Last Updated on August 29, 2022 by James Walton

Once I took part in a wood shop learning to turn various ideas into reality. From there, I discovered the use of a trim router. It is undoubtedly a handy tool to work with. Moreover, this makes trimming work so much easier.

Finding the best trim router for your work is not the hardest of jobs, dare I say. But, if you are looking to make your life easier when it comes to woodwork, then getting a trim router is a great idea. Read till the end of this article to find out more about some great trim routers.

10 Best Trim Router Reviews

Doing all kinds of research on these routers, I set out to buy one for myself. Found out about a lot of great routers in the market.

HOTSTORE Laminate Trimmer Wood Router

HOTSTORE Laminate Trimmer Wood Router
HOTSTORE Laminate Trimmer Wood Router
HOTSTORE Laminate Trimmer Wood Router

Trim routers are not just a simple laminate trimmer anymore. It does so much more for you than a laminate trimmer does. If you are new to woodworking, then you should think about using a trimmer for various woodwork. For example, they are great for shaping edges as well.

HOTSTORE Palm Router is an excellent router for featuring a robust speed palm router construction that makes sure you get your work done right. 

Advanced electronics make this router different from most other routers. With a rugged base, this product has proven very reliable ergonomics.

For trimming and routing applications, the router is equipped with a motor that delivers an input power of 30000RPM.

When you are working with a trimmer, you need to see what you are doing. Otherwise, the results will not be as you had hoped for. This product gives you that visibility. With a transparent base, you can achieve accuracy in your work.

The scale that it comes with is also clearly visible, and you can efficiently operate using it. Furthermore, the external carbon brush that it comes with is replaceable as it is a universal carbon brush.

For precision, this has both a dressing guide and a straight guide to work with. The dressing guide helps ensure that the cuts that you are making are exact with a roller that runs along the curve. Whereas the straight guide helps make processing straight easier.

You can use this router for many wood works. This includes cabinet processing, wooden processing, handicraft production, and other DIY projects as well.

Pros
  • Robust speed palm router construction
  • Abundant power design
  • Capable to multi-function
  • Dressing and straight guide for precision
  • Wide applications
Cons
  • Quality could have been better

Bosch GKF125CEN Variable-Speed Palm Router Tool

Bosch GKF125CEN Variable-Speed Palm Router Tool
Bosch GKF125CEN Variable-Speed Palm Router Tool
Bosch GKF125CEN Variable-Speed Palm Router Tool

You need a trim router that will make masterpieces for you. A router with exceptional palm-grip makes it easier for you to maneuver the router on different kinds of wood. Bosch palm router is just that. 

The ease that you can achieve working with this trimmer is out of the world. It presents you with a new kind of woodworking depth, which is revolutionary. The adjustment system gives you the precision that you need to create masterpieces.

Power is a necessary element when it comes to a trim router. Without the right kind of power, there is no way you can get your woodworking done. 

This trimmer features a 7 amp, 1.25 — HP motor that can make you achieve compact versatility with the kind of speed you would need for your woodworking. At speeds of 16000 to 35000 RPM, you can get a lot done within a short time.

Convenience is another factor that you need in a good trimmer. If this router was not convenient to use, I would not suggest it to you now. You can do things that you never even thought of doing with this router. 

If you want to become a circle-cutting monster, this is the router for you. The constant response circuitry that this one comes with, ensures monitoring and maintaining the router’s speed under load for consistently great performances. 

Providing you with overload protection, this router has a soft start that gives you a reduced start-up torque.

The comfort you will get using this trim router comes from the palm-grip design with finger support pockets and a soft grip.

Pros
  •  Depth adjustment system for ease
  • Motor that gives you compact versatility
  • Accepts bits up to 1-5/16 inch wide
  • Constant response circuitry for consistency
  • Palm-grip for comfort
Cons
  • Quality need adjustments

Makita XTR01T7 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router Kit

Makita XTR01T7 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router Kit
Makita XTR01T7 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router Kit
Makita XTR01T7 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router Kit

The next one on the list is a cordless unit. Makita XTR01T7 spots a brushless motor that delivers more accurate and faster cuts on any wood that you are working on.

