Whether you're a dedicated DIYer or a professional, Ace Hardware carries router tools from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee and Bosch to keep your project running smoothly. Use our helpful guide to learn about the different types of wood routers and the array of optional features that may come in handy.
What Does a Wood Router Tool Do?
A router is a versatile woodworking tool you can use for a wide array of jobs, from simple to complex. A router power tool helps simplify tasks like duplicating patterns, making cutouts, performing decorative surface cuts and more. Look for router bits and router bit sets to explore your options.
Size is an important factor to consider when selecting your router tool, with the machines coming in three main sizes: palm-sized, mid-sized and full-sized.
Compact Power with a Palm Router
Cost-effective and lightweight, a compact router offers enough power to handle most small profiling jobs. A palm router is an ideal choice for softening sharp edges, cutting hinge mortises and creating box grooves.
Mid-Sized Router Tools
A mid-sized wood router tool can perform nearly any type of routing project with ease. These wood routing tools are available in both one-handed and two-handed models. They offer maximum versatility for pros and hobbyists alike.
Full-Sized Router Power Tools
For the toughest tasks, a full-sized wood router provides the torque needed to get the job done. The larger size of the router machine makes it best for handling big, heavy-duty projects, perfect for dedicated DIYers and professionals alike.
Types of Router Tool Bases
Before purchasing a router tool, decide which type of base will work best for you. Wood routers typically have either a plunge or fixed base, each with its own dedicated purpose.
Fixed-Base Router
If your primary goal is edge shaping, a fixed-base compact router might be easier to maneuver. This type of router power tool can be set to a wide range of cutting depths. Since the handles are positioned near the bottom of the tool, the center of gravity is lower, allowing for greater control.
Plunge Router
For tasks that call for controlled vertical movement during cutting, a plunge base wood routing tool is a great option. Plunge routers simplify the process of cutting deep grooves and mortises as well as performing detailed pattern work. Users can adjust the cutting depths of plunge base routers by simply unlocking a lever and raising or lowering the motor housing, even while operating the tool.
Laminate Trimmers
Laminate trimmers are essentially smaller, more compact routers specifically designed for trimming laminate edges and performing detailed work, such as shaping and finishing edges on countertops and cabinets. Their lightweight design makes them great for precision tasks in tight spaces.
Cordless vs. Corded Routers
If you move from job site to job site, a cordless router provides greater portability. Cordless routers eliminate the hassles associated with power cords. Alternatively, if you require a wood router that's built for plenty of torque, a corded router tool may be a better option. If you have access to an electrical outlet, a corded router machine will run without interruption and eliminate the need for recharging between use.
Wood Router Tools Features to Look For
Look for routers with special features that help you get the job done like a pro. Learn more about what router tools may feature, then filter through your options above to easily narrow down your choice.
- Variable speed: Wood routers with variable speed functions give you better control of the tool, can adapt to the materials you’re working on better and help prevent excessive use or burning.
- Dust collection: The shavings and dust that fall off as you progress in your woodworking project can get in the way, irritating you or simply causing a cleanup headache. Look for wood routers with dust collection capabilities.
- Built-In LED light: A built-in light lets the router light a path over the surface of the wood you’re working on. It is especially useful in low-light workspaces, or if your body movements create a shadow over the area where you’re working.
Make the most of your new tool with wood router accessories like attachments, router tables, brushing sets and hinge templates.
Shop Wood Routers Near You at Ace Hardware
Browse the inventory of corded and cordless wood routers near you at Ace Hardware. Choose from our large selection of bare router tools or purchase a complete router kit to begin working on projects right away.
Then, explore our measure and marking tools to take the guesswork out of making precision cuts, as well as a range of rotary tools, belt sanders and orbital sanders to give you even more options in the workshop.
