You won’t find too many woodworkers’ workshops that don’t have a fixed base router tool. This tool is one that you can own alongside a plunge base router tool to carry out a variety of woodworking tasks.
Unlike a plunge base router tool, this one fixes into place at a set position. As a result, you can be closer to your material and, therefore, in more control.
Many people like to buy fixed base router tools separately or in a set with a plunge base. However, it’s not all that easy to find one that works for your needs. We’ve compiled information on some of the best fixed base router tools for sale, and considerations for how to buy the best one for you.
1. Bosch Electronic Fixed Base Router
Having a fixed base router tool can offer a lot of convenience in the workshop. And this one from Bosch is undoubtedly up there with the best. It’s available in eight model options, all of which come with features that are bound to appeal.
It has a powerful 12-amp motor with adjustable speed settings, not to mention a two-inch sub-base opening. People also love how it comes with a quick-release template guide, and is also compatible with a template guide adapter set.
You can adjust the speed with a dial, and the bit height from above the router table. It’s also comfortable to use and competitively priced. Some people say the metal plunge base is thin and can crack, but it’s definitely a tool worth having nonetheless.
Product Features
- Eight model and product options
- 12-amp motor
- Adjustable speed settings
- Two-inch sub-base opening
- Template guide adapter set compatibility
- Quick-release template guides
Pros
- Plenty of model options
- Reputable brand
- You can adjust the speed with a dial
- You can change the bit height from above a router table
- It comes with template guides and adapters
- Affordable to buy
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- The metal plunge base is thin and can crack
2. DeWALT Router
If a quality brand means a lot for you when choosing a fixed base router tool, then step right up and check out this DeWALT router. With 1-3/4HP and an 11-amp motor, it has more than enough power to help on your next project.
People like how easy it is to set up and how it allows for more control over a workpiece than a plunge router. What’s more, it’s affordable to buy, and you can set up the switch to be on your left or right side – whatever you prefer.
It’s comfortable to use, and it also features high-quality parts. You’re bound to be impressed by the quick-release motor latch, nickel-plated motor housing, and soft rubber over-molded handles.
This fixed base router tool also comes fitted with a micro-fine depth adjustment ring, but some people say this can work loose. Otherwise, though, there are several reasons why woodworkers will be lining up to buy this fixed base router tool.
Product Features
- 1-3/4HP
- 11-amp motor
- Micro-fine depth adjustment ring
- Tool-free steel motor cam lock
- Quick-release motor latch
- Sub-base concentricity gauge
- Dust sealed switch
- Nickel-plated motor housing
- Rubber over-molded handles
Pros
- It’s comfortable to use
- You feel in control while using it
- Affordable to buy
- High-quality parts
- You can have the switch on your right or left hand
- Easy to set up
Cons
- The adjustment ring comes loose
3. SKIL Fixed Base Corded Router
Even though this fixed base router tool from SKIL can create a lot of mess and is quite heavy, it’s still a preferred option by many woodworkers. It’s powerful, comfortable to use, and features high-quality materials to last the distance.
SKIL is so confident in its product that it provides a warranty for five years, and that’s just the beginning of how desirable this router is. It has a 10-amp motor, 2HP, and adjustable speed control for confidence.
You can also start it in soft mode to give you more control at the beginning, which is sure to be an appreciated feature for beginners. What’s more, this model has die-cast motor housing for longevity, and comfortable, grippy handles. You’re bound to like what you see.
Product Features
- 10-amp motor
- 2HP
- Adjustable speed control
- Soft start mode
- Die-cast motor housing
- Grip handles
Pros
- It’s comfortable to hold
- It’s powerful
- Affordable to buy
- High-quality materials
- You can start slowly for safety
- It offers a lot of control over your workpiece
- Easy to set up
- Generous five-year warranty
- It comes with a collection of profiles
Cons
- It’s quite heavy to operate
- It creates a lot of mess
4. Metabo HPT Router
Even though this fixed base router tool doesn’t have an LED light as others do, that doesn’t mean it’s not worthy of your attention. Metabo, previously known as Hitachi, now offers two models of a router that are bound to impress.
They feature a noise level of 79.5 decibels, which is less than several other fixed base router tools for sale. They also come with two-stage motor release clamps and 11-amp motors. What woodworkers are also impressed by is the electronic speed control. Have full control over your workpiece as you work.
It maintains a consistent RPM, and it’s exceptionally comfortable to use and set up. Most importantly, it allows you to make precise and controlled cuts. Could this fixed base router tool from Metabo be right for you?
Product Features
- Two model options
- 79.5 decibels
- Two-stage motor release clamp
- 11 amps
- Electronic speed control
Pros
- It maintains consistent RPM
- It’s quieter than many other router tools
- It’s comfortable to use
- It makes controlled and precise cuts
- You can pick from two models
- Competitive price tag
- Easy to set up
Cons
- It doesn’t have an LED light
5. Goplus Wood Router Tool Combo Kit
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new fixed base router tool, but you want it to get the job done, then check out this combo kit from Goplus. Not only do you get to choose from three combo options, but you don’t have to pay a lot for any of them.
