A router is a versatile tool that can help you create various designs and shapes on wood, plastic, or metal. However, the quality of the cut depends on the router bit you use. Therefore, it’s essential to have the right router bit for your project. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the common types of router bits and what to consider when buying them. We’ll also provide our top picks and how we chose them.
Our Top Pick Best Router Bits for Beginners
| Router Bit Set | Material | Number of Bits | Storage Case | Suitable For |
| Hiltex 10108 Tungsten Carbide | Tungsten Carbide | 24 | Wooden Case | Various Applications |
| EDMBG 35 Router Bit Set | High-Speed Steel | 35 | Aluminum Case | Softwood and Plastic |
| LU&MN Carbide Tipped Router | Carbide-Tipped | 15 | Wooden Case | Various Applications |
| Whiteside Router Bits | High-Quality Materials | Varies | N/A | Various Applications |
| KOWOOD Router Bit Set | Carbide-Tipped | 24 | Wooden Case | Various Applications |
| Yonico 17702 70 Bit Router | Carbide-Tipped | 70 | Wooden Case | Various Applications |
Common Types of Router Bits
- Straight Router Bits: These are the most common type of router bits used for cutting straight lines, grooves, and dados. They come in different sizes, ranging from 1/8 to 1 inch.
- Flush-Trim Router Bits: These bits are used to trim the edge of one material flush with the edge of another. They are commonly used for laminate trimming, template routing, and pattern routing.
- Rabbeting Router Bits: These bits are used to create a shoulder or ledge at the edge of the material. They come in different sizes and can create rabbets of varying depths.
- Chamfer Router Bits: These bits are used to create a beveled edge on the material. They come in different angles, ranging from 15 to 45 degrees.
- Edge-Forming Router Bits: These bits are used to create decorative edges on the material. They come in different profiles, such as round-over, cove, ogee, and Roman ogee.
- Molding Router Bits: These bits are used to create intricate designs on the material, such as decorative moldings and paneling.
- Stile and Rail Bits: These bits are used to create frame and panel doors. They come in sets, and each set includes a stile bit and a rail bit.
- Raised Panel Bits: These bits are used to create a raised panel on the door or panel. They come in different profiles, such as ogee, bevel, and Roman ogee.
- Joinery Bits: These bits are used to create joints, such as dovetail, box, and finger joints. They come in different sizes and shapes.
What to Consider When Buying Router Bits
Project Type:
The type of project you are working on will determine the type of router bit you need to use. Different router bits are designed for specific cutting applications, and choosing the wrong bit can result in poor performance and unsatisfactory results. Here are some common project types and the router bits that are best suited for them:
- Edge Routing: Edge routing is a common woodworking task that involves rounding or beveling the edges of a workpiece. For this task, a roundover or chamfer router bit is the best choice.
- Joinery: Joinery involves creating joints between two or more workpieces. Different joints require different router bits, such as rabbeting bits for tongue and groove joints, dovetail bits for dovetail joints, and mortising bits for mortise and tenon joints.
- Cutting Grooves: Cutting grooves or channels in a workpiece is a common woodworking task. For this task, a straight router bit is the best choice.
- Carving: Carving involves removing material to create a design or pattern on a workpiece. For this task, a core box or cove router bit can be used to create concave shapes, while a V-groove or chamfer router bit can be used to create angled or decorative edges.
- Decorative Molding: Decorative molding adds an aesthetic touch to a workpiece. For this task, a variety of router bits can be used, such as ogee bits for S-shaped molding, cove bits for concave molding, and bead bits for beaded molding.
Material:
The material of the router bit is an essential factor to consider when choosing the right router bit for your project. The most common materials used to make router bits are carbide, high-speed steel (HSS), and titanium.
Carbide is the most expensive and durable material used to make router bits. It is a combination of tungsten carbide particles and a binding material such as cobalt. Carbide router bits are known for their high-performance and long-lasting sharpness. They are perfect for cutting hardwoods, MDF, and other tough materials. Carbide router bits are the preferred choice for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who demand high-quality and precision in their work.
High-speed steel (HSS) is a more affordable alternative to carbide. HSS router bits are made from a steel alloy with added tungsten and other metals to improve durability and resistance to wear. HSS router bits are ideal for cutting softwoods, plastics, and other materials that are not as hard as hardwoods. They are suitable for beginner woodworkers who need a reliable and affordable option for their projects.
Titanium is another material used to make router bits. Titanium-coated bits are made from HSS but have a layer of titanium nitride on the surface, which improves durability and reduces friction during cutting. Titanium-coated bits are more durable than regular HSS bits but are not as strong as carbide bits.
Shank Size:
The shank size of a router bit is the diameter of the part of the bit that is inserted into the collet of the router. The most common shank sizes for router bits are 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. The shank size is an important factor to consider when choosing a router bit because it determines the bit’s compatibility with your router.
When selecting a router bit, it is essential to check your router’s collet size to ensure that the bit you choose will fit. If you have a router with a 1/4 inch collet, you can use 1/4 inch shank router bits. If your router has a 1/2 inch collet, you can use 1/2 inch shank router bits. Some routers have both 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch collets, which allows you to use both shank sizes.
The shank size of a router bit also affects its performance. Generally, 1/2 inch shank router bits are more stable and produce less vibration during cutting than 1/4 inch shank router bits. This stability is particularly important when using larger diameter router bits, which are more prone to vibration and chatter. However, 1/4 inch shank router bits are more flexible and can be used in smaller routers with 1/4 inch collets.
Sharpness:
The sharpness of a router bit is an essential factor to consider when choosing a router bit for your project. A sharp router bit produces cleaner cuts, reduces tear-out, and results in a better finish on your workpiece.
