Are you searching for a palm router to ace your routing projects? If so, this article is for you. Keep reading! We all know that palm routers are one of the most versatile tools in a woodworker’s arsenal. They can be used for everything from basic edge trimming to full-blown cabinetmaking.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a DIY, having the right tools makes your job a lot easier – and more fun. It is key to any successful carpentry project. So, it’s only right that you get the best one for your projects.
With all of the different types and models of palm routers on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Today, we’re going to review 10 of the best palm routers in the market. Have a read!
Best Palm Router Reviews
1. Bosch Palm Router Combination Kit (GKF125CEPK)
When it comes to power tools, Bosch is a name you can trust. Their GKF125CEPK Colt 1.25 HP (Max) variable-speed palm router combination kit is perfect for carpenters, woodworkers, and DIYers alike.
This router kit includes the Colt 1.25 HP palm router equipped with a 7.0 Amp brushed motor that supplies ample power for routing and trimming applications. With its durable construction, this palm router combo kit will be with you through all your projects.
The router comes with two bases (fixed and plunge) and has a microfine depth adjustment rod with both inches and metric scales for a fast, accurate bit depth setting.
The plunge base features adjustable depth stops for consistent results every time. While the rugged aluminum 360° (non-split) fixed base has been precision machined to ensure smooth operation and perfect cuts. Be informed that the fixed base accepts up to 1-5/16” wide bits. However, its adjustment knob is very sticky and hard to turn.
The Colt palm router motor has a variable speed range of 16,000-35,000 rpm, making it perfect for laminate trimming, rounding-over railings, hinge mortising, decorative edge forming, and more. With its soft-start feature and constant response circuitry, the Colt motor gives a consistent performance.
This router also has an ergonomic palm-grip design that fits comfortably in your hand for extended use without fatigue. Thanks to its LED light, you get more visibility in the bit area.
Furthermore, this kit has a collet chuck wrench and an edge guide that accepts bits up to 3⅝”. You’ll get a carrying case and a collet wrench when you buy it. Also, Bosch has a one-year warranty on this kit.
Benefits
- This kit comes with the Colt 1.25 HP palm router, two plunge bases (fixed and plunge), an edge guide, a carrying case, and a collet wrench.
- The Palm Router has LED lighting for illuminating the bit area.
- Bosch has a one-year warranty on the kit.
- The Palm Router has a variable speed from 16,000-35,000 rpm.
Drawbacks
- The fixed base adjustment is hard to turn.
2. Makita Palm Router Kit (XTR01T7) – Best Cordless Palm Router
Makita has long been a trusted brand in the power tool industry and their 18V LXT Lithium-Ion brushless cordless compact router kit is a great example of why.
This reliable kit comes with all the basics you need to start routing, including the router itself, two 18V LXT® 5.0A batteries, a rapid optimum charger, and a carrying case. The 18V batteries reach a full charge in 45 minutes and have a slow downtime.
What makes this Makita router shine is its electronically-controlled brushless motor, which provides more power and longer run time than traditional brushed motors. This motor delivers up to 50% more run time than brushed motors, making it perfect for big projects.
Plus, it has a variable speed control dial (10,000 – 30,000 RPM) to match different applications. Thanks to its dedicated On/Off button with a separate lock button, you won’t experience accidental start-up.
The Makita XTR01 router is ideal for woodworkers who want excellent performance without having to drag around a heavy corded router (4.6lb with battery). It provides 380ft of cutting performance in red oak using ¼” straight bits at a 5/32″ depth.
With the router’s smooth rack-and-pinion depth adjustment system, you’ll get precise results always. Plus, the built-in dual LED work lights makes it easy to see what you’re doing in dimly lit areas.
The Makita 18V LXT cordless router kit includes a plunge base with a capacity of 0” – 1⅜”. Although, you can purchase additional bases. Furthermore, it attaches to Makita vacuum cleaners with the optional dust nozzle for increased dust extraction.
Benefits
- The palm router in this kit has a brushless motor that provides more power and a longer run time.
- It is cordless and comes with two 18V LXT® 5.0A batteries and a rapid optimum charger.
- This kit has everything you need to get started with your routing projects.
- The router attaches to Makita vacuum cleaners for dust and dirt removal.
Drawbacks
- None.
3. DEWALT Cordless Palm Router (DCW600B)
We all know that Dewalt makes some of the best power tools in the business, so it should come as no surprise that their cordless routers are top-of-the-line. If you’re looking for a powerful cordless router, the DEWALT (DCW600B) 20V Max XR cordless router may be just what you need.
