Router Brand Comparison: DEWALT vs. BOSCH vs. Makita

Hey there! Are you in the market for a new router? Well, you’re in luck because today we’ll be reviewing and comparing three popular options: the DEWALT Router, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, and the Makita RT0701C Compact Router. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, these routers offer impressive features that can take your projects to the next level. So, let’s jump right into it and see which one suits your needs the best.

Routers have been a staple in woodworking for decades, with their roots tracing back to the early 20th century. These handy tools have come a long way since their inception, and today they offer a wide range of benefits for users of all skill levels. One of the primary advantages of owning a router is their versatility. From shaping wood edges and creating grooves to making precision cuts and intricate designs, these tools have the ability to transform ordinary pieces of wood into works of art. Furthermore, their compact and portable design allows you to bring the router to the workpiece, making it convenient and efficient.

Now, let’s examine each router in detail to help you make an informed decision. We’ll start with the DEWALT Router, a fixed base 1-3/4-HP powerhouse that offers a smooth and accurate performance. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for both professional jobsites and home workshops. Next up is the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, a palm router boasting 1 horsepower and variable speed settings to tackle a wide range of applications. Its ergonomic design and soft-grip handle make it comfortable to use, even during long projects. Lastly, we have the Makita RT0701C Compact Router, a 1-1/4 HP tool that excels in precision and control. With its smooth rack-and-pinion depth adjustment and durable construction, this router is a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike.

So, whether you’re a beginner looking to enhance your woodworking skills or a seasoned pro in need of a reliable tool, one of these routers is sure to meet your expectations. Stay tuned as we delve into the features, performance, and customer reviews to help you choose the perfect router for your needs.

The DEWALT Router, Fixed Base, 1-3/4-HP, 5/128” Per Turn, Compact and Portable, Corded (DW616),Yellow is a versatile tool that can be used for various woodworking tasks. Whether you are a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, this router is designed to handle a wide range of projects. From creating decorative edges and intricate joinery to trimming and shaping wood, this router offers the power and precision needed for your woodworking needs.

There are several reasons why we highly recommend the DEWALT DW616 router. First and foremost, it is extremely compact and portable, making it easy to carry and maneuver in tight spaces. This feature alone makes it a great choice for professionals who often work on job sites or for individuals who have a limited workshop space at home.

Another reason why we love this router is its powerful 1-3/4-HP motor. With this much power, you can easily tackle even the toughest hardwoods without compromising on precision and accuracy. The router also features a 5/128-inch depth adjustment per turn, which allows for finer and more precise adjustments. This means you can achieve the exact depth you desire, ensuring professional-quality results.

The DEWALT DW616 router is designed to provide users with a reliable and precise tool for a variety of woodworking applications. Its purpose is to offer the power and versatility needed to complete a wide range of tasks efficiently and effectively.

Key features of this router include its compact and portable design, 1-3/4-HP motor for powerful performance, 5/128-inch depth adjustment per turn for precise control, and a fixed base for stability and ease-of-use. The router also boasts a durable construction, ensuring it can withstand the demands of heavy-duty use.

When it comes to the overall quality of the DEWALT DW616 router, it definitely exceeds expectations. DEWALT is known for its commitment to producing high-quality tools, and this router is no exception. The router’s construction is sturdy and durable, ensuring it can withstand regular use without any issues. The powerful motor ensures smooth and consistent performance, even when working with harder woods.

Moreover, the precision and accuracy of this router are outstanding. The 5/128-inch depth adjustment per turn allows for fine-tuning, enabling you to achieve the desired results with ease. Overall, the DEWALT DW616 router is a top-notch tool that delivers professional-level performance and durability.

• Compact and portable design makes it easy to carry and use in tight spaces

• Powerful 1-3/4-HP motor for a wide range of woodworking tasks

• 5/128-inch depth adjustment per turn provides precise control

• Fixed base for stability and ease-of-use

• Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance

• Corded design limits mobility compared to cordless models

• May be slightly heavier compared to other compact routers on the market

The DEWALT DW616 router is an excellent tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Its compact and portable design, powerful motor, precise depth adjustment, and durable construction make it a highly recommended choice for all your woodworking needs.

The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router is an essential tool for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. This compact router is designed for a wide range of applications, including trimming, grooving, and shaping wood. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for working on smaller projects or tight spaces.

There are several reasons why we love the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool. First and foremost, it offers exceptional power and precision in a compact package. With a 1-horsepower motor and a variable-speed dial, you have the control you need to tackle any woodworking task with ease. Whether you’re working on delicate trim or cutting through thick hardwood, this router can handle it all.

