BOSCH vs DEWALT Wood Router | Which One Should You Choose?

Last Updated on August 28, 2022 by Barry Gray

Between a Bosch vs DeWalt wood router, which brand should you choose? This is a common dilemma for many woodworkers tool users around the world.

Over the years, Bosch and DeWalt have become the biggest players in the power tool business globally. Even though the two companies come from different backgrounds, they have been in existence for years and are highly trusted by professionals in the woodworking business.

For any woodworking project, you’ll need a quality router, either a fixed base or plunge base, to accomplish your tasks.

Choosing between these two giants can be challenging. But to start you off, here’s a guide comparing wood router kits from Bosch and DeWalt.

Despite both brands having quality wood routers, there have distinct features that influence their performance.

Quick Overview

Here are comparative details of Bosch vs DeWalt wood router:

  • Bosch’s history started in Germany whereas, DeWalt began operations in the U.S.
  • Bosch’s wood routers are slightly expensive than the DeWalt ones.
  • While both wood routers from both brands have powerful motors, Bosch routers have slightly higher variable speeds than their counterparts because of their comprehensive range.
  • The DeWalt routers are quite compact, unlike the Bosch ones, making them lighter.
  • The DeWalt options come with a micro-adjustment ring which controls the router better and provides better plunge depth than Bosch.
  • In ergonomics, DeWalt routers have an advantage over the Bosch routers.
  • DeWalt routers don’t come with an edge tool guide.
  • Dewalt’s wood routers have an integrated dust collection system, unlike its counterpart, which doesn’t come with a dust hood.

To guide you on your purchase decision between Bosch vs DeWalt wood routers, here’s a detailed review of the routers, their key features, and the pros and cons.

Bosch Wood Router Overview

These routers are manufactured by a Germany-based company that was established in Stuttgart by Robert Bosch. The company has been operating for almost 130 years since 1886. The brand started as a precision mechanics and electrical engineering player before entering into the power tool business in 1932.

From hammer drills, reciprocating saws, circular saws to wood routers, Bosch has some of the best products in the market.

The Bosch wood routers stand out with a large motor and RPM rating and power that can cut through any hardwood or edges. In-built with a powerful horsepower, the Bosch wood routers are one of the most powerful in the market today.

Most Bosch router kits are compatible with most of the router tables. However, before installing them, it’s advisable to research whether it works best with your router table.

As some of the most used routers in woodworking, these Bosch tools are known for their versatility. They can be used in a broad range of applications from precise bit plunging, slot cutting, edge forming, trimming, to dovetail cutting. As a result, they are rated very highly by professionals in the woodworking industry.

Key Features of a Bosch Wood Router

The Bosch wood routers have distinct features that determine their performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

  • Speed

Most Bosch wood routers have a plunge and fixed-base combo. In addition, they come with powerful variable speeds.

These speeds vary depending on whether you are working with larger-diameter bits and cutters. The higher speeds are well suited for work bits with smaller diameters. In addition, they are an excellent option for projects that deal in softwood and laminate.

When working with Bosch routers, you can select the bit speeds according to the materials you are working with on your project. The routers also come with a constant response circuitry that maintains a constant speed throughout the cut for consistency and accurate cuts.

  • Motor Power

The Bosch wood routers come fitted with high-performing motors. This feature enables the tool to cut through all types of hardwoods and get you a smooth finish.

  • Material

In terms of durability, the Bosch wood routers are known for their durability. This is because they are made of aluminum which makes them long-lasting.

  • Ergonomics

Thanks to the soft grip on Bosch wood router handles, you can easily control the depth of the cut when using this tool. The dual ergonomic wooden handles make the tool handling smooth and comfortable. In addition, they are fitted with longer cords that give you plenty of room to work.

  • Dust Collection

Most Bosch wood routers don’t come with a dust collection system. However, you can purchase these ports and install them.

