Quick Comparison Table

DeWALT DWP611

Bosch PR20EVSK

Makita RT0701C

PORTER-CABLE PCE6430

Ryobi ONE+

Ridgid ZRR2401

PORTER-CABLE 450-1-25

Festool MFK-700

MLCS 9056

PORTER-CABLE PCE6435

Price $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
Weight 5.5 lbs 3.8 lbs 10 lbs 4.5 lbs 3.4 lbs 4 lbs 5.4 lbs 4.2 lbs 5.6 lbs 4.6 lbs
Dimensions 5.6 x 11.5 x 7.3 in 15 x 13 x 8 in 17 x 10 x 7 in 8.3 x 8.3 x 5.8 in 10 x 5 x 10 in n/a 11.2 x 7.1 x 5.4 in 15.5 x 11.6 x 6.4 in 10 x 8 x 6 in 8.3 x 8.3 x 5.8 in
Power Source Electric Electric Electric Electric Electric, battery powered Electric Electric Electric Electric Electric
Motor Size 1 ¼ HP 1HP 1 ¼ HP 4.5 amps n/a 1.6HP 1.25HP 6 amp 1HP 5.6 amps
Collet Size ¼ in ¼-in ¼-in ¼-in ¼-in ¼-in ¼-in ¼-inch & 8mm ¼-in ¼-in
Warranty 3-year warranty 1-year warranty 1-year warranty 3-year warranty n/a 1-year warranty 2-year warranty 3-year warranty Lifetime warranty 3-year warranty
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How to Select the Best Trim Router?


Traditionally, trim routers were basic tools that had no chance of ever living up to their wood router machine counterparts.

However, this small, portable, hand-held tool is now a sought-after product found in any home or professional workshop. It can create rout inlay cavities and hinge mortises, round over edges, trim hardwood edging, and so much more.

As with most woodworking tools on the market, not every trim router offers an excellent customer experience. It might be lacking power, you might be pushing it far beyond what it’s capable of, or it might provide an inferior quality product as a result of a manufacturer, model or brand problem.

We’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the best trim router for the money. Review each of these 10 top-rated products, and you’re sure to find a trim router for sale that will meet both your work needs and your budget.

 

Work Type

Trim routers used to be used for one job – trimming. They were often used to cut Formica laminate, but they’ve been developed over time to be able to trim, flush, join, round edges, chamfer, rout grooves, create dovetails, and more. In essence, they are now a miniature wood router that can almost provide the same finish as a traditional wood router can.

 

Safety

While a trim router is smaller than a wood router, users must still take as much care as they would with any other woodworker’s tool. Safety tips are often included in the user guide provided with a new router you buy online or in store, but take note of these safety tips below as well:

  • Only use accessories that are designed for your particular trim router.
  • Disconnect the plug from the wall socket when you’re changing bits or making adjustments.
  • Always ensure every part is in good working condition before using the trim router.
  • Do not start the motor with the bit in contact with your workpiece.
  • Hold the router firmly to overcome the torque on initial startup.
  • Do not overload or bog down the trim router.
  • Ensure the bit is sharp.
  • Ensure the workpiece is stable and securely clamped.

 

Efficiency

A trim router is a wood router, but it’s not capable of tackling the large jobs a general wood router is capable of.

In fact, it’s only in recent years that it has ever been able to compete on a similar playing field to a standard wood router. It can be easy to forget this, but many people purchase trim routers because they often cost less, and try and get them to complete tasks that are beyond their capabilities.

To ensure you run into no efficiency issues, take note of the motor size before you purchase your new trim router. If you believe it might not be suitable for your task, you might need a wood router instead.

 

Features

Differentiating a trim router from a wood router is easy. They are lighter, more compact, easier to maneuver and can make precise cuts with the use of one hand. They are beneficial for small routing tasks, trimming, beveling laminate, and detail work.

When you’re looking for the best trim router for the money, it’s helpful for it to have these following features:

  • Soft-start.
  • Electronic feedback circuitry to maintain the level of torque.
  • A 3-6 amp motor.
  • The ability to use ¼-inch to ½-inch collets.
  • A weight of 3-4 pounds.

 

Maintenance

Trim routers don’t require a lot of maintenance which is beneficial for busy woodworkers who prefer to spend more time working, and less time maintaining tools.

All you need to do is:

  • Clean the router after each use.
  • Blow out the motor vents to reduce the risk of dust and debris getting into it.
  • Rub light oil on the collet and bits to prevent rust.
  • Have a professional replace the carbon brushes when you notice a drop in productivity.

 

Budget

As a rule of thumb, the more you pay for a trim router, the more similar it is to a wood router. The more affordable the trim router, the more basic it is.

