Are you tired of constantly removing your router from the router table each time you have to change a bit? You need to get yourself a router lift! With a router lift, you can make minor adjustments on the go without removing the router or reaching out to under the table.
A router lift is an extra router plate designed to fit into the router. The lift comes with a grip-like carriage fixed onto the router. The detachable crank handles on the router fit into the plate. The lift aids you get accurate readings while routing.
Thus, a router lift offers you versatile ways of using your router. You can seamlessly alter the height of your bits with better precision. With this advantage, you can now effectively route any material with more speed and less effort.
How do you pick out the best router lift for your routing tasks? We are here to help you! We tested dozens of routers and picked out the top five router lifts in the market. In this informative review, you will learn all you need to know about these products to help you make the right decision when you invest in a router lift.
If you are a professional craftsman or a beginner with lots of workshop hours working with a router, you should consider getting a router for the following reasons:
⚙️ Quality Base Plate
The router lift has a heavy base plate, which prevents vibrations when you use the router. The base plate offers extra stability during long routing sessions.
⚙️ Reduced Stress
A router lift relieves you of constantly bending under your table for you to reach out and adjust the height of your router. Thus, it saves you time and makes it easier to use your router. You can do this using the T-wench found on the base plate of your router lift.
⚙️ Solid Mount
The right router lift also comes with a solid mount where you can bolt in your router plates. These mounts are pre-drilled to save you the stress of drilling on your own.
⚙️ Better Precision
A router lift usually comes with a height adjustment mechanism called the ball bearing system. With this mechanism, you can accurately carry out height adjustments. The ball-bearing systems are sealed to increase their lifespan.
⚙️ Factors to Consider When Buying A Router Lift
Before you set out to buy a router lift, you must thoughtfully consider the following factors:
➡️ Material Used
The first factor you must thoughtfully consider if you are about to make a long-term commitment to a router lift is the material used in its construction.
Router lifts made from plastics or cheap alloys will break when used for long routing sessions. You should look for a router lift made from cast iron or quality aluminum. The best router lifts for professionals are from steel.
➡️ Compatibility with Your Router
Another factor you should verify before you buy a router lift is its compatibility with your router. You should check out the specifications and accessories of your router to see the best router lift that would suit it.
When you make the wrong investment and get a lift that’s incompatible with your router, you would experience inconsistencies like vibrations when routing.
➡️ Ball-Bearing Mechanism
The ball bearing system is responsible for precise and stress-free height router height adjustments. You should go for a router lift with this system so you will enjoy smooth height adjustments while routing.
➡️ Plunge
Every router lift has a specific plunge size. The plunge is the moveable part of your router fixed unto the router lift. Before getting a router lift, you must be sure the plunge will fit into the lift. Check the technical components of the router carefully.
➡️ Height Adjustment System
The crank handle and the thumbwheel are the standard height adjustments mechanisms on a router lift. Before you get a router lift with any of these features, you should check your preference and figure out the one that works best for you.
➡️ The Right Adapters
If you have more than one router or may have to change your router during your work, then you should invest in a router lift with multiple insert holes and adapters. Thus, you will avoid buying a new router lift when you change your router.
➡️ The Locking System
The locking mechanism of your router lift should be top-notch if you wish to enjoy precise and accurate routing sessions. Look out for router lifts that work with a bolting system or lever locking system.
⚙️ Can I use my old Router and Router Table?
When it comes to fixed-based routers, the answer might be yes. Router lifts eliminate most of the problems router table users experience daily. One exception, though, is the Milwaukee 5625-29, which at this time of writing, only the Rockler and the JessEm router lift can fit this router and offer over-the-table bit changes. If you use a plunge router, on the other hand, you are limited to just two types of lift which are the woodpecker Unilift and the Jet/Powermatic EXACTA-lift. You can use your old router tables, but you have to consider two things:
1. Don’t assume the router lift plate will accurately fit your router table’s opening 2. Always check the router lift plate sizes and compare them to your routing plate size.
