11 Best Plunge Routers: Top Picks & Guide

Top 5 BEST PLUNGE ROUTERS

If you are a woodworker or you are looking to work on complex jigs that make joints, then you will automatically need a plunge router. With a plunge router, you will receive admiring comments from many people when you display your fluted cabinet doors as well as new picture frames. When you are buying a plunge router, the end result should be in your mind. You will do your woodwork activities with precision and control. This article describes the best plunge routers.

View the Best Plunge Routers on the Market, Below

Triton router is the most versatile woodworker’s harmony and works with high precision. With this tool, total control is guaranteed together with patented precision engineering. Triton TRA001 features a powerful motor 3.25 HP that can handle the toughest workpieces with speeds of between 8000-21000 RPM.

Furthermore, the router features full range specifications, including direct reading, easy-set, and 3-stage turret that ensures precise preset depth cuts. Triton plunge router is easy to use with the built-in router lift that allows easy bit changes. The bit change is easily accessed through the base using a single wrench. It also features an automatic spindle lock that engages for safe bit changes.

Achieve an excellent performance with the side air vents that reduce the intake of dust into the motor casing hence smooth operation. The fully enclosed guard helps in dust extraction. It also provides maximum protection from the cutting zone. The automatic spindle lock will only engage when the power switch cover is closed and also during bit changes

Cons

• No dedicated vacuum ports

Dewalt router provides excellent versatility as well as professional-grade quality. The DW618B3 kit includes three bases: a plunge base, D-handle base, and a fixed base that can perform a wide range of activities. The product features a 2-1/4 horsepower with a 12 amp with a variable speed motor that gives the power to rout smoothly against the toughest hardwoods.

The router’s electronic variable- speed lets you choose between 8,000- 24,000 RPM for many applications. Since the router uses full automated backup, then you are guaranteed constant speed under load. On top of that, the motor’s soft-start minimizes the start-up torque ensuring optimal control.

The clear LEXAN sub-base gives optimum bit visibility and base durability and allows standard template guide bushings to make the application setups easy.

Routing applications produce much dust that can damage the electronic parts. However, for this system, there is a dust-sealed switch for protection against dust ingestion hence long-lasting durability.

Cons

• It does not come with a centering tool

Plunge Router has been made with high precision and a trigger control system that is located in the handle for elevated control. On top of that, the router has a variable speed dial that is ideal for matching its speed to workpiece and task.

With precision excellent adjustment control, the product works with other products, including VACOO6, MRF01, and VACO21. The Bosch RA1054 router guide boasts great versatility since the guide cuts along the workpiece and up to 8 inches in from the edge. The product also gives you the freedom to do edge forming while using non piloted bits.

This is a combination router where both routers are equipped with fast 2.3 HP soft start motors. The motors will help you set the speed according to your job. Bosch uses a 15 Amp motor, 2, and 3 horsepower with speed ranging between 10,000 and 25,000 RPM.

Cons

• No usable vacuum port

The product boasts high-quality construction with an aluminum motor housing that guarantees durability. Makita router kit has a non-marring base with high durability to facilitate increased workpiece protection. The router allows easy reading of depth scales.

Cons

• It is quite heavy

Cons

• It does not feature a spindle lock

This product gives powerful precision using its smooth plunge action as well as superior performance. The RP1800 15 AMP power and also ease-of-use features. It also has an increased plunge capacity for numerous applications such as cabinetry, woodworking doors, windows, and many more.
The 15 Amp motor has a no-load speed of up to 22000 RPM and has a 0-2.75 inches plunge depth capacity hence easy penetration into the workpiece. It also features linear ball bearings ensuing plunge action. The RP1800 is equipped with an oversized ball bearing and even a built-in fan with labyrinth construction to prevent dust from entering the route for long-lasting durability.
It has ergonomic handles with a two-finger switch for additional control as well as a lock-on trigger ensuring continuous operation. The RP 1800 comes with a shaft lock hence fast and easy bit change. A tool-less template guide provides easy installation and removal.

Cons

• No vacuum ports

The OF 1400 router offers 1400 watts of power that is enough to handle almost all routine tasks. It weighs less than 10 lbs. Hence small enough for extreme maneuverability. It demonstrates excellent versatility since it accepts 0.5, 0.25 inches bits. With a 3-position depth stop turret, you get incremental steps that enable you to plow through the most in-depth routing activities and create accurate depth stop points.

Cons

• Quite heavy

Hitachi plunge base router boasts a powerful 11-amp motor with a peak horsepower of 2.25 and a nickel-plated housing. The motor also has an adjustable no-load speed of between 8000-24000 RPM hence perfect setting your woodwork activities.

With a two-stage motor clamp, the router kit allows you to make fast and easy base changes as well as depth adjustments. Switching from a plunge base to a fixed base will only take a few seconds. On top of that, the plunge base comes with a fine-depth adjustment knob that allows precise depth control.

Cons

• Does not feature a dedicated soft-start function

Tacklife brand aims to produce the best products that will inspire buyers to live a convenient and secure lifestyle. The fixed and plunge router is best for woodworking, such as furniture processing, door processing, woodworking slotting, edge finishing, crafting, and many more.

The product is outstanding with a scaled compass that allows you to develop a circle with a diameter of between 8 to 40 inches. The motor has variable speeds between 10,000 to 30,000 RPM; hence, you can choose the best speeds for different woodwork projects.

Tacklife plunge router features an aluminum alloy base that is more durable and provides stable routing. It also comes with an aluminum guide that will help you to fix the router for complete high precision slotting that makes parallel carving much easier and, in turn, saves more time.

Cons

• No cons found

It can power through the toughest routing jobs due to its 2.3 horsepower and 15-amp motor. The motor has variable speeds ranging from 10,000-25,000 rpm. The product also features a constant response circuitry that ensures the router maintains a constant speed in the entire cut.