  • Collet Size and Cutting Depth

With Bosch routers, you can use the specific collets that come fitted with the tool. The collets have a self-releasing feature, making it easier to change the bits. In addition, the different depth adjustments guarantee unmatched precision.

Why You Should Buy Bosch Wood Router

Bosch wood routers have enough power to work through even the toughest woods. So why should you choose this brand?

Here are some reasons why I believe Bosch wood routers are better.

  • They have More Power

Bosch routers have higher speeds and are powerful enough to handle all types of wood materials. As a result, it’s a perfect tool for both professionals and beginners.

  • They Last Longer

These routers are made of aluminum which is one of the strongest metals. Once you purchase this tool, you can use it for years.

Pros

  • They are strong with a durable body design
  • Come with a higher motor power
  • They have a combo kit for both plunge and fixed base
  • The motor has soft-start technology.
  • They are easy to use
  • Have variable speeds with adjustment settings
  • Can handle various types of materials.

Cons

  • They don’t have a dust collection port
  • They are slightly expensive

My Recommendation

I recommend Bosch 1617EVSPK wood router due to its versatility. It has consistent speeds during the cutting of materials. Its ability to handle different materials makes it a perfect choice if you work with a wide array of wood pieces. It can comfortably handle all projects with accuracy.

With a variable speed of 8,000 – 25,000 RPM, it has six adjustable speed settings. This router has a 12 amp, 2.25 horsepower motor. This feature enables the tool to cut through all types of hardwoods and get you a smooth finish. With this router, the fixed collet has a diameter of 6 inches, while the plunge one has 6-11 inches, making it easier to make cuts.

The router also has a soft start technology to regulate the speed, which raises the RPM slowly until it reaches its peak. This is an essential feature that protects your woodwork from damages. In addition, it prevents distortions, especially if the router bits have been installed too quickly.

DeWalt Wood Router Overview

American-based company DeWalt makes wood routers that are well known in the market. Opening its doors in Pennsylvania in 1924, the company was founded by Raymond DeWalt. The company introduced its initial series of portable electric power tools in 1992, targeting contractors and professional woodworkers.

Most DeWalt routers come with a powerful motor and function as a 2-in-1 fixed and plunge base router that you can use for all your woodworking needs.

With superior horsepower and variable speeds, these routers will easily cut through different types of wood. This brand is a favorite for professionals due to its cost and superior features. Let’s look at some of these attributes.

Key Features of a DeWalt Wood Router

Compared to the Bosch wood routers, let’s see how the two brands compare, especially with the features.

  • Speed

The speed of a power tool is an essential feature. For instance, a DeWalt combo kit can move from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM. These speeds are powerful enough to cut through different wood types. It also maintains constant speed throughout the project.

  • Motor Power

Just like the Bosch routers, this brand also has wood routers with solid horsepower. With this kind of power, you can easily cut through any wood. Their devices also have a soft start to reduce the power load when the tool powers up.

  • Material

The DeWalt wood routers have steel rods on their base, metal housing, and brass bushing.

  • Ergonomics

With this brand, you have two rubber handles attached to the router at an angle. Furthermore, with the help of a spindle lock and wrench, you can easily change the bits. The tools have more visibility when you are making cuts and edges.

  • Dust Collection

DeWalt has the upper hand over the Bosch wood routers with its efficient dust collection system. For easier maintenance, the port collects all the waste and by-products resulting from the cutting process.

  • Collet Size and Cutting Depth

When you purchase DeWalt wood routers, you have the option to choose between different collets during the cutting process. You’ll also get a 5-position adjustable turret for high precision cuts.

Why You Should Buy DeWalt Wood Router

Buying a DeWalt wood router is an excellent decision if you just started working on woodwork projects. Here are some reasons why this option is the better tool.

  • They have Superior Features

If you need a good speed tool, a powerful motor, and an efficient dust collecting system, the DeWalt wood routers are the best option.

