We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
| Preview | Name | Awards | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Goplus | Best Below $100 | |
  | Bosch | Best Between $100-$200 | |
  | Kreg | Best Above $200 |
Any serious woodworker needs a router table for maximum utilization of the router. The hand router is common, but it cannot beat the precision and simplicity of the bench top router. Free hands mean more concentration and control when edging profiles or routing grooves.
If you are looking for the best bench top router table, you have come to the ideal place. We will guide you through a review of some of the best bench top router tables and a buying guide so you can start your project as soon as possible. Note that router tables are categorized as Bench Top, Floor Standing and Extension router tables. For its adaptability and versatility, the bench top router table is a first choice for many users.
Of course, some woodworkers prefer designing their own router tables. This can work if your list of projects is limited, but if routing is a daily routine, and then this list of the best bench top router tables is for you.
Best Benchtop Router Table Reviews
Best Benchtop Router Table Below $100
1. Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table Wood Working Craftsman Tool Benchtop
Grooved Surface keeps dust and chips away from work place, bit height gauge helps simplify set-up and improves accuracy of cuts.
Every woodworker wants to have a bench top router table that is not only affordable, but also versatile enough to cater for most if not all routing needs. The Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table is proving to be a woodworker’s dream table, especially for those designing the workshop or outfitting the basement. It allows for perfect cuts with the router, as it holds the tool securely.
Perhaps the most noticeable thing about this product is the low cost, a factor that may drive some buyers away, unfortunately. Comparing this affordability and the plenty of features offered, we consider this one of the best budget picks in the market today.
It is not that it compromises on durability. The extension wings are aluminum while the main table is steels, an ideal combination for a long lasting item. For this factor alone, the product can serve both professionals and newbies.
Versatility is a key feature of this table, because despite it being a bench top router table, it can still act as a standalone item. Anyone in need of a mobile table will find it handy. It will fit in many shops or basements, as its main table measures 13″x18”, with an extension table of 8″x18″. The weight is not entirely challenging either at just 44 lbs.
The extension table adds to the convenience of this product, as the user can place almost any item on the table. That is what makes woodworking so easy. It can carry a base plate of up to 6 inches, thus offering enough support for the work piece.
Nothing beats an easy-to-use router table if it gives quality results. We find this product impressive in that it comes with an angle adjustment guide and an inbuilt miter track for easier and accurate round cuts. You can easily switch the sturdy fence on each side to enhance performance. There is no need to worry about dust and debris, as the dust guard takes care of that.
There is no secret about it; the Goplus Electric Aluminum Router Table is not for the avid professional who does heavy-duty tasks regularly. However, the fact that it is affordable and comes with several relevant features makes it a wonderful purchase for lighter applications.
2. Trim Router Table by Rockler
Made of durable vinyl wrapped MDF
Rockler Woodworking has been releasing innovative products over the years, but the Trim Router Table may not be one of their most recognizable ones. This router table is a small unique product that offers an expert combination of stability and convenience only seen in small sized router tables and compact routers separately.
It is also low cost so it will also suit the hobbyist who does not to commit to a large budget yet. As long as you have a bench or any horizontal surface, this table will clamp easily. It features pre-drilled holes so it will work perfectly on a table, a bench, or even the tailgate of a truck. At 6.72 pounds weight, this bench top router table should be one of the lightest you can ever come across.
Stability is crucial for router tables, and the heavier ones have the advantage of weight. For the Trim Router Table, the pre-drilled 1/4″ thick acrylic base attaches to the table firmly and minimizes vibrations.
All Rockler Woodworking are impressively multipurpose, so we expected this product to focus on that despite its small size. True to this prediction, you will immediately discover that the Trim Router Table can be used in a number of different ways. You could detach it in seconds and then use it as a handheld or standalone device. Attaching it back to the bench is equally a smooth process that only lasts seconds.
You will also love the ease of use for applications such as tiny dadoes, round overs and chamfers. Not only the compact size, but also the wide and level acrylic base aids this. The construction is an ever-reliable vinyl-wrapped 3/4″ MDF (medium density fiberboard) that only measures 15-1/2″ x 11-1/2″.
If there is a perfect router for trim work, then it is the Trim Router Table. The perfectly drilled holes, stability and of course, the friendly price mean a lot for beginners and hobbyists. Even with the blemished outlook and the oversized fence gap, we still believe you should consider owning this product.
