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Makita RT0701C
- Smooth starting motor
- Powerful aluminum motor
- Variable speed
DEWALT DWP611PK
- Powerful motor
- LED light
- Quickly removable base
Cozyel Palm Router
- Comes with 2 guides
- Transparent base
- Comes with universal brush
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Out of the dozens and dozens of different compact routers on the market, finding the best model for your woodshop can be a challenge.
However, if you’re unsure of what to get, or perhaps you’re looking for a compact router that you’ll continue to use long after you’ve improved your routing game, we’ve got the perfect list for you.
Today, you’ll learn about the best compact router out of the 39 models we analyzed, as well as several alternatives that make routing a lot simpler to do.
Best Compact Router – Makita RT0701C
The best compact router out of close-to-40 models we researched in depth is the Makita RT0701C. This highly versatile compact driller is bound to astound you with its powerful motor and deep routing depth, as well as its user-friendly controls
Behold the key specifications of the Makita RT0701C down below—
- 1.25-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 10-30,000 RPM
- Electronic Speed Control
The Makita RT0701C is one of the best overall compact routers available out there. Its compact design is suitable for everyone who needs control and accuracy, weighing only 3.9 pounds. This unit is powered by a 1.25-HP motor, powerful enough for cuts hardwood, small jobs, and boring holes. It has a variable speed of 10,000 to 30,000 RPM, making it a versatile router to accommodate various usages.
This tool’s most noticeable feature is a quick-release cam control system, which gives you easy adjustments to get exact cuts as you wish. The motor housing is made from aluminum that can dissipate heat quickly. With one push on the power button, this compact router will start smoothly and softly.
Pros
- Smooth starting motor
- Powerful aluminum motor
- Variable speed
- Compact design for small projects
Cons
- Could produce less heat
The RT0701C comes with a great set of features and excellent versatility for small woodworking projects, especially when you purchase it as a plunge base combo kit.
Top Compact Router in the Market Compared
| Product Image | Product Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall - Makita RT0701C |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Premium - DEWALT DWP611PK |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Budget - Cozyel Palm Router |
| Check Today's Price |
 | DEWALT DWP611 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Bosch PR20EVS |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Bosch PR20EVSK |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Avid Power MW104 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Bosch 1617EVS |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Best Cordless - Makita XTR01Z |
| Check Today's Price |
 | CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Ryobi P601 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | PORTER-CABLE PCE6430 |
| Check Today's Price |
Reviews of Best Compact Router
Best Premium - DEWALT DWP611PK
Key Specifications
- 1.25-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 16-27,000 RPM
- Soft-Starting Motor
The DEWALT DWP611PK is at the peak of what a high-speed router should be.
It releases enough power to get any small woodworking project done. This unit produces a rotating speed ranging from 16,000 to 27,000 RPM.
Furthermore, the electronic speed control allows you to adjust the speed as needed. Its variable rate protects this unit from the burn, so you can always have constant speed during operation.
The depth ring and clamping mechanism keep the motor locked in position. The router’s simple handling helps to make accurate cuts.
While the base removal is quite taxing, the DWP611PK comes with a spring-attached release tab for faster release. LED light is an additional feature to the user.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- LED light
- Quickly removable base
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Not ideal for elderly users
The DWP611PK comes with fixed and plunge bases that are suitable for any craftsmen to get exact edging and trimming.
Best Budget - Cozyel Palm Router
Key Specifications
- 800W Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- Up to 30,000 RPM
- Transparent Base
The Cozyel Palm Router has a number of excellent features worth discussing.
To begin with, it comes with a transparent base that allows you to see the trimmer edge with no hassle. This enables you to perform many applications with greater precision.
This motor in the router takes 800W of power. Considering that a router’s wattage can vary between 400 and 3,000 Watts, you can see that this unit is not underpowered.
It also features two guides to help you make precise cuts and work on curves.
The universal carbon brush can be easily replaced as required. Just like other routers, this unit comes with a quick release lever to remove the motor with ease.
Pros
- Comes with 2 guides
- Transparent base
- Comes with universal brush
- Quick release lever
Cons
- Could be less noisy
It’s a multipurpose palm router, which means ideal for applications other than trimming. It can also be used for drilling and grooving jobs.
DEWALT DWP611
Key Specifications
- 1.25-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 16-27,000 RPM
- Dual LEDs
The DEWALT DWP611 is an excellent combination of durability and ergonomic design.
It also comes with several remarkable features, such as Dual LED and clear sub-base, to ensure clear visibility during operation.
This unit is powered by a 1.25-HP motor that works effectively at a maximum of 1.25HP, making it perfect for all laminate trimming and routing gigs.
The RPM ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 so that you can adjust the speed you need for a specific material and get precise cuts with ease.
This unit is also packed with a clamping and depth ring system to ensure the router remains in position.
Pros
- Dual LED
- Ergonomic design
- Variable speed control
- Powerful motor for various applications
Cons
- Could be slimmer for improved trimming
The DWP611 is a router made of industry-grade aluminum that can withstand rough usage and countless cutting jobs.
