For those into woodworking, a fixed base router allows you to preset the depth and make precise cuts along a specific plane. The details routers allow you to accomplish makes it possible to put the finishing touches on projects and turn them into true masterpieces. By changing the depth, you get perfect results and can wrap-up your project and hone in on your skills which is the desire of any do-it-yourselfer.
Fixed base routers differ from plunge base routers and are best-suited for working on top of wood versus the edges. Like most power tools, there are numerous things to consider including horsepower, comfort, durability, price, size, power and much more.
The following review takes a closer look at the Top 10 Fixed Base Routers in 2019 making your next purchase that much easier.
| Image | Title | Brand | Rating | Check Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | DEWALT DWP611 1.25 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router with Dual LEDs | Dewalt | 9.9 |  |
 | Bosch 12 Amp 2-1/4 HP Variable-Speed 1617EVS with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets | Bosch | 9.8 | |
 | DEWALT DW616 1-3/4-Horsepower Fixed Base Router | Dewalt | 9.8 | |
 | DEWALT DW618 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router | Dewalt | 9.7 | |
 | Bosch Colt Palm Grip PR20EVSK 5.6 Amp 1-Horsepower Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router | Bosch | 9.4 | |
 | PORTER-CABLE 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router | Porter-Cable | 9.4 | |
 | Hitachi M12VC 2-1/4 Peak HP Variable Speed Fixed Base Router | Hitachi | 9.3 | |
 | Porter-Cable 450 1.25 HP Compact Router | Porter-Cable | 9.3 | |
 | DEWALT DW618K 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable Speed Fixed Base Router with So Start Kit | Dewalt | 9.3 | |
 | DEWALT DW616K 1-3/4 HP Fixed Base Router Kit | Dewalt | 9.0 | |
9.9/10
Pros
- Motor easily locks into place in a fixed position
- Rubber grip provides ample comfort
- Great visibility with a clear sub-base
- Can handle heavy-duty projects
- Powerful 1.25 HP motor
Cons
- Heavy
The DeWalt DWP611 fixed base router has a sturdy 1.25hp motor that has enough power to work with the toughest applications. This powerhouse features a variable speed control, so you can adjust it according to the project you are working on. The sub-base is clear and has dual LEDs that together enable you to work with great visibility.
Single wrench bit can easily be changed with the help of large low-pressure spindle lock button. The combination of depth ring and clamping mechanism helps its powerful motor to remain locked in a fixed position. It can be transitioned between fixed and plunge bases within seconds. Its construction and rubber grip will provide you comfort while working.
9.8/10
Pros
- Maintains constant speed with built-in constant response circuitry
- The power switch is completely sealed keeping it clean
- Speed dial makes it easy to change the speed
- Can handle the toughest routing tasks
- Extremely durable
Cons
- Wood handles provide less comfort than rubber handles
The Bosch 1617EVS has a strong 2.25hp variable speed motor that makes it an excellent choice for even the toughest routing jobs. The speed on this machine ranges from 8,000 to 25,000 RPM that you can adjust with the help of a speed dial. The 1617EVS is constructed using aluminum to provide extreme durability.
Its motor is equipped with a built-in constant response circuitry that helps in maintaining constant speed, so you can get clean and precise results. The power switch on this machine is completely dust-sealed to avoid the debris getting into it. It has wood handles rather than rubber ones to give you a comfortable control.
9.8/10
Pros
- Smooth running even on the toughest hardwood
- Can handle heavy-duty projects with ease
- Precise depth adjustments to 1/64th-inch
- Dust sealed power switch which extends the life
- Powerful 1.75 HP motor
Cons
- Jerks slightly upon startup
The DW616 by DeWalt has a 1.75hp powerful motor that can rout smoothly even through the toughest hardwoods. It is equipped with a micro-fine adjustment ring that enables you to set the depth adjustment in 1/64inch increments. The power switch on it is dust-sealed that extends its life.
For enhanced visibility, the DW616 provides a clear, Lexan sub-base so you can work without going through any complexity. The housing of the motor is nickel-plated for enhanced durability when working with tough applications. You don’t require any tool to change/adjust the base because of the steel cam motor lock and quick-release motor latches.
9.7/10
Pros
- Great torque and power
- Variable speed to 24,000 RPM
- Tool-less operation
- Precise depth control
- Affordable
Cons
- Changing the bit can be difficult for some
The DW618 variable speed fixed base router by DeWalt has a maximum 2.25 horsepower variable speed motor that can help you work with even the toughest hardwoods without any problem. The motor has a full feedback control that help prevents vibrations and provide constant speed from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM.
The micro-fine adjustment ring equipped on the DW618 can be adjusted in 1/64inch increments to provide various depths. If you want to change the base or adjust it, you won't need any tools to do so due to the steel motor cam lock on it. To remove the motor pack easily, there are quick-release motor latches to help you out.
