How to choose the best budget router table for home?

For a woodworker, a router table is one of the most crucial pieces of equipment. It can be hand equipment or power equipment. The router table helps workers in routing plastic as well as wood. Usually, routers are fixed with cutting edges on the router table. Choosing a router table is actually beneficial because it enhances efficiency. If you are interested in getting the best table for routers, then you can find this article helpful. Find all the important information here so that you never face any hassle while buying the table for the router for you.

 

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See also: Bar bending machine: Working and uses

 

How to choose a router table?

To buy a table for the router, you have to consider a few factors. Here are those.

• Type of router table

Router tables have two different types: benchtop and freestanding. Freestanding router tables come with strong support with a broader top surface for work. Usually, freestanding tables are 32 inches long, which is quite good for working. Benchtop router tables are usually smaller than freestanding options.

• Material

Router tables can be made of various materials, but the most common one is MDF which is in trend. This is quite durable and stiff. On the top of the table, use of high-pressure lamination, phenolic resin, etc., is used. Before buying, make sure that the table is durable and ready for the long run.

• The surface of the table

The surface of the router table should be so smooth that there will be no scratches on the wooden surface. So, the smoothness of the surface is a crucial point.

• Size

The size of the router will determine how big work can be done on it. Also, a large table will give good support for bigger boards.

• Mounting plate

The mounting plate should be quite strong so that it can hold the weight of the router. Robust material like aluminium or phenolic resin should be there as a mounting plate.

• Fence

It is also a must-have point in the router table. Adjustable fences will uplift the work environment easily. Fences are available in single-piece fences and split fences.

 

Source: Pinterest

 

Top router tables in 2023

1. Kreg PRS1045 router table

One of the best router tables is the Kreg router table which is quite durable and stiff. The table dimension is 24 inches x 32 inches. Height can be adjusted according to requirements.

Pros:

• Heavy steel frame
• Steady while in use
• Easy functional fence
• Adjustable fence
• Lock system fence system

Cons:

• Heavy because of bigger size
• The price point is higher

 

Source: Kreg

 

2. Dremel 231 portable rotary router table

Dremel provides a good quality portable table that is easy to fit in a small space. The router table is only 8 inches x 6 inches in dimension. The material is plastic which is durable as well as lightweight too.

Pros:

• It can be installed if needed
• Built-in safety measures
• Affordable

Cons:

• Plastic is not that durable
• Only suitable for Dremel routers

 

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3. Bosch RA1171 router table

Bosch is one of the biggest companies which delivers good quality within budget. The fence of this router table is approximately 5 inches tall, which is suitable for heavy wooden work. Feather boards and guards are provided for a safe work environment.

Pros:

• Bigger fence for heavy work
• Feather boards for safety
• Close cabinet for storing wood chips and dust particles

Cons:

• The cabinet door needs to be cleaned every time before work
• Can be pricey

 

Source: Bosch

 

FAQs

What is the best material for a router table?

MDF has gained popularity as one of the preferred materials for both DIY and commercially available router tables due to its cost-effectiveness and relatively stable nature.

What is the best size for a router table?

Ideally, the tabletop dimensions for a router table should not exceed 2' x 3', while the height can be adjusted according to the user's preferences.

What not to do with a table router?

Avoid the removal of excessive material in a single pass. This safety measure is of paramount importance. Router tables offer versatility, but they are not designed for heavy material removal in one go, as it can lead to kickback and subpar cutting quality.

What are the features of a good router table?

A crucial element of an excellent router table is a sturdy, precisely square, and easily adjustable fence. Seek out user-friendly handles that effectively secure the fence in position. Much like the importance of a fence on a table saw or jointer, a well-constructed router table fence is indispensable for top performance.

Which factors are crucial to consider before buying a table for the router?

Here are some crucial factors to be considered before buying one table for the router: Size of the table Price The material used for the table Dust extraction process The surface of the tabletop

Can I use the MDF router table?

MDF is now one of the most popular options for various furniture, so you can go for the MDF router table as well.

Is a router table mandatory?

It is not mandatory, but it can increase your efficiency properly.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]