Overview of routers, so you can choose with insight

Find the right router for your DIY projects
Barley
Barley
4 min
Routers come in many varieties for wood, metal and plastic. In this article, you’ll get an overview of types, materials and areas of use, so you can choose the router that best suits your project.
Austin Allen
Austin
Allen

Overview of routers, so you can choose with insight

Find the right router for your DIY projects
Barley
Barley
4 min
Routers come in many varieties for wood, metal and plastic. In this article, you’ll get an overview of types, materials and areas of use, so you can choose the router that best suits your project.
Austin Allen
Austin
Allen

Milling drills are indispensable when you want to make precise recesses, grooves or edges in wood, plastic or metal. They come in many varieties, and it can be difficult to determine which drill is best suited for your task. Some milling drills are designed for fine details, while others are suitable for rapid material removal or hard materials.

In this article, you will get a complete overview of different types of milling drills, their areas of use and characteristics, so that you can more easily choose the right tool for your next project.

The article presents a selection of milling drills covering different types and purposes – from standard drills to special drills for specific materials. The aim is to provide an informative overview of the most common variants, so that you can compare features, materials and possible applications. The information about the products is based on descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to give a clear picture of the different options on the market.

1
Precision and strength
CMT Router Table with Cabinet
A robust and freestanding router table from CMT, designed to mount handheld routers. The table has a solid MDF laminate top and can be adapted to different types of routers.
Why it was chosen: The CMT Router Table with Cabinet was chosen due to its combination of stable construction, flexibility, and compatibility with many types of handheld routers. It represents a professional workbench suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.

The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with handheld routers. The table offers a stable and safe work surface where precision and control are the focus.

The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing work.

The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs that ensure stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands firmly yet remains movable when needed.

The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of handheld routers. The table can be used with routers up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.

  • Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and a solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
  • Flexible use: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
  • Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
  • Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
  • Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides plenty of space for routing work.

Pros and cons

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Compatible with many router types
  • Ergonomic working height
  • Large and flat work surface
  • Delivered without cabinet or extra storage space
  • Requires adjustment when using router types other than CMT7E

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Compatible with many router types
  • Ergonomic working height
  • Large and flat work surface

Cons

  • Delivered without cabinet or extra storage space
  • Requires adjustment when using router types other than CMT7E

Pros

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Compatible with many router types
  • Ergonomic working height
  • Large and flat work surface

Cons

  • Delivered without cabinet or extra storage space
  • Requires adjustment when using router types other than CMT7E
Pros: The table has a robust and stable construction, is compatible with many router types, has an ergonomic working height, and a large, flat work surface.
Cons: Delivered without cabinet or extra storage space and requires adjustment when using router types other than CMT7E.
Pros: The table has a robust and stable construction, is compatible with many router types, has an ergonomic working height, and a large, flat work surface.
Cons: Delivered without cabinet or extra storage space and requires adjustment when using router types other than CMT7E.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: CMT
  • Model: 999.110.00
  • Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
  • Length: 80 cm
  • Width: 60 cm
  • Height: 90 cm
  • Thickness: 2.5 cm
  • Weight: 26.5 kg
  • Compatibility: CMT7E and other handheld routers
  • Max. router diameter: 98 mm
2
Professional edge routing
Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
A specially designed router table from Festool with a 1.5° tilt, developed for precise planing of edges in combination with the Festool edge router MFK/OFK 700.
Why it was chosen: The Festool FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set was chosen for its precision and compatibility with Festool edge routers. It represents a professional accessory for precise edge processing and is suitable for both professionals and advanced DIYers.

The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed tilt of 1.5° makes it possible to process surfaces with high precision, which is ideal for planing edges.

The router table is compatible with Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with delicate materials.

The set comes with a guide plate and dust cover, which contribute to precise guidance and efficient dust extraction during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.

  • 1.5° tilt: Ensures precise planing of edges.
  • Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
  • Stable guidance: Included guide plate provides controlled movement.
  • Efficient dust extraction: Dust cover reduces dust during work.
  • Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.