Professionals also advise that users add a cross bracing under the router table if they want to use a router lift. Roger’s lifts are known to be heavy products weighing up to 20 pounds. If you use routers that are 3-hp or higher, you are sure to have a saggy result over time if you don’t use any cross-bracing or support.
💡 Tips on How to Maintain your Router Lift
Proper maintenance begins with purchasing the right router table for your lift or buying the necessary lift components. A woodwork routing system for projects must fit the router lift or at least be compatible with it. Before you purchase any router lift product, check the manual, specification, or dimensions of the product and make sure it fits and is strong enough to carry out any task thrown at it.
With a minimum power of about 3.5HP, you can make any woodworking adjustment and cuts with a simple lift product. To increase stability while using for router lift, consider the sizes of the mounting plate and make sure it fits perfectly to the router table. There are two types of plates, the one with dimensions of about 9.25 x 11.75 inches and the latter with dimensions of about 8.25 x 11.75 inches.
Always buy router lifts that have a sawdust collection system that is compatible with vacuum hoses. The reason is that you have to prevent the wood chips from getting into the adjustment tool so the router lift system can last long, longer than you can use. Users are also required to check and clean the affected area and parts of the router lifts before every use.
It is also essential to clean your bits too. Router bits are just like saw blades, and wood chips and dust can stop them from functioning correctly. To ensure you get a clean-cut, consider rooting the end of the grains of the wood project you are working on before their edges.
⚙️ Benefits of Using a Router Lift
Using a Router lift has its own benefits, and any woodworking professional or enthusiast must have one. It helps to increase accuracy and precision, which makes your finished products have a professional touch. Below are some of the benefits of using a Router lift in your woodworking project:
All professional woodworkers and enthusiast need stability during their time on the project. Router lifts features the component called rugged base plate which is needed during the routing process for increased stability. If the materials of your router lift are rugged, you are assured as a user to experience very low vibration as well as low noise. Also, to achieve this, the insert plates going on the router table should be very stable for a clean and professional cut.
Standard mounts found on a router lift has a lot of benefits that one can’t pass by. One of which is the ability to make sure your router insert plates are firm. These components are known to come with predrilled holes so that users don’t have to stress themselves. You can also ask a handyman to drill another hole that fits perfectly.
Router lifts are considered as precision tools that provide its users with accurate height adjustments. This responsibility falls greatly on the low-friction ball bearing system. Without this component, your height adjustment system and elevation measurements will be problematic. Also, the micro-adjust scale and the index ring found in the router lift will greatly affect the accuracy when it comes to bit heights.
What is a router lift without a height adjustment system? Router lifts may come with a crank handle and a thumb wheel mechanism which is responsible for the height adjustment mechanism system. Users really need the router lift to alter and change the height of the bits during the process of routing.
1
JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift for 3-1/2″ Diameter Motors
USE WITH PC 690/890, BOSCH 1617/1618, DEWALT 610/618/616, CRAFTSMAN 1754/17540/28190
Double-Sealed Ball Bearing Construction
Sturdy Construction
JessEm so far has been consistent with their router lift, and this product is evidence of how they consider all levels artisans. If you are fresh into using a router table and want to get your way around the equipment before you bore like a pro, you should consider getting this piece.
First, this router lift wouldn’t burn your purse when you get one. It’s perfect for those still experimenting with a router and not looking to make a long-term commitment.
For its price, the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift comes with so many unique features you would find in professional router lifts. It’s made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials.
However, you should note that the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift is only compatible with a few routers. It is not a versatile router lift, so do not expect it to work with your router unless specified.
