12 best routers

High-quality technology simplifies the implementation of complex operations and large-scale work, prevents erroneous actions of users. If you choose a good router, you can easily process workpieces made of wood and other materials. Using this electromechanical tool, furniture and complex elements of building structures, decorations with artistic carvings and surface engraving are created. The rating of the best hand milling cutters will help you choose the best model, taking into account individual requirements and preferences.

The best inexpensive home mills

With the help of the models presented in this section, furniture is repaired, original structures are assembled, and creative design projects are implemented. A good hand-held wood router performs its function flawlessly. Such equipment is suitable for equipping a home workshop. It can be used to perform certain professional operations.

1. Kolner KER 1200V

With a maximum milling depth of 50 mm, the user can use the staged revolving mechanism to make multiple passes correctly. A copy insert is useful to create the same indentations. The spindle lock facilitates quick replacement of the cutter. It is not difficult to take into account the peculiarities of the material by adjusting the rotation speed in a wide range from 15,000 to 30,000 rpm. Timely removal of sawdust will ensure the connection of the vacuum cleaner through a special pipe.

Pros:

• TOP model among budget milling cutters - according to the total assessment of consumer parameters and reviews;
• affordable cost;
• strong cast support;
• reliable protection against random start;
• good basic equipment;
• speed regulation in a wide range;
• high-quality assembly.

Minuses:

• with long working cycles, it is necessary to take technological breaks in order to exclude overheating of the router.

2. Hammer FRZ1200B

The manufacturer's attentiveness to "little things" is a clear sign of good quality. Users note:

1. handles with rubber pads, comfortable for a secure grip;
2. color designation of the heads of the clamping screws;
3. correct depth adjustment;
4. device for automatically maintaining a given rotation speed.

This inexpensive router is comparable in cost to the installation of one interior door. According to user reviews, similar actions can be performed independently, even without professional skills.

Pros:

• precise maintenance of the set speed;
• intuitive adjustments;
• powerful enough;
• responsible assembly;
• acceptable cost;
• reliable lightweight construction;
• depth - 55 mm.

Minuses:

• one-sided emphasis makes it difficult to perform individual working operations.

3. Bort BOF-2100

The most powerful router in the review is suitable for professional use. This technique can be used to handle materials that can be spoiled by thermal deformation. The lower setting level (up to 8,000 rpm) eliminates overheating of the workpiece. The engine develops enough power with collets up to 12 mm. The soft start system prevents unnecessary loads and damage to workpieces, extends the service life of the router.

Pros:

• powerful electric drive;
• efficient sawdust removal system;
• light weight;
• low noise level;
• milling depth up to 60 mm - comparable to professional level machines;
• good basic equipment at no extra charge.

Minuses:

• small backlash within the permissible errors.

4. Wert EVR 1450E

Closes the rating of budget devices, a multifunctional mill, which fully replaces cutters, jigsaw and drill. The Wert EVR 1450E is lightweight (approx. 3 kg), which allows working operations without unnecessary stress. This technique is suitable for making furniture, processing building parts, creating decorative elements. The standard equipment includes spare brushes for the electric motor, two collets, a rip fence and a copying sleeve. This router is prepared for immediate use without purchasing additional components and technological accessories.

Pros:

• high-quality milling cutter at an affordable price;
• good equipment;
• permissible noise level;
• convenient ergonomics simplifies the work with the device;
• affordable price tag;
• excellent functional characteristics;
• enough power to work with cutters up to 8 mm.

Minuses:

• limited access to the adjusting pulley.

The best milling cutters for quality and reliability

Experienced experts compare different models on several parameters. In addition to technical parameters, the build quality and ease of use are assessed. If frequent long-term use is expected, special attention is paid to reliability and endurance. In this section, we present the best milling cutters in terms of price-quality combination. Even after a long service life, they retain good functional characteristics.

1. KRÜGER KR-1650

Vertical milling cutter Kruger from the German manufacturer with a milling depth from 0 to 55 mm. Has a power of 1650 W, so it quickly copes with the tasks. The body of the Kruger router is made of durable plastic, there is a gearbox protected by a metal casing. The cord length is 2 m, the compact size and low weight of the router increase the comfort of its operation. The design of the device provides an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner, which allows you to keep the workplace clean. The rotation speed is regulated in the range from 15 to 20 thousand rpm depending on the characteristics of the processed material.

Pros:

• firm fixation of the spindle;
• long power cord;
• open end wrench included for the most durable attachment of the cutter;
• rich equipment, which contains additional cutters and collector brushes;
• light weight - 4.7 kg;
• instruction in Russian.

2. Hammer FRZ710 PREMIUM

With a power of 0.71 kW, this beveler is suitable for collets up to 10 mm. The use of a compact electric motor made it possible to reduce the total weight of the structure to 1.75 kg, which is one of the best indicators for the considered category of milling cutters. Given the limited capabilities of the power unit, it should be noted a slight overheating at maximum speed and when processing workpieces from durable materials. However, an efficient cooling system prevents damage to structural components.

Pros:

• one of the best milling cutters in terms of functionality at an affordable price;
• minimum weight;
• smooth running;
• good equipment ()
• neat assembly;
• high-quality components.

Minuses:

• there is no automatic maintenance of revolutions.

3. ELITECH F 1800E

Carefully thought-out ergonomics simplify handling of technological equipment. After a careful study of the design features, it should be noted positively:

1. comfortable tilt of the handles;
2. simple height adjustment;
3. lack of jerks when starting;
4. effective illumination of the working area.

To connect a vacuum cleaner, you can install a branch on either side. High-quality assembly ensures no backlash.