This thing is built like a tank! The motor is brushless, which makes it more efficient and durable. It’s got plenty of power for smaller jobs, and it runs extremely quietly. Plus, it has an electronic brake that reduces the speed of the motor and slows the motor after the unit is shut off.
The DCW600B router motor has a variable speed control from 16,000 to 25,500RPM to suit different project needs. Its motor features a soft start technology for smooth operation when starting up or slowing down so as not to damage sensitive materials.
Thanks to the router depth adjustment, you can control how deep the bit goes into your workpiece. Since it runs on a 20V battery, you’ll be able to take this router anywhere you go.
One downside is that, like most routers, it’s a little bulky. It’s not very comfortable to hold for extended periods. That said, this router also comes with dual LED lights to help you see what you’re doing in low-light conditions.
Note that it has a 4” base and a collet diameter of ¼”. All in all, the DCW600B is a great choice for any woodworker or carpenter looking for a quality cordless.
Benefits
- This router does the job perfectly.
- It is cordless and has a brushless motor.
- It has dual LED lights for illuminating a poorly-lit workspace.
- This router offers value for money.
- The 20V battery lasts long.
Drawbacks
- It may not last long.
- It’s a bulky palm router.
4. ENERTWIST Compact Palm Router Tool
Have you ever wished for a smaller, more compact router tool? One that is easier to handle and maneuver? Well, your wish has been granted with the new ENERTWIST Compact Router Tool.
This innovative tool is perfect for woodworkers, carpenters, and DIYers alike. With its user-friendly design and versatile functionality, it is sure to become a favorite in your tool arsenal, weighing 4lb only.
This little powerhouse can handle all your routing needs, from basic through advanced projects. It functions with an enhanced 7.0Amp, 1¼ HP motor with 6 variable speed settings from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM to suit a variety of materials routing and trimming.
The motor has a soft-start feature that ensures it provides a smooth and clean treated surface without damaging your workpieces. It also has an electric constant response that maintains motor speed during operation and overload protection that prevents stalling.
The ENERTWIST compact router tool features a rack-and-pinion depth control for more precision cutting in metric and imperial measurement. However, it loses its depth setting easily. The manufacturer built it with a sturdy cast aluminum housing surround for durability and a vibration-resistant ergonomic soft-grip handle for comfortable handling.
They also equipped it with a dust hood to connect a vacuum cleaner for effective dust removal.
When you buy this tool, you’ll get an edge guide, roller guide, dust hood, ⅜” & ¼” collets, a 6.6ft power cord, a wrench, replacement carbon brushes, and a one-year warranty. With this tool, you can do everything from shaping edges to cutting patterns in boards – all with a fraction of the cost from named brands.
Benefits
- This palm router is compact, inexpensive, and functions well.
- It comes with an edge guide, roller guide, dust hood, ⅜” & ¼” collets, a wrench, replacement carbon brushes, and a one-year warranty.
- It has 6 variable speed settings from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM.
- The router has a soft start feature.
Drawbacks
- The depth setting doesn’t stay in place.
5. Bosch Variable-Speed Palm Router (PR20EVS)
The Bosch PR20EVS Colt electronic variable-speed palm router is one of the most popular routers on the market. It’s small and light enough to be used with one hand, but it has enough power to do any job you need it to.
This router functions with a 1.0 HP, 5.6 Amp motor that supplies ample power to tackle routing and trimming projects. With its variable speed control (16,000 to 35,000 RPM) located at the top of the tool body, you can make precise cuts at any speed you need.
Furthermore, the motor has a soft start feature that makes it easy to control the motor’s acceleration from start. It also has a constant response circuitry for maintaining the speed selected throughout its operation. Thanks to its palm-shaped, rubber over-molded grip, you won’t experience any user fatigue when working with it.
Bosch built this router with a rugged aluminum fixed base for durability and precision. They also introduced unique finger support pockets to provide users stability when trimming edges. The depth adjustment of this router offers both macro and micro-adjustments, making it a great choice for precision work, like mortising or rabbeting.
This Bosch PR20EVS Colt electronic variable-speed palm router has a fixed base that accepts standard ¼” bits with a maximum cutter diameter of 1-5/16”. When you buy this tool, it comes with a self-releasing ¼” collet chuck, one collect wrench, and one shaft wrench.
Benefits
- This palm router is small but mighty.
- It has plenty of power for carrying out the routing, trimming, lamenting, etc., projects.
