6 Best Wood Routers under $100 – Affordable and Precise Devices

Are you a woodworking enthusiast? Do you want a cheap router below $100, but you are unsure where to start looking? Fear no more; when we started looking into wood routers that are under $100, we found out that most of them give users professionalism and a clean finish.

We have researched and used our expertise in this area to select the six best wood routers you can get under $100. We scored and judged each wood router due to user-friendliness, durability, versatility, precision, design, and how well they performed.

Below is the list of wood routers users can get for under $100.

  1. Best Wood Router for Beginners: Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router
  2. Best Wood Router for Signs: Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router
  3. Best Wood Router for Drill: Avid Power MW104 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router with Fixed Base
  4. Best Wood Router for Home Use: Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router
  5. Best Wood Router for Door Hinges: Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit
  6. Best Wood Router for Table amounting: Ryobi R1631K 1-1/2 Peak HP 8.5 Amp LED-Lit Corded Router
1

Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router

Best Wood Router for Beginners
  • 10,000 to 30,000 RPM
  • Powerful 1 to 1/4 HP
  • The base can be removed quickly to install other bases

The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router delivers precision and performance in a compact and ergonomic design. This wood router boasts a full 1-¼ maximum horsepower and this router is engineered for a variety of precision routing jobs. The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router has a variable speed dial function that ranges from speeds of up to 10,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm which gives users speed that matches their application.

This wood router has additional performance gestures which may include a soft start feature for easy start-ups and electronic speed control to maintain a constant speed. The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router is double insulated with a heavy-duty aluminum motor housing which increases durability.

Pros
  • Great value for the money.
  • Can handle most tasks thrown at it.
  • Versatile in use.
  • Soft start.
  • Ergonomic design.
  • Comfortable handle for easy driving.
Cons
  • Doesn’t come with a LED light
  • Low power HP
Overall impression
The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router is designed and engineered for precision. It includes a smooth rack and opinion one depth adjustment system and easy-to-read depth scales for more accurate settings. It also integrates a quick-release cam lock system which is designed for easy and convenient depth adjustments. Other additional features include a durable flat top for easy changing of bits and a slim and ergonomic design that weighs as little as 3.9 pounds. Changing the base of this wood router is also easy and the shaft lock improves assembling. This is a tool that has all the features that can be found in a wood router.

Where to buy


2

Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1-Horsepower

Best Wood Router for Signs
  • 1.0 Horse Power 5.6 amp
  • 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
  • The PR20EVSK also includes a self-releasing 1/4 In. collet chuck

The Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router is a router manufactured by Bosch which costs less than $100. One thing most users liked about this router is that it comes with a very long cord, longer than most wood routers. It also boasts of a variable speed motor which allows you to work faster or slower depending on your specifications. It comes with a 5.3-amp motor which is capable of reaching speed from about 15,000 rpm to about 35,000 rpm. It weighs just less than 12 pounds and it is compact and ideal for consumer-grade projects.

The Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router also boasts of an edge guide that helps users when working on wood. The guide helps individuals line the product up to the edge of the board to make smooth and even cuts in no time.

Pros
  • Cutting depths of up to 1-3/16 inches.
  • Variable speed system that ranges from 16,000 rpm to 35,000 rpm.
  • 1HP motor.
Cons
  • Not suitable for larger projects
Overall impression
The Bosch PR20EVS Colt 1-Horsepower 5.6 Amp Electronic Variable-Speed Palm Router is a very convenient wood router that is perfect for smaller woodworking jobs. The two features we really like about this product are the base and the depth adjustment component. These features help the product by providing it with a longer life span and a better service. This variable speed router generates power with precision in the palm of your hand. I totally recommend it.

Where to buy


3

Avid Power MW104 Compact Router

Best Wood Router for Drill
  • 1.0 Horse Power 5.6 amp
  • 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
  • The PR20EVSK also includes a self-releasing 1/4 In. collet chuck

The Avid Power MW104 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router with Fixed Base is a woodworking router you would love which you can afford for under $100. One of the reasons we love this wood router is that it has everything needed or required by a woodworking router. This particular product comes with its own case so you can carry it around wherever you want to go. The Avid Power MW104 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router with Fixed Base is designed ergonomically to be comfortable and convenient when used by consumers.

The motor of this wood router is very powerful, reaching about 6.5-amp or 1.25 HP and the motor can produce variable speeds from about 10,000 rpm to 32,000 rpm. It also integrated a quick locking system that enables motor release and height adjustment features. The Avid Power MW104 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router with Fixed Base is no doubt durable and this product can accept ¼ and ⅜ inches collets.

Pros
  • Powerful motor of 6.5-amp / 1.25 HP
  • Ergonomic design
  • Durable
  • Makes finished products come out more professional
  • Precise operation
  • Quick-lock system
Cons
  • Heats up easily
  • Too much vibration
Overall impression
The Avid Power MW104 6.5-Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router with Fixed Base is a router tool with amazing features such as dual LED work lights, a fixed base, an edge guide, variable speed, dust hood, and roller guide which is perfect for a variety of trimming and routing operations. Its smooth rack-and-pinion depth adjustment system provides precise depth adjustment which makes it a convenient choice for woodworkers. Although this device heats up pretty easily, it is still a perfect choice for smaller woodworking projects.

