5 Best Trim Router In 2022 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated on November 1, 2021

Many people use them for embellishing pieces of wood. Others use them to create trims or edges. And some people love using them for drilling holes and making signs.

But for any of that to happen, you’ll need the best trim router. Without the ideal tool, creating even the slightest of changes in a piece of wood will be difficult, sometimes impossible.

Don’t worry, though. There are many different models out there that you can take advantage of. And we’re going to talk about a few of them today.

We want you to have the chance to create the most fantastic wood configurations with the right trim router. But we want you to do it with the perfect tool.

For that, we’re going to show you all about 5 of the highest-quality models out there, as well as a small guide about how to pick the right trim router. If you’re eager to learn more – then head-on!

Best Trim Router – Comparison

5 Best Trim Router Reviews

To give you only the best of the best, we chose 5 models that were nothing short of amazing. After analyzing them, their customer reviews, features, and the overall set of features, we came up with a small review so you can learn more about each. Here’s what we found about them:

1. Bosch PR20EVS Colt Palm Router

Another brand we can never get enough of is Bosch. It makes quality look simple, yet it offers outstanding features in every one of its products. And of course, the PR20EVS trim Router is no exception.

Despite being one of the cheapest (in a good way) models in the market, this router offers an outstanding 1 HP of power along with 5.6 AMP motor. Together, they ensure a fantastic bit speed of up to 35,000 RPM that can start at 16,000 RPM with the variable-speed system.

As you see, this is a huge advantage that makes it easy to adjust your router when cutting. You can decide whether you want something fast and reliable, or something milder for more precision.

Yet, there’s a lot more about this model to talk about. The design, for example, boasts a soft-grip construction that makes handling more ergonomic. That allows superb comfort and makes it safer to use at all times.

As for adjustments, you get a straight edge guide. It is capable of offering up to 3-5/8-inches of edge capacity, so you can cut more conveniently. Along with an angled cord design, it feels super practical to use.

The machine still boasts a rugged aluminum base that stands tons of time and use. And sure enough, it allows excellent precision and stability when cutting.

Lastly, you get micro and macro depth adjustments. Boasting a clamp system, you can adjust the router at the right depth to make the best cuts you can think of.

2. Makita 3707FC Fixed Base Laminate Trim Router

The first model comes directly from Makita. It is a pretty well-made and robust model that will take your wood-cutting to another level.

You will get a 4.4 AMP motor capable of providing decent performance at all times – along with a soft-start feature. But it is nothing without the 26,000 RPM speed, ideal for the smoothest cutting out there. Despite not having a variable speed system, you can still cut safely with the electronic speed control.

But it is not only the speed of the bit or the motor capacity. You will also get a built-in shock-proof LED light that helps to illuminate the work area. And sure enough, this LED is super bright – meaning you won’t have any problem with visibility while using.

As for the design, you get a fixed-base guide with non-piloted bits and a 3-5/8-inches body. It allows for secure handling and excellent precision. This base also boasts a lock system, which helps to provide even more accuracy, and helps to work safely.

It has an overall weight of 2.8 pounds, which makes it even easier to handle and bring around. And with the corded design, you won’t have to worry about potency loss, even in the hardest of operations.

The depth adjustment is also fantastic. It boasts a thumb roller so you can adjust the depth easily and quickly. And with the deep 1-5/8-inches cutting, it makes excellent trims at all times.

Overall, it leaves no space for mediocrity. If you want something that takes your trimming to another level, this is the model to go for.

3. DEWALT DWE6000 Laminate Trim Router

If there’s a brand we can’t ever leave behind, then that’s DeWalt. Every product from this brand gives you an excellent idea of what every brand should offer. And with the DWE6000 trimmer, they make it even more evident.

This is an affordable trim router, for example. Yet, it offers what every high-end trimmer could. It starts with a 4.5 AMP motor capable of going up to 31,000 RPM on bit speed. This allows super-fast and smooth cuts every time.

