With some many advancements, choosing the Best Plunge Router for the Money will get difficult especially if you are a new to the routing world. The basic way of doing the selection includes knowing what you need, your budget, and definitely Quality consideration. These are the three main pillars which stand strong for almost all products.
We will list out the Top 10 models of Plunge Routers along with a brief description for each. For this compilation, we tested out the plunge router tools for you – some of them we got by ourselves, while others have been tested in the stores.
The Winners: Best Plunge Router for the Money
There are many plunge routers trending in the market, and among them, Triton stands the best of all the plunge routers. It has a 3.25 HP motor running within it, and that’s the best you can get, isn’t it?
The second recommendation is the Bosch MRP23EVS which is a Budget Pick of the Year. It features a trigger controlled power system, with the main switch placed in the plunge-base location. Precise Plunging and Variable Speed are some of the highlights in this.
10 Best Plunge Router Reviews of 2023
To find out the more about these products, and other suggestions in the Plunge Router category – read on.
#1 Recommendations: Best Rated Plunge Router – Triton TRA001 3-1/4 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
3.25 HP power is one of the hell power options that you will get for a Plunge Router. You can handle the toughest of the workpieces with an rpm range of 8000 to 21000.
Precision is what Triton mainly focuses on since 1976 when they released their first product. They are built in Australia, and all their machines are designed keeping the precision in check.
You can make use of a height adjustment crank for all the above-table depth settings. With this option, you can skip out the need of buying a router lift accessory in the setup. Bit changing is also performed above the table, so there is no job that is to be dealt below the table.
The power rating falls in the range of 3.25 HP, while the rpm range falls between 8000-21000 in Triton Plunge Router. Easy to follow machine that has got all the direct reading and dials. Simple for a beginner to get started.
Set up a height adjustment crank for all the depth settings needed for the routing job. You can change from the conventional plunge router to the fixed base with a single button option.
There is one Micro Winder feature that allows precise depth adjustment for complete plunge range.
With the variable speed setting, you can choose different speed according to the type of the work and the requirement. Enclosed guarding offers protection from the cut zone.
Triton has been in the field for more than four decades now so, you can understand the accuracy and the quality finish of their products. Keep a check on the online deals to get your Triton Plunge Router today!
#2 DEWALT DW621 2-Horsepower Plunge Router
With soft start routing mechanism, this variable speed router is the next recommendation on our list. There is one dust collection setup on this machine, and also the rack and pinion depth adjuster. It gives you the comforting handles which are made of rubber.
Dewalt plunge router is convenient to use and is one of the powerful and precise routing solution providers in the market. You can control the speed and choose the right rpm ranging between 8000 and 24000 rpm.
For the convenience, they have included the depth adjustment setting. This is possible with adjusting the rack and pinion height. Collets in both the sizes 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch are available on this Plunge Router.
This router comes with the rpm range support from 8000 to 24000, and also includes the Soft Start support. You can have a quality finish for all the working surfaces maintaining the machine at a constant speed throughout the cutting.
With the micro-fine adjuster, you can set the rack and pinion settings here. There is one dust collection setup that removes the chips and also provides good visibility of the project you are working on.
Spindle lock button allows the user to change the bit with a single wrench in Dewalt plunge router. With the on/off inbuilt option you can control the machine more easily.
Used by the professional as they offer the precision collets of 1/4 and 1/2 inch.
The name DEWALT is in itself a big brand! One among the popular routing solutions trending in the market. Overall this product is a good to go machine, for its versatility and ease of handling.
#3 Best Budget Plunge Router – Bosch MRP23EVS 120-Volt 2.3 HP Plunge Base Router
Next, we have the Bosch Plunge Base Router, which offers you with an HP of 2.3 and runs on 120 volt and 15-ampere motor. They support the trigger control setup whose power switch is placed in the handle part of this Plunge Base.
Beginners can make use of the template and other fixtures like the dovetail, and make the intended cutline on the wood or any other surface. With the micro-fine depth adjustment, you can continuously keep the machine on and get similar cuts throughout the workpiece.
It also features the variable speed setting, so that you can choose the best suitable speed according to the need of yours. Get the precise plunge routing experience on this Bosch as they have added the spring-lock plunge lever and the depth rod for getting the right depth while plunge routing.
Horsepower range is given as 2.3 on this Bosch machine, while the rpm range falls between 10000-25000 rpm. There is one depth indicator that will guide through the depth setting and other related adjustments.
Here the power switch is controlled using the trigger system. The power switch is located near the handle side of the Bosch Plunge Router.
