A fixed base router is the perfect tool for jig and freehand edgework. It provides better stability and control than other types of routers. And when you set a depth of cut, it remains constant. Since DEWALT is a well-respected name in the world of power tools, we’ve chosen two of their best fixed-base routers to review. Let’s see which one will be the best for you.
DEWALT DW616 1-3/4-Horsepower Fixed Base Router
The DEWALT DW616 fixed base router’s 1.75hp motor is powerful enough to deal with any kind of wood. And there are several features that ensure you’ll have complete control over every job.
To begin, you can set exactly the depth you need with the micro-fine adjustment ring. Each level adjustment is marked down to 1/64-inch. And you don’t need any tools to choose the depth because the DW616 has a motor cam lock that opens, then locks securely into place.
When you want to change the base, it’s fast and easy. Just open the motor latches and lift up the motor pack. You can even detach the power cord if needed.
Then there’s a transparent Lexan sub-base that gives you excellent visibility and it works with standard template guide bushings. The DW616 comes with a concentricity gauge to insert in the collets to make sure the bits are centered. And the self-releasing 8-slot collets themselves are designed to help you free a frozen bit.
While you’re working, you can control the dust-sealed switch with either your left or right hand. There are rubber-coated ergonomic handles on both sides. Then when you need to swap a bit, you can up-end the router and rest it on its flat top.
More features of the DEWALT DW616 fixed-base router:
- Covered by DEWALT’s 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee, one-year free service contract to replace worn parts, and 3-year limited warranty
- Comes with ¼” and ½” collets, sub-base concentricity gauge, two wrenches for bit changes, and manual
- Compatible with optional D base from DEWALT
DEWALT DW618 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router
Why might you choose the DEWALT DW618 over the DW616? Perhaps because the DW618 has a 2.25hp motor for even more power than the previous router. It also offers variable speeds from 8,000 to 24,000rpm under load, and it has an electronic soft start. While the DW616 is a good router, the DW618 has the extras that pros demand in a tool they use regularly.
When you want to remove the motor pack from the DW618, there are two quick release buttons that make the process fast and easy. When you flip it upside down, you’ll see that there is a clear Lexan sub-base that gives you a full view to the interior. Since the router comes with a concentricity gauge, it’s simple to see that the bit is centered. The same sub-base also accepts P/C guide bushings.
The base itself is ready to mount on your table because it has threaded holes for either DEWALT or 3-screw competitor set-ups.
Like the other router above, the DW618 has a detachable cord so it’s easier to do maintenance or connect the optional D-handle base. And the two ergonomic grips on either side let you control the switch with either your left or right hand.
When you want to change a bit, you won’t need two wrenches because the router has a shaft-lock button. This is something the DW616 does not have.
Of course, you’ll still be able to set the perfect depth with the ring that allows for 1/64-inch micro-adjustments without using any tools.
More features of the DEWALT DW618 fixed-base router:
- Covered by DEWALT’s 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee, one-year free service contract to replace worn parts, and 3-year limited warranty
- Comes with ¼” and ½” collets, sub-base concentricity gauge, one double-ended wrench for bit changes, and manual
- Compatible with optional D base from DEWALT
- 10.5-foot-long power cord
Recommendation
If you’re a pro who uses a fixed base router regularly, get the DEWALT DW618 to have all the best features like soft start, one-wrench bit changes, and variable speed control.
Otherwise, you may enjoy the DW616 single speed fixed base router for occasional routing projects, or if your tasks don’t require frequent bit changes and a range of speeds.
Click here to purchase DEWALT DW616 on Amazon.com!
Click here to purchase DEWALT DW618 on Amazon.com!