Hand-held routers are one of the must-have power tools for every woodworker. They are capable of creating beautiful profiles on your new furniture. However, there are two options for hand-held routers: plunge routers vs. fixed base routers. They seem to serve the same purpose, but what’s the difference? Which one is right for your project? If you’re confused, this article will explain in detail. Let’s scroll down to find out.

The position of the router bit in a fixed base router is fixed. 

The term “fixed base” is not accurate. Fixed-base routers are equipped with adjustable bases that can be locked at a specific height or position and even allow for micro-adjustments with small dials. Once the desired height is locked in place, the tool remains steady, allowing the bit to be set to the exact depth required for the task at hand. For instance, when you adjust a fixed base router to a cut depth of 1/4″, the router bit extends from the base by 1/4″ until you modify the depth setting. A fixed base router is capable of trimming laminate to size, routing dados and mortises for timber framing, and constructing cabinets with precision.

A plunge router can plunge the bit into the workpiece.

There is a significant difference between a plunge router and a fixed base router. A plunge router is equipped with a spring-loaded arm that can lift the motor and router bit off the workpiece. When cutting, we should push the plunge router down into the workpiece. After finishing the cut, we can lift the bit back up. Plunge routers are ideal for creating dados and mortises, as well as various profiles.

Fixed base routers are compact and lightweight.

A fixed base router has a simpler design and the base is lightweight and removable, made of plastic and lightweight metals. A plunge router, however, has a stainless steel arm and more moving parts, making it heavier. The compact and streamlined design of a fixed base router eliminates the need for spring housing or telescoping arms, making them easier to handle with one hand.

A plunge router costs more than a fixed base router of similar features & quality.

When comparing routers with similar features, plunge routers tend to be more expensive than fixed-base models because plunge routers are equipped with many durable and high-quality moving parts.

A fixed base router creates more accurate cuts.

As mentioned above, fixed base routers are equipped with micro-adjustment dials, allowing for precise and easy adjustments. Plunge routers, on the other hand, have fewer adjustment options, thus tending to push away from the surface of the workpiece.

A plunge router is more versatile and safe to use.

A plunge router can finish all the tasks that a fixed base router can handle. In addition, it is safer to use a plunge router because when cutting in the center of a panel, the router won’t jump out of your hands. This makes plunge routers a safer option for some tasks.

A fixed base router is best for routing edges, while a plunge router is more suitable for cutting from above.

Projects like creating dados, mortises, or grooves involve cutting the middle of a panel, requiring a plunge router. The router bit mounted on the plunge router can plunge into the panel to finish the job perfectly, providing easier control than a fixed base router. However, when it comes to precise edge work such as routing various profiles on the edges, a fixed base router is needed.

Fixed base routers are often the preferred choice when used with a routing table.

It is easier for a fixed base router to adjust the depth of the router bit and maintain the locked position. In contrast, a plunge router is challenging to mount on a routing table because they are larger, and changing the depth of the bit requires removing the router base.

Which one is right for your project?

If you’re new to woodworking and want to expand your collection of power tools without a particular purpose in mind, we suggest starting with a plunge router due to its versatility. This tool offers a broader range of applications compared to others and can also be converted into a fixed-base router when necessary.

However, if you’re working with a routing table and intend to do very specific tasks, such as routing profiles on the edge, then you should choose a fixed base router.

Nowadays, there are combo routing kits on the market, containing one motor with a fixed base and a plunge. When using a combo router, you can easily change between them according to your task. Therefore, it is advisable to select a combo router. However, a combo router is more expensive than either a plunge router or a fixed base router. If you have an adequate budget, then opt for a combo router.

(dewalt.com)

* All the pictures are not for commercial purposes.