But it is not the power or the speed, but the quality of the build. You can use this trimmer in almost any situation and still receive top-notch results. Along with the heavy-duty plastic fixed base, achieving accurate results will be a piece of cake.

You may also add the extra-large locking clips. They help to release the motor whenever you need to or eventually change the depth of the cut as needed. You won’t have to go through tricky processes to make this possible, which adds to the convenience of the piece.

That pairs up well with the spindle-lock button. It allows straightforward bit changes, making it even easier to modify. And with the depth ring, you can adjust the height in seconds, without making much of an effort.

It is also easy-to-handle, light, and pretty comfortable in your hand. Using it will be not only effortless but also enjoyable. As a beginner or expert woodworker, you won’t find many options like this one. So, consider it a superb choice.

4. Ryobi P601 One+ Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router

Last on our list is the Ryobi P601 One+. As its name says, this is the best cordless trim router you can get – ideal for those looking for extra convenience.

But being cordless doesn’t necessarily mean that it is less powerful. In fact, this tool can offer a massive total of 29,000 RPM without losing stability or consistency. You can make super accurate and intricate cuts effortlessly.

It has a total weight of only 3 pounds, which makes it extra-light and easy to handle. Yet, it is the rubberized grip handle that makes it so effortless to pick and use.

Sure enough, you get a straightforward bit-change system. Wasting time or effort changing the bits is a thing of the past with this router. And the depth adjustments are also a piece of cake, as you will only need to use a practical knob and change accordingly.

The machine still boasts an LED light system, so you can have proper clarity even in the darkest of work areas. And with the aluminum base, you can achieve adequate stability and durability, so precision cuts are always possible.

All of that is powered by an 18-volt Lithium-Ion battery (that you’ll have to buy separately). It will offer several minutes of work, so you can cut wood for long.

Pair it all together, and this trim router makes it clear that a cordless model is sometimes the best idea. If you want extra convenience and more freedom when using, this one will not disappoint you.

5. Avid Power Compact Router with Fixed Base

For those who just want to save money, there won’t be a better choice than the best budget trim router And for us, the Avid Power Compact Router is precisely that.

Despite being one of the most affordable in the market, this tool can offer up to 6.5 AMP of total power with 1.25 HP. That is enough to cut through most woods without problems, and still get decent precision if needed.

The significant advantage of this power is the speed you will get. With a variable-speed system, you can dial change from 10,000 up to 32,000 RPM without problems. No matter what is the material or desired result, you’ll be able to achieve it with this router.

Still, you will get a super accurate cutting every time. Thanks to a smooth depth adjustment system and a dual-LED light system, you can achieve superior precision even in the darkest areas.

To make it even better, you will get a comfy design. With a rubber-covered handle and an easy-to-use quick-locking system, you can achieve proper adjustments and depth changes in a breeze.

Still, the machine manages to be decently clean. It boasts a dust hood that helps to remove any dust or debris on the jobsite. You won’t have to make a mess when doing any woodwork.

Apart from all that, it is still a durable and resilient product. It is made of aluminum and comes with a rubber-covered base, so it feels safe and reliable.

Overall, the product is extremely well-made and convenient – an ideal choice for budget users who want high quality.

What to Look for Before Buying a Trim Router

So, you went through our best trim router review for every model on the list. But you’re still not sure about which one to pick. Well, don’t worry. The following section will tell you exactly what to look for:

Power

The power of a router will show you how much you can get out of the machine. Here, you’ll have to fit the capacity of the tool with the desired results or projects you want to use it for.

For example, if you want to cut thick wooden planks, then you’ll need something potent that offers at least 1.5 HP of total power. But if you want the trim router for edges and more stylized and precision-oriented cuts, then you can go as low as 1 HP (don’t pick anything below that).

Along with the HP (horsepower), you may also need to consider the AMP (amperes). This is an electrical measurement, but also gives an excellent idea of how much power the router can offer.

