For those who like to work with their hands and build things for their job or for enjoyment, getting a high-quality router table is an important step. You need something that will provide you with versatility but will also work in the space you have available. The best router table along with your router and high-quality router bits is something that will balance out all of your needs and we think these options are great for that. Read on for our best router table reviews.
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Favorites:
Skil RAS900 Router Table
The Skil RAS900 Table actually comes with storage containers that will help you keep track of all of your accessories so you don’t lose anything. It also has a quick clamp system and two feather boards that help you get your pieces right where you want them every time. Even more, you can get better quality cuts because of the bit height gauge and the starter pin and guard.
There’s no leveling needed, which means you can get going faster and the router mounting is easier which also makes it faster to work. The even better thing is that you don’t have to put it together because the table comes pre-assembled and all you need to do is unfold it.
It comes with adjustable fences that will allow you to use it as a jointer, increasing the overall capabilities of the router itself and giving you more flexibility. It does come with a number of accessories and tools so you can work on different projects with ease.
Things we like:
- Compatible with a number of routers
- Portable table for easy movement
- Quick release mounting bracket
- Includes measurements on top of the unit
- Pre-assembled for quick use
- Comes with several accessories
Things we don’t like:
- Trim is not level with the rest of the table
- Legs are not as sturdy as expected
Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table
The Bosch RA1181 is a Benchtop Router Table, which means that it attaches to any workbench and provides two adjustable feather boards. You’ll also find a dust collection port and dual outlet switches, which make it even easier to use and to keep your work area clean.
The 6-foot power cord also makes it much easier to place your table in an area that’s more convenient for you. With this system, you get three mounting plate insert rings as well as the mounting hardware that you would need for most types of Bosch routers, which means it should work with your current tools.
You’ll also have an adjustable, clear guard, a starter pin and guard and outfeed fence shims so you’re ready to go right away. There is an aluminum fence with MDF face plates and an aluminum mounting plate for your router, which is durable but still lightweight, so it’s easier to use. It also comes with a 1-year limited warranty or a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Things we like:
- Attaches to your work table
- 1-year limited warranty
- Simple to assemble
- Fully adjustable fence
- Safety lock-out key for on/off switch
- 2 ½” dust collection ports
Things we don’t like:
- The top can be slightly warped
- The base is larger than the table top
Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table
The Bosch RA1171 Router Table is actually a cabinet style, which means it has space to hold some of your additional tools and things you’ll need. It has an aluminum fence that comes with adjustable MDF face plates and is capable of working for taller pieces or jointing.
The router mounting plate is also aluminum so it stays completely flat and maintains its accuracy, which means your projects are going to be done even better. Not only that but it is already pre-drilled for a number of different routers, which makes it even easier for you to attach yours.
There are accessory slots for feather board and other accessories as well as two dust collection ports that will help to keep the area more tidy and neat. You’ll have a dual outlet switch with a lock that helps to protect it from someone else using it when they aren’t supposed to. Plus there’s a 6-foot power cord to keep your location more flexible.
Things we like:
- Cabinet design
- Up to 3 ½” bit capacity
- Adjustable feather boards
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with everything to get started
- 1-year warranty included
Things we don’t like:
- Fine adjustment knob does not tighten down enough
- The surface of the router plate is rough
Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax Cast Iron Router Table
The Bench Dog 40-001 Table is 16” x 22”, which means that it’s large enough for most of your projects. It also has a laminated plastic top that’s made smooth and durable. There’s a clear, acrylic insert that will accept a wide range of routers so you’ll always have flexibility with the tools you want, plus it has twin steel rails to increase support.
There’s also a melamine cabinet included, which decreases the amount of dust that you have in the way and lets you have space to store away the extra accessories. Not only that but it has a 2-year limited warranty in case you ever have any problems.
The hardware you need to get assemble and get started using are included so you’re up and running even faster. Plus there are extruded aluminum fences with T-slots to add your accessories easily. The fences can also be flipped around to increase versatility for different projects overall.