LED lighting included which is kept always on for clear visibility of the routing work. The Soft-Start feature on this router allows the machine to understand the type of the work better.
Constant Response circuitry makes Bosch plunge router system maintain the same speed till the work completion.
This is one the quality options available in this price range. You will receive four different components along with the main router. These include – 1/4 and 1/2 inch collet(the self-releasing one), plunge base, and finally, the bit wrenches.
#4 Best Plunge Router for the money – PORTER-CABLE 7538 Speedmatic 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router
You can get this black and grey color combined Plunge Router by the Porter-Cable. With the 15-amp power battery, almost all range of work projects can be handled smoothly. They believe in offering power and durable solution to its users.
Stanley Black & Decker is in the production of different tools and another storage setup for a long time now. They have a track record of sustainable growth and are also into electronic security systems too.
Even with a simple 15-ampere motor, you could easily work on the toughest applications. The machine is powerful and is also found to be durable enough (what you can expect from a standard Plunge Router).
This Plunge router has got a 15-ampere motor and offers the user with a durable and powerful machine for all kinds of routing applications.
Single speed setup with a max of 21000 rpm rating. Auto-release collet mechanism allows you to have an automatic bit removal just after the routing use.
With the single speed setting, you will also get the soft start mechanism that reduces the torque in the startup.
You can set the right depth on this, and choose from an option of 6 adjustable positions. This allows you to make stepped and repeated cuts using this Plunge Router.
Motor housing and the base is done using the aluminum and offers 3-inch plunge range.
Having a single speed support is a drawback in our opinion, so if you are searching out for a machine having multiple speeds then this machine won’t come to your use. Otherwise, this product remains an effective option and will serve you with routing solutions on a single speed; 21000 rpm.
#5 PORTER CABLE 7539 3-1/4-Horsepower Speedmatic 5-Speed Plunge Router
A powerhouse in itself! You will rarely come across a machine with a horsepower of 3.25 rating. With the 15 ampere motor, get all the routing work done quickly. There are five-speed options added, and all of them have the soft start in the beginning.
Here the rpm reaches a max of 21000, at this high speed the plunge router machine is ought to make some noise. So, make sure that you wear a hearing protection before getting started. Handles come with a comforting grip, and so it all makes the handling easy for the users.
Heavier than most other Plunge Routers in this product category. Weight is found to be 17.2 pounds.
We have got the Porter Cable router that runs on a 15-ampere power motor. Total of 5-speed options available on this system, and they go as 10000, 13000, 16000, 19000, and finally 21000.
This electronic machine is highly versatile with such varying speed options. Soft Start helps in getting the torque in control during the start of the routing.
You can get the bits removed easily with the Auto-release bit utility added here. It may create some noise during the operation, so get all the hearing protection on before starting.
The turret has got a depth-stop and included six positions on it. A ball bearing is completely sealed on this Plunge Router.
Isn’t this interesting to find that the same brand products are on our list? The previous one was also a Porter Cable product with the single speed setting while this comes with 5-speed options on it. So, you can opt for the one that matches your requirement and type of work.
#6 Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router (Variable Speed)
Makita is in the production of industrial quality tools and offers many of the accessories used in the large machinery. They strive their best in providing energy efficient and compact solutions for both homes as well as commercial needs. Another point that you will note is that Makita combines innovation with the basic engineering. Thus, providing a super awesome final plunge router product to you.
The 15-ampere motor runs within this router and also offers the rpm range between 9000 to 22000. Other features of this product include over-sized ball bearing and one inbuilt fan which prevents the dust from resting on the inside of the tool.
Here the handles are made of rubber and found to be user-friendly. There are twin LED lights which are inbuilt, and they provide better visibility of the routing process. The template guide system does not include any extra tool, so thus making the installation quick and simple for you.
Motor runs on 15 amperes; this remains same as most of the other models. RPM range starts from 9000 to 22000, which is the highest compared to the other routing options.
It supports electronic speed control, and it could maintain the same speed throughout the complete task. They have included linear ball bearing so that you can undertake smooth plunge operation.
Electric brake allows you to make the best productive use of the plunge router. Shaft lock helps with making quick and easy bit changes.
All the Makita systems are rightly tested before they are taken out from the factory. There is an option of returning the product within 30 days, in case you are not satisfied with the functioning.
This is undoubtedly the easy-to-use plunge router system with all the basic yet high-end utilities combined with it. Here the collet cone with both 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch are included in the package. This tool can be used for a variety of applications, including wood, carpentry, doors, windows, and others.
