What’s included

  • Craftsman Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 334 square inch work surface.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat size are the insert rings?

A1 ¼-inches, 1.5 inches and 1 ¾-inches.


QHow big is the dust extraction port?

A2 ¼-inches.


QWhat is the miter gauge adjustment angle?

A0 to 60 degrees.

Overview

While it’s affordable enough when purchased instore to be suitable for casual users, it’s not designed to withstand the daily pressure of a full-time woodworker.

The tabletop is poorly made, several parts are low-quality, and it’s not large enough to handle large workpieces. It’s also tough to use the miter gauge due to track looseness, and therefore it’s not one of the best router tables for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Craftsman wood router table reviews.

 

5

SKIL RAS900

SKIL RAS900

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very affordable.
  • It comes with accessory storage containers.
  • It has a quick-clamp system.
  • It comes with two featherboards to help guide your workpiece.
  • It has a height gauge for better cut accuracy.
  • The starter pin and guard supports the workpiece when you’re routing edges.
  • Bit changes are simple and require no leveling.
  • It’s compatible with a range of routers.

Cons:

  • Some users are having problems with the stability of the table.
  • Some of the routers listed as being compatible with it are not.

What’s included

  • SKIL Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.
  • Guard.
  • Featherboard.
  • Miter gauge.
  • Bit inserts.
  • Fence.
  • Starter pin and guard.
  • Bit height guard.
  • Accessory containers.

Specs

  • Weight: 32 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 27.7 x 19 x 9.5 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QAre the fences independently adjustable?

AYes.


QDoes it include the router?

ANo, that’s sold separately.


QWhat is the table made out of?

AThe tabletop and fences are made of wood with laminate overlay, and the frame is aluminum.

Overview

A big problem for anyone buying a router table is determining whether their router is going to be compatible. Often, however, it’s been guaranteed to fit, and then it doesn’t. That’s the problem many customers are having with this table.

Overall, the table is well built – aside from having minor stability problems – and comes with several accessories at a low price. It’s not the best table on the market, but it offers good bang for your buck.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read SKIL RAS900 wood router table reviews.

 

6

Kreg PRS1040

Kreg PRS1040

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • The aluminum fence is fully enclosed for better accuracy and dust collection.
  • It has an edge-banded MDF top.
  • The insert plate enables it to work with any router.
  • It has individual fence faces so it can be used as a vertical jointer.
  • It has three independent leveling/lock-down screws.
  • It’s very heavy which gives it more stability.

Cons:

  • It’s costly.
  • It doesn’t come with a switch or caster wheels. You end up paying another $100+ more.
  • Some customers have had trouble with the mounting plate not being flush with the table.
  • The plastic clips are hard to align and are easy to break.

What’s included

  • Kreg Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 85 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 41 x 32 ¼ x 24 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QHow big is the insert plate?

A9 ¼ x 11 ¾ x ⅜-inches.


QWhat size is the dust port?

A2.5 inches.


QWhat kind of measurements does the table have?

AImperial.

Overview

If you’re a professional woodworker, this Kreg router table will prove popular in the workshop. It’s heavy duty, stable, built to last and is suitable for all kinds of routers. While it has a price tag reflective of its premium materials, many customers don’t mind paying a higher price for the quality.

However, there are a few things the table doesn’t have, that should be included. Castor wheels would make transportation far more manageable, and an electrical switch – commonly found on most tables – would be a helpful addition as well. There are a few minor imperfections, but overall, this is a high-quality router table.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Kreg PRS1040 wood router table reviews.

 

7

JESSEM

JESSEM

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very durable.
  • It’s suitable for everyday professional use.
  • It comes with a JessEm Mast-R-Lift Excel II for most cylinder router motors.
  • It has aluminum extruded miter track and T-tracks.
  • The table fences are fully adjustable.
  • It’s robust and heavy-duty.

Cons:

  • It’s costly.
  • You have to pay extra to get the digital readout attachment and Pow-R-Tek remote power switch.
  • Transporting the table can be tricky.
  • The miter track edges are very sharp and can cause injuries.

What’s included

  • JESSEM Router Table.

Specs

  • Weight: 96.7 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 39 x 9.6 x 40.2 inches.

FAQ

QDoes it come with any accessories such as featherboards, shut off switches and insert rings?

AThese must all be purchased separately.


QAre the feet removable?

AYes.