Also, the router lift may go easy on your purse, but an extra purchase would push the entire cost to the high side. Additional parts like rings and side brackets will surely back you a few dollars. But if you don’t mind, the router lift is a fantastic start. You can upgrade to other sophisticated router lifts when you are buoyant enough.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Bosch
Dewalt
Craftsman
690/890
1617/1618
610/618
1754x/28190/28084
Pros
Quality router lifts with affordable pricing
A reasonable number of pre-drilled holes on the insert-plate that works with the specified routers
A functional locking mechanism that holds the router in place for long hours of constant work
The router lift features an offset wrench that allows you to change your bits without bending under the table.
Fast and precise height adjustments using the handle
Cons
Not compatible with a wide range of routers
It lacks some essential parts that would lead to more purchase
Overall impression
The JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift for 3-1/2″ Diameter Motors is a very durable, top-notch tool made with long-lasting materials. The lift comes with unique features that make your end product have a professional finish. I recommend.
The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II Router Lift is an entry-level router-lift designed for routers looking to own a lift without breaking the bank. It’s a no-brainer when you find all the fantastic features of this product’s professional router-lift. JessEm made a ground-breaking statement with this product.
First, this router lift comes with a utility cam lock system that locks the lift firmly on the table when you turn the wrench. The sealed bearings also ensure you can easily adjust the height without moving under the table. The sealed bearing protects the lift against dust/work debris, increasing the machine’s lifespan.
The router lift is made of anodized aluminum. Hence, it’s a lightweight feature that makes it to carry around. The lift is compatible with most router tables and has a fantastic lifespan.
The only drawback of this model is the absence of a dial indicator for height adjustments and zeroing. Also, the aluminum material is not ferrous and lacks magnetic properties, rendering a magnetic outboard mount dial almost useless.
Thus, professional artisans looking for cutting-edge route-lifters would have a hard time using this lift. It’s best for handlers who don’t always use a wood router but need a handy one.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Bosch
Dewalt
Milwaukee
Craftsman
Rigid
Makita
Hitachi
7518, 690, 890
1617, 1618
DW610, DW616, DW618
5626, 5615, 5616, 5619
17543, 17540, 28190
R29302
RF1101
M12VC, KM12VC
Features
Compact-size design that doesn’t take up a lot of space on your router table
Designed for swift and easy assembly, you wouldn’t have to spend hours trying to fix the router lift together
It comes with a pack of leveling screws and a machine for easy assembly
Works with a superior lock/unlock system. The system works using a one-way lock/unlock mechanism placed on a handy spot on the router lift
Pros
Compact and smooth-styled design for all kinds of workshop
Superior lock/unlock system placed on a reachable spot
Two sealed ball bearing mechanism
Perfect for first-timers on a budget
Cons
Works mostly like a piece of mechanical equipment with lesser precision
Its aluminum parts will wear off easily
Overall impression
When it comes to the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch By 11-3/4-Inch, we can only say that this product is for users on a budget and who didn’t plan on spending so much on a router lift. It has all the features a professional router lift has for optimal function.
9-1/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch x 3/8-Inch plate size is compatible with all INCRA Router Tables
Exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system
Exclusive ball bearing mechanism for super-smooth action
When we talk about the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift, we focus mainly on the features which make it stand out from other router lifts, and that is quality. Users are always enthusiastic about this router lift because it is a product that won’t die off quickly. They tend to use it for a more extended period of time. However, this quality comes with a cost as the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is quite expensive, one of the most expensive on this list. You would think that the price tag is because the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift will be compatible with almost all sizes, brands, and types, but that is not the case. In fact, it is a very limited incompatibility. That is why it is down on the list.
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a fantastic router lift. Still, it doesn’t work with popular router tables such as Kreg-brand unless users purchase a conversion kit which would cost more, coupled with the fact that the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is pricey. If the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is that expensive, wouldn’t you like to comfortably fix it on your router table? If you acquire an Incra router table and a router that can fit into the lift, getting this product is recommended, but it is a terrible choice for some people, especially if they are on a budget.