Things we like:
- Cabinet style system
- 2-year warranty
- Twin steel rails for router support
- Large work area
- Easy to level
- Easy to move as needed
Things we don’t like:
- Instructions can be difficult to follow
- The router can overheat if left closed for extended periods
Porter-Cable 698 Bench Top Router Table
The Porter-Cable 698 Router Table has a large aluminum top, which means that it’s more durable than plastic or laminate versions. It has multiple starting pin locations and a ¾” miter gauge slot so you have plenty of availability for different project types. There’s also a quick adjust fence that will help with versatility and the halves will adjust independently.
The table is pre-drilled for several different routers and can be drilled separately for additional routers to fit your needs. The legs are tall enough to provide plenty of space for you and your router and the unit itself is lightweight to make movement easier.
The switch is located on the front, making it easier to use and mounting your unit is simple as well, getting you working faster. There’s also an extension handle available as an add-on that can allow you to adjust the height of your router from above the table, making it a much easier process.
Things we like:
- Simple to attach the router
- Mostly pre-assembled and ready to go
- Aluminum top is level
- Very solid and not prone to movement
- Easy to store when not in use
- Multiple positions for starting pin
Things we don’t like:
- The setting fence can be difficult
- No miter slide holder
Features to Consider
There are a number of different features that you want to at least consider when you’re looking to get a router table. You want to make sure that your table is going to work for your different needs, after all, and that’s going to require you to put some time and effort into the process.
You’re going to need to at least look at each of these different aspects to make sure that you have everything you need and that you’re going to get the quality that you’re looking for and a tool that works with the router that you already have (to save you some money).
Table Top
The first thing you want to look at is the top of the table itself. You want something that is going to be completely rigid (which means it won’t warp or move) and also completely flat. If it’s not flat you could end up with mismatched pieces or non-level boards.
When it comes to something inexpensive and still high quality, MDF is one of the most popular. It’s great for lighter duty projects but if you really want something sturdy and durable then the phenolic resin is where you want to go. You’re going to pay more for it, however.
Base Plate
This is where your router is going to be attached and if it’s not high quality, completely flat, and strong then you’re not going to get a good connection and everything you do on your table is going to be less than ideal. Materials like phenolic and machined aluminum are generally the best options because they provide all of these features and still make it possible to drill your own holes when you need to. Getting a plate that’s pre-drilled to fit a number of routers can also be a benefit for you.
Miter Gauge
Not everyone needs to use a miter gauge, because you may be using your router for more basic tasks, but if you’re planning to start expanding your uses or if you need to do more extensive projects you’re definitely going to want one. That means you want to make sure you have a table that has a miter slot.
This will help you secure feather boards and accessories to your table. No matter what type of slots you have or how they’re formed, you’ll definitely want at least something to attach your miter gauge, stops or other accessories.
Fence
Having a fence on your router table is going to help you keep your cuts completely straight and exactly how you want them. The fence forms a solid barrier that you can push your pieces up against to make sure they are completely level at all times while you’re cutting or grinding them.
Some fences are split and others are one piece. Which one you like best is up to you, but having a fence is definitely going to make things easier for you. Now, you can actually create your own fence rather than having one with your table, but it’s going to be easier just to get something that comes with one.
Base
There are different types of bases and which one you prefer is going to be up to you. You may prefer a system that sits on another table or you may prefer something that stands on legs of its own. You may also want to look at cabinet systems, which actually have a full enclosure under the table to hold the router, cut down on dust and store some of your other equipment. Whichever system you decide to go with you want to look at how it’s going to work in your workshop over the long term.
Wrap Up
When it comes down to it, you want a tool that’s going to be high quality and will provide you with the most versatility. We believe that the Skil RAS900 Router Table is the best option because it provides a number of different features and also provides you with a pre-assembled table that can hold a number of your different accessories. That means it’s going to be quite convenient for you to use and it’s going to allow you to keep everything you need stored nearby. Plus you can get started as soon as you receive it.
If you’re not so sure about this system or you want something a little more heavy duty there are plenty of other great options and actually the Porter-Cable 698 Router Table is a great choice because it offers you an aluminum table top and durable materials. It’s also still partially assembled so you can get going faster.