9.4/10
Pros
- Great price point
- Includes carrying case making it portable
- Features an edge guide for custom trimming
- Lightweight, only weighs 11.8 pounds
- Durable, rugged aluminum frame
Cons
- Not meant for heavy-duty projects
The PR20EVSK by Bosch offers a 1hp variable speed motor that can provide surprisingly 15,000 to 35,000 RPM. It comes with edge guide that can help you perform custom trimming laminate flooring/deck planks, carpentry, mortising hinges, etc. It only weighs 11.8 pounds and packs several features in a compact size.
For more convenience, it also comes with additional accessories including drop-forged collet and shaft ranches, straight-edge guide, fixed base, and a sturdy case to pack them all up in one place. The rugged aluminum fixed base and overall construction of this machine make your experience great when working on tough projects.
9.4/10
Pros
- Improved durability with aluminum frame
- Cam-lock makes for simple adjustments and base changes
- Comfortable over-molded handles
- Single speed motor delivers 27,500 revolutions
- Quick fixed-base release makes quick between plunge and d-handle bases
Cons
- Some state difficult making depth adjustments
The 690LR by Porter-Cable offers a 1.75hp single speed motor that can only provide 27,500 revolutions per minute (RPM). The housing and base of this machine is made of precision-machined aluminum for enhanced durability. The cam-lock liver on this machine enables easy adjustments and base changing.
Two ergonomic over-molded handles on this router make your experience smooth so you can work without fatiguing your hands. The collets of this router can accept 1/2inch and 1/4inch shank bits. With the quick fixed-base motor release, you can efficiently transition between plunge and d-handle bases. You are also backed up by a 3year warranty with the 690LR.
9.3/10
Pros
- Powerful variable speed motor
- Powerful enough to cut through the toughest hardwoods with ease
- Precise electronic variable speed control
- Delivers pro-grade results
- Good price point
Cons
- Speed dial known to have durability issues
The Hitachi M12VC with a 2.25hp variable speed motor is loved by every carpenter and woodworker who require a powerhouse machine to cut through even the toughest hardwoods. Its motor is equipped with an electronic speed control and produces 8,000 to 24,000 RPM. The collet can accept 1/2inch and 1/4inch shank bit.
Despite its powerful motor, the M12VC still produces only 79.5dB of noise with reduced vibration and improved control. The combination of nickel-plated motor housing and ergonomically designed handles gives you optimum control and makes your work much easier. The company also offers a 5year warranty on this router.
9.3/10
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Provides constant speed through revolutions with full electronic feedback
- Depth ring allows for precise depth adjustments
- Clamping mechanism and adjustment ring makes it easy to lock into place
- Ergonomically designed handle
Cons
- Not meant for heavy-duty projects
The Porter-Cable 450 is a compact router that has a 1.25hp single speed motor that produces 27,000 RPM. The motor starts out slowly and maintains a constant speed throughout the cut with the help of full electronic feedback feature. The depth ring on the machine can be adjusted at 1/64inch increments.
The combination of the clamping mechanism and adjustment ring enables the machine to remain lock in a fixed position without shivering too much. Its handle is ergonomically designed to ensure enhanced comfort while making it possible to use it single-handedly. If you want a lightweight yet powerful router, this should be your first preference.
9.3/10
Pros
- Powerful 2.25 HP motor
- Delivers constant speed with electronic feedback control system
- Precise speeds to 24,000 RPM
- Micro adjustment ring makes it easy to set height in 1/64th increments
- Power switch is sealed to minimize dust penetration
Cons
- Difficult bit changes
The DW618K by DeWalt packs a 2.25hp variable speed motor that can help you in cutting through the toughest applications like butter. It features full feedback control system that provides a constant speed throughout the cut. The speed can be set from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM according to your requirements.
A micro-fine adjustment ring is also equipped to adjust the height settings at 1/64inch increments. The power switch is sealed against dust penetration that adds some extra years to the router’s life. The base and bit can also easily be changed with the help of motor cam lock and quick-release motor latches.
9.0/10
Pros
- Portable, includes carrying bag
- Affordable
- Efficient, smooth running motor
- Micro-fine depth adjustments
- Base and motor housing more durable with precision-machined aluminum
Cons
- Noisy
The DeWalt DW616K fixed base router has a smooth running 11amp, 1.75hp motor that will provide you enough power to cut through tough applications without bogging down. You can also make depth adjustments at 1/64inch increments with the micro-fine adjustment ring equipped on the motor.
Its motor can also be used with the DW6182 plunge base or DW6183 D-handle base. The base and motor housing are made of precision-machined aluminum, which also has nickel plating for enhanced durability. The handles’ grip is also excellently designed with over-molded rubber to provide comfort while working.
Conclusion
Be sure to drop us a comment below if you have anything else to add on the best fixed base routers this year and after you make your purchase, be sure to come back and tell us all about it.