Best Plunge Router: Dewalt vs Hitachi
There are many factors to consider when choosing a plunge base router. The Bosch Router 1617EVSPK is clearly the most popular, and some would say best plunge router on the market today. We do agree that this is one of the best overall woodworking tools, as seen in our extensive review of the Bosch 1617EVSPK. What we would like to do is explore 2 lower cost alternative plunge routers that still provide the same quality, power, and dependability, but at a lower price. So, basically, we will identify which plunge router really provides the best value for your money.
To see a side by side specification comparison of the plunge base routers mentioned here, visit our Best Router Comparison Chart.
DEWALT DW618PK Plunge Base Variable Speed Router Kit
The Dewalt DW618PK is currently ranked in the top 5 for the routers category according to Amazon. Dewalt has always been a household name as far as quality and durability. This tool is no different. This plunge base router has been designed to provide a depth adjustment ring that is capable of ensuring precision up to 1/64th of an inch. The plunge base can be adjusted up to 5 different positions due to the turrent stop mechanism. Also, the design of the base is designed in a way to ensure easy changing of router bits. After reviewing customer feedback on this model, there have been a few complaints about the plunge feature of this wood router, but these complaints are minimal compared to other models. Overall, we rank this plunge router #2 on the list of available wood routers with the plunge base feature. To find the best price on this router visit Dewalt DW618PK.
Hitachi KM12VC Plunge Base Variable Speed Router Kit
The Hitachi KM12VC is our top pick for for a router with the plunge base option. The Hitachi does overall rank very similiar to the Dewalt based on customer feedback and performance. Our reasons for ranking the Hitachi KM12VC the top plunge base router over the above mentioned Dewalt model are simple . First, Hitachi offers a 5yr warranty vs. a 3yr warranty on the Dewalt. Second, the price of the Hitachi is about 15-20% less than the Dewalt model. We don’t feel that the consumer is really getting any additional value out of that additional 15-20 markup, except name recognition. And finally, the Hitachi KM12VC is a perfect blend of performance and affordability. The name of Hitachi is enough to create a sense of trust and the product has been strongly recommended by over 90% of the people who have used it. To find the best price on this router visit Hitachi KM12VC.
Our Pick: Hitachi KM12VC Router
To find reviews of the best wood routers on the market, check out Best Wood Router Reviews