- The router motor has a soft start and constant response circuitry features.
- It is easy to use, even for DIYers.
Drawbacks
- Its depth setting doesn’t hold.
6. Ridgid R2401 Laminate Router
The laminate trim router is one of the most versatile routers on the market. With a host of features and capabilities, it can handle all your routing needs for projects big and small.
The Ridgid R2401 has been designed with the professional in mind, but it is also perfect for the do-it-yourselfer who wants quality results. Let’s take a closer look at this machine.
The Ridgid R2401 laminate trim router is a professional-grade tool that can handle all of your trimming needs. With its precision micro depth adjustment and variable speed (20,000 – 30,000) motor with a soft start, the R2401 can excel in both delicate and hard-to-reach trimming jobs.
Thanks to its over-mold grip, you’ll be able to handle it for long without going weary. Plus, it is lightweight, weighing 3lb.
This palm router features round and square bases, so you can easily make rabbets, dadoes, and other groove cuts. It has a LED light that illuminates the work area for more visibility. Plus, a spindle lock and a flat top for easy bit changes. The tool comes packaged with ¼” collet wrenches, an edge guide, guide bars, ¼” bit, bag, and an operator’s manual.
Benefits
- This palm router is comfortable to use.
- It has an LED light for illuminating work areas.
- It comes with round and square bases for making rabbets, dadoes, and other groove cuts.
- Its motor is powerful enough to handle big and small projects.
Drawbacks
- None.
7. Milwaukee’s 2723-20 Cordless Compact Router
If you’re looking for a powerful, yet compact router that doesn’t require a cord, Milwaukee has the perfect tool for you. The M18 cordless compact router (2723-20) is a high-performance router that easily fits in your hand.
Despite its small size, this router packs a punch, with Milwaukee patented POWERSTATE brushless motor 60 percent more durable than brushed motors and requires less maintenance.
The motor speeds up to 31,000 RPM with a variable speed dial, which supplies enough power for clean, quality cuts in hard materials. It has REDLINK PLUS intelligence for protection from overloads, heating, and over-discharge.
The M18 Fuel cordless compact router is part of Milwaukee’s 18-volt line of lithium-ion tools. It runs on Milwaukee’s RedLithium XC5.0 battery pack, which offers 50 percent more run time than standard lithium-ion batteries, cutting 250 ft per charge. However, it doesn’t come with this battery.
The handheld router is equipped with a micro-adjust dial and macro-adjust button for fast and accurate depth adjustments. There’s also a dust extraction attachment for connecting it to a vacuum cleaner to keep your workspace neat at all times. It comes with a sturdy 4″ sub-base plate that provides stability. And dual-LED lights to help you see workpieces more clearly.
The M18 FUEL™ compact router accepts only ¼” shank router bits. Plus, it is compatible with a plunge base and an offset base. It weighs 2.9 lb, making it extremely lightweight and easy to use.
Benefits
- This is a compact, cordless, and very powerful brushless palm router.
- Its battery provides 250ft per charge.
- It is compatible with both a plunge base and an offset base.
- You won’t have any problems handling this tool even if your project takes all day long.
- It has awesome micro and macro adjustments.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t come with batteries.
- Its depth adjustment needs improvement.
8. PORTER-CABLE PCE6430 4.5-Amp Single Speed Router
The Porter-Cable PCE6430 4.5-Amp single-speed router has a professional quality and easy-to-use design, making it perfect for all your routing needs.
It works with a 4.5 amp single-speed motor that runs at 31,000 RPMs, providing you with adequate power for all your routing needs. With precision depth adjustment, you can be sure that every cut will be accurate and precise.
This router features extra-large locking clips that allow for a quick motor release and a depth ring that enables quick and accurate bit height adjustments. It also comes with a precision-machined, cast-aluminum fixed base.
Benefits
- It’s a simple, yet powerful router.
- It makes accurate cuts thanks to its precise depth adjustment system.
- This palm router is easy to use.
- Its price won’t break the bank.
Drawbacks
- This router is inconsistent in providing satisfactory results.
9. Ryobi Palm Router Kit
Routers can be pretty intimidating tools, but the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Lithium-Ion palm router is designed for anyone who wants to get started with routing.
With a powerful motor and 29,000 RPM speed, this router can handle all sorts of projects. It runs on a compact 18V lithium-ion battery that has 20% more runtime compared to standard 18-Volt batteries.
Plus, its durable housing and built-in carrying handle make it easy to take your router wherever you go.