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift makes possible minute height adjustment, which delivers excellent control and accuracy to the user. It also has an auto-protect feature, and it is also a bit portable. The cam lock feature intuitively locks the router table at one spot when you turn it to the right.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
JessEm PowRTek Router
Bosch
Milwaukee
Portamate
MLCS
7518, 690-699, 890-899
05200
1617EVS, 1618, GMF1400
5625, 5615, 5616, 5619
P-254
9564
DeWalt
Makita
Hitachi
Craftsman
Ridgid
AUKTools
DW610 & DW618
RF1101 & RD1101
M12VC & KM12VC
17543, 17540, 28190
R29302
Mk II 230V
Pros
Clear instructions
It takes less than 30 minutes to set up
Easy to lock and unlock system
Provides high accuracy when on both the horizontal and vertical axis
Two sizes
Good quality
Cons
Limited compatibility with router tables
Limited compatibility with routers
Quite expensive
Overall impression
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is considered a tool for professionals, and beginners shouldn’t purchase this product. It has very high-class superior quality, and it also offers excellent comfort and reliability when tuning the height of your router.
8-1/4″ x 11-3/4″ x 3/8″ plate size is compatible with all full-size Rockler router tables
First on our list is the multi-functional INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift designed for professional routing tasks. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. One of the distinct advantages of this router is that you can adjust heights and even change out your router bits above the table.
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift has a five-ball bearing system that gives users total control. The lift is lightweight, thus do not add extra weight to the router table. It has a long-lasting protection guarantee as it comes with an auto-protection against dust and other particles that could ruin the lift.
However, before investing in the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift, be sure it fits into your router table. This is the R-version and not the regular version, and it’s only for Rockler tables. If you don’t own a Rockler table, you should be sure it fits on your table before you purchase.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Bosch
Dewalt
Milwaukee
Craftsman
Rigid
Makita
Hitachi
7518, 690-699, 890-899
1617 EVS, 1618
DW610, DW618
5625, 5615, 5616, 5619
17543, 17540, 28190
R29302
RF1101, RD1101
M12VC, KM12VC
Features
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift weighs just 14.2Ibs, making it easier to mount on your router table and also portable
The router-lift comes with a five sealed ball bearing system that makes it easy for users to adjust the height for greater precision and handling
A self auto-protect feature that ensures durability
Accurate thread tensioning system for better height adjustments
Eliminates friction and vibrations on the router table using the five reducing rings made from steel to flush the lift on the router table and fit perfectly with your router
Eliminates wobble or shaky table using the cam lock system; once you turn the cam lock to the right, the router lift locks the table instinctively
Pros
Better precision and accuracy
Functional thread tensioning system
1-year warranty
Comfortable height adjustments on the table using the seal ball bearing system
Cons
Cannot wholly zero the height gauge
Not an entry-level router-lift for first-timer users
Overall impression
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a perfect choice for users who value quality and precision. It is highly recommended but before you purchase, be sure it fits into the router table you have. This model is the R model and not the regular version; therefore, if you don’t own a Rockler table, it may be hard to fit it into any other table.
When you need to change your router table or your bench dog table, and you don’t want to spend too much while doing it, consider getting the Router Lift FX. The Router Lift FX is an incredible tool that can assist you in trimming or cutting down your wooden project with precision and accuracy. However, it is essential to know that this project can handle only minimal to average projects. Professionals and more serious workers may not get the optimal satisfaction they require while using this product.
While professionals and serious users find this product from minimal to average, new users, enthusiasts, and hobbyists will enjoy it because it is very affordable. Each of the products comes with a DeWalt that never shakes. Most users even prefer this product because this product fits a variety of tables. Due to the nice lifting housing installed in this product, it can accept different types of medium to small-sized routers such as Porter-cable, bosch, Dewalt, etc.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Bosch
Dewalt
690/890
1617-16-18
610, 616, 618
Pros
Sag-free support
Accepts larger pane bits
Versatile
The high plate does an excellent job of supporting the router lift
Very simple design
Changing bits is very easy
Cons
Not recommended for people who are looking for a long term investment in router lifts
It doesn’t have advanced features
Overall impression
The Router Lift FX is an easy-to-use router. One thing we liked about this router was the price. This is the tool for people on a budget and those who don’t want to spend much on a router lift. Although it is not made high-quality like most products on the upper part of this list, it still makes a perfect candidate for a classic router lift.