Carbide router bits are known for their long-lasting sharpness, but they are also more expensive than other types of router bits. High-speed steel (HSS) router bits are less expensive but may not maintain their sharpness as long as carbide router bits. However, HSS router bits can be sharpened with a sharpening stone, while carbide bits cannot.
The frequency of sharpening a router bit depends on the type of material being cut and the level of use. Router bits used for cutting hardwoods or other tough materials will dull faster than those used for softwoods or plastics. If you notice that your router bit is not cutting as cleanly or smoothly as it used to, it may be time to sharpen or replace it.
To maintain the sharpness of your router bit, avoid using it to cut materials that are harder than the bit. Also, use the proper speed and feed rates recommended for the router bit and material being cut. Proper maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the bit, can also help prolong its sharpness.
Number of Pieces Included:
Consider the number of router bits included in the set. Some sets may include only a few bits, while others may include up to 70 or more.
Our Top Picks Best Router Bits for Beginners
Hiltex 10108 Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set:
The Hiltex 10108 Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set includes 24 router bits made from tungsten carbide. Tungsten carbide is a high-quality material that provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge than other materials. The set includes a range of bits for various applications, such as straight cutting, flush trimming, and edge forming. The bits come in a wooden case for easy storage and organization. However, this set may not be suitable for cutting harder materials, and it may not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Pros:
- Made from tungsten carbide, which provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge.
- Includes 24 bits for various applications.
- Comes in a wooden case for easy storage.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cutting harder materials.
- May not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
EDMBG 35 Router Bit Set:
The EDMBG 35 Router Bit Set includes 35 router bits made from high-speed steel. High-speed steel is suitable for cutting softwood and plastic. The set includes a range of bits for various applications, such as straight cutting, flush trimming, and edge forming. The bits come in a wooden case for easy storage and organization. However, this set may not be suitable for cutting harder materials, and it may not provide a clean cut and a smooth finish.
Pros:
- Includes 35 bits for various applications.
- Made from high-speed steel, which is suitable for cutting softwood and plastic.
- Comes in a Aluminum case for easy storage.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cutting harder materials.
- May not provide a clean cut and a smooth finish.
LU&MN Carbide Tipped Router Bits:
The LU&MN Carbide Tipped Router Bits set includes 15 router bits made from carbide-tipped steel. Carbide-tipped steel provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge than other materials. The set includes a range of bits for various applications, such as straight cutting, flush trimming, and edge forming. The bits come in a plastic case for easy storage and organization. However, this set may not be suitable for cutting harder materials, and it may not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Pros:
- Made from carbide-tipped steel, which provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge.
- Includes 15 bits for various applications.
- Comes in a plastic case for easy storage and organization.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cutting harder materials.
- May not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Whiteside Router Bits:
Whiteside is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality router bits. They offer a wide range of router bits for different applications and materials, including straight bits, flush-trim bits, rabbeting bits, and joinery bits. Whiteside router bits provide a clean cut and a smooth finish. However, individual bits can be expensive, and the sets may not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Pros:
- A reputable brand is known for producing high-quality router bits.
- Offers a wide range of router bits for different applications and materials.
- Provides a clean cut and a smooth finish.
Cons:
- Individual bits can be expensive.
- May not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
KOWOOD Router Bit Set:
The KOWOOD Router Bit Set includes 24 router bits made from carbide-tipped steel. Carbide-tipped steel provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge than other materials. The set includes a range of bits for various applications, such as straight cutting, flush trimming, and edge forming. The bits come in a wooden case for easy storage and organization. However, this set may not be suitable for cutting harder materials, and it may not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Pros:
- Made from carbide-tipped steel, which provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge.
- Includes 24 bits for various applications.
- Comes in a wooden case for easy storage and organization.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cutting harder materials.
- May not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Yonico 17702 70 Bit Router Bit Set:
The Yonico 17702 70 Bit Router Bit Set includes 70 router bits made from carbide-tipped steel. Carbide-tipped steel provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge than other materials. The set includes a wide range of bits for various applications, such as straight cutting, flush trimming, edge forming, joinery, and raised paneling. The bits come in a sturdy aluminum case for easy storage and organization. However, this set may include some duplicate or unnecessary bits, and it may not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
Pros:
- Includes 70 bits for various applications.
- Made from carbide-tipped steel, which provides a longer lifespan and sharper cutting edge.
- Comes in a sturdy wooden case for easy storage and organization.
Cons:
- May include some duplicate or unnecessary bits.
- May not include all the bits needed for some specific projects.
How We Chose the Best Router Bits
We chose the best router bits based on several factors, including material, sharpness, durability, versatility, and value for the price. We also considered customer reviews and ratings to ensure that the router bits we recommended have a good reputation among users.
FAQs
What Do Router Bits Do?
Router bits are used with a router to create different shapes and designs on wood, plastic, or metal. The type of router bit you use will determine the type of cut you can make, such as straight cuts, beveled edges, decorative edges, and joints.
Can I Use a Router Bit on a Drill?
No, router bits are not designed to be used with a drill. They require a router with a collet that can securely hold the shank of the router bit.
How Deep Can a Router Bit Cut?
The depth of cut depends on the size and type of router bit, as well as the material you’re working on. It’s important to adjust the depth of the router bit to avoid cutting too deep and damaging the material.
How Much Do Router Bits Cost?
Router bits can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, depending on the brand, material, and size. It’s important to invest in high-quality router bits that will provide a clean cut and a smooth finish.
Conclusion:
The best router bit set for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a set that offers a wide range of router bits for various applications, we recommend the Yonico 17702 70 Bit Router Bit Set. If you’re on a budget, the Hiltex 10108 Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set and the EDMBG 35 Router Bit Set are excellent options. For high-quality individual bits, Whiteside Router Bits is a reliable brand to consider.