This 20 pounds router is wireless. So, you do not need to drag a cord around with you whenever you work. 

The router does not have a spindle lock system. Meaning, with this router, you have to use two wrenches to secure a bit. This is not an upside of this router, and yet the changing of bits is very easy nonetheless.

But, because you have to use two wrenches, you get a tighter nut. This means the bits will stay securely in their place and not move when you are working.

Reducing the chances of mechanical wear, this motor offers excellent advantages. These advantages include energy usage to match the RPM and torque of the motor to changing demands in terms of application.

A variable speed control dial is another plus point of the motor of this trim router. This variable speed control dial can be used within 10000 to 30000 RPM to match the speed for different applications.

Furthermore, to maintain speed, this router uses electronic speed controls. There are separate On and Off buttons on this machine to prevent you from accidentally starting up the machine.

Pros
  • Motor helps with faster and more accurate cuts
  • Powerful battery
  • Quick-release system for ease
  • On /off button that prevents accidental start-up
  • Electronic speed control
Cons
  • Some bits do not fit

DEWALT DWP611 Compact Router

DEWALT DWP611 Compact Router
DEWALT DWP611 Compact Router
DEWALT DWP611 Compact Router

When you buy a tool, you want it to last long. And when durability is your prime concern along with convenience, Dewalt is the name to trust. DEWALT DWP611 Router has both the durability and ergonomics that you would want in your router. 

Features like a Dual LED and clear sub-base, which has D-shape for visibility during trimming, are what this one is known for as well.

With the variable speed settings, you can regulate and monitor the speed as per the applications require. 

So, this electronic speed control system lets you maintain speed even if you encounter any resistance. This makes sure that there is no twisting on the wood if you are changing between different kinds of wood. That is how you can make sophisticated cuts using this power tool.

A powerful 6.5 amp motor with 10000 to 30000 RPM allows you to handle tasks with great efficiency. This router also has a rack and pinion depth adjustment system, which allows you to make precise cuts.

Furthermore, the tool has a quick locking system that makes it fast and convenient to go through depth adjustments and base change. Aluminum bodied router as it is, it comes with a dust hood that helps you remove dust easily and keep everything clean.

Pros
  • Aluminum body for durability
  • Dust hood to keep everything clean
  • Quick locking system
  • Ergonomic design with Dual LED lights for visibility
  • Variable speed controls
Cons
  • Power switch is a bit stiff

Bosch Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router PR20EVS

Bosch Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router PR20EVS
Bosch Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router PR20EVS
Bosch Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router PR20EVS

Trimming softwood sounds like an easy thing to do for a trim router. But, that is not the case. It takes an excellent trimmer to do this kind of job well. The next one I am going to talk about is a router that is meant to cut softwood effortlessly.

On ash, maple, or other woods, this router is excellent for trimming most softwoods quickly. It can take a bite with a 1- ¼ inches core box out of ¼ inches of wood.

Bosch Colt PR20EVS Router will fit your hand perfectly because of its palm-grip. This is the best trim router you can get because the base of the router has an imprint so that you can use your finger as a guide and hold the router firmly, which allows you to grab comfortably while using for trim any kind of woods.

Furthermore, this excellent router comes with two real wrenches. One of these wrenches is for the nut, and the other is for the shaft. Instead of a stamped piece of steel, which you can replace, it has these wrenches.

A foot-long power cord comes with this router.It’s made of soft and durable material, so it won’t wear-out that easily. 

Not having a plunge base is the only downside of this router. It would have been more convenient to work with if it had a plunge base.

Powered by a 5.6 amp motor, it can deliver speed from 16000 to 35000 RPM for more efficient operation. So, it is potent, so much so that it can do pretty much all kinds of heavy-duty jobs. And, the best part is the angled cord exit that does not get in the way of your work at all.