Pros:

• convenient milling cutter with sufficient power reserve;
• height adjustment device with additional fine position adjustment;
• smooth automated start of the electric motor;
• collet 12 mm;
• sustainability;
• the presence of illumination of the working area;
• long service life;
• standard set - 8mm adapter;
• reliability in work.

Minuses:

• triggering of the start button is not always correct;
• tight travel when moving along the guides.

4. Makita RT0700C

This milling cutter from Makita is designed for edging. The most reliable manufacturer confirms its reputation for responsible assembly, careful selection of components and materials. Even in intensive use, the router performs its functions flawlessly. The depth can be adjusted very precisely, so the processing is carried out according to the work plan without unnecessary steps.

Pros:

• correct maintenance of the set rotation speed under load;
• long-term preservation of operating parameters;
• convenient engine speed controller;
• long power cord (2.5 m).

Minuses:

• efficient cooling system makes noise at maximum engine speed.

5. BOSCH POF 1200 AE

When choosing a manufacturing company, the advantages of this famous brand should be noted. Solid experience in core business provides increased reliability. Even professionals, after a careful study, have no complaints about the assembly, the quality of functional components. BOSCH POF 1200 AE is one of the best wood milling cutters. The power is sufficient for processing durable chipboard or MDF boards. Smooth movement along the guides simplifies work operations.

Pros:

• reliable components;
• well-designed dust protection;
• convenient controls;
• minimum noise level in all modes;
• smooth adjustments.

Minuses:

• no power button lock;
• the standard configuration does not have a 12 mm collet.

The best professional milling machines

This category contains models designed for heavy loads. To extend the service life, this technique is equipped with effective protective devices. A solid safety factor of individual units prevents damage. Hand milling cutters in this category are very powerful and are suitable for machining workpieces made of metal and ceramics. Advanced equipment helps to carry out complex work steps accurately and quickly.

Which router is better to choose? In any case, it is necessary to clarify the features of the operating mode. A particularly important parameter is reliability. For a correct assessment, it is recommended to check the configuration of the compared models, protective and auxiliary functions.

1. Makita RP1801F

A professional milling cutter, due to the sufficient energy potential, can be used to create indentations in solid workpieces. The powerful motor works without overloads, maintaining optimal thermal conditions. Large milling cutters can be used at relatively low speeds. This is useful for delicate processing of products with little heat resistance. Careful assembly ensures minimal backlash.

Pros:

• one of the quietest routers;
• maximum depth - up to 70 mm;
• high processing accuracy;
• powerful electric drive;
• collet 12 mm;
• network cable length 2.5 m.

Minuses:

• copy sleeve is not included in the standard delivery set.

2. BOSCH POF 1400 ACE

With this router, it is equally convenient to create typical grooves for hinges and complex threads with a unique pattern. The proprietary Fine Depth Control adjustment system ensures processing accuracy with an error of no more than 0.1 mm. Engine speed is maintained automatically by an electronic control circuit. Stability remains at significant voltage drops in the power supply. A special fastening system allows you to securely fix and dismantle the copying sleeve without additional tools. For immediate locking of rotation, a large button can be used, which is located in a convenient place for the user on the right side of the case.

Pros:

• one of the best wood milling cutters for professional work;
• protection by the casing of functional units from contamination;
• soft pads on the handles;
• rich equipment;
• the presence of a case;
• electronic maintenance of the set speed;
• LED lights;
• depth adjustment with additional fine adjustment;
• cutter position lock for high-quality processing of created grooves;
• smooth start.

Minuses:

• to change the position in height, you need to make a lot of effort (the disadvantage disappears after several weeks of operation).

3. DeWALT D 26204 K

A good router does its job without excessive noise, quickly and accurately. Uniform illumination of the work area simplifies workpiece processing. Speed ​​control allows you to select the optimal mode of rotation of the cutter. Correct balancing of the motor armature prevents excessive vibration. Smooth engagement extends the service life of the router. With a low weight, it is not difficult to carry out long and complex technological operations with the tool. The efficient sawdust removal system ensures a clean and comfortable environment.

Pros:

• effective backlighting;
• maximum cutter diameter - 36 mm;
• correct maintenance of the set rotation speed under load;
• convenient case for storage and carrying;
• the official guarantee extended to 3 years.

Minuses:

• screw fastening of the dust extraction system.

What are the types of milling cutters

The most popular tool in this category is equipped with a vertical head movement device. Accuracy of movements is provided by special rods. The router is used to create holes, grooves, and perform other typical operations. Taking into account the design features, such milling cutters are called rod, vertical or submersible.

The following modification is designed specifically for edging work. Milling cutter used for accurate processing of the edges of parts. In addition to wood, you can use blanks made of polymer materials, laminate or plywood sheets.

A router is designed for the correct formation of paired grooves. lamella type (additive). This processing technology is used to create edging (dowel) connections. As a rule, such equipment is purchased to equip furniture production.

Which router is better to buy for the home

If you intend to work on wood without undue stress, it is sufficient to purchase an entry-level model. In addition to saving money, a relatively low weight is useful, which simplifies the handling of equipment. But one should correctly assess the significance of a larger investment when purchasing equipment of a professional category. With this choice, you can count on the following advantages:

1. the ability to process stone and other hard materials;
2. improved accuracy of complex operations;
3. execution of long-term processes without overheating of the electric drive;
4. long service life.

The presented rating of the best milling cutters for professional work and at home is recommended to be used taking into account the peculiarities of future operation. The distribution of positions in the list is based on a comprehensive technical analysis after studying customer reviews and evaluating professional experts.