3. SKIL RAS800 SKIL Router Table
Feather boards help guide work piece for more accurate routing
SKIL products are popular in woodworking, so the entrance of the SKIL RAS800 SKIL Router Table into the list does not come as a surprise. At is available at a low price of below $100, but that does not make it an unworthy bench top router table. On the contrary, the product is ideal for mid-level and inexperienced woodworkers. It could also serve anyone who does not have enough storage for the bigger products.
The SKIL RAS800 SKIL Router Table is efficiently foldable in design, meaning that its legs fold for easy storage and transportation. You will be amazed when you fold it- it assumes a height of about 10 inches. Many users are impressed that the product comes pre-assembled, so the problems of fixing components are solved. Unfortunately, many have found it a little bit more unstable than they expected.
Mounting it should not cause any issue since it comes with a mounting plate for all popular routers and a quick clamp mount. As soon as you get the drift of this installation, you will not spend more than 30 seconds fixing or removing the router.
Notably, Accessory storage containers that not only store the accessories, but also protect them from elements accompany this router table. Some of the items you can place inside are router bits and the fence. A flawless process should save a lot of time and increase productivity.
Creating channel and edge routes should be simple, but remember that smoothness may not be top notch. You could perform edge molding, but consider checking on a test board to be sure the settings are okay. Even for complicated channels, you can count on the SKIL RAS800 SKIL Router Table to be of great help. Cutting precision and bit setup are in order thanks to the Bit height gauge feature.
If you are a beginner, we highly recommend this bench top router table. It is cost friendly and it performs exceptionally in tasks within its capability.
4. XtremepowerUS Deluxe Bench Top Aluminum Router Table
2 1/2
Are you doing light projects around the home on a regular basis? The XtremepowerUS Deluxe Bench Top Aluminum Router Table can be a perfect choice for you not only for the low weight and appropriate sturdiness, but also for the reasonable price. You may not find many other entries so affordable in this category.
Even with the low price, the product features some admirable features, for instance a dust collection port. Keep your area clean by fitting your wet or dry vacuum to the port. To make the cutting even easier, the product features a built-in scale that also enhances indexing. This is an essential component for woodworkers who work on small pieces of wood on a regular basis.
In line with its name, the product weighs in at a mere 4 pounds, but its 450 square inches aluminum table is designed to carry much heavier work without losing accuracy. It can fit most of the routers in the market thanks to its reliable 6″ diameter base plate. The multi-functional fence does it bit superbly by enhancing the joiner cutting process.
Control is top notch, so you can use the table on a variety of tasks without losing accuracy. We like the placement of the power switch, as it allows for stress-free control of the wet/dry vacuum. The grooves on the table’s surface helps keep most of the chips and dust away from the user’s vision.
Avoid stretching the table’s too much- it cannot take extremely heavy pieces of wood because its aluminum construction may snap. You will have to endure this small setback, to add to possible omission of parts as reported by some customers. In spite of this, the XtremepowerUS Deluxe Bench Top Aluminum Router Table still makes an excellent budget pick designed from the best components the money could afford.
Best Benchtop Router Table Between $100-$200
1. Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181
Includes router table, 3 mounting plate insert rings, mounting hardware for most Bosch routers, 2 featherboards, adjustable clear guard, starter pin and guard, outfeed fence shims
Any woodworker, whether recreational or professional, understands the importance of a strong bench top router table. If you do a search of the best router tables, the Bosch RA1181 will most likely be among the first to appear.
Why is this product topping the list in this price category? Sturdily designed and manufactured to work with a wide range of workbenches, the Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181 offers the perfect work surface for a variety of woodwork tasks. The cabinet like design is for not only visual appeal, but also reliable reduction of noise. It will also ensure that the workspace is perpetually clean and free of debris that could affect visibility at work.
This bench top router table features a rigid aluminum router mounting plate. The smooth flat surface allows for accurate work- pre-drilling and cutting. Since it comes with a tall fence, you can work on tall items comfortably. You can adjust the MDF faceplates to a height of your liking for the best results.
A dust collection port ensures that you do not litter the environment with debris or dirt. The port is connected to the fence and it can accept standard 2-1/2-Inch hoses for connection to the vacuum or dust collection system.
Versatility is clearly one of the desires of the manufacturer, if the design of the power cord is anything to go by. At six feet, this cord allows for placement of the machine at any convenient corner. With this machine, you also receive three mounting plate insert rings plus mounting hardware for most Bosch routers. This adds to versatility as it means you can still use your current tools.