The fixed base also includes threaded holes for mounting to a router table in a 3-hole pattern for more excellent stability.

Cons

• Not durable

The handles provide total comfort and confidence as you pass the 11.25 pounds router around. With a soft start, there is no jerking even when you start the router at its peak speed. It also comes with 0.5 and 0.25 inch collect, and when you need to change the bit, you will love the spindle-lock button.
Pros.

Cons

• None

How we Selected the Best Plunge Router

Factors we considered when selecting the best plunge router

1. Need

The modern trim routers are more fully-featured for tackling small scale routing as well as joinery milling and template routing. Before you are lost in the sea of router prices, sizes, and features, you must consider the purpose of the router. Generally, focus on the function and be realistic of your needs and skills.

2. Size

A mid-sized plunge router is best for most woodwork activities since it will give a stable balance of technique as well as power. A mid-sized router covers more bases compared to a trim router. If you want a single router that will perform all kinds that includes moderate to large profiling cuts, then the mid-sized machine is your solution.

3. Work Strength

The level of work strength will depend on the type of wood you are working with. Harder woods will need more torque to cut through. The tougher the wood, the greater the power required hence a powerful engine.

4. Dependability

This is a significant factor to consider. You need a machine that you can depend on, and to achieve this, it should have a durable construction for lifetime usage.

5. Style

There are many routers with different styles and also extra options for general purposes. The fixed base routers are not restricted. They have fixed bases for a variety of jobs that involve edge routing. These routers are perfect for handling general cutting work.
The plunge-based routers will be versatile for numerous jobs. You can adjust the router’s depth according to the cutting depths.

6. Speed

Speed is essential when it comes to cutting. A primary plunge router comes with a massive blade that will cut through the dense wood. Speed is evaluated in RPM, and each motor has a minimum and maximum limitation for speed. You should choose a router with incredible speed as well as amazing features. A speedy router will not jam easily. Choose a machine with adjustable speed for versatility.

Buyer’s Guide: What Should You Look for In A Plunge Router

Below are the things to look for in a plunge router

A. Variable Speed

When choosing a plunge router, you ought to consider variable speed. This is important since it offers excellent versatility in your woodwork. You might require low speed when working with softer wood pieces. At the same time, a higher speed motor usually results in an outstanding performance hence the need for variable speed.

B. Vacuum port

The vacuum port will cut back on the mess on your work area and also assists in keeping your plunge router debris free. This is an important feature to consider since it adds to the durability of your machine. The vacuum port must connect to the dust collector easily so that the debris will not escape.

C. Electronic feedback circuitry

For the best plunge router, it is good to look for a model with an electronic feedback circuitry. It monitors the workload that the router is experiencing hence allowing you to make the necessary adjustments. This will enable you to maintain the proper speed. It is also vital since the bits operate differently at varying speeds.

D. Spindle Lock

Choose a plunge router with an automatic spindle lock. This ensures that the chunk, as well as the bit, are automatically locked in the case where the speed control trigger is released. The manual models will need you to activate the spindle lock by sliding the reverse or forward switch to a central position.

E. Soft Start

The best plunge router should have a soft start function for precise and accurate cutting. A soft start allows you to have control of cutting different angles and depths.

F. Above Table Adjustmentsl

A good plunge router should have an adjusting knob for the height above the table. This makes it usable by all kinds of adults hence a preferred feature.

How to change the depth of your plunge router

Fixed Base vs. Plunge Router

On the other hand, plunge routers have been designed as a solution to fixed base routers in the cutting depth. You can adjust this depth when the machine is still powered on. This eliminates the manual work of turning off and on repeatedly. The plunge routers also use depth stops hence precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you place a plunge router on a router table?

  It is alright to use a plunge router on a router table, but some work better than others. The safety practices will vary depending on the type of mechanism that you will use with your setup router lift. Generally, working with a plunge router in a router table is as safe as using the fixed base router.

• Is a plunge router necessary

  The plunge router is necessary if you are working on top of a board for activities such as dados, mortices, insets fluting, and more. Plunge base routers are applicable for edge work, such as profiling edges combined with a round-over bit.

• Do you pull or push a plunge router?

  When you are looking straight down the top of a router, the bit will be rotating in a clockwise direction. This means that you will move the router from left to right, but it is only valid when it is positioned at the center between the workpiece and you.

• Can you use a plunge router bit with a Dremel?

  The plunge router adapter is designed to be used with the Dremel, which accommodates 0.125-inch diameter bits.

• Can you apply a rotary tool as a plunging tool?

  When you are woodworking or doing routing projects, the Dremel will convert your Dremel rotary tool to a plunge router. With this attachment, you will use the rotary tool to cut letters, rout circles, and many more.

• What is the longest plunge router bit?

  The most extended plunge router bit is the Freud 2.5 inches bit, 0.5 shanks as well as 0.5 inches cutting diameter.

• How deep will a plunge router bit go?

  If you are cutting a groove, you will be required to set up the cut and then adjust the bit so that it will be cutting around 0.25 inches deep. Make the cut and then lower the bit. Repeat the procedure until you cut a groove with the desired depth.

• What speed should be in my plunge router?

  The speed of your plunge router will vary depending on the bit diameter.
  Bit diameter. Maximum speed.
  Up to 1 inch 24000 RPM.

  1-2 inches. 18000 RPM.

  2-2.5 inches. 16000 RPM.

  2.5- 3.5 inches. 12000 RPM.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, this article has given you detailed information about the best plunge routers and a buyer’s guide. It has also answered the frequently asked questions hence leaving you in a position to make the right decision when you decide to purchase a plunge router.

Click here to read my review on the best palm routers.