When you’re looking to purchase a new trim router, you can often get the best deal when you buy online. Amazon.com currently has them for sale for between $25 and $535.

 

Top 10 Best Trim Router Reviews


1

DeWALT DWP611

DeWALT DWP611

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very affordable.
  • It has a powerful motor.
  • It’s top-rated on the market.
  • It’s one of Amazon’s best sellers.
  • It’s suitable for a range of routing tasks.
  • It has a soft-start motor and full-time electronic feedback to maintain motor speed.
  • It offers dual LED lights and a clear sub-base for better visibility.
  • You can adjust the depth to within 1/64 of an inch.

Cons:

  • It doesn’t come with a case.
  • It’s too big to hold comfortably.
  • It has no depth markings.

What’s included

  • DeWALT Trim Router.
  • 3-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 5.5 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 5.6 x 11.5 x 7.3 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1 ¼ HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼ inch.
  • Warranty: 3-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat voltage is it?

A110 volts.


QWhat is the RPM of the motor?

AFrom 16,000 to 27,000 RPM.


QDoes it accept ½-inch collets?

ANo, just ¼-inch.

Overview

When you’re in the market for a tried and true trim router that ticks all the boxes for any weekend warrior or professional, you’re going to be happy with this DeWALT option.

Not only is it for sale at a competitive price, but in comparison to several other models on the market, it is full of convenient features.

It offers LED lighting for improved visibility and even has a 1 ¼ HP motor for exceptional levels of power. It’s obvious why this trim router is top-rated on Amazon.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read DeWALT DWP611 trim router reviews.

 

2

Bosch PR20EVSK

Bosch PR20EVSK

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s very powerful.
  • It comes with a carry case.
  • It’s made out of solid materials.
  • The handle area is comfortable and grippy.
  • It can be used for a range of tasks, making it very versatile.
  • It’s durable.

Cons:

  • It’s quite costly.
  • It vibrates with use quite badly.
  • The use of the spindle lock takes a lot of force.

What’s included

  • Bosch Trim Router.
  • Collet and shaft wrenches.
  • Fixed base.
  • Straight edge guide.
  • Case
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 3.8 pounds (bare tool).
  • Dimensions: 15 x 13 x 8 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat RPM does it produce?

A16,000 to 35,000 RPM.


QWhat is the maximum bit diameter?

A1 ⅜-inches.


QCan you use a ½-inch collet with it?

ANo, just a ¼-inch collet.

Overview

This Bosch trim router is popular with many woodworkers due to its durability and how easy it is to use. All parts are well made, it’s suitable for a range of woodworking tasks, and comes with many accessories as well.

In comparison to other models on the market, it’s also very powerful, while arriving in a Bosch carry case for protection to seal the deal. There’s every reason to consider purchasing this Bosch tool.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Bosch PR20EVSK trim router reviews.

 

3

Makita RT0701C

Makita RT0701C

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s affordable.
  • It offers fine depth adjustment for precision.
  • It’s very durable.
  • The parts are well made.
  • It’s slim and is comfortable to hold and control.
  • It has a quick release cam lock system to make easy adjustments to depth, and for easy removal of the base.
  • It has a soft-start feature for smooth start-ups.
  • The fixed base accepts industry-standard template guides.

Cons:

  • There’s no edge guide available for the plunge base.
  • It doesn’t come with a case.

What’s included

  • Makita Trim Router.
  • Plunge base.
  • ¼-inch collet.
  • Tilt base set.
  • Straight guide.
  • Wrench.
  • Spanner wrench.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 10 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 7 pounds.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1 ¼ HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat is the RPM of the motor?

A10,000 to 30,000 RPM.


QWhat voltage is it?

A120 volts.


QDoes it come with LED lighting?

ANo.

Overview

Any professional or casual woodworker is sure to be happy with what’s on offer from Makita. This hand-held trim router is built to last, comes with plenty of accessories, and can even be set up to use a plunge base, which is also supplied. The only problem is that the plunge base doesn’t come with an edge guide which makes it difficult to use with accuracy.

Aside from that, however, this affordable tool is precise, powerful and is well priced on the market for a range of consumers.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Makita RT0701C trim router reviews.

 

4

PORTER-CABLE PCE6430

PORTER-CABLE PCE6430

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • The motor is quite powerful.
  • The aluminum base is very robust.
  • It has extra large locking clips to allow for quick motor release and depth adjustment.
  • Bit height adjustments are made easy due to the depth ring.
  • It’s for sale at an affordable price.
  • It has an LED light.

Cons:

  • The depth collar is known to slip.
  • It takes a while to cut.