Its powerful motor can handle many complex applications by changing between plunge and fixed bases with ease.
Bosch PR20EVS
Key Specifications
- 1-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 16-35,000 RPM
- Can use 1-5/16-inch Bits
The Bosch PR20EVS comes with a 1-HP motor, which is relatively powerful to take a ¼-inch bite with 1 to ¼-inch core box bit in softwoods.
The engine delivers a speed of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM. The palm handle suits your hand very well, and the base comes with an imprint that provides a tight grip.
It also features two wrenches for the nozzle and shaft instead of a stamped piece of metal that you can substitute.
The notable feature of this compact router is the power cord that is around a foot long and made of soft material.
This is a massive tool with heavy aluminum body, which provides the router’s trim quality, strength, and durability.
Pros
- Soft-start motor
- Ergonomic design
- Comes with two wrenches
- 12 variable speed option
Cons
- Could dissipate heat better
This compact router doesn’t come with a plunge base; if it comes with one, it would be more excellent for completing inlay work.
Bosch PR20EVSK
Key Specifications
- 1-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 16-35,000 RPM
- Palm Edge Guide
The Bosch PR20EVSK comes with the top ratings among the compact router for its excellent performance with a 1.0-HP motor.
The spinning speed ranges between 16,000 and 35,000 RPM, which is good enough for such a compact router to compete with other units in the same class.
This tool includes a spindle lock on the engine and ¼-inch bits with 1 to 5/6-inch diameter, which helps you use it with no hassle.
It’s a rubber-coated, palm-handled router that makes it possible for you to use it with one hand only. It also has electric circuits to the speed consistency during operation.
Pros
- Rubber coated handle
- 12 variable speed option
- Provides maximum precision
- Compact router with a powerful motor
Cons
- Could vibrate less
This compact router still remains in competition with other tools because of its versatile features, user-friendly, and straightforward.
It’s perfect for DIYers as they require accurate operations and expect flexibility.
Avid Power MW104
Key Specifications
- 1.25-HP Motor
- ¼ and 3/8-inch Bits
- 10-32,000 RPM
- Dual LEDs
The Avid Power MW104 comes with a 1.25-HP motor that works well with 1.25-HP, meaning it’s excellent for all laminate trimming and routing gigs that usually require lots of power.
You can rely on its variable speed dial to get the exact speed you need for any material you’re working on.
It comes with a depth adjustment system to help you make precise cuts. Besides, it also has dual LED lights to enhance accuracy and visibility during operation.
Its handles are rubber coated to give you a comfortable grip. Again, this unit has a quick locking system to change and adjust the base with ease.
Pros
- Dual LED lights
- Comes with many accessories
- Variable speed control option
- Rubber-coated grip
Cons
- Could be less noisy
This compact router is made of aluminum for its base and body that offers durability. It also comes with a dust hood, making it easy to clean the dust and maintain the cleanliness of the workspace.
Bosch 1617EVS
Key Specifications
- 2.25-HP Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 8-25,000 RPM
- Compatible with 3-hole fixed bases
The Bosch 1617EVS is powered by a 2.25-HP motor, which generates rotating speed up to 25,000 RPM, allowing you to get precise results.
You will be pleased to know the fact that when you drill at higher RPM, the router will not spin to maintain consistent working so you can make precise cuts.
This unit’s fixed-base consists of two griped handles that can be set on the router table without hassle.
The striking feature of this compact router is its operating system that continuously maintains the motor speed.
Moreover, the motor keeps an optimum RPM for smoother operations, even at a considerable load.
Pros
- Light and compact
- User-friendly and versatile
- Has micro-fine adjustment
- Maintain accuracy and precision
Cons
- Could be less shaky
Although this unit has a built-in T wrench, you can still easily reinstall or uninstall the router without the twists. It features a predrilled plate and auto-release collets so you can mount it on the table with ease.
Best Cordless - Makita XTR01Z
Key Specifications
- 18V Battery
- ¼-inch Bits
- 10-30,000 RPM
- Brushless Motor
The Makita XTR01Z is not just a compact router, but it’s also a cordless and brushless router. This unit offers you impeccable routing strength, despite its small body.
It generates a maximum speed of 30,000 RPM, powerful enough to dig through hard material without hassle.
The lithium-ion battery and brushless motor also ensure that the unit can run up to 50% longer without showing any sign of slowing down.
Besides, a variable speed control dial allows the user to adjust its speed with the appropriate tasks. Once a speed setting has been selected, this compact router will run at a constant rate unless otherwise changed.
This allows you to better control it, even in while performing complex cuts.
Pros
- Rubberized grip
- Dual LED lights
- Longer battery life
- Slim and compact design
Cons
- Could be less bulky
The XTR01Z is a battery-powered cordless router but still does an excellent job doing the tasks of bigger units.
CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router
Key Specifications
- 800W Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- Up to 30,000 RPM
- Complete Accessory Kit
The CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router claims to be a premium tool for technical and DIY applications.