3⁄8″ x 9 1⁄4″ x 11 3⁄4″ (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) Hard-anodized aluminum plate won’t Sag, resists scratches
Above-table collet access allows fast, easy, above-table bit changes
Accepts 20+ popular routers without requiring pads or adapters
The Kreg precision router lift is different for professionals who aren’t ready to sacrifice height adjustments and accuracy on the altar of price. It offers superior precision and height adjustments for all kinds of heavy-duty routing.
The PRS5000 is an upgrade of the PRS3000, with Kreg paying more attention to accuracy and precision. With the new PRS5000, you no longer have to reach under your router table to change your bits or make height adjustments. The route lift features further improvement on the control of both small and large adjustments compared to the previous version.
The PRS5000 comes with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system. You can zero this system at any routing point to get the baseline setup of your bit. Thus, you can seamlessly make changes to your bit height and use the settings repeatedly for different cuts.
The router lift will make a good fit for users looking to upgrade their lift or get a new routing table. If you are also getting a custom router table, you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge.
All in all, the product offers excellent precision for its standards. It’s not bulky and wouldn’t take up all the space on an average routing table.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Milwaukee
Bosch
Craftsman
DeWalt
7518, 690/890
5625
1617/1618
17542/17540/28190
618
Features
Made from high-quality aluminum plates for optimum durability
Spring-assisted lift system for easy and comfortable heights adjustments. You can easily adjust the height of your bits even when there is a material on the plates
Lightweight design for easy carriage
Vibration elimination system
Cam lock mechanism that holds the lift in place
Features an in-built micro-adjust scaling system
Auto-leveling system for enhanced precision
It comes with a set of twist lock insert rings for better control and accuracy
Pros
Easy to set up and assemble
Features a 3-stop auto-leveling system for better height adjustment
Improved accuracy and precision using the thumbwheel system
Best for professionals who are looking to seamlessly adjust the height of their bits without any other additional tools
Compact design that fits into an averagely sized router table
Eliminates vibrations when in use
An improved version of the PRS5000 with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system
Designed for professionals looking to work long hours on their routing table
Cons
Not the perfect fit for big-sized router bits
Overall Impression
Kreg and most users claim that the Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is an upgrade from the last version of PRS3000, and this time around, the company paid more attention to the user’s complaints about precision and accuracy. I do recommend it.
The Mast-R-Lift II has five double sealed bearings
If you are into craft equipment from JessEm, you should check out the Mast-R-Lift. This model features a smaller 8-1/4-Inch by the 11-3/4-Inch top plate with reliable two sealed ball bearings. The model is perfect for heavy-duty routers as it offers seamless rotation and control.
Thus, if you are a heavy user looking for something out of the ordinary, then this model will be an appropriate match. The router offers more accuracy and precision.
What’s more? It’s very durable. You can move it around your workshop with ease. This model works best for professionals or casual users looking for a high-end router lift.
Compatible routers
Porter-Cable
Bosch
DeWalt
Milwaukee
Craftsman
Rigid
Makita
Hitachi
7518, 690, 890
1617, 1618
DW610, DW616, DW618
5626, 5615, 5616, 5619
17543, 17540, 28190
R29302
RF1101
M12VC, KM12VC
Features
The in-built locking system, this model comes with an in-built locking system that works above the router table. With the handle for raising and lowering your lift, you can turn to the right to lock the router in place and work for long hours.
Features a simple adjustable clamp locking mechanism that works best with routers of 8-1/4-inch by the 11-3/4-inch base.