Pros and cons

  • High precision in edge routing
  • Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
  • Includes guide plate and dust cover
  • Robust construction for professional use
  • Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
  • Supplied without additional accessories other than those specified

Pros and cons

Pros

  • High precision in edge routing
  • Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
  • Includes guide plate and dust cover
  • Robust construction for professional use

Cons

  • Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
  • Supplied without additional accessories other than those specified

Pros

  • High precision in edge routing
  • Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
  • Includes guide plate and dust cover
  • Robust construction for professional use

Cons

  • Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
  • Supplied without additional accessories other than those specified
Pros: The product offers high precision in edge routing, is compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700, comes with both guide plate and dust cover, and has a robust construction suitable for professional use.
Cons: It requires a compatible Festool edge router to be used and is supplied without other accessories than those already mentioned.
Pros: The product offers high precision in edge routing, is compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700, comes with both guide plate and dust cover, and has a robust construction suitable for professional use.
Cons: It requires a compatible Festool edge router to be used and is supplied without other accessories than those already mentioned.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Festool
  • Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
  • Article number (SKU): 495165
  • Tilt: 1.5°
  • Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
  • Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust cover, supplied in cardboard packaging
3
Precision and stability
Ferax Freestafel BRT015
A robust benchtop milling table from Ferax, used in combination with a handheld router to provide stability and control during woodworking.
Why it was chosen: Ferax Freestafel BRT015 was chosen as an example of a stable and versatile milling table that fits most handheld routers on the market. It represents a practical solution for users who want a stationary workbench for precision routing.

Ferax Freestafel BRT015 is a benchtop milling table intended for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during milling.

The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and larger projects.

With a height of 860 mm and a tabletop size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection nozzle allows connection to an extraction system for a cleaner working environment.

  • Stable construction: Angled legs provide a solid and vibration-free work surface.
  • Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
  • Large work surface: Tabletop of 610 × 810 mm provides plenty of space for various workpieces.
  • Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable use.
  • Extraction connection: Nozzle with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.

Pros and cons

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Fits many different milling machines
  • Large and flat work surface
  • Option to connect extraction
  • Requires a separate handheld router for use
  • Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Fits many different milling machines
  • Large and flat work surface
  • Option to connect extraction

Cons

  • Requires a separate handheld router for use
  • Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility

Pros

  • Robust and stable construction
  • Fits many different milling machines
  • Large and flat work surface
  • Option to connect extraction

Cons

  • Requires a separate handheld router for use
  • Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros: The construction is robust and stable, fits many different milling machines, has a large and flat work surface, and offers the option to connect extraction.
Cons: It requires a separate handheld router to be used and is relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility.
Pros: The construction is robust and stable, fits many different milling machines, has a large and flat work surface, and offers the option to connect extraction.
Cons: It requires a separate handheld router to be used and is relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Ferax
  • Model: BRT015
  • Article number: 26236-0100
  • Fence width: 150 mm
  • Fence length: 457 mm
  • Tabletop width: 610 mm
  • Tabletop length: 810 mm
  • Height: 860 mm
  • Weight: 26 kg
  • Connection nozzle diameter: 65–76 mm
4
Precision and strength
CMT Router table with cabinet
A complete router table from CMT with phenolic top, adjustable side fence system and stable storage cabinet – developed for precision work with handheld routers.
Why it was chosen: The CMT Router table with cabinet was chosen because of its combination of professional design, precision components and practical storage solution. It represents a stable choice for users who want a solid and flexible work table for routers.

The CMT Router table with cabinet is a professional work table designed to mount handheld routers. The table is built to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.

The top is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to deformation and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm and two integrated aluminium tracks, allowing precise adjustment of the fence. A special tool system makes it possible to change router bits from above without disassembling the table.

The side fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks of hard plastic for extra support.

The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors providing space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenolic top, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different tasks.

  • Phenolic top: 12 mm thick board with high stability and resistance to deformation.
  • Integrated aluminium tracks: Provide precise adjustment of the side fence position.
  • Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without disassembling the table.
  • Adjustable side fence system: Can be used as fixed or pivoting fence with quick clamping mechanism.
  • Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.

