A wood router is an essential tool in woodworking, and every intermediate level woodworker has one. It helps you customize your wooden projects and give then a more decorative look as well as other wood shaping functions. If you are just getting started in woodworking, then chances are you are yet to have a fully fitted toolbox. The reason being that most woodworking tools are costly.
While you may not be able to get away with some cheaper substitutes, you can buy a more affordable wood router and reap the same benefits as a brand name wood router. But first, you need to shop for the best budget wood router.
Top 5 Budget Wood Router Under $100
| Name | Power | Corded | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch Router Tool PR20EVS | - 1 HP, 5.6 Amps variable speed motor - 16000 to 35000 RPM | Yes | Check Price |
| Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router | 1.25 HP, 10,000 to 30,000 RPM with soft start | Yes | Check Price |
| PORTER-CABLE PCE6430 | 4.5 Amp, 31000 RPM motor | Yes | Check Price |
| Ryobi P601 One+ 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router | 29000 RPM | No, 18V lithium ion battery | Check Price |
| MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router | 1 HP motor, 10000 to 30000 RPM | Yes | Check Price |
Bosch Router Tool PR20EVS
The Bosch router is the best wood router under $100. It features a 1.0 Horsepower 5.6-amp variable-speed motor with speeds between 16,000 and 35,000 rpm. It also has an angled cord exit to keep the cord out of the way when you are working. The router has a rugged aluminum fixed base.
It also has finger support pockets for additional stability, especially when trimming edges. It is designed for ultimate precision using a depth adjustment system that allows both macro and micro adjustment. The clamp enables the motor to be easily adjusted or moved from base to base.
Features
- Rugged aluminum fixed base
- 6-amp motor
- Variable speed of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
- Soft start circuitry
- Rubber over-molded grip
Pros
- Reduces startup torque
- Easy to use
- Precision handling
Cons
- The depth adjustment and locking mechanism does not work
Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
The Makita affordable wood router comes with a variable speed control dial that controls a speed range between 10,000 and 30,000 RPM. It features a smooth rack and pinion system that enables you to control a fine depth adjustment for more precise cuts. The router has an ergonomically designed body for increased comfort and control.
It also has a quick-release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments and base installation. It has an electronic speed control that can maintain constant speed under a heavy load as well as a soft start feature for smooth startups. Additionally, the router’s base accepts industry standard template guides.
Features
- Variable speed control dial
- Speed range 10,000 to 30,000 RPM
- Electronic speed control
- Soft start feature
- Heavy-duty aluminum motor
Pros
- Smooth rack and pinion fine depth adjustment system
- Slim and ergonomically designed body
- Increased comfort and control
- Smooth startups
- Shaft lock
- Durable flat top design
Cons
- The speed control does not work
PORTER-CABLE PCE6430
The Porter laminate trimmer and router produces 31,000 RPM using a 4.5-amp motor. It is designed to deliver precision cutting, and it has a heavy cast-aluminum fixed base for extra stability. The router also has extra-large locking clips that allow for a quick motor release and or depth adjustment. The router comes with a depth ring that enables you to adjust the height accurately. It also comes with a spindle lock button that allows for single-wrench bit changes.
Features
- 31,000 RPM, 4.5 amp motor
- Cast-aluminum fixed base
- Depth ring
- Spindle lock button
Pros
- Precision-machined
- Extra-large locking clips
- Accurate bit height adjustments
Cons
- The locking mechanism does not work
Ryobi P601 One+ 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router
The Ryobi cordless trim router comes with a set of LED lights on board that allow you to see your project clearly in less than optimal lighting conditions. The router is equipped with a grip zone over-mold that allows you to maintain a firm grip. It has a rubber coating that allows for precision handling, even in slippery conditions. The router has a depth adjustment knob that you can use to fine-tune the depth of your cuts.
The router has an aluminum base that stays steady while you use it. The router is compatible with most 18V lithium-ion batteries.
Features
- Led lights onboard
- Rubber coating
- Depth adjustment knob
- Aluminum base
Pros
- Precision handling
- Easy-to-use knob
- Sturdy base
Cons
- Does not hold a guide which makes it hard for exact wood jobs
MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router
This cheap wood router is heavy-duty yet compact. It has a rack and pinion height adjustment system that makes it easy to operate. It has a flush trimming attachment, and an edge guide is also included. The router is powered using a high-performance motor. It has an aluminum casing as well as a 1-HP motor with an adjustable speed range between 10,000 rpm and 30,000 rpm. The speed is controlled via a speed control dial on the top of the motor housing.
The aluminum housing has a 1″ long ruler marked in 1/16″ and 1mm increments. The double-insulated motor features a spindle-locking button for adjusting the wrench. The metal base uses a rack and pinion system to adjust the height of the motor and a flip lever to lock the motor at the desired height. Also, the router has a rubberized pad to keep to steady.
Features
- Heavy duty
- Rack and pinion height adjustment
- 1/4″ collet
- Flush trimming attachment
- Machined aluminum housing
- 1-hp motor speed
- 10,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm speed range
- Speed control dial
- Rack and pinion system
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Edge guide included
- Spindle-locking button
- Rubberized base
Cons
- Too noisy
Conclusion
The best budget wood router should be able to handle multiple tasks. This will enable you to derive better value for money. Additionally, you should ensure that you get one with adjustable settings as well as a locking mechanism. If in doubt, get one of the wood routers listed above.