Last Updated on July 16, 2022 by James Walton
When it comes to woodworking, there are a few key tools that are indispensable. One of these is a router table. There are a number of different types and brands of routers, but the two main types are benchtop routers and cabinet routers.
When choosing a router table, you may be faced with the decision of Bosch benchtop vs cabinet. These two different types of tables are both great options for routing projects on your workbench. And every woodworker owns one of them or each of them.
Choosing between the Bosch benchtop and cabinet router tables can be difficult. Today we will compare the two options and show you which one is better for your needs
How to Choose the Best Router Table
Before we get started, it’s important to understand what you need from your router table. Below are some key items that will help you make the best choice for your workbench:
Height: The height of the router table will determine how far away from your workbench you can place it. A taller router table is advantageous if you have a tall bench, as it allows more room under the machine.
Width: Most routers come in either 1- or 2-sided versions. The width of your workbench dictates which side you need to purchase. If your bench has a dedicated center area, buy a 1- sided table. If not, go for a 2-sided model.
Bosch Router Table ra1171 vs ra1181
The Bosch Router Table ra1171 and ra1181 are both great options for a home workshop. But which one is right for you in the comparison of bosch ra1171 vs ra1181? Here’s a breakdown of the similarities and differences between the two models.
The main difference between ra1171 vs ra1181 is the size of the table. The ra1171 has a table size of 9-3/4 inches by 12-1/4 inches, while the ra1181 has a table size of 11-3/4 inches by 18-1/4 inches. If you need more space to work, then the ra1181 would be a better choice.
Another difference is that the ra1171 comes with an integrated dust collection port, while the ra1181 does not.
Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181
The Bosch Benchtop Router Table is a great option for those who are looking for an easy-to-use benchtop router table. It features a work surface that measures 21-1/2″L x 9-3/4″W and boasts a heavy-duty construction that can handle most routine tasks.
The Bosch RA1181 also comes with 60mm collets, so you can easily switch between different types of bit housings and keep the parts routed precisely.
Portable design with deluxe soft rubber feet for use on the shop floor or annealing bench. Frame made of steel, molded raceway system, and long life ball bearing guides & miter slides provides tough precision over a wider range of cuts than competing products.
Yes, it’s highly portable. The heavy-duty steel frame provides rigidity and a stable base for the router table on any smooth surface.
There is also a wheel kit available to allow you to transport your router table into more convenient locations in your home or workshop with ease because its soft foam feet are moldable so they can adapt to uneven work surfaces.
- It is a deluxe model of the Bosch router table.
- Has soft rubber feet which can support the routers on any type of surface with great safety and stability.
- Allows you to switch between different types of router bit-heads.
- Has excellent chip removal dust cover system
- Can’t adjust the height of your router table.
- Really heavy and a bit inconvenient.
- Will not be able to support heavy routers and large workpieces
- Does not include a miter gauge.
Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171
The Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171 is a great option if you are looking for an easy-to-use, yet high-quality router table. It features a work surface that measures 27″L x 10.5″W and boasts a heavy-duty construction that can handle most routine tasks.
The Bosch RA1171 also comes with 60mm collets, so you can easily switch between different types of bit housings and keep your projects running smoothly. The soft rubber feet make moving the router table around an easy task, even on uneven surfaces.
And if you ever encounter a challenging project, the Bosch RA1171 includes an easy-to-use router bit height adjustment system.
- Ideal for home use as it is easy to move and set up.
- Features a work surface that measures 27″L x 10.5″W, so you can easily tackle larger projects.
- Offers great stability and safety when using the router table.
- Includes 60mm collets, so you can easily switch between different bit housings on your project.
- Has an easy-to-use router bit height adjustment system.
- Can’t adjust the height of your router table, so you may have to make some adjustments on the go.
- Maybe a bit heavy for some users, but it is still manageable.
- Does not include a miter gauge.
What is the difference between a Bosch benchtop router table and a cabinet router table?
A Bosch benchtop router table is a smaller, more portable option that is ideal for home use. They lack the features of a cabinet router table, such as storage and a miter gauge.
Cabinet routers are built to handle more rigorous tasks and are often larger in size so they can accommodate heavier routers and large workpieces. So there are some specific differences between these two products we are going to explain:
Performance
Bosch benchtop routers are great for smaller projects, such as trimming boards or cutting dovetails. They typically offer lower performance than cabinet routers- although this can vary depending on the model you choose.
Cabinet routers are built to handle larger jobs with ease and can even include features like a miter gauge that is not available on most Bosch models. So while they may not be as efficient when compared to a dedicated cabinet router, they will be more than capable of tackling most household projects.
Portability
Bosch benchtop routers can be easily moved from one project to the next, making them a great choice for spaces that are always busy or where you need to move around frequently.
Cabinet routers can take up space and may not be as portable since they often require storage when not in use. So if you want to keep your workspace spartan, a Bosch benchtop router may be the perfect choice for you.
Price
Bosch benchtop routers tend to be less expensive than cabinet routers, making them a more affordable option if you are just starting out or don’t need all of the features that a cabinet router offers.
Durability
Bosch benchtop routers are typically built to last longer than cabinet routers-although this again can vary depending on the model you choose.
Cabinet routers are often more delicate and can be less durable if not treated properly. So while Bosch benchtop routers may not always be the most reliable option, they will usually hold up better in the long-run relative to a cabinet router.
Design
Bosch benchtop routers tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than cabinet routers- making them a good choice if you are looking for a machine that will blend in with your home décor
Cabinet routers can often be boxy and unattractive, making them an outlier when set alongside other appliances on your kitchen counter.
So there you have it – the key differences between Bosch benchtop routers and cabinet routers. If you are just starting out, a Bosch benchtop router might be a better choice for you since they cost less and offer more portability.
However, if you plan on using your router regularly or need features like storage space or a miter gauge, then go for a cabinet model.
Which one is better for routing projects on your workbench?
The decision of which router to use for routing projects on your workbench largely comes down to personal preference.
While both Bosch benchtop routers and cabinet routers offer a variety of benefits, some users may prefer the design and aesthetics of a benchtop router over a cabinet model
Additionally, benchtop routers often cost less than cabinet models and are more portable making them ideal for occasional use or small workspace sizes.
If you plan on using your router regularly or require features like storage space or a miter gauge, then choosing a cabinet router may be the better option.
Are there any downsides to using a Bosch benchtop router table or cabinet
There are a few potential downfalls to using either type of router table. First, benchtop routers tend to be less powerful than cabinet routers and may not be adequate for more difficult routing projects.
Additionally, benchtop models do not often come with built-in storage space which can make them inconvenient to use if you need to store items nearby while routing.
If these features are important to you, then opting for a Cabinet Router may be the better choice. Whatever router you choose, be sure to read the features carefully and decide which one is best suited for your specific needs.
And always use caution while using a power tool – even if it’s just on your workbench!
Conclusion
After learning the differentiation between them properly we can reach a final decision about this comparison. Bosch benchtop routers are great for smaller jobs and occasional use.
They’re also a good choice if you need to cut precise holes in wood or need to make adjustments that require some fine work.
The tabletop models are the best way to go if you’re looking for versatility, portability, and excellent performance. We hope this post has helped you decide which one is right for your needs!