They come with both fixed and plunge bases, and you can put the motor in each of them without any tools. This fixed base router tool is also reasonably powerful for home use with a 6.5-amp motor and 1.25HP.
You can change the speed to one of six speeds, and tinker with the settings until you find what works for you. This model even comes with a variety of accessories for convenience.
With aluminum and nylon materials, the quality of this router tool is undeniable. Sure, the base isn’t broad enough for ¾-round over bits, but that’s a small problem in the scheme of things. Home users are bound to be impressed.
Product Features
- Three combo options
- 6.5-amp motor
- 1.25HP
- Fixed and plunge bases included
- Tool-less motor removal
- Six variable speeds
- Aluminum and nylon construction
- Accessories included
Pros
- It comes with both a fixed and plunge base
- You can swap the motor between the two without the need for tools
- Affordable to buy
- Plenty of combo options
- Powerful motor for home use
- Comfortable to use
- You can control the speeds
Cons
- The base is not wide for ¾-round over bits
6. Bosch Electronic Plunge Base Router
Even though this isn’t a fixed base router tool, you may just find that it’s equally as convenient as one. Thanks to the Afterlock microfine bit-depth adjustment feature, it gives you full control over your workpiece as if you were using a fixed base router tool.
It also has a powerful 15-amp motor producing 2.3 HP, and it operates at 10,000 to 25,000 RPM. Your speed can depend on which of the speeds you set it to with the variable speed dial.
What’s more, you get to make use of the LED light for visibility, the trigger control system, and cord swivel that keeps the power cord out of the way. This router is a bit more expensive than others, but its quality and advancement can make it worth it.
Product Features
- 15-amp motor
- 2.3 HP
- 10,000 – 25,000 RPM
- Trigger control system
- Afterlock microfine bit-depth adjustment
- Spring-lock plunge lever
- LED light
- Cord swivel
Pros
- You can control the speed and power
- The LED light offers plenty of visibility
- It’s powerful
- Comfortable to use
- Plenty of adjustment options
- You can make minor adjustments accurately
Cons
- Expensive to buy
- Doesn’t come with a fixed base
7. Porter-Cable Router
When the time comes to upgrade your fixed base router tool to something powerful, comfortable, and convenient, then check out the offerings from Porter-Cable.
This fixed base router tool is available in five models with accessories and might be the right tool you’re looking for to assist with your next woodworking task. It comes with a 12-amp motor, 10,000-23,000 RPM, and variable speed control. What’s more, it offers full-time electronic feedback.
It’s powerful, easy to control, and also has a dual-position switch. For long-term use, the over-molded grips are sure to provide that much-needed comfort.
Some people say that the spindle lock button is hard to operate, and the collets don’t thread on smoothly. In saying that, it’s not hard to see that this is a high-quality fixed base router tool that can add much value to your next project.
Product Features
- Five model options
- 12-amp motor
- Full-time electronic feedback
- Variable speed control
- Dual-position switch
- Overloaded grips
- Spindle lock
- 10,000 – 23,000 RPM
Pros
- It’s powerful
- Easy to control
- Plenty of model and accessory options
- Affordable to buy
- Soft starting feature for safety
- Easy to release the motor
- You can use the switch on the left or right side
- The handles are comfortable
Cons
- Collets don’t thread on smoothly
- The spindle lock button is hard to operate
8. Metabo Variable Speed Plunge Router
If you’re not worried about whether you have a fixed base router tool or plunge router, then let Metabo deliver the goods. You get to pick from two models, and both of them come with a variety of helpful features.
Firstly, even though this router is expensive, it comes with a generous five-year warranty. Therefore, many people won’t mind spending more for this router than others. It’s also lightweight and compact and boasts a powerful soft-start motor producing 3-1/4HP.
It doesn’t come with a fixed base, but many people don’t seem to mind. Instead of being a fixed base router tool, it has handles you can adjust and control for better closeness to your work material. Check it out and see if it meets your needs.
Product Features
- Two models
- Soft start
- Sliding switch
- 3-1/4HP
- 22,000 RPM
- Five-year warranty
Pros
- It’s lightweight and compact
- You can choose from two models
- It starts slowly for safety
- You can adjust the handles for control
- Generous warranty period
- Powerful motor
Cons
- Expensive to buy
- It doesn’t come with a fixed base
9. Ridgid Fixed Base Router
If you have been looking for an affordable and convenient fixed base router tool for some time, then you may find what you’re looking for in Ridgid. This tool boasts 11 amps and produces 2HP, which is more than enough for most woodworkers.
You can adjust the speed and make micro-depth adjustments, and it has a soft start feature for safety. People also like the hex-grip handles that are both grippy and comfortable. If you are working in low light, then Ridgid covers all bases here too. This fixed base router tool comes fitted with dual LED lights.