You will also get adjustable feather-boards, guard, starter pin and a 30-day money back guarantee with a one-year service protection plan.
The only drawback that keeps coming up from users is that the fence is a little bit difficult to adjust. The fence is a good one at 4-7/8-Inches in height by 25-1/8-Inches, but it needs precise lining up. This is a problem for many users. With some practice, you will definitely get going and raise your confidence.
If you are a beginner, then there is no reason we should not recommend the Bosch RA1181. Comfortable and accurate, this machine has enough features and is just the right size for anyone looking to hone their routing skills. When you look at the capability of this bench top router table compared to other tables, the affordability is unmatched.
2. Rockler Convertible Benchtop Router Table with Insert Plate Kit for Mid-Size Routers
The folding base on our Convertible Benchtop Router Table can be quickly reconfigured for benchtop use, wall-mounted use, or collapsed entirely for storage or transport.
What do you look for in a bench top router table for a mid-size router? If it is reliable and excellent routing, then this Rockler Convertible Benchtop Router Table with Insert Plate Kit sorts you out. This package consists of everything you need for mobility and usability in small spaces including compactness, different usage modes and a wide range of features.
The tabletop is constructed from the durable MDF material, and it appears slightly bigger than other higher priced versions of the Rockler router table. The inclusion of a 3/4” miter track accepts most standard miter gauges means that set up should not be troublesome.
An ideal router table for storage in limited spaces and transport, this product features multiple mounting and set up options, as it folds up easily. It also allows the user to switch back and forth between handheld routing and table routing with the baseplate in place.
The leg system allows for two options- clamping or screwing to a flat work surface when the legs are in the usual “X” configuration and mounting to walls studs when the space is limited. Predrilled mounting keyholes make these switches simple. You simply fold down the table when you want to transport or store it.
Although this router is smaller than others from the same brand are, you realize that it still carries some of the most exciting features. For instance, it has a T-slotted adjustable melamine fence faces where you can attach jigs and featherboards, a tough aluminum fence and a miter slot for standard miter gauge bars. Fence adjustments are easier thanks to the included ergonomic knobs.
Majority of router bases are round, so this round-tipped baseplate should support many routers. The square end comes in handy for handheld routing as it is designed for straightedge guides. The plates feature a two-part design that allows for different router positions during installation. Two mounting screws are provided for joining the table and the plate.
The baseplate versions of the Rockler Convertible Benchtop Router Table are unique. They can accommodate both compact routers and mid-size ones. Each comes with starter pins and pre-drilled holes that fit most routers. The mid-size version carries insert rings.
Whether for your workshop or far-flung contractual jobs, you have a reason to acquire this reliable and versatile bench top router table.
3. Skil RAS900 Router Table
RAS900 comes with 2 containers and includes quick clamp system
There is a reason this bench top router table is considered as among the best for money. One of the most exciting things about it is the ease of assembly. Not many routers attach to the table easily; so many users have problems setting things up. Therefore, for pocket friendly price point, you get a user-friendly table.
Easy to store and use, the Skil RAS900 Router Table offers a wide array of features and accessories for user convenience and confidence, regardless of his or her woodworking skills. Simplicity of the machine starts from the mounting stage, where the quick clamp system takes care of business. This system bypasses the router inserts, thereby simplifying the process of attaching the machine to the table. After installation, you realize that leveling is not even necessary, as the product is ready to support woodworking tasks right away.
Even before looking at what the machine is carrying, the outward appearance speaks volumes. A stylish design attracts and elicits confidence. Then comes the various features and their quality and you realize that the components are built to not only offer the best user experience, but also remain relevant for long.
The inclusion of adjustable featherboards adds to the ease of use. These components help guide the work piece thus maintaining the appropriate dimensions and level.
Accuracy seems to be the forte of the Skil RAS900 Router Table, as suggested by the inclusion of the Bit height gauge. The height gauges promote accuracy because they support bit set up for smooth and precise cutting. This product is also one of the most convenient you can find. It features accessory storage containers that help keep accessories safe and close.
Since the Skil RAS900 Router Table arrives pre-assembled, you can just fix the router and start working immediately. You do not have to put together any parts because of the folding design.
This table may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications, but its accuracy and convenience is unmatched. It is great for engraving, sanding and any other detail work.
Best Benchtop Router Table Above $200
1. Kreg PRS1045 Router Table
High-Performance Table Top with Precision Insert-Plate System
If you have been searching for the best bench top router table for precision and heavy duty applications, search no more. The Kreg PRS1045 is designed to make the toughest of jobs so simple and it is simple to maintain. The dust collection ports and the extra smooth surface make using the table bliss.