#7 Bosch 1619EVS 15 Amp 3-1/4-Horsepower Plunge Base Router
This is known for the amazing power and performance offered on a base router. The soft start mechanism allows the machine to reduce the initial torque generated at the start. For smooth plunge operation, the router includes dual plunge post.
Here the wiring is double insulated one and is easily convertible with the router table too. With the spindle lock setup, you can easily have the bit changes smoothly as well as quickly. You can make many depth adjustments with the under-table adjustments allowed on plunge router.
With an amazing 3.25 horsepower, you can perform almost all kinds of routing task, including the raised panel designs.
You can reduce the startup torque with the soft start feature. Choose between the rpm range of 8000 to 21000 rpm, and could maintain a constant speed throughout the processing.
The front spindle lock is designed in such a manner making the bit changes quick and simpler. You can set all the depth adjustments without the need for any costly accessories.
Here the conversion is quick and simple if you wish to install this with a router table. Soft and comforting handles present on the plunge base area.
The construction is a double insulated one, and it comes with a 3.25 horsepower rating.
Well, it is one among the cool router systems that come with all the amazing features on one. The precision centering design on this Bosch model is an exclusive feature that helps with centering on the template guides. Also, the soft start feature allows the machine to initiate itself in a gradual manner, thus saving the excess torque.
#8 DEWALT DW625 3-Horsepower Variable Speed Electronic Plunge Router
15 ampere motor with a 3 horsepower rating is present on this Variable Speed electronic plunge router. It comes with an amazing range of rpm which goes by 8000 to 21000 rpm. They also include the micro-fine depth setting that allows you to make easy depth setting as and when required.
Collets in both 1/4 and 1/2 inch sizes are available so that you can choose the suitable one as per the requirement. The bit changing process has been simplified with the inclusion of the spindle lock button. Handle included on this is light on the hands and guides you smoothly throughout the working.
The plunge router tool comes with a one-year free service, and they will help you by replacing the worn out parts – everything for free.
3 horsepower and 15 amperes are the motor configurations. These help with having soft starts in the beginning and lets you to smoothly work with the routing process.
Handles are comforting and offer a quality support while handling this 11.25 pounds plunge router. One side of the base has a flat design, while the other side is rounded. One dust extraction adapter is included with the main machine.
Here the bushings are made of phosphorus and bronze – they provide smooth and precise plunging property for you all.
With the spindle-lock button, you can get the bit change done quickly. Warranty for 3 years included with the router – make it more loveable!
DEWALT offers its users with a high-grade machine, and all quality features for the ultimate routing experience. The model might be not available on Amazon, but you can surely check them out on other websites, or even check it out by the offline way.
#9 Best Cheap Plunge Router – Craftsman 12-amp, 2-hp Fixed/Plunge Base Router
This is a 12-ampere base router which supports the Soft Start technology, thus you can save a lot of torque on the startup. The maximum speed of the router can go as high as 25000 rpm. It is seen that users experience some vibration after continuous use of a router. This vibration is considerably low on this Craftsman Base Router, and that is made possible with the comfortable handles included on it.
Even the changing of the base from a plunge type base to a fixed base is quick. The motor is 2 HP rating and has got a sturdy built quality.
The 12-ampere motor includes the Soft Start technology that makes the starting smooth. Thus it saves on the torque generated at the machine startup.
Handles are user-friendly, and this makes the processing quick and easy to handle.
The quick exchange of the bases from plunge to fixed-base, takes less time. Change from trim routing to the dados job without wasting any time. If this is not present, then it could have taken extra time with the exchange.
Total of 6 speeds are included here, that ranges from 10000 rpm to 25000 rpm score. Motor runs on a 2 HP power and comes with a strong built quality.
It is one among the portable units in the category of the plunge router. Along with this, you will get the feedback control which is an electrical setting – using this you can set the suitable rpm speed for the type of the work you are up with! For your information, with changing bit sizes, the rpm speed must be changed. This is because efficiency is attained only at the correct speed.
#10 Ryobi RE180PL1G 2HP Peak 10-Amp Plunge Router
Final on the list is the small green-black color combined system, this is yet another price friendly machine. It looks all worth the design, but are the features and the functions all equally worth the cost? Find out our review about this in this section.
Starting with the basic specifications, it is 2 HP motor driven machine that makes use of 10-ampere. You can choose from the set of speeds provided, and select the one that matches the requirement. Here the handles are designed in such a manner that it gives a comforting time to the user of plunge router.
