The 10 Best Router Tables in 2024

In today's market, there is an extensive range of router tables with different types, features, etc. This article will be helpful for those who do not have much experience in choosing a router table. In this article, we'll discuss the essential factors when selecting a router table, and we'll recommend some types of the best router tables today.

Here are some crucial things you should consider to get the best router tables :

1. Freestanding vs. Benchtop

Freestanding router tables have some significant features so that many people prefer freestanding router tables to other ones. Bases of these router tables are sturdy with ample worktops (approximately 32 inches long and 24 inches wide). However, the weight of freestanding router tables is quite heavy, making them difficult to move to another place. 

Benchtop router tables are usually easier to move because they are smaller (about 16 inches wide and 24 inches long). Their downside, however, is that it is not possible to contain tables of the same size as a freestanding router table with a more extensive base potential. 

2. Size

The size of the router board is directly correlated with how large the workpiece it can handle. The size of the router board and how large the workpiece it can hold is closely related. Therefore, wider tables will be better supported by a more comprehensive table.

3. Material

The cost and durability of the best router tables are influenced by the material used to make router tables. The most common material used to make router table tops is Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) because of its rigidness and robustness. MDF absorbs water, swells like a sponge, and it will damage the work surface. It is preferred to use MDF with melamine coatings because it will protect the wood. 

Besides, to increase the durability of the work surface, manufacturers often use a high-pressure laminate (HPL). It is the best choice for most users when choosing a router table with HPL because it is flatter. 

Phenolic resin is another choice, and it is a higher-grade material than MDF. Compared to MDF, phenolic resin is thinner. It will not be affected by water, so the shape of the table will retain during use. These router tables made from phenolic resin always have high costs. 

Another choice is metal router tables. The worktop will be durable, sturdy, and maintain its shape if made of cast aluminum. The cast iron work surface router table is the premium grade on the market. Cast iron is the best choice when making a router table because of its ability to make a flat, stable, and durable router table.

4. Mounting Plate

Each router table is fitted with a stand or base plate. These sheets must be made from solid materials such as aluminum and phenolic resin as they are subject to the router's weight. The mounting plate should also have mounting holes that fit in the holes on the router.

5. Miter and T-Slots

Nearly every router table has a T groove that runs the length of the table on the surface. This groove allows the use of the deflector and other accessories. The gauge is attached to a long metal guide that slides through a T-slot.

6. Fence

A good-quality router table always has an adjustable fence. A good wall qualifies as a solid fence, whether made of wood or metal. There are two types of bars on router boards: a single piece or split fence. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.

1. Bosch RA1141 Portable Benchtop Router Table

These router tables are sturdy, thanks to a 1-inch-thick laminated MDF top. Bosch RA1141 portable benchtop router table measures approximately 26 inches long and 16.5 inches wide. This size makes it capable of handling boards up to 6 or 7 feet long. A unique feature of this type is it has a tall fence with two adjustable feather boards. The above features have created a Bosch RA1141 portable benchtop router table with sturdy construction and mobile design.

The base plate uses a click-to-mount system that attaches to the router in seconds. This makes it compatible with most major tool brands such as Craftsman, Hitachi, Makita, and Bosch. Besides, there is a T-slot along the length of the plate that operates with the included dimension gauge. This table type has built-in bins in its legs for storing the extra bits and base plates. In particular, this 33-pound router desk is portable thanks to the foldable leg design.

2. SKIL RAS900 Router Table

Most router tables on the market have a high cost. However, this package of SKIL RAS900 Router Table is an exception. This router is designed with an aluminum cast body, operates on a 12-amp motor, and is capable of precise depth adjustment. The included router table is lightweight (weighs less than 20 pounds when used as a device) with plastic feet but still solid and portable. Besides, there are several other features, such as a dust extraction port and an adjustable fence.

3. Kreg PRS2100 Router Table

Kreg PRS2100 Router Table is one of the most solid on the market today. Unlike other product lines, Kreg PRS2100 Router Table with a four-legged steel design makes this router table more stable. The size of this product line is about 24 inches x 36 inches. The tabletop is covered with high-pressure laminate, so it is sturdy and almost indestructible.

Apart from the features mentioned above, a few other highlights include:

An aluminum T slot.

• An L-shaped aluminum fence.
• A push wheel that can carry heavy loads.

Kreg's precision routing desk is an option to consider if you're looking for high-end equipment.

1. How much do router tables cost?

Router table's prices depend on materials, sizes, features, and brands, so there are many different prices on the market (ranging from $ 100 to $ 400). When choosing a product, you should consider the features of the router table you want to buy and compare the prices with other models with similar characteristics.

2. Can I mount the router table on a taller stand?

You can mount the router on a tall mount if you have a benchtop router. The advantage of this is that it will help you do your job better. However, you need to make sure that your stand is stable, sturdy, and provides enough workbench functionality to ensure the accuracy of the cuts.

3. Who needs a router table?

A professional woodworker needs a valuable device as a router table. Anyone who wants to do woodwork projects can also consider buying a router table for themselves. Owning a router table will help you make the most accurate cuts.

4. How to maintain my router table?

When making a purchase, you will be provided with a manual. This book will help you fix some minor problems.

5. Will I get customer support?

Manufacturers have a customer support system. This system will help you to solve problems you encounter while using their product.

6. How helpful is the router table?

A router table is an excellent option for cutting your contours. Using the router board is easier and faster than using a router. You do not need to clamp the board. And narrow boards that are difficult to configure with a router are a small spot on the router board. Use bristles brush and push bar to protect your fingers.

Currently, on the market, there are many router tables with different features and prices. This will probably make you feel confused when choosing a product that suits your individual needs. We hope that this article has partly provided you with all the information you need and will help you create the most suitable choice. Here we would like to summarize the outstanding features of the best router tables above for you to consider carefully:

• Best for adjustable ability: Bosch RA1141 portable benchtop router table comes with a tall fence with two flexible feather boards, which creates a sturdy construction and mobile design. Besides, the click-to-mount system attaches to the router in seconds. This makes it compatible with most major tool brands in the market. 
• Best overall: SKIL RAS900 Router Table is designed with an aluminum cast body. The motor is operated on a 12-amp, which leads to the capability of precise depth adjustment. Moreover, the price of this tool is more affordable than others, which makes it more impressive for customers.
• Best reliable tool: Kreg PRS2100 Router Table is considered one of the most reliable tools on the market today. It comes with a four-legged steel design that makes the table even more solid. Besides, the size of the table surface is quite large, with laminate material fitted outside to increase the high bearing capacity for the table. Therefore, this table is not easily damaged.