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Router Sets

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Router Sets

Shape, hollow, and edge wood with routers that offer power and precision. We tested fixed-base and plunge routers for versatility and ease of bit changes.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall
DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit

DEWALT

DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit

4.7 (4,567 reviews)

Complete router system with three bases. The electronic speed control maintains RPM under load.

Power

2.25 HP

Collet

1/4" & 1/2"

Speed

8,000-24,000 RPM

Bases

Fixed, Plunge, D-Handle

Pros

  • βœ“ Three bases included
  • βœ“ Powerful motor
  • βœ“ Micro-adjustment

Cons

  • βœ— Heavy
  • βœ— Expensive
  • βœ— Learning curve

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit
DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit Best
DEWALT
4.7
$299 View
PR20EVSK Palm Router
PR20EVSK Palm Router Value
Bosch
4.6
$129 View
M18 FUEL Router
M18 FUEL Router
Milwaukee
4.5
$229 View
690LR 1.75 HP Router
690LR 1.75 HP Router
PORTER-CABLE
4.5
$149 View
1.75 HP Combo Kit
1.75 HP Combo Kit
CRAFTSMAN
4.2
$99 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit

DEWALT

DW618B3 2.25 HP Kit

4.7 (4,567 reviews)

Complete router system with three bases. The electronic speed control maintains RPM under load.

Power

2.25 HP

Collet

1/4" & 1/2"

Speed

8,000-24,000 RPM

Bases

Fixed, Plunge, D-Handle

Pros

  • βœ“ Three bases included
  • βœ“ Powerful motor
  • βœ“ Micro-adjustment

Cons

  • βœ— Heavy
  • βœ— Expensive
  • βœ— Learning curve
Best Value
PR20EVSK Palm Router

Bosch

PR20EVSK Palm Router

4.6 (8,765 reviews)

Perfect palm router for edge work and small projects. Comfortable one-handed operation.

Power

1.0 HP

Collet

1/4"

Speed

16,000-35,000 RPM

Weight

3.4 lbs

Pros

  • βœ“ Compact size
  • βœ“ Easy handling
  • βœ“ Variable speed

Cons

  • βœ— Limited power
  • βœ— 1/4" collet only
  • βœ— Smaller bit capacity
Premium Pick
M18 FUEL Router

Milwaukee

M18 FUEL Router

4.5 (2,345 reviews)

Cordless freedom for trim routing and edge work. Perfect for on-site installations.

Voltage

18V

Collet

1/4"

Speed

31,000 RPM

Runtime

60+ edge feet

Pros

  • βœ“ Cordless convenience
  • βœ“ Brushless motor
  • βœ“ LED light

Cons

  • βœ— Limited runtime
  • βœ— Smaller than corded
  • βœ— Battery cost
690LR 1.75 HP Router

PORTER-CABLE

690LR 1.75 HP Router

4.5 (6,789 reviews)

Time-tested router that's been a woodworker favorite for decades. Simple and reliable.

Power

1.75 HP

Collet

1/4" & 1/2"

Speed

27,500 RPM

Weight

8.6 lbs

Pros

  • βœ“ Classic design
  • βœ“ Proven reliability
  • βœ“ Good value

Cons

  • βœ— No speed control
  • βœ— Older technology
  • βœ— Louder operation
Budget Pick
1.75 HP Combo Kit

CRAFTSMAN

1.75 HP Combo Kit

4.2 (3,456 reviews)

Budget-friendly combo kit for beginners. Gets you started in routing at a low cost.

Power

1.75 HP

Collet

1/4"

Speed

25,000 RPM

Bases

Fixed & Plunge

Pros

  • βœ“ Very affordable
  • βœ“ Fixed and plunge bases
  • βœ“ Decent power

Cons

  • βœ— Build quality concerns
  • βœ— Limited features
  • βœ— Louder operation

Buying Guide: How to Choose Router Sets

Router Selection Guide

Power needs: 1 HP for light work, 1.75+ HP for general use, 2.25+ HP for production work.

Base types: Fixed for edge work, plunge for interior cuts, D-handle for freehand work.

Collet size: 1/4" for small bits, 1/2" for larger bits and heavy cuts.

Speed control: Variable speed lets you optimize for different bit sizes and materials.

Frequently Asked Questions About Router Sets

What's the difference between fixed and plunge routers?

Fixed base routers are locked at a set depth, great for edge work. Plunge routers can be lowered into the work, essential for interior cuts and mortises.

What router bits do I need to start?

Start with a basic set: straight bits, roundover bits, chamfer bits, and a flush trim bit. Add specialized bits as projects require.

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