The Best Budget Wood Router with Reviews 2024

When it comes to budget wood routers, the Makita RT0701C is hands down the best option on the market. It delivers the best of both worlds when it comes to functionality and performance. It features a variable speed control dial which ranges from 10,000 – 30,000 RPM and allows the user to fine tune the speed to their application.

The 1 ¼ horsepower motor is capable of soft startup which adds to the users control. Its electronic speed control maintains consistent speed under load and the quick release cam lock system allows easy base installation / removal and depth adjustments. Uses 0.25’’ router bits.

Comes with a one year warranty from the date of purchase and a 30 day money back guarantee! It is not compatible with standard templates and the 4 hole pattern on the base plate doesn’t match up with many accessories.

Amateur woodworkers and hobbyists alike will greatly appreciate the functionality and performance the Makita RT0701C has to offer, there really is nothing better under $100!

The Bosch PR20EVS is a compact and lightweight router that is easy to use. Suited to beginners and hobbyists it takes our best value pick. The 1 horsepower, 5.6 amp motor comes with variable speed capability able to produce speeds of 16,000 – 35,000 rpm. For added ease of use the variable speed dial is mounted on top of the tools body.

It provides a straight edge guide that will guide the router parallel to the edge of your workpiece up to 3-5/8’’ away from the edge. This offers the opportunity to perform a wider variety of cuts. An angled cord exit and ability to perform quick and easy bit changes add to the convenience of this product and allow the user to complete jobs sooner and with less hassle.

Includes a fixed base, 0.25’’ self-releasing collet chuck, shaft wrench and collet wrench. No plunge base is included (can be purchased separately). Can vibrate a lot at times and only uses 0.25 ‘’ bits.

Our best value pick, the Bosch PR20EVS is brilliantly priced for the number of features it offers. Truly a must have for those in need of a single-hand trim router.

The Enertwist ET-RT-710S takes our best budget spot. This model packs a durable 1.25 horsepower motor able to produce 6 variable speeds ranging from 10,000 – 32,000 rpm. It also has soft start functionality for improved user control, incremental speed increases and electronic speed control to maintain bit speed, no matter the work material.

Also includes overload stalling protection to prevent the router from stalling, therefore adding to user safety. An adjustable rack and pinion depth control for added precision when cutting and a quick release cam lock system for easy base removal.

Accessories include a straight edge guide, dust extraction hood, curved edge roller guide, ¼ ‘’ & 3/8 ’’ drop-forged collet, spanner wrench, collet nut and a replacement carbon brush set.

If you are a craftsman or hobbyist looking for a lightweight, small and easy to manage router that can easily cope with a variety of soft and hardwoods for a budget price, then the Enertwist ET-RT-710S will suit you down to a T.

When buying the WEN 6033 you are essentially getting two routers in one with its spring-loaded base that features a lock-down system which allows for easy change between fixed and plunge bases. Maximum plunge depth up to 2-3/8 ’’.

The motor is a 15 amp variable speed motor with speeds in the range of 8,000 to 23,000 rotations per minute. It also features soft start up capabilities which add to user safety and prevents unwanted damage to your workpiece. Macro and micro adjustment dials to maximize precision and the 1/2-inch collet includes an additional 1/4-inch adapter, allowing for compatibility with a wide variety of bits.

Comes with a multi-function straight-edge fence, template guide, circle-cutting centering pin, fence scale, 1 ½ dust collect duct and a carrying case. Accepts both 0.25 ’’ and 0.5 ’’ router bits. 2 year warranty included. Runs loader and has a lower top end RPM than other models. The carrying case provided is of poor quality.

The WEN 6033 is for individuals looking for a budget fixed and plunge router all rolled into one.

The Masterworks AERM144 features an 11amp, 2 horsepower motor capable of speeds up to 25,000 rpm. Micro-fine adjustment ring for adjustments in increments of 1/64 of an inch and rubber molded handles for added comfort during use. The aluminum motor design and dust sealed power switch adds to the durability of this product.

Included are; 1 x ¼ ‘’ collet chuck, 1 x 3/8 ’’ collet chuck, 2 x wrenches, 2 x carbon brushes, 1 x edge guide, 1 x tool bag and a warranty card. Accepts 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch router bits. This model does not carry as reputable a brand name as its competitors and some of the accessories lack quality.

The Masterworks AERM144 is an extremely functional budget router that can perform a wide range of jobs, from precise bit plunging, dovetail cutting, edge forming and more.