Here, we always go for models that offer between 4 and 6 AMP. Anything less than that, and the trimmer won’t be powerful enough. And if you go higher than that, then you’ll find it too powerful and/or challenging to handle.

Speed

The speed refers to how fast the bit or cutter will move. And this is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute).

There’s no doubt that the more RPM the tool has, the faster it will go. And the faster it goes, the quicker it will cut.

But with speed, you may lose stability and/or precision. So you’ll have to pick something fast but also easy to handle.

We usually recommend going for models that offer as low as 8,000 RPM and can go as high as 30,000 RPM. Going low helps to achieve extra precision when cutting, but going high allows more power for harder woods.

Be sure to get a model with variable-speed if you can. That will allow you to choose the ideal speed for the project using a dial, knob, or switch. Other systems like electronic speed controls will change the speed automatically – which can be somewhat imprecise.

Depth Adjustment

Apart from choosing power and speed, you will also have to consider the depth adjustment system. It tells you how much you can adjust the depth of the machine, depending on what you’re doing.

The changes can be macro or micro, and it will change how far the bit will go. Overall, we recommend systems that make it easy. But if you can go for models that allow the bit to go deep, then that’s a huge advantage.

Pay attention to the sensitivity as well. Some changes can happen in a fraction of an inch, while others can happen in entire inches. Pick accordingly.

Comfort and Handling

If you want to get the most out of the trimmer, getting a comfortable-to-use design is also essential.

The focus should be on getting something with a rubberized grip or something similar that doesn’t harm your hands.

But it is not only rubberized handles that you’ll have to go for but the right shape, as well. The shape of the grip and the complete tool will tell you how comfy you’ll feel when handling.

Apart from that, consider the weight of the product. Trim routers that are heavier than 4 pounds are usually harder to use than those that are lighter – so choose accordingly.

Extra Features

The final features you can consider are add-ons such as LED lights for visibility in dark areas, cutting guides, metal bases for durability and stability, plus much more.

Any feature that adds extra convenience and functionality to the trim router will be an excellent thing to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you reached this stage, it means you’re pretty interested in a trim router. But still, you have a few doubts about them. Luckily, you may find an answer to them here:

Q: Are trim routers and plunge routers the same?
A: No. Trim routers and plunge routers are all different. The main difference between a trim router and a plunge router, for example, is the size. Trim routers are smaller than other routers, which allow them to trim more easily. In contrast, regular and plunge routers tend to be for big applications.

Q: How should I guide the router while cutting/trimming?
A: It is recommended not to guide the trim router itself but instead moves the piece of wood to modify towards the blade. However, it all depends on the desired result and/or adjustments necessary.

Q: What can I create with a trim router?
A: You can do anything from trims to signs, edges, mortises, joinery, inlays, shapes, hole-drilling, veneer-cleaning, and more.

Q: Which trim router is the right one for me?
A: It all depends on your demands. That’s why we usually recommend making a list of features you need, things you want to make, and things you would like to have on the router. Then, you can choose by considering the list you made.

Q: How long does a trim router last?
A: A trim router can easily last a lifetime as long as you use it correctly and take good care of it.

So, What Should You Buy

Now it is time to pick the best trim router for your needs. But don’t worry – we’ll help you.

If you genuinely want to put your money where it should, then you’ll go for the Bosch PR20EVS Colt Palm Router. It is easily the most reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use model on the list. If you want something durable and utterly well-made – this should be your first option.

Otherwise, you can get something handier and easier to handle like the Ryobi P601 One+ Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router. It will make your wood trimming a piece of cake. And sure enough, it will still provide exceptional results.

Just pick something that matches your demands by following our advice. Do that, and you won’t be disappointed. Choose one now!

Other Buying Guides:

• https://thetoolsguide.com/best-router-for-router-table/
• https://thetoolsguide.com/best-cordless-framing-nailer/
• https://thetoolsguide.com/best-palm-nailer/
• https://thetoolsguide.com/best-cordless-brad-nailer/
• https://thetoolsguide.com/best-drill-press-vise/