Overview

If your workshop relies on robust, well-built products and machinery, this JESSEM Router Table is the product for you. While it’s frustrating to have to purchase many of the accessories separately, considering the price tag is quite high in comparison to other tables, the table itself more than makes up for it. It’s robust, reliable, can be used in professional and home environments and is versatile as well. You will be highly impressed with this product.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read JESSEM wood router table reviews.

 

8

Bench Dog 40-001

Bench Dog 40-001

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s suitable for professionals.
  • It comes with a 2-year warranty.
  • The table is spacious for large workpieces.
  • The inserts accept most routers.
  • It has an extruded aluminum fence with T-slots.
  • It comes with everything you need for installation and use.
  • It’s versatile and robust.
  • The tabletop is strong, flat and smooth.

Cons:

  • It’s not as precise as other options on the market.
  • The instruction manual is poor for assembly.

What’s included

  • Bench Dog Router Table.
  • Fence.
  • Dust port.
  • Bit guard.
  • Miter track.
  • Router insert plate.
  • Mounting screws.
  • Cabinet.
  • 2-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 43.2 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 26.8 x 22.8 x 5.1 inches.
  • Warranty: 2-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat size is the table top?

A16 x 22 inches.


QCan the infeed and outfeed be adjusted?

AYes.


QWhat are the insert plate dimensions?

A8 ¼ x 113/4-inches.

Overview

Whether you work in a garage or a workshop, this Bench Dog Router Table will fit in just nicely. It has everything you need to start routing, all the while being durable, robust and spacious for large and small workpieces.

However, it can be challenging to assemble and isn’t as precise as other options on the market. This can cause havoc for professionals and is equally as frustrating for hobbyists. With minor tweaking, most problems this router table has can be fixed.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Bench Dog 40-001 wood router table reviews.

 

9

PORTER-CABLE 698

PORTER-CABLE 698

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It has a big workbench.
  • It’s suitable for a range of woodworkers.
  • It offers multiple starting pin locations.
  • It has a quick-adjust split fence design.
  • It’s very robust.
  • It suits most routers.

Cons:

  • In comparison to other tables with similar specs, it’s quite costly.
  • The fence alignment is poor.

What’s included

  • PORTER-CABLE Router Table.
  • Miter gauge.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weights: 37 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 20 x 30.5 x 10 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QHow big is the tabletop?

A19 ¾ x 16 ¾-inches.


QWhat router bits can be used?

A3.5-inch bits.


QHow tall is the table?

A17.5 inches.

Overview

This table is a good option for those who are tired of laminate tables chipping and legs becoming unstable. It’s durable, robust, features a hardy tabletop that’s suitable for a range of workpieces, and has multiple starting pin locations.

It’s also ideal for a variety of routers and can be used in a professional or home environment. It’s a little pricey, and fence alignment is known to be poor according to some customers, but overall, it’s a well built and robust table that ticks most of the boxes.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read PORTER-CABLE 698 wood router table reviews.

 

10

Rebel W2000

Rebel W2000

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very sturdy.
  • It comes with a safety guard and miter gauge.
  • The fences are independently adjustable.
  • It suits most woodworkers.
  • It can be used with a range of routers.
  • It’s heavy, so there’s minimal vibration.

Cons:

  • It’s costly.
  • It’s hard to transport.
  • Bit changes are slow.
  • The vacuum port is poorly made.

What’s included

  • Rebel Router Table.
  • 1-year warranty.
  • Miter gauge.
  • Safety guard.

Specs

  • Weight: 67 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 24 x 18 x 17 inches.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat are the fence measurements?

A3 x 12 inches.


QWhat are the insert ring dimensions?

A4 5/16-inch.


QWhat is it made out of?

ACast iron.

Overview

If you need a router table that doesn’t wobble or buckle under immense pressure, this is the one for you! It’s built from cast iron, and as a result, is sturdy and absorbs vibrations. It’s a little on the high side for price, but being so robust, you would expect this.

If you’re looking for a table that can be moved from one job site to the next, however, this isn’t a good option. It’s far too heavy to be convenient, even if it is well built for premium levels of longevity.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Rebel W2000 wood router table reviews.

 

Where to Buy Wood Router Table?

When you’re in the market for a router table but you’re unsure what is considered the best deal or the best product, it’s a good idea to buy online. On websites such as Amazon.com, you’re able to browse several different manufacturers, brands, and models, all to get a grasp on what is quality and what is not. Once you’ve found the table that ticks all the boxes, you can then hit buy now and wait for it to arrive directly at your door!

 

Leading Wood Router Table Brands and Manufacturers

    • Bosch
    • JESSEM
    • Kreg

 

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