It also includes both the 1/4 and 1/2 inch collets along with the main router.
The rpm speed can be set in the range of 15000 to 25000 rpm. So, choose the value that will match your work type, and will get the job done in less time.
Using the micro-adjustable stop, you can set the depths and thus perform continuous cuts keeping the same depth.
Handles are designed in such a manner that makes it possible for you to work from any angle.
As they have included the 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch bit, you can work on varying sizes of bit pieces. This adds the versatility of the machine since you can try out different designs with changing bits.
One important point that we need to stress on is that it is a compact machine and you can handle it more easily than any other router machines discussed here. Even the bit changing task is simplified here and can be done using one wrench spindle lock mechanism.
Fixed Base vs Plunge Router
Getting a router machine for your garage is a great idea by all means. One major fact about the router machine is that you are ought to have some usages from it. This investment is not going to be a waste at any time, and this is because of the functionalities provided by it.
If you have got the right router, along with the jig and the bit – then they are endless ideas that you can try out with this setup. But you may have come across two types in the routers; one is the Fixed Base, and the other one is the Plunge type. How will you know which is the right type router for you?
Plunge from the name itself, it moves in an up and down style while the Fixed Base comes in a locked position (that makes it a fixed one). On the plunge type routers, the handles come with a spring-loaded design, allowing the user to manually plunge the cutting bit on the machine.
Plunge routers are preferred for all the onboard tasks, and this includes the edge work as well. Whereas on a Fixed base router, the cutting bit remains in a fixed style where they cannot plunge or move in a top-bottom fashion. This simply means that Plunge routers will come to more use to you than the Fixed one.
In short, Plunge routers are more versatile than a fixed one.
On a fixed base router, you can set the cutting depth and lock it up. In this way, you can perform the routing keeping a fixed depth throughout the complete cutting. So, we can say that you can get more precise cuts on the Fixed router type, comparing both the router types.
How to use a Plunge Router
Plunge Routers are those versatile machines that can do a high-end woodwork as well as work on some of the wood details. You can create your custom designed on the wood, or try your hands on the fluting work. If you are planning to try out some modern patterns on the middle portion of the cupboard. All such kinds of work can be tried out using the Plunger Router.
Here we will share some tips on using the Plunge Router in the right manner. You will need four basic things to get started here; and they are namely Router, clamps, router bit, and wrench.
- Step number one is to get the Router bit set on the machine. This may sound simple, but well it is the toughest and crucial step of all. Before this comes selecting the right bit that matches your work. Select the bit, and get it connected to the router.
- As the router bit spins, it generates a high level of energy, so it is mandatory to choose a firm, stable surface. When the process of routing begins, the bit will try to turn the wood so choose the surface of that quality that prevents the turning of the wood, and allows it to make strong, deep cuts keeping it all firm and sturdy.
- Next, you can set the depth for the plunge router. Set all the router bits, and do all the measurements taken for the Routing work. This will help you in understanding the design more clearly, and you could set the depth before routing. Well, this is the right way of routing; and you could get fine cutting and routing done in the end.
- Using a plunge router, you can mark the direction beforehand and set the plunge in the same working direction.
So, these are the must consider tips for all who are working with a Plunge Router. After the machine power is turned on, your attention must be in the way the router bit is doing its work on the wood.
Then press the plunger button to get the router bit to get plunged on the surface, and after it is completely set, release the button and continue till the work gets finished.
What is a Plunge Router
The plunge router is one of the major types of router, and it mainly helps with trimming and shaping wood pieces in different styles and designs. One of the main properties of this router is that you can try almost any kind of routing, irrespective of the work and surface type.
You are supposed to set a depth for getting those fine continuous type of cutting. After a fixed depth is set, the router will start routing keeping the adjustments in check.
These were our picks and reviews for Best Plunge Router for the Money! We have to admit one thing that router purchase won’t go waste for anyone out there. The reason is – it comes to use in many ways and is one of the basic tools present in a workshop. Follow us on BeingWoodWorker and get regular updates from us.
Hung is the lead writer at BeingWoodworker.com, where he brings over a decade of expertise to the craft of woodworking. With a Fine Arts degree specializing in Woodworking, Hung has a wealth of experience in creating intricate and high-quality wooden pieces. His extensive background includes working on diverse projects, from bespoke furniture to artisanal home décor. As a passionate advocate for the craftsmanship of woodworking, Hung provides valuable insights and practical tips through his writing. Follow his journey and get inspired by his work on Instagram.