Its frame is made of aluminum and plastic, making it have high durability. This unit is powered by a powerful motor that can deliver up to 30,000 RPM.
The trimmer is specifically designed in order to enhance its usability. You will find it easy to use it for various trimming jobs.
The transparent cover helps you to control the flying sawdust. The transparent base hood also allows you to get better precision.
Pros
- Light and compact
- Comes with a lift knob
- Transparent base
- Maintain great precision and accuracy
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
This tool comes with several attachments, which include adapter, wrenches, trimming guides, etc.
Besides, it’s a multipurpose router that you can use in various wood projects such as cabinet processing, wood veneer, wood processing, and other materials that require trimming and cutting jobs.
Ryobi P601
Key Specifications
- 800W Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 29,000 RPM
- Shareable Battery
The Ryobi P601 One+ comes with a combination of impressive performance and powerful battery life and can deliver a high-quality trim routing with a maximum capacity of 29,000 RPM.
This 18V router is ideal for any kind of trimming, edge forming, and hinge routing work. One of the properties that make it stand out is its LED lights to illuminate your work area.
It comes with a rubberized grip that leaves no room for this tool to slip out of your hand. It’s a micro-adjustment trim tool, meaning you can control the depth of the cuts you want to make with ease.
The entire router is made of aluminum, which gives you better control while using it.
Pros
- Cordless trim router
- LED lights
- Rubberized grip
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Could be less noisy
With lithium-ion batteries fully charged, you can conduct 600 linear feet cutting with impressive accuracy and precision in just one go with this Ryobi P601.
PORTER-CABLE PCE6430
Key Specifications
- 4.5A Motor
- ¼-inch Bits
- 31,000 RPM
- Depth Rings
The PORTER-CABLE PCE6430 offers more than enough power for all sorts of projects with a 4.5A motor that delivers maximum speed up to 31,000 RPM.
It’s a machined compact router for precision, which means it’s a tool that trims any material with high accuracy and precision.
It also comes with extra-large clamping clips, making it easy and fast to remove the engine or change the depth.
This router also comes with an LED light and a transparent base that allows you to work without trouble.
The depth ring of this tool makes it easy and quick to adjust the bits’ height since this is a big concern for many craftsmen.
Pros
- Quick and easy removal motor
- Convenient height adjustment
- Precision machined router
- High-speed performance
Cons
- It vibrates a lot
The PCE6430 is perfect for any kind of woodworking project, thanks to its versatility and RPMs that it can reach.
Best Compact Router Buying Guide
Routers are some of the most useful but also hard-to-shop-for woodworking tools for newbies. If you’re not sure which of the compact router models is best for your shop, this guide will be of some assistance.
Height Adjustment
Routers are used to make super-fine cuts into wooden workpieces, so you should find a model that lets you fine-tune the cutting depth.
Also, changing between bits shouldn’t be a complicated process.
All of the models listed above will let you swap out different bits as well as change the routing depth by mere fractions of an inch for extra precision.
Unobstructed View
When using a compact router, it’s important that you see where the router bit is at all times. You can do this by finding a model that comes with a transparent base.
Many of the models above have transparent bases or wide windows that let you see what you’re doing.
Soft-Start
A soft-start motor lets you ease into the cut without removing more material than you planned to. The gradual increase in speed will give you greater control over where the bit goes and how much material it removes. This is a must-have feature for first-time compact router users.
Ergonomics
You won’t be able to tell by looking at router pictures online, but we guarantee that all of the models on our list offer maximum comfort by coming with comfortable grips or handles.
FAQ’s
Based on our research, the model we think most customers would find the most value in is the Makita RT0701C. That said, it doesn’t come with as many features as other models on our list, and it’s far from being the most powerful. However, whether you’re just starting or have been in the woodworking game for decades, the Makita RT0701C is bound to impress. Plus, it’s super-cheap for what it can do.
Some brands make router tables that are compatible with smaller routers. However, you would find a lot more value by mounting a larger router onto your router table. Compact routers are mainly used for removing tinier quantities of material from smaller workpieces. A router table, on the other hand, is used to aggressively remove larger chunks. If you can’t find a router table for your compact router, consider using your handyman skills and making one from scratch.
All sorts of things! A compact router excels at producing decorative edges, concealing joints, and straightening crooked boards (somewhat like a jointer). Also, if the compact router has a plunging base, you can even dig holes in the middle of boards without starting from the edge. Not all compact routers come with a plunging base, so make sure you double-check to see that you’re getting the right model.
The most effective (and safest) way to operate a compact router is by feeding the router into the wood, starting from your left. This ensures that the router bit makes proper contact at the correct angle on the board to remove tiny bits of material as you glide the base along your workpiece. The router bit will always turn clockwise, so to prevent kickback and other nasty accidents, always keep this in mind.
Summary
Today, we’ve shown you what the best of the best compact router is (Makita RT0701C).
However, our list will provide you with plenty of top-notch alternatives to help you produce the molding, frames, and joints that your next project needs.
If you don’t know which compact router to go with, we’d be happy to assist in the comments section.