Routers: The Best Router for a Beginner

This quick review will go over the best router for a beginner because having a reliable and versatile router is essential for any budding woodworker.

If you’re just starting your journey into woodworking, (or even just budget-minded and want the best bang for your buck) it’s crucial to have the right tools in your arsenal.

The DeWalt DW618 router and plunge base package is a great starter kit for novices. Let’s delve into the details of what makes it the perfect choice for beginners.

Key Features

The DeWalt DW618 router and plunge base package bring you really impressive features that give any beginner the edge they need to build their skills with great results. Here’s a quick look at these features:

Power and Motor

The DeWalt DW618 boasts a robust 2.25 HP, 12-amp motor, capable of tackling a wide range of woodworking tasks. This powerhouse offers consistent performance, enabling users to make precise cuts effortlessly.

Variable Speed Control

Variable speed control is a major benefit, especially for beginners. The DeWalt DW618 router offers a speed range of 8,000-24,000 RPM, allowing you to select the best speed for the application.

This feature reduces the risk of burning or damaging your workpiece, and just another that makes it the best router for a beginner. Burning wood happens!

Depth Adjustment Ring

The depth adjustment ring of the DW618 router allows for very precise and quick depth adjustments. With the ability to adjust in 1/64-inch increments, it ensures that you have control over every cut you make.

Specifications

• Motor: 2.25 Horsepower, 12-Amp
• Weight: Only 7.2 lbs.
• Cord Length: 8 ft., providing ample length for maneuverability around a workspace.
• Variable Speed Control: Allows you to select the speed ranging from 8,000-24,000 RPM, based on the specific woodworking application.
• Depth Adjustment Ring: Provides precise and fast depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments.
• Sub-Base: Clear, LEXAN sub-base for improved visibility of the work area.
• Construction: Durable and lightweight design, weighing in at 7.2 lbs.
• Soft Start Feature: Reduces torque at startup for better control and smoother operation.
• Included Bases: The package comes with both fixed and plunge bases for versatile woodworking applications.
• Collet Diameter: Accepts 1/4″ and 1/2″ shank bits.
• Plunge Stroke: Provides a plunge depth of up to 2-1/2″ when using the plunge base.
• Base Dimension: The fixed base is 6″ in diameter, and the plunge base is 6-1/8″.
• Spindle Lock: Yes, it has a spindle lock button that allows for single-wrench bit changes.
• Dust Collection: Yes, it has a dust collection adapter for a cleaner work area.
• Switch: It has a rocker switch with a lock-on feature for continuous operation.

Clear, LEXAN Sub-Base

A clear, LEXAN sub-base enhances the visibility of your work area, ensuring you have a clear view of your project and the cut. This transparency can significantly improve the quality of your work, particularly for intricate designs.

Durability and Design

The DeWalt DW618 router features a durable design, built to last. Weighing just 7.2 lbs., this router is easy to handle, again, making it the best router for a beginner who is still learning to maneuver such tools.

Ease of Use for Beginners

Woodworking can be intimidating for beginners, but the DeWalt DW618 router and plunge base package simplify the process. Its user-friendly design makes it easier for novice woodworkers to develop their skills.

Soft Start Feature

This router features a soft start, which reduces the torque at startup and prevents the tool from jerking. This is an important feature for beginners (or all users actually) because it gives you better control by not “jerking” from the torque when you start the motor.

This feature is just ONE of the reasons it’s The Best Router for a Beginner. I can’t tell you how many times I have had the router violently jerk sideways when turning on someone elses router that I’m not used to.

It’s not a great feeling and can be dangerous.

Both a Fixed and Plunge Base

This package includes both fixed and plunge bases. A fixed base is great for straight cuts, while a plunge base allows you to make cuts in the middle of your workpiece.

This ability to switch between bases gives you the versatility to undertake a variety of projects.

Pros and Cons

Even being The Best Router for a Beginner, every tool I talk about has its strengths and weaknesses, and the DeWalt DW618 router and plunge base package is no exception.

Luckily this tool has very few Cons…

Pros:

• Powerful: The 2.25 HP, 12-amp motor makes it a formidable tool for all woodworking projects.
• User-friendly: The soft start feature and clear LEXAN sub-base make it easy for beginners to use.
• Versatile: The inclusion of both fixed and plunge bases allows for a variety of woodworking tasks.
• Consistent Performance: Full-time electronic feedback from the motor maintains speed during cuts.
• Superior Visibility: Clear LEXAN sub-base for improved visibility during operation.
• Easy Bit Changes: The spindle lock button allows for one-wrench bit changes.
• Excellent Dust Collection: Dust-collection adapter included for a cleaner workspace.
• Built-in LED Lights: Integrated lights provide better visibility in low-light conditions.
• Durable and Reliable: Robust construction from a trusted brand ensures long-term reliability.
• Great Value for Money: High-quality features and performance offer excellent value.
• Comfortable to Use: Over-molded handles provide a comfortable grip and reduce fatigue.
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service, and 90-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

Cons:

• Size and Weight: Some new users might find the router a bit heavy and bulky.
• Noise Level: The DW618, like most power tools, can be noisy, which could be a factor to consider. (I always recommend wearing hearing protection)

Conclusion

In the world of woodworking, the right tools make all the difference, especially for beginners. The DeWalt DW618 router and plunge base package ticks all the boxes for a beginner-friendly, versatile, and reliable router.

It really is The Best Router for a Beginner in my opinion (I still use one and would buy it again as an experienced woodworker).

Despite a few minor drawbacks, its powerful performance, a design that’s user-friendly, and versatile features make it a great choice for any beginning woodworker. Start your woodworking journey on the right foot with the DeWalt DW618. you won’t regret it.

If you want to read about the NEW and BEST track saw for those on a budget, you just might want to read this article.