Additionally, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is incredibly user-friendly. It features a soft-start motor that reduces start-up torque, providing a smooth and controlled operation. The depth adjustment system is also easy to use, allowing you to make precise depth adjustments for accurate results every time. The palm-grip design ensures a comfortable and secure grip, minimizing user fatigue and ensuring long hours of comfortable use.

The main purpose of the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is to provide woodworkers with a versatile and powerful tool for a wide range of woodworking applications. Its key features make it an exceptional router for both professionals and hobbyists alike.

One of the standout features of the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is its variable-speed dial with a range of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM. This allows you to match the speed to the specific application, ensuring optimal cutting performance and minimizing the risk of burning or chipping the wood. The quick-clamp system makes it easy to change bits, allowing you to switch between tasks quickly and efficiently.

Another notable feature is the depth adjustment system. With a depth range of 1-3/16 inches, you have the versatility to tackle various routing tasks, from trimming the edges of a tabletop to cutting a groove for a spline. The transparent sub-base provides excellent visibility, allowing you to see your workpiece clearly and make accurate cuts.

The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool also comes with a sturdy case for easy storage and transportation. The case not only protects the router from dust and debris but also keeps all the accessories organized and readily accessible. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who often work on different job sites and need a portable tool.

When it comes to quality, BOSCH always delivers, and the PR20EVS Router Tool is no exception. Made with high-quality materials and designed with precision, this router ensures long-lasting durability and reliable performance. The powerful motor and solid construction make it capable of handling even the toughest woodcutting tasks.

Furthermore, BOSCH is renowned for its customer service and support. Should you encounter any issues with your router, you can rely on BOSCH to provide prompt and efficient assistance. This commitment to customer satisfaction is a testament to the brand’s dedication to delivering products of the highest quality.

Like any product, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool has its pros and cons.

• Powerful 1-horsepower motor for efficient cutting

• Variable-speed dial for optimal control

• Comfortable palm-grip design for prolonged use

• Easy depth adjustment system for precise cuts

• Transparent sub-base for improved visibility

• Quick-clamp system for effortless bit changes

• Sturdy case for storage and transportation

• Some users find the power cord to be shorter than desired

• The router can be slightly noisy during operation

Despite minor cons, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool stands out as an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool offers exceptional power, precision, and versatility in a compact and user-friendly design. From its variable-speed dial to its easy depth adjustment system, this router provides all the necessary features to tackle a range of woodworking tasks effectively. With its outstanding quality and reliable performance, it is no wonder why the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is highly regarded among woodworkers.

The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router is a versatile power tool designed for precision cutting, trimming, and shaping applications. This compact router is perfect for both professional and DIY enthusiasts who require a powerful and reliable tool to tackle a wide range of woodworking projects.

There are several reasons why the Makita RT0701C stands out among its competitors. First and foremost, this router boasts a powerful 1-1/4 horsepower motor that delivers exceptional performance and ensures smooth and accurate cuts. Whether you’re working with hardwood or softwood, this router has the strength and precision to handle any task effortlessly.

Another reason to love the Makita RT0701C is its ergonomic design. This compact router is lightweight, ensuring fatigue-free operation even during extended periods of use. The slim and comfortable grip provides excellent control, allowing you to maneuver the tool with ease and precision. Additionally, the router’s quick-release cam lock system enables fast and easy depth adjustments, further enhancing user convenience.

Furthermore, the Makita RT0701C offers a variable speed control dial, allowing you to adjust the cutting speed according to the material and application. This feature is especially useful when working with different types of wood, as it ensures optimal results and prevents damage.

The Makita RT0701C is specifically designed for precision cutting, trimming, and shaping in woodworking applications. This compact router is ideal for tasks such as edging, profiling, and routing decorative patterns. Its versatility allows you to create intricate designs and achieve professional-quality results.

Key Features of the Makita RT0701C include:

• Powerful 1-1/4 horsepower motor for exceptional performance
• Variable speed control dial for optimal cutting speed adjustment
• Quick-release cam lock system for easy depth adjustments
• Slim and comfortable ergonomic design for fatigue-free operation
• Durable and robust construction for long-lasting durability

With these features, the Makita RT0701C offers both power and precision, making it a reliable and versatile tool for various woodworking projects.

When it comes to quality, Makita is known for producing top-notch power tools, and the RT0701C Compact Router is no exception. The router’s robust construction ensures durability and longevity, allowing you to rely on this tool for years to come. Its precise engineering and attention to detail guarantee accurate and clean cuts, enhancing overall project outcomes.

Moreover, the Makita RT0701C’s performance is nothing short of impressive. The powerful motor delivers consistent power, regardless of the thickness or hardness of the material being worked on. This feature ensures smooth and precise cuts, resulting in professional-quality finishes every time.