Pros
  • Angled cord exit for moveability
  • 16000 to 35000 RPM powerful motor
  • Works great on softwoods
  • Palm-grip for comfort
Cons
  • Does not have a plunge base

Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router

Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router
Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router
Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router

Laminate trim routers are the smaller versions of wood routers. Mostly used to trim laminate like Formica, work with a rotating power of up to 30000 RPM. The next router we will be discussing is the first laminate trim router in this bunch. It is, quite frankly, the best one in terms of bases.

The Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router is a very powerful router that works with a 1 horsepower motor that produces up to 30000 RPM. So, within less time, you get a lot of work done using the tool.

When it comes to versatility, this is the best router for you. Convenient to use, this one comes with both a round base and a square base. There is an LED light that will light up your workplace before making a cut.

Small in size, this one allows you depth adjustments of bits in an easy way. All this can be done with the built-in micro-adjust dial that it comes with.

There is an over-mold grip, which gets you a better grip and control on the tool while working. The spindle lock that this router has makes it very convenient and quick to use. Even on similar machines, a spindle lock locks the bit used in the machine to secure it.

The manufacturers gave great attention to the details when manufacturing this router. Furthermore, the top is flat, which makes sure that it is easier to change the bits. Also, they covered the top with rubber to protect the texture of the wood.

With a soft start-up, this router also has variable speed settings that are very important if you handle versatile applications.

Pros
  • Soft start-up so that you will not get startled
  • Variable speed
  • 20000 t0 30000 RPM powered motor
  • LED light for illuminating the workplace
  • Square and round bases for efficiency
Cons
  • Built cheaply in some areas

Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit

Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit
Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit
Makita RT0701CX7 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit

The brand Makita is a well-reputable brand that also manufactures great trimmers out in the market. Known for their performance, these routers are magnificent when making art pieces come to life. 

Makita RT0701CX7 Router spots a motor with a variable speed control dial, which will let you match the router’s speed according to the application. So, now you can handle your projects using different speeds varying from 10000 up to 30000 RPM.

When you are working on two pieces of wood at the same time or face any other difficulties during your woodwork, you need a powerful router to get you through that hurdle. This product does just that. With the electronic speed control that this product has, you can quickly move past these obstacles. 

Rack and pinion adjustment are essential when it comes to a trim router. These routers need these adjustments so that you can easily make precise cuts however you need to. This fine depth adjustment system allows you to make sure you make the perfect art pieces.

Slim and ergonomically designed body of this router ensures your comfort and control over the product.

For easy depth adjustments, the quick release cam lock system was added to this product. This is also great for the removal of the base or installation.

If a machine starts up fast and makes too much noise, or even scares you with sudden vibrations, then you will not feel comfortable using it. The tool eliminates hard start-up and gives you a smooth and soft start-up.

Pros
  • Variable speed control dial
  • Smooth rack and pinion depth adjustment system
  • Slim body for comfort
  • Quick-release lock system for ease
Cons
  • Does not fit with all standard bits

MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router

MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router
MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router
MLCS 9056 1 HP Rocky Trim Router

Performance-wise, a product has to be top-notch. Or else, what is the use in wasting your money buying it at all? That is why I have looked for the best performance that money can buy when getting a new trim router. This one will not disappoint you, indeed.

MLCS  Trim Router is an excellent router for its high-performance capability. You can adjust the speed to your liking varying from 10000 RPM to 30000 RPM. The dial of speed control is located on the top of the motor housing. This gives you the chance to go fast or slow, depending on how you need to cut any wood.

With a diameter of only 2-½ inches, the tool is easy to hold when working on your project. 

Made of high-quality aluminum, you can rest assured of its durability. Being heavy-duty is a great bonus point of this router. Marked in 1/16 inch and 1-millimeter increments, there is a rule etched into this router’s aluminum housing. This helps you measure how many cuts you are making without making any errors.