One of the most remarkable features of this product is that it is versatile. The secret for this is the Self-Squaring Router Table Fence System, although the Customizable, Easily-Adjustable Steel Stand also adds value.
The setup contains a T-square carriage that allows for cutting of any kind of profile. With the lamination on the surface, moving the work piece is an effortless affair. Remember that the carriage is of Anodized Aluminum construction, so you should be able to handle the heaviest work pieces. No tough profile is tough on this table.
As mentioned, this is one of the easiest to use heavy-duty router tables. We take note of the built in dust collection ports, which get rid of the debris and dust. The table also features a built in dust extraction system for effective cleaning.
The stability of a heavy-duty router table is always a concern for the user. Otherwise, imbalance may render a critical work piece useless. The Kreg PRS1045 takes care of that, coming with a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) core. With this component, the table can overcome most of the vibrations caused during work.
The router table is also generally designed for the best anti-vibration capabilities, with 12 and 16-Gauge Steel Kreg Precision Router Table Top 1” Thick Table Surface being the highlights. It also engineered for flawless performance, with the laminate surface constructed from 16-gauge steel stand offering smooth sliding.
While excellent for home applications, the Kreg PRS1045 is clearly designed for the workshop. A strong construction, precision features and unmatched durability match heavy-duty demands. It offers value for every buck.
2. Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table with Essential Accessories
XL: Extra-large 16
One of the lightest products we are highlighting here, the Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table weighs in at a mere 32.5 pounds. The table is extremely tough, engineered for easy mobility, and would be ideal both at the workshop and at home. Enhancing this impressive portability is the full-size router insert plate with precision plate levelers and new Level-Loc reducing rings.
Most routers will work with this stand thanks to the Level-Loc reducing rings. Even the larger routers will be accommodated, because the laser-engraved markers on the mounting plate make the process flawless. Even newbies will find this feature quite straightforward.
The surface is built for the best performance too, as its thick MDF offers adequate support for a wide range of projects. At 16×24 inches, it is in the extra-large surface category and therefore suitable for the modern professional woodworker. Suited for industrial application, the table’s insert plate is 9×11 inch, so it can support even the largest router.
On precision, the Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table does very well. The highly stable design characterized by a wide-stance is ideal for detailed work. With vibrations of such a device in mind, Kreg included rubber feet. We find the open design excellent for sound dissipation, but this does not mean you cannot change it. There are pre-drilled holes all over the frame for anyone interested in an enclosed space.
The anodized extruded aluminum fence that comes with the router table features adjustable sliding faces. You can use cam clamps to adjust it. The Kreg router tables are now featuring these clamps as a way of enhancing swift adjustments. By locking in place, these clamps ensure that feedstock movement does not affect the fence.
We noted one minor weakness on the product-plastic components on the fence. This raises questions about durability because the flip-down tabs can easily break under pressure. You can only make the tabs more solid by tightening the screws. Unscrew for adjustments adds to the bother and vulnerability of the fence.
Overall, the Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table offers good workspace, a wide array of features and quick adjustments, thereby making a good pick for any professional. Despite the few components that appear as weak links, the table is extremely stable and therefore perfect for highly intricate jobs.
3. Rebel W2000 the Rebel Router Table
Measures 24-Inch wide by 18-Inch deep by 17-Inch tall
If you are professional looking for a superb full-fledged table, here is one irresistible product by Rebel. The manufacturer gave no room for compromises- Aesthetic appeal, performance, and stability is the forte of this bench top router table. If you are not too much concerned about the budget, you need to try it.
At 64 pounds, the Rebel W2000 Router Table could be regarded as a lightweight. It will surprise you with its stability and sturdiness that defines the Precision Cast-Iron tabletop. It is engineered to handle a wide range of jobs, focus being on precision shaping jobs or production runs. The dimensions (20.5 x 7.2 x 26.5 inches) appear to fit the requirements of this kind of application.
Although this table does not look complicated, you can refer to the easy-to-follow instruction manual if you have any doubts. All router tables work in the same manner. The router mounts upside down, often using a removable baseplate. Some may mount to the tabletop, but that is a rarity.