What’s included

  • PORTER-CABLE Trim Router.
  • ¼-inch collet.
  • Wrench.
  • Straight edge guide.
  • 3-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 4.5 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 8.3 x 8.3 x 5.8 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 4.5 amps.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 3-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat RPM does the motor produce?

A31,000 RPM.


QDoes it come with a case?

ANo.


QCan it work with a plunge base?

ANo.

Overview

While there are a few issues that need to be ironed out, overall this PORTER-CABLE trim router ticks all the boxes.

It’s affordable to purchase, it has an LED light to make it easier to see, and the base is strong and durable. When you’re in the market for a simplistic yet effective trim router, this tool is it.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read PORTER-CABLE PCE6430 trim router reviews.

 

5

Ryobi ONE+

Ryobi ONE+

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s compact.
  • It’s affordable.
  • It’s easy to use.
  • It’s well made.
  • It’s comfortable to use.

Cons:

  • It doesn’t offer the sought-after variable speed feature.
  • It doesn’t come with a battery and charger.
  • The locking mechanism doesn’t seem very secure.

What’s included

  • Ryobi ONE+ Trim Router.

Specs

  • Weight: 3.4 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 10 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric, battery powered.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.

FAQ

QIs it single or variable speed?

ASingle.


QDoes it come with a battery and charger?

ANo.


QWhat battery does it need?

AAn 18v battery.

Overview

This affordable trim router is suitable for any woodworker looking for a reliable tool without having to be confined to a wall socket.

Use it anywhere at any time, and take joy in the knowledge that it’s going to get the job done with minimal effort. It’s quiet to use, it’s comfortable, and it’s very lightweight as well.

However, there are a few negatives. It doesn’t come with a battery and charger, it doesn’t have a variable speed feature, and the locking mechanism doesn’t feel very secure. Other than that, there’s no reason why a woodworker wouldn’t love using this trim router.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Ryobi ONE+ trim router reviews.

 

6

Ridgid ZRR2401

Ridgid ZRR2401

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s one of the most affordable options on the market.
  • Even though it’s refurbished, it works very well.
  • It’s durable.
  • It’s suitable for a range of applications.
  • It’s comfortable to operate.
  • The depth control dial is easy to adjust.
  • It has overmold grip for additional levels of comfort.
  • Bit changes are easy with a spindle lock.

Cons:

  • It gets hot very quickly.
  • It can be difficult to make micro adjustments.

What’s included

  • Ridgid Trim Router.
  • Round base.
  • Square base.
  • Collet wrench.
  • Edge guide.
  • Guide bars.
  • ¼-inch collet and bit.
  • Bag.
  • 1-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 4 pounds.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1.6HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 1-year warranty.

FAQ

QDoes it have the variable speed feature?

AYes.


QIs it new?

ANo, it’s certified refurbished.


QDoes it come with a new warranty?

AA new product comes with a 3-year warranty; this refurbished trim router comes with a 1-year warranty.

Overview

Even though this product is refurbished, you’re getting the best deal when you buy it online. It works as well as a new one, and in some cases even better with the kinks ironed out of the manufacturing process.

Essentially, you’re paying for the inconvenience of having it delivered in a generic box, rather than in a branded box.

It’s reliable, durable, and works well. The only downside is that it can get hot with use, and this is something to be aware of.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Ridgid ZRR2401 trim router reviews.

 

7

PORTER-CABLE 450-1-25

PORTER-CABLE 450-1-25

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s affordable.
  • It’s comfortable to use.
  • It’s powerful.
  • The motor has a soft-start function.
  • It has an adjustment ring to make bit depth changes to within 1/64 of an inch.
  • It’s durable.
  • It’s well made.

Cons:

  • It’s quite wide so if you’ve got small hands it’s hard to handle.
  • It’s bigger than most trim routers but smaller than most wood routers, so it’s hard to know what it’s intended purpose is.
  • It doesn’t glide as effortlessly as the older models.

What’s included

  • PORTER-CABLE Trim Router.
  • 2-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 5.4 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 11.2 x 7.1 x 5.4 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1.25HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 2-year warranty.

FAQ

QHow many RPM does the motor produce?

A27,000 RPM.


QIs it fixed or variable speed?

AFixed.


QWhat voltage is it?

A120 volts.

Overview

If you’ve got large hands and can handle most woodworking tools, this PORTER-CABLE router will suit you just fine. However, if you’re used to a much smaller trim router, you may struggle.

There’s nothing wrong with the quality, the parts, or any components, but it’s just not a standard trim router size. This might put many buyers off.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read PORTER-CABLE 450-1-25 trim router reviews.