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V palm router includes micro-adjustable depth control. It is one of the easiest to operate on the market, thanks to the fast-release lever for easy depth adjustment. Work surfaces are additionally illuminated by LEDs for better cutting vision, ensuring that your cuts have always been exact.
RYOBI built it with an aluminum base that offers stability and accuracy. When you buy this tool, it comes equipped with an 18V battery and a charger.
Benefits
- This is a great router for DIYers just starting with routing.
- It is cordless and has sufficient power for medium size jobs.
- It comes with an 18V lithium-ion battery and charger.
- It has a LED light too.
Drawbacks
- None.
10. CtopoGo Compact Wood Palm Router
Have you ever wished you could have a router in your workshop that was as small as a hand drill? Well, your wish has come true. The CtopoGo compact wood palm router is perfect for woodworkers and carpenters who need a precision tool that doesn’t take up too much space.
With this router, you can do all the same things you would with a traditional router, but with more ease and convenience. Best of all, it comes with an extensive set of different size bits.
The CtopoGo compact wood palm router functions with a copper wire 800W motor that moves at 30000 RPM, making it capable of wood processing, wood trimming, cabinet processing, plastic sheeting, wood veneer, and other materials chamfering.
It has a non-slip rubber handle comfort grip to provide a more comfortable grip and better control while in use.
The manufacturer, CtopoGo, built it with high-quality aluminum and plastic to ensure durability and long service years. They used a transparent base design with an easily readable scale to give you more visibility and increase accuracy. Thanks to the trimming guide it comes with, you can effortlessly make exact cuts and curves.
The other accessories this trimmer comes with include a straight guide, dust board, sample guide plate, adjustable button, six carbon brushes, fast switch button, and ¼” shank router bits.
Benefits
- This trim router does the job perfectly well.
- It comes with a lot of accessories to help you get the best result.
- 12 pieces of shank bits come with it.
- It is inexpensive and offers excellent value for money.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t last long.
How to Choose the Best Palm Router?
When it comes to woodworking, a palm router is an essential tool. This small, handheld device can do everything from creating dados and rabbets to mortising and even edge profiling.
With so many different palm routers on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this section, we will discuss the important factors you need to consider when choosing a palm router.
Purpose of the Purchase
The first thing you need to consider is the purpose of the purchase. What will you be using the palm router for? If you will be using it for general purposes, then any standard palm router should work fine.
However, if you will be using it for more specialized tasks, then you may want to consider a model with specific features.
RPM Rating
Next, you need to look at the RPM rating. This number indicates how quickly the blade can spin and tells you how powerful the motor is.
The higher the RPM rating, the more power the router has. If you will be using your palm router for heavy-duty tasks, then you’ll want one with a high RPM rating.
If you intend this to use for a hobby, and not commercial use, then a mid-range RPM rating should be sufficient.
Brushless vs Brushed Motor
Another thing to consider is whether you want a brushless or brushed motor. Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than brushed motors, but they are also more expensive.
If you don’t plan on using your palm router very often, then a brushed motor may be a better option considering the price factor.
However, if you have enough budget, I recommend going with a brushless option as they are more durable and efficient compared to their brushed counterparts.
Corded vs Cordless Palm Router
Whether you want a corded or cordless model is another crucial consideration.
Corded models have more power and are typically cheaper, but they can be limiting if you need to move around a lot. Cordless models are more portable, but they usually have less power and cost more money.
Ergonomics
When choosing a palm router, it’s also important to consider the ergonomics. The router should feel comfortable in your hand and allow you to easily control it. It’s also important that the handles are well-balanced so the router doesn’t feel too heavy.
Durability
Another thing to look at is durability. You want a palm router that is built to last and can withstand frequent use. Check to see how the body is constructed and whether the parts are replaceable.
Price
Cost is always an important factor when making a purchase. Make sure you find a model that fits within your budget without sacrificing quality.
Palm routers come in a wide range of prices. You should pick one that is providing the best value for the money.
Warranty
Finally, be sure to check out the warranty information before making your final decision. A good warranty will protect your investment in case something goes wrong.
Final Thought
In conclusion, we have provided a comprehensive review of our top 10 palm routers on the market today. All of the routers on the list are high-quality tools that are sure to meet your needs.
We hope that this article has helped you in your search for the palm router for your needs and that you will find one from our list to purchase. Remember, a quality palm router can make all the difference when it comes to precision woodworking, so don’t hesitate to invest. Thanks for reading!