Pros and cons

  • Stable and durable construction of phenol and melamine
  • Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
  • Easy access for tool changes from above
  • Built-in storage in the cabinet
  • Suitable for professional use
  • The total weight makes the table less mobile
  • Requires assembly upon delivery

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Stable and durable construction of phenol and melamine
  • Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
  • Easy access for tool changes from above
  • Built-in storage in the cabinet
  • Suitable for professional use

Cons

  • The total weight makes the table less mobile
  • Requires assembly upon delivery

Pros

  • Stable and durable construction of phenol and melamine
  • Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
  • Easy access for tool changes from above
  • Built-in storage in the cabinet
  • Suitable for professional use

Cons

  • The total weight makes the table less mobile
  • Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros: The table has a stable and durable construction of phenol and melamine, precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks, easy access for tool changes from above, built-in storage in the cabinet and is suitable for professional use.
Cons: The total weight makes the table less mobile and requires assembly upon delivery.
Pros: The table has a stable and durable construction of phenol and melamine, precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks, easy access for tool changes from above, built-in storage in the cabinet and is suitable for professional use.
Cons: The total weight makes the table less mobile and requires assembly upon delivery.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: CMT
  • Product name: Router table with cabinet
  • Article number (SKU): 999.500.01
  • Top: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
  • Side fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
  • Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
  • Weight (top): approx. 15 kg
  • Weight (side fence): approx. 8.5 kg
  • Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
  • Total construction: Table, side fence system and cabinet
5
Professional precision
Festool Router Bit Set Box-OF HW S8 Mix
A complete set from Festool with 10 different router bits with 8 mm shank, collected in a practical router set for precision work in wood.
Why it was chosen: Festool Box-OF HW S8 Mix was chosen as a representative example of a professional router bit set with high precision and versatility. It provides a good basis for comparison for users looking for a complete set for hand routers with 8 mm shank.

The Festool router bit set Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and offers the possibility for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.

The contents range from edge and groove cutters to profile, chamfer, and dovetail cutters, making the set suitable for finishing, joints, and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.

The router bit set is delivered in a robust storage box that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep the tools organised during transport and storage.

  • Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
  • 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with 8 mm collet.
  • Carbide cutters (HW): Provide high cutting performance and long life.
  • Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
  • Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.

Pros and cons

  • Wide range of bits in one set
  • Carbide tips for long life
  • Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
  • Delivered in a robust storage box
  • Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
  • Contents may vary depending on configuration

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Wide range of bits in one set
  • Carbide tips for long life
  • Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
  • Delivered in a robust storage box

Cons

  • Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
  • Contents may vary depending on configuration

Pros

  • Wide range of bits in one set
  • Carbide tips for long life
  • Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
  • Delivered in a robust storage box

Cons

  • Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
  • Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros: The set offers a wide range of bits with carbide tips for long life, fits standard 8 mm hand routers, and comes in a robust storage box.
Cons: Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm, and contents may vary depending on configuration.
Pros: The set offers a wide range of bits with carbide tips for long life, fits standard 8 mm hand routers, and comes in a robust storage box.
Cons: Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm, and contents may vary depending on configuration.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Festool
  • Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
  • Article number (SKU): 498979
  • Number of bits: 10 pieces
  • Shank diameter: 8 mm
  • Material: Carbide (HW)
  • Includes: Edge cutter, dowel drill, groove cutters, profile cutters, chamfer cutter, slot cutter and dovetail cutter
Plunge saws explained – differences in features and construction
Get a handle on how a plunge saw differs from a regular circular saw and what you should look for when choosing a model
Barley
Barley
Plunge saw
Tool
Construction
Woodworking
DIY
2 min
Plunge saws provide precise cuts and flexibility when working with wood and sheet materials. Get an overview of the differences in features and construction so you can choose the model that best suits your projects.
Zane Watson
Zane
Watson
Find a spirit level that suits your project
Get precise results in your construction and assembly tasks
Barley
Barley
Spirit level
Construction
DIY
Tools
Precision
3 min
A spirit level ensures precision in both large and small construction projects. Read about different types and features, and find the spirit level that best suits your needs as a DIY enthusiast.
Teagan Wright
Teagan
Wright
Overview of routers, so you can choose with insight
Find the right router for your DIY projects
Barley
Barley
Router
Tools
DIY
Woodworking
Construction project
4 min
Routers come in many varieties for wood, metal and plastic. In this article, you’ll get an overview of types, materials and areas of use, so you can choose the router that best suits your project.
Austin Allen
Austin
Allen
Screwdrivers for every job – find inspiration here
Make your construction projects easier with the right screwdriver
Barley
Barley
Screwdriver
Tool
Woodworking
Construction projects
DIY
4 min
Find the screwdriver that suits your projects. The article provides an overview of different types, functions and benefits, so you can choose the right tool for both small and large construction jobs.
Teagan Harris
Teagan
Harris