 

8

Festool MFK-700

Festool MFK-700

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s a great tool for professionals.
  • It has a dust port to hook a shop vac to.
  • It has a powerful motor.
  • It’s suitable for most routing applications.
  • The cord can be detached.
  • It’s one of the only trim routers that can be used with a horizontal or vertical base.
  • It has a variable speed feature.
  • It has extra wide vertical and horizontal bases to get closer to edges on narrow stock.
  • It’s micro-adjustable.

Cons:

  • It’s very expensive.
  • It doesn’t come with an edge guide.
  • The photos are misleading about what accessories come with it.

What’s included

  • Festool Trim Router.
  • Dust extraction hoods.
  • Sensor bearing guide.
  • Plug-it cord.
  • ¼-inch clamping collet.
  • 8mm clamping collet.
  • Collet wrench.
  • T-LOC Systainer storage container.
  • 3-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 4.2 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 15.5 x 11.6 x 6.4 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 6 amp.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch and 8mm.
  • Warranty: 3-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat RPM does the motor produce?

A10,000 to 26,000 RPM.


QWhat is the depth control?

ATo 1/256 of an inch.


QWhat is the pitch of the horizontal base?

A1.5 degrees.

Overview

As a professional, its essential that you have reliable tools, and this Festool trim router ticks all the boxes. It features so many advanced features that will come in handy, and even comes with a range of helpful accessories.

It’s also one of the only trim routers that can be used with both horizontal and vertical bases. Its price is a drawback, but it’s definitely a good option for those who seek reliability in their tools.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Festool MFK-700 trim router reviews.

 

9

MLCS 9056

MLCS 9056

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s heavy-duty yet compact at the same time.
  • It offers rack and pinion height adjustment.
  • It’s easy to operate.
  • It’s one of the cheapest on the market.
  • It comes with an edge guide when many don’t.
  • It has a flush trimming attachment.
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty.
  • It comes with a spare set of motor brushes.

Cons:

  • It gets very hot quickly.
  • The base is not snug enough to cut very precisely.
  • The enclosed bit gets hot to the point of burning your workpiece.

What’s included

  • MLCS Trim Router.
  • Edge guide.
  • Collet wrench.
  • Spare set of motor brushes.
  • Flush trimming attachment.
  • ¼-inch collet.
  • Lifetime warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 5.6 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 6 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 1HP.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: Lifetime warranty.

FAQ

QDoes it come with a bag or case?

ANo.


QCan it be mounted on a table?

ANo, it’s hand-held only.


QWhat is the maximum depth it can cut?

A1.25 inches.

Overview

You get a lot of bang for your buck with this router. It’s packed full of convenient features, comes with a range of accessories, and is very compact and easy to use.

The best part is, it’s one of the cheapest trim routers on the market. The main issue people seem to be having with it, though, is that it runs exceptionally hot. As a result, the enclosed bit can burn your workpiece.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read MLCS 9056 trim router reviews.

 

10

PORTER-CABLE PCE6435

PORTER-CABLE PCE6435

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It has a powerful motor.
  • The base is really solid and durable.
  • The locking clips are larger than standard for better motor release and depth adjustment.
  • The bit height adjustments are very accurate.
  • It comes with a straight edge guide.
  • It’s affordable.

Cons:

  • It vibrates so severely that the speed dial changes.
  • The depth adjustment doesn’t hold true.
  • The bit isn’t snug in the collet.

What’s included

  • PORTER-CABLE Trim Router.
  • ¼-inch collet.
  • Collet wrench.
  • Straight edge guide.
  • 3-year warranty.

Specs

  • Weight: 4.6 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 8.3 x 8.3 x 5.8 inches.
  • Power Source: Electric.
  • Motor Size: 5.6 amps.
  • Collet Size: ¼-inch.
  • Warranty: 3-year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat RPM does the motor produce?

A16,000 to 35,000 RPM.


QDoes it come with a storage case?

ANo.


QDoes it cut at an angle?

ANo.

Overview

This hand-held tool is suitable for hobbyists and occasional woodworkers who don’t require a lot of fancy features but just wish for a device to do the job well.

It does have minor problems with vibration and depth adjustment, but if you’ve got a knack for making small alterations, it’s not going to be too much of a problem.

It’s affordable, comes with a range of accessories and even has a three-year warranty.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read PORTER-CABLE PCE6435 trim router reviews.

 

Where to Buy Trim Routers?

When you’re looking for a cost-effective trim router that will suit both professionals and hobbyists, there’s no place better than Amazon.com to find one.

Amazon is where you find exceptional deals, as well as well-priced tools that can be delivered directly to your door. Of course, there’s no harm in visiting your local hardware store, but if variety is what you’re seeking, Amazon delivers.

 

Leading Trim Router Brands and Manufacturers

    • DeWALT
    • PORTER-CABLE
    • Makita

 

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