  • They are Lightweight

This brand has routers that are lighter based on their features and make, especially if you need to use the portable version that you can use for extended periods.

 Pros

  • Have an efficient dust collection system
  • They come with a soft start technique
  • Have both the fixed and plunge base combo
  • They are lightweight
  • Slightly affordable
  • The plunge base has an adjustable five-position turret stop
  • Versatility in bits
  • Have an ergonomic design
  • They come with a compatible adjustment ring

Cons

  • They don’t have an edge tool guide
  • They have lower RPM speeds than Bosch
  • Come with a limited cord length, 8 feet long
  • They are not suitable for commercial use

My Recommendation

I recommend DeWalt DW618PK wood router because it’s powerful enough to handle many woodwork projects. In addition, it’s lightweight therefore suitable for use in extended periods.

It’s also affordable and can easily meet your budget. Apart from good speeds, DeWalt DW618PK keeps your work area clean with dust ports.

This DeWalt wood router comes with a 12-AMP, 2.25 horsepower motor. Controlling speed with this brand is made easy by using the variable speed dial. In addition, it comes with a LEXAN sub-base that makes the router more stable.

The collet diameter for a fixed-base router is ½ inches, whereas that for the plunge is 1/6 inches. During cutting, you have to choose between 1/2inched or the 1/4inched collet and can’t use both. You can go up to 1.5-inch depth travel with the fixed base and 2-inch with the plunge one in terms of depth.

What to Consider When Choosing Between a Bosch and DeWalt Wood Router

Both routers are super brands. Before you make a decision, here’s what to look out for.

  • Your Budget

As top brands, they are highly valued in the market. Therefore, because of their demand, the prices could be higher than other brands. However, DeWalt routers are much cheaper. Therefore, if you are working with a lower budget, it’s a much better option.

  • Their Speeds

Both DeWalt and Bosch routers have powerful speeds to handle different wood materials. However, you should carefully consider which tool will best handle the material you are using.

  • The Key Features

Some features such as cutting depth, dust collection, and design are essential. However, different wood projects will require distinct needs. Therefore, before committing to one of these power tools, it’s best to check which one will make your project successful.

The extra settings such as adjustment rings and speed dials are also essential for any project.

Summary

When examining Bosch and the DeWalt routers, they both come off as powerful tools that you can use for your project. With distinct features, they are designed for professionals and beginners in the woodworking field. However, if you are going for more professional contracts, the Bosch routers might be a better choice.

Both wood routers from these companies have a combo kit with a fixed and plunge base. They make precise and accurate cuts courtesy of their in-built features. If you are more into the lighter DIY projects, DeWalt is a good choice because the routers are less heavy and cheaper whereas, Bosch will be perfect for heavy-duty projects.

Related Questions

  • What Dust Hood Can I Use for Bosch Wood Router?

The Bosch router does not come with a dust collection system, but you can install it. In addition, the tool is compatible with most of the dust hoods in the market, including RA1175 and RA1173AT. Therefore, once you purchase the tool, you can get one to make it easier to collect debris and work in areas with little or no ventilation.

  • Plunge vs. Fixed Base. Do You Need Both?

Both Bosch 1617EVSPK and the DeWalt DW618PK routers that we just reviewed come with the 2-in1 combo kit. But do you need both?

Using a combo router is an excellent choice because it eliminates the dilemma of deciding between the two. However, you need to note that combo routers are generally a little more expensive than the other options.

  • Are Router Tables Universal?

Some brands will market their router tables as universal. However, this might not always be the case. Therefore, before you start your project, it’s best always to check that your router will fit a particular router table.

There are plenty of router tables that you can buy for your project. Therefore, carry out your research before you make the order for shipping.  

Photo of author

Barry Gray

Hi, I’m Barry. I’ve loved woodworking and bringing things back to life for more years than I care to remember. I hope my passion for tools comes across loud and clear in everything you read here on The Tool Square.

Leave a Comment