As a machine built for the best cuts, the Rebel W2000 Router Table comes with a high quality miter gauge, just as we expected. This component aids in making straight cuts. To engage the three adjustable built-in stops, press the stop pin gently. The one stop at 90° and the two at 45° make miter gauge angle adjustment simple. Adding the split fence to the mix makes the product ideal for either straight-line or offset shaping. You can use the router table for a wide range of applications including rabbet, cove, flute, mold and miter.
Even the inexperienced users can find this table impressive, especially for being easy to use and safe. An arm and transparent plastic guard complete the safety guard features. While the plastic guard naturally fits into the router bit, you can connect it to a 3-inch flex-hose to collect dust.
Some of the other notable features are precision milled parts and aluminum inserts with pop out insert rings. For its flatness and good fence quality and versatility, we consider the Rebel W2000 the Rebel Router Table good value for money and highly recommend it.
Best Benchtop Router Table Buying Guide
If you have never seen a router table before, a quick check of its basic construction could be worthwhile. Most tables feature the same components, although the positioning may vary. Manufacturer instructions come in handy when it comes to assembling and using any bench top router table.
-
Router Table Guard
One of the most important parts is the router table guard. As you are probably guessing, the guard protects the hands from the cutter. It also enhances the movement of wood chippings away from the eyes or to the dust collector.
-
Dust Collector
The dust collector port is usually located behind the fence and guard. Using the accessories available, you can fix a wide variety of hose sizes on the port.
-
Mitre Fence
You want to focus on this important feature too when buying the best bench top router table. Insist on adjustability because this will save you a lot of time spent aligning the fence. The best fences are adjustable at +45, 90 and -90-degrees.
The mitre fence moves along the mitre fence slot. Its pivoting fence and long rod bring to mind the protractor, as they can be used when making both angled and straight cuts.
Now, you also need to choose between 2-piece and 1-piece varieties, as they give different control capabilities.
-
Dust Collection
Unbeknown to many first time buyers, the bench top router produces a significant amount of dust when cutting and routing shapes. Since producing quality work is a priority, taking care of the debris and dust is a good idea. Doing so improves visibility and minimizes distraction. Get a table product that has a reliable dust collection method. It is advisable to also consider the dust extraction method used.
-
Insert Ring
Also referred to as an insert plate ring or a reducer ring, this device is used for adjusting the size of the hole when you need to use a different bit or cutter. It is more popular for reducing the opening, as this means less chippings and dust find way to the router. Furthermore, it offers more support to the item as it moves across the table.
-
Work Surface
When you are selecting the best benchtop router table, you cannot afford to overlook this feature. Rigidity and flatness determines the accuracy of the results. There are no two ways about it; the work surface should be faultless. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) surfaces are highly regarded because of their strength and durability. Such a table will serve for many years, thus doing justice to your investment. Furthermore, this material is excellent in absorbing vibrations caused by the machine and work piece.
-
Price
As we have shown in our categories, bench top router tables have price variations, so you need to have your budget in mind. The most common models cost from $100 to $500. However, you do not want to assume that a high price necessarily means better quality.
-
Stop Blocks
A stop is a common component in all woodworking processes, so you need it as well. Like in the case of a miter saw or a table saw, the stop block helps achieve consistent cuts. It will come in handy when you are handling multiple pieces. This device is so helpful when you want to route only a section of the item. It usually square in shape so it can fit in the T-slot of the fence.
-
Feather-boards/ fingerboards
Sometimes, they are called top pressures, finger pressures or side pressures. They are used for supporting the item as it moves across the cutter and along the guide fence. They could be placed on top or side, hence the names.
In short, these components offer consistent hold and tension on the work piece. That is why they come with finger-like ends or tines for gently resting on the work piece. As you buy the bench top router table, confirm if it comes with these. You can also buy them separately.
-
Collet Extension
Do you want to make your bench top router table highly versatile? Then make sure you add a collet extension to the accessories. This component simply increases the height of the cutter so you can make deeper cuts. A check at the options available reveals that most models offer approximately 2 inches of extension. This device comes in handy if the bits on your router do not protrude above the table the way you want. The Installation process is as simple as that of the router bit or cutter, so it should not intimidate.
Conclusion
It is worth the effort of researching when looking for the best bench top router table because an excellent machine is a serious investment of money and time. Moreover, a good product will make your work easier, safer and more effective. It does not matter whether you are beginner, professional or semi-pro.
Our guide has provided crucial information by identifying the top products with the aim of helping you arrive at the most relevant one. While we based the categories on pricing, the products offer different levels of capabilities, so you might just find one that fits your unique needs and preferences.