Featuring a spindle-locking button, changing the bit becomes an effortless task to do. To adjust the height of this double insulated motor, you get a rack and pinion adjustment system for convenience. This helps you to lock the motor at the desired height by a flip lever.

Pros
  • Spindle-locking button for bit changing
  • Rack and pinion system for height adjustment
  • Durable aluminum housing
  • Heavy-duty motor
     

     
Cons
  • Flip lever is not very reliable

PORTER-CABLE Laminate Trimmer

PORTER-CABLE Laminate Trimmer
PORTER-CABLE Laminate Trimmer
PORTER-CABLE Laminate Trimmer

Woodworking is not easy. But, some projects are tougher than most. These projects may require you to use a strong and super-potent machine. If this is the case, then the next router is perfect for that kind of job.

PORTER-CABLE uses a 4.5 amp motor to power the machine. Speed control of this motor varies from 10000 to 31000 RPM. You can use this router for any kind of woodworking, be it a straightforward project or a heavy-duty one.

As per accurate specifications, this router can make exact and precise cuts for you. So, if your projects require delicate stuff, you should give them a try.

When you are working on your woodworking project, you may find some difficulties concerning the bits’ height adjustments. Continuously adjusting the heights of the bits are required in this line of work. 

But, if you cannot do it quickly, then the whole process becomes very lengthy. With this product, you do not have to worry about that. Using its depth ring, you will be able to easily adjust the bits without spending much time.

As not all bits are the same, you need to change the bits from time to time. Changing the bits is so much easier on this. With a spindle-lock button, you can wrench the bit to change without spending much time on it.

This machine is perfect for all types of woodwork, as I have already mentioned. So, it is ideal for multipurpose projects. You can do all sorts of hinge routing, trimming, and small edge forming works.

With an LED light and transparent base, you will be able to make accurate cuts with or without much skill and experience. The ergonomic single-handed control design gives you the benefit of doing your work with only one hand.    

Pros
  • LED light and clear base for visibility
  • Ergonomic single-handed control
  • Spindle lock for easy bit changes
  • Quick bit adjustments 

     
Cons
  • Depth lock gets loose over time

Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router

Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router

To me, it is better to have a slim and ergonomically designed body so that you can achieve comfort and precision with it when it comes to a trim router. If you are looking for the same, allow me to introduce you to a Compact Router from Makita.

With a very lightweight, you can carry this Makita compact router easily. Talking about its ergonomics, you will get a much firm grip on it even with wet hands.

Due to this trimmer’s variable speed control feature, you can use it as per the applications require.  Its electric speed control ensures that the speed remains consistent while using the tool.

You can easily take care of the depth adjustments as the router features a quick-release cam locking system. Installing and removing the base won’t take much time when you have it in your hand.

With a powerful aluminum motor, which is double insulated, you can expect some serious performance from it. Because of the double insulation, dirt cannot go inside it.

This plunge-based router has better power management than most other routers. You can easily adjust the depth of the bit using the rack and pinion depth adjustment system.

It has a quick-release system that lets you make secure locking and unlocking on the wood. With a smooth and soft start, this router enables you to control the speed you need to trim a wood piece.

Pros
  • Plunges based router
  • 10000 to 30000 RPM motor
  • Rack and pinion depth adjustments
  • Quick-release system for efficiency 
Cons
  • Some standard bits will not fit

What to Look for Before Buying – Choosing The Best Trim Router

Whether it’s for DIY or professional projects, you need to make sure you get the right tool that can deliver you performance and convenience at the same time. Allow me to introduce some factors that will help you identify which one would be the best for your woodworking.

Electronic Controls

Electronic controls are becoming more and more common in trim routers. These controls allow for greater control over the machine, making it easier to make precise cuts. In addition, they can be set up to work with various other machines, meaning that your trim router will use for multiple tasks.

Depth Adjustment and Security

Make sure you have the proper depth adjustment to create accurate cuts. Second, get a router with security features, so you don’t have to worry about it becoming lost or stolen. Finally, consider how often you’ll use the trim router and what type of material you’ll be cutting.