The top plate of this router lift is made of hard-anodized aluminum. This material is specially designed and engineered with high-resistant elements to ensure it doesn’t wear off with rigorous usage.
Hydraulic aided light shafts for swift height adjustments. The load of the router distributes equally between the shaft mount and the top plate. Thus, the router lift can withstand long hours of robust routing operations.
Height adjustments and bit changes occur above the table, eliminating bench wrenches.
Pros
Easily adjust the lift height
Quick and easy set up with straightforward instructions
Can work with plenty of router table options
Smooth and precise lift option
Cons
You will have to count the turns of the height-adjustable handle if you wish to come back to the previous bit position after locking in the bit in a new position
Difficult to center the router on your table if you have bushings on it
Overall Impression
The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02121 Router Lift offers seamless control and high rotation. Therefore, this makes it a perfect candidate for heavy-duty routers. If you heavily use a router and you are looking for something different from other routers, the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02121 Router Lift is the product for you.
The SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is the last on this list, and I can say that this product has an exclusive lifting system that comes with its complete accessories. Thanks to the built-in chain-synchronized design, the adjustment mechanism is very sharp and responsive. With special level screws and plate thickness, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock can function with most router tables models without any problem. However, the Triton TRA001 doesn’t fit this router lift because of the diameter of the router lift.
For other router modes like the Porter Cable 7518, users need to reduce the collar to adjust the diameter so the router can fit perfectly. Commonly, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock features adaptive collars. This can range from about 3.25-3.5”, making it perfect to fit many routers users can find in the market. It is ideal for elevation measurements and height adjustment processes.
Pros
Positive lock mechanism
Features a phenolic insert ring
Heavy-duty precision usage
Made of quality materials
Cons
Not compatible with quality routers like the Bosch router
Overall Impression
One thing we like about the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is that of is an exclusive product that comes with different but handy features. It is very ultra-responsive and highly accurate in cutting. With this product, precision would be your friend. However, be careful when purchasing and make sure your router can fit perfectly before you place any orders.
To help you make the right choice when you get a router lift, here are some frequently asked questions about router lifts:
What is the mechanism behind the router lift?
A router lift comes with a mounting plate and a carriage system that mainly use the ball bearing mechanism. You attach the mounting plate to your router table and fit the router to the lift carriage. The carriage comes with either a crank handle or a thumbwheel that you can use to adjust the height of the router.
Will my table be compatible with my router lift?
You must pay attention to the plate size of a router lift before you purchase. Two standard plate sizes fit into every router table; 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ and 8 1/4″ x 11 3/4″. Check the plate size that fits your router table before buying the router lift.
Is it possible to remove the router from the base?
If you have plans to remove the router lift from the base frequently, you should not buy a lift that is difficult to install. You may run into issues like broken plates or parts while uninstalling the router lift. You can go for options like the handheld router for this purpose.
How do I find the router lift that is compatible with my router?
Before purchasing a router lift, you must check the ‘manufacturer’s specifications on essential details like compatible routers. All router lift has this information to guide buyers. If you are yet to buy a router, you can check out the pair that is most compatible.
Plunge vs. fixed type?
One of the most critical factors you must consider when getting a router is choosing between plunge and fixed types. Plunge routers offer versatility as you can manually adjust the position of the bits. At the same time, the fixed router offers more precision as it has a router base. Thus, if you are looking for a router with more versatile functions, you should go for the plunge type. But if you are more concerned about precise and accurate cuts, you should check out the fixed-type routers.
Summing It Up
A router lift is a valuable addition to the already existing tools in your workshop. A router lift will save you lots of valuable time and enhance the speed and accuracy of your router. In the educative piece above, you will have a list that fits every budget, requirement, and usage level.
With the various craft manufacturers trying to outdo themselves, we expect new router lifts with enhanced features and new technologies to hit the market soon. We will keep you posted. Let us know what you think about our list in the comment section below.
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Did you test Rocklers Pro lifts?
If so how did they compare to the ones you tested?