The only thing that bothers some people is that you can’t buy accessories separately. Therefore, if you wanted to buy a plunge base, you would also have to buy the motor to go with it. Otherwise, though, anyone that needs a fixed base router tool will be impressed with this model.
Product Features
- 11 amps
- 2HP
- Electronic variable speed
- Micro-depth adjustment
- Soft start
- Hex-grip handles
- Dual LED lights
Pros
- There’s plenty of visibility while you work thanks to the lighting
- The handles are grippy and comfortable
- Powerful motor
- Affordable price tag
- It’s quiet
- Comfortable to operate
- Plenty of speed control
Cons
- You can’t purchase accessories separately
Considerations for Purchasing a Fixed Base Router Tool
Before you purchase what you think will be the best fixed base router tool for your needs, it’s worthwhile identifying what features you prefer and what will suit your needs.
If you don’t do your homework, you can end up with an expensive tool that’s not as ideal for your requirements as you would have hoped. Read on to learn what things you should consider before purchasing a fixed base router tool.
The Price
The price can be important for two reasons. It can be the minimum and maximum you are willing to spend, and it can also be reflective of the quality of the tool you are looking to buy. Therefore, thinking about the price is something worthwhile doing.
Before you start shopping, set a budget for yourself. If you know the absolute maximum you’re willing to spend, you can narrow down your options accordingly.
Within that price range, you can also determine what level of quality you hope to get. Generally, reputable brands cost a little more to buy. The less you spend, the higher the risk of getting a router that lacks power or reliability.
Collet Size
The collet size of your chosen fixed base router tool can make a world of difference to which one you purchase. Routers come with a ½-inch collet or a ¼-inch collet. Any router bits you buy must fit into that collet in order for them to be compatible. You cannot interchange between the two.
Power Type
While the majority of high-quality router tools for sale come with power cords, not all of them do. Believe it or not, you can purchase router tools that have batteries, instead. In saying that, you will rarely come across a router tool that doesn’t have a power cord. This is often a swivel cord with a power switch that you can sometimes put on the left or right side for convenience.
Horsepower
The horsepower of your chosen fixed base router tool can be quite significant. Some are better suited to either professionals or home users. You will often see the power of each tool referred to as peak and sustained.
Peak horsepower is the highest amount of power it can operate with for a short amount of time. Sustained horsepower, however, refers to what you can consistently expect the power output to be. At the lower end, some routers produce around 1HP. At the higher end, you can expect about 3.5HP.
What you use your tool for can dictate the model you buy. For example, if you are creating something complex like dovetail joinery, a more powerful model will be a necessity.
Variable Speed Control
If you are working with large materials quite a lot, then having a fixed base router tool that comes with variable speed control is quite important. In fact, it’s paramount for safety. The more control you have over your speed, the safer you can be, and the more in control of the tool you can be.
You will often find that full-size routers and mid-tier routers both have this option. But if you purchase a high-end model, you often get the desirable feature known as an electronic feedback system. This feature controls the speed based on its load. As a result, the RPM stays in the most appropriate range.
The Handles
The handles of a fixed base router tool can be an important feature that doesn’t get as much consideration as it should. One of the main reasons why people buy such a tool is so they can have a better connection and closeness to their material while they work on it. A plunge tool tends to be too far away to make this easy.
Therefore, the more comfortable and connected the handles of your fixed tool are, the more comfortable you can be as you work. Many handles come with a hex grip and a little bit of padding, while others are wooden and varnished. Handles differ significantly from one model to the next, so it’s worth reading through the reviews to see what other people have to say about them.
Bit Change System
If you use a router tool quite a bit, then you will probably be familiar with the bit change system. How complicated or easy this feature is can depend on the model you buy. And if you buy one that’s a little bit complicated, you will tire of it before long.
Anyone who changes their bits quite a lot will benefit from a tool-less bit changing system. You can quickly and easily change bits with minimal hassle. Many router tools for sale also come with a spindle lock system, and this works with a wrench to change bits.
Soft Start Function
Not every fixed base router tool comes with a soft start function, but it can definitely be a preference. Rather than starting at full speed and potentially ruining your workpiece, a router tool with a soft start will begin slowly. It increases its speed and power over time, rather than right away.
Motor Housing
You might not think the motor housing is an important feature to consider, but it can be. Most motor housing on a router tool is plastic or metal. At peak hose power, the metal motor housing is more likely to handle the pressure. Therefore, you benefit from much-needed durability.
However, a router tool with plastic housing can be much lighter, which means it’s easier to handle and can promote less fatigue. You have to weigh up whether you prefer comfort of longevity. You potentially can’t have both.
Warranty Period
Some of the best fixed base router tools on the market can be quite expensive to buy, which is why a warranty can be necessary. The more extended the guarantee, the more confidence you can have in purchasing the tool. Be on the lookout for manufacturers who offer at least one year, but definitely consider those who offer three years or more.