Material

Most times, these routers are made of brass or aluminum. Other than that, they can be made with other different materials as well.

No matter the material they are made of, the main thing that it will decide is the product’s durability. So, look for the right kind of router made with suitable quality materials.

Spindle-Lock System

The bits that are used in a trim router are what make the cuts. So, depending on the cuts you are making, you need to change the bits.

Some routers have a spindle-lock button on them that lets you wrench the bit to change it easily. This makes changing the bits so much easier.

Rack and Pinion Adjustments

Before you start using a router, you need to adjust the bit. Otherwise, the bit will get loose quickly, and the cuts you have to make will become jagged. The rack and pinion adjustment system ensures that you can easily adjust the bit to the machine to get to work. So, look for a router that has this system.

Bit Compatibility

Without bits, you cannot trim wood with a router. Bits usually come with routers. But, sometimes, you might need to use different bits as well. To change the bits, they need to fit the machine too. But, in some cases, some standard bits do not fit the machines. You need to be careful about that.

Fixed and Plunge Base

For shaping, rounding out edges, and other routing applications, a fixed base router is used. Because of being lightweight, this can be good for beginners.

On the other hand, for dovetailing, cutting groves, and engraving, a plunge base router is used. If you want versatility for adjusting the depth, then a plunge base trim router is ideal for your use.

Nowadays, some routers have motors that can be attached to a plunge base and a fixed base. So, you can look for these routers if you need to use both, or depending on what you need; you can choose any one of these kinds of router.

Read Also: Fixed Base vs Plunge Router: Which Is The Best

Motor Power

The motors that a trim router uses usually produce about 1 HP or less than that. Also, some routers produce up to 1 ¾ HP.

Depending on your needs, you need to choose the horsepower that a router delivers. If you need to work on a small project, then 1 HP is enough. But, for a big project or to work all day, then a higher HP rating is what you need.

Variable Speed

You can control the router’s operating speed with a router that has variable speeds. This is very important for your woodwork if you are working on acrylic, plastic, and delicate pieces or using a larger bit size.

If you run your router at a low feed rate, it will extend the router’s lifespan, and damaging the workplace can be avoided.

Soft Start

Trim routers can be hard to handle. Without practice, you cannot control it as it is a powerful machine. If your tool does not have a soft start, it can suddenly start-up, and startle you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best trim router?

Answer: HOTSTORE Palm router is the best router in the market. Its abundant power, multi-function capability, and robust housing make it stand out among others.

2. Which trim router is the best for heavy-duty applications?

Answer: MLCS 9056 Trim Router is the best heavy-duty trim router for its durable aluminum body. The motor is powerful enough to tackle some serious workloads. It has a spindle lock button for changing bits with convenience as well.

3. Why is spindle-lock important?

Answer: Spindle-lock lets you change bits on routers very easily. Usually, two wrenches are needed to change from one bit to another. But, with a spindle-lock button, you can change your router’s bits easily with just one wrench.

4. Why do you need a rack and pinion adjustment system?

Answer: You need to change bits on your router in between working on your projects. A rack and pinion adjustment system makes sure that changing bits becomes a much easier process.

5. Which is the best Makita router?

Answer: Makita XTR01T7 Cordless Compact Router Kit is the one from Makita for its motor. The battery is potent, and there is a convenient On and Off button so that you do not accidentally start-up the machine.

Final Words

Finding the best trim routers wasn’t that easier as these power tools are loaded with features that can make someone confused. To keep it straight, consider your work intensity, and then look for one that you need to achieve perfection with efficiency.

As these are machines, follow the manufacturer maintenance guide to keep the performance to an optimum level. Otherwise, the tool won’t perform up to its full potential.

Avatar for James Walton
Author

James Walton is an active woodworker & maker who is passionate about all things woodworking. He loves to play with power tools and machines.

Write A Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.