Where to buy


4

Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router

Best Wood Router for Home Use
  • Round and Square Bases
  • Easy Access Micro Adjust Dial
  • 20,000 – 30,000 r/min

The Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router is a powerful trim tool that features a 1.6 horsepower motor with electronic feedback to maintain the output power and maintain the speed no matter the intensity of the job. It is also integrated with a soft start feature which makes startup easy. The Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router also has an easy access micro-adjust dial which has the function of giving users control over the depth settings during use. The quick-release motor allows users to separate the motor of the router from the base.

The motor of the Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router is so powerful that it can reach speeds from 20,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm. This mode also integrated a work LED light source which improves visibility, a flat top for added stability during bit change, and square and round bases for added function and versatility.

Pros
  • Ideal for freehand use
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Powerful motor
  • Durable design
  • Variable speed system
  • Microfine adjustment system for precise cutting
Cons
  • Changing the bits can be tricky
  • The provided soft case isn’t that great
Overall impression
The Ridgid R2401 Laminate Trim Router has a soft molded grip that makes extended use for a long period of time a non-issue. It comes with a square base, edge guide, round base, guide bar, manual, storage bag, etc. The only issue we have with this router is that changing the bits can seem a little bit tricky and the quality of the provided case is poor. Apart from that, this wood router is a perfect candidate for a wood router below $100.

Where to buy


5

Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit

Best Wood Router for Door Hinges
  • 7.0Amp 1-1/4 HP motor
  • 10,000 to 32,000 RPM
  • Base Dimension: 3-1/2 in. Collet Diameter: 1/4 in. 3/8 in.

The Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit is an excellent option for craftspeople, enthusiasts, hobbyists, and woodworkers who want something light, small, and easy to maintain. It is made for light woodworking projects. It has a powerful motor of about 7 amp or 1-¼ HP and it also has a variable speed that ranges from 10,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm to match or suit any job you want to do. It also has a soft start feature that provides full-time electronic feedback that maintains the speed through cuts maintaining a clean job.

The Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit is coated with durable cast aluminum housing to make it sturdy. It also has a vibration-reducing soft handle which makes use for an extended period of time possible.

Pros
  • Powerful motor
  • Variable speed system
  • Overload protection
  • Coated with cast aluminum for more durability
  • Soft start feature for easy start-up
  • High torque
Cons
  • Very loud
  • Shuts down at intervals
Overall impression
When you purchase the Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit, you get an edge guide, dust hood, a 1.2 HP palm router tool with a very long cord, a roller guide, wrench, replacement carbon brushes, ¼” and ⅜” collet, customer service for 24 hours a day, and a one year warranty. The Enertwist 7.0-Amp 1.25 HP Wood Router Tool Kit is no doubt a very powerful wood router that can undergo any woodworking task thrown at it. It is perfect for smaller woodworking jobs but it can also be used for larger projects. I totally recommend it.

Where to buy


6

Ryobi R1631K Corded Router

Best Wood Router for Table Amounting
  • 3 included power router bits
  • 2 Lithium-ion batteries required
  • Cutting up to 2 inches deep at 25,000 RPM

When we talk about the Ryobi R1631K 1-1/2 Peak HP 8.5 Amp LED-Lit Corded Router, we have a feeling of mixed desire and professionalism. This is because this wood router provides enough power for your woodworking project although we expected a more constructive structure. The Ryobi R1631K 1-1/2 Peak HP 8.5 Amp LED-Lit Corded Router works great in power generation, edge cutting, and cutting depth adjustment.

It has a nice LED source light that makes sure your project is visible during cutting. The handle of this wood router is designed in such a way that it provides comfort and grip and uses can hold it for a long period of time. The motor, on the other hand, is powerful, being the most powerful on the list, it lies at around 8.5 amp reaching revolutions of about 25,000 rpm.

Pros
  • LED light
  • Can take up to 3 sizes of bits
  • Durable base
  • Powerful motor of about 8.5 amp
  • Micro-adjust knob
Cons
  • Weak handle
  • Small switches
Overall impression
The Ryobi R1631K 1-1/2 Peak HP 8.5 Amp LED-Lit Corded Router boasts of an extremely affordable price while keeping or maintaining all the important features a wood router needs or requires. The motor can provide speeds of up to 25,000 rpm. It has an easy rubber-coated handle which makes handling this wood router a breeze. Although the handle has its own faults, that doesn’t stop users from using this device. There is an LED light system that adds visibility when you work. The Ryobi R1631K 1-1/2 Peak HP 8.5 Amp LED-Lit Corded Router is a user-friendly device that is suitable for any woodworking enthusiast who’s on a budget but requires professionalism on his projects.

Where to buy


Comparison Table

ProductWeight (pounds)Voltage (V)Horsepower (HP)Variable speed control (RPM)
Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router3.91201.2510,000-30,000
Bosch PR20EVS 3.31201.0016,000-35,000
Avid Power MW1047.051201.2510,000-32,000
Ridgid R24014.01201.620,000-30,000
Enertwist6.171201.2510,000-32,000
Ryobi R1631K 6.41201.510,000-25,000

Conclusion

In conclusion, we noticed that all the wood router listed above is continent for use and according to your specification, you can select the product which best defines your taste. We hope that you can find a model you can afford from these 6 best wood routers under $100.

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Brayden Silva

Hand-made furniture, remodeling projects, and consulting on all your home needs! I've been a carpenter for over 10 years and I'm still loving it. I learn a new skill every day and can talk your ear off about it! I love to make things. I've been doing it my whole life. Check out my blog for some of my latest projects!

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