Furthermore, Makita’s commitment to user comfort is evident in the design of the RT0701C. The lightweight and ergonomic construction make it easy to handle, minimizing user fatigue and allowing for extended use without discomfort. The quick-release cam lock system and variable speed control dial further enhance user convenience, making this router a pleasure to operate.

As with any product, the Makita RT0701C Compact Router has its pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tool worth considering:

• Powerful 1-1/4 horsepower motor for exceptional performance

• Versatile and suitable for a wide range of woodworking applications

• Ergonomic design for comfortable and fatigue-free operation

• Variable speed control dial for optimal cutting speed adjustment

• Quick-release cam lock system for easy and convenient depth adjustments

• The router lacks a built-in work light, which may be inconvenient in dimly lit work environments

• Some users may find the noise level to be slightly higher than desired during operation

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Makita RT0701C Compact Router offers an outstanding combination of power, precision, and user-friendly features, making it a reliable and versatile tool for any woodworking enthusiast or professional.

The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router is a high-quality power tool that delivers impressive performance and precision for a wide range of woodworking applications. Its powerful motor, ergonomic design, and intuitive features make it a joy to use, while its durability ensures its longevity in your tool collection. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, the Makita RT0701C is definitely worth considering for all your routing needs.

Comparison of DEWALT, BOSCH, and Makita Router Tools

Specifications:

Comparison:

When comparing the DEWALT, BOSCH, and Makita router tools, there are several significant specifications to consider.

Horsepower and Amps

The DEWALT Router (DW616) boasts the highest horsepower of the three, with 1-3/4 HP, providing you with the power needed for heavy-duty applications. The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool comes in at 1 HP, while the Makita RT0701C Compact Router offers 1-1/4 HP. In terms of amp power, the DEWALT router has a 9.0 Amps motor, while the BOSCH and Makita routers have 5.6 Amps and 6.5 Amps respectively.

Speed

When it comes to speed control, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool offers the broadest range of RPM, with a variable speed of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM. The DEWALT Router operates at a fixed speed of 24,500 RPM, and the Makita RT0701C Compact Router falls in between with a range of 10,000 to 30,000 RPM.

Base Type and Depth Adjustment

All three routers have a fixed base, ensuring stability during operation. However, the Makita RT0701C Compact Router also includes a plunge base, allowing for more versatility in routing tasks. In terms of depth adjustment, the DEWALT router offers micro-fine adjustments, while the BOSCH and Makita routers provide both micro and macro adjustment capabilities.

Weight and Dimensions

If portability is a priority, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is the lightest option, weighing just 3.3 lbs. The Makita RT0701C Compact Router follows closely behind at 3.9 lbs, while the DEWALT Router is the heaviest at 7.1 lbs. In terms of dimensions, the Makita router has a more compact size at 10 x 5 x 8 inches, while the DEWALT measures 6 x 10.2 x 8.6 inches and the BOSCH measures 9.4 x 7.5 x 3.5 inches.

Cord Length and Warranty

The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool has the longest cord, measuring 10 feet, followed by the DEWALT Router with an 8-foot cord and the Makita RT0701C Compact Router with a 6.6-foot cord. In terms of warranty, the DEWALT router offers the most extended coverage with a 3-year limited warranty, while the BOSCH and Makita routers have a 1-year limited warranty.

Each router tool has its own strengths and features to offer. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between the DEWALT Router (DW616), BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, and Makita RT0701C Compact Router.

Conclusion

Overall, the DEWALT Router, BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, and Makita RT0701C Compact Router are all great options for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient router tool. These routers provide the power and versatility required for a variety of woodworking tasks.

DEWALT Router (DW616)

The DEWALT Router is a compact and portable option that is perfect for those who need to work on-the-go. Its 1-3/4-HP motor provides ample power for most projects, while the 5/128” per turn adjustment allows for precise depth control. However, one drawback is that it lacks variable speed control, which may limit its versatility for certain projects.

BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool, Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router

The BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool is a reliable option for anyone seeking a router with variable speed control. Its electronic variable-speed feature allows for better control and precision. The 1-horsepower 5.6 amp motor provides sufficient power for most woodworking tasks. However, some users have reported that the motor can overheat during prolonged use, so it is important to take breaks to prevent overheating.

Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router

The Makita RT0701C Compact Router is a reliable and versatile option for both beginners and professional woodworkers. Its 1-1/4 HP motor provides sufficient power for most projects, and the variable speed control allows for better control and precision. One drawback is that the depth adjustment can be a bit tricky to use at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes easier to manage.

Recommendation

If you are constantly on the move and need a router that is compact and portable, go for the DEWALT Router. However, if you require variable speed control for more precise woodworking tasks, the BOSCH PR20EVS Router Tool would be a better option. Lastly, for both beginners and professionals looking for a versatile router with sufficient power, the Makita RT0701C Compact Router is highly recommended.

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