Corded vs Cordless Wood Router for Beginners: Which One to Choose?

If you’re new to woodworking, a wood router is a versatile tool that can help you create professional-looking edges, grooves, and patterns in wood. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when choosing a wood router is whether to go with a corded or cordless model. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which type of wood router is best for your needs.

Comparison table of corded vs cordless wood router for beginners:

Feature	Corded Wood Router	Cordless Wood Router
Power output	High	Lower than corded
Mobility	Limited	Portable
Battery life	N/A (does not use battery)	Varies by model
Power consistency	Consistent	Decreases as battery drains
Safety	May require different bits than the corded model	No cord to worry about
Price	Lower	Higher
Brand and model	Cord can be a tripping hazard	Fewer options available
Compatibility	Compatible with most router bits	Smaller jobs or projects on the go
Best for	Large jobs or tough materials	A cord can be a tripping hazard
Recommended models	DeWalt DW618B3, Bosch 1617EVS, Makita RT0701C	Makita XTR01T7, DeWalt DCW600B, Ryobi P601

What is a wood router?

A wood router is a power tool that spins a cutting bit at high speeds, allowing you to shape wood by removing material. It can be used to create decorative edges, cut grooves for joints, and hollow out spaces in wood.

Corded wood router: pros and cons

A corded wood router is powered by electricity and must be plugged into an outlet. Here are some of the pros and cons of using a corded wood router:

Pros:

• High power output: Corded wood routers can provide more power than cordless models, which can make them better suited for larger jobs or tougher materials.
• No battery to recharge: Since corded routers are plugged in, you don’t have to worry about running out of battery power in the middle of a job.
• Consistent power: A corded router will provide consistent power throughout your job, which can help you achieve more precise results.

Cons:

• Limited mobility: Since a corded router must be plugged in, you’re limited in terms of where you can use it.
• Safety concerns: The cord can be a tripping hazard, and you’ll need to take care not to cut through it with the router’s bit.

Cordless wood router: pros and cons

A cordless wood router is powered by a rechargeable battery, which makes it more portable and easier to use in a wider range of settings. Here are some of the pros and cons of using a cordless wood router:

Pros:

• Portability: A cordless router can be used anywhere, without the need for an electrical outlet. This makes it a great option for jobs that require you to move around a lot.
• Easy to use: Without a cord to get in the way, a cordless router can be easier to use in tight spaces or at odd angles.
• No tripping hazard: Since there’s no cord to worry about, a cordless router can be a safer option overall.

Cons:

• Limited battery life: Depending on the model you choose, a cordless router may only provide 30 minutes to an hour of battery life before needing to be recharged.
• Less power: Cordless routers typically provide less power than corded models, which can make them less effective for larger jobs or tougher materials.
• Inconsistent power: As the battery drains, the power output of a cordless router can decrease, which can make it harder to achieve precise results.

Choosing the right wood router for you

Now that you know the pros and cons of each option, how do you decide which type of wood router is best for your needs? Here are a few factors to consider:

• Power needs: If you plan on using your wood router for larger jobs or tougher materials, a corded model may be the better choice.
• Mobility needs: If you need to be able to move around freely while using your router, a cordless model may be the better choice.
• Safety concerns: If you’re concerned about tripping hazards or accidentally cutting through the cord, a cordless router may be the better choice.

Other factors to consider when choosing a wood router

In addition to deciding whether to go with a corded or cordless wood router, there are a few other factors you should consider when making your decision:

• Price: Cordless wood routers tend to be more expensive than corded models due to the added cost of the battery and charger. Make sure to consider your budget when making your decision.
• Brand and model: Not all wood routers are created equal. Make sure to read reviews and do your research before making your purchase to ensure you’re getting a quality product.
• Compatibility: If you already have a collection of router bits, make sure to choose a wood router that is compatible with the bits you already own.

Best corded and cordless wood routers for beginners

Now that you know the pros and cons of corded and cordless wood routers, here are some recommended options for beginners in each category:

Corded:

• DeWalt DW618B3: This router provides ample power and comes with three different bases for added versatility.
• Bosch 1617EVS: This router is highly rated for its precision and ease of use, making it a great option for beginners.
• Makita RT0701C: This compact router is easy to handle and provides plenty of power for most beginner-level projects.

Cordless:

• Makita XTR01T7: This router kit comes with two batteries, providing plenty of power and extended runtime.
• DeWalt DCW600B: This router is highly rated for its versatility and ease of use, making it a great option for beginners.
• Ryobi P601: This affordable cordless router provides good power and plenty of features for beginners.

How to use a wood router safely

No matter which type of wood router you choose, it’s important to use it safely to avoid injury. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Always wear eye and ear protection when using a wood router.
• Keep your hands away from the router bit and use push sticks or other tools to guide your workpiece.
• Make sure the router bit is securely fastened in the collet before using the router.
• Never touch the router bit until it has come to a complete stop.
• Keep the router cord and any other cords or obstructions away from the router bit.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a corded wood router outside?

A: Technically, you can use a corded wood router outside as long as you have access to an electrical outlet. However, you should take care to protect the router from moisture and ensure that the cord doesn’t present a tripping hazard.

Q: How long do the batteries in cordless wood routers last?

A: The battery life of cordless wood routers can vary widely depending on the model and the type of work you’re doing. Some models may provide only 30 minutes of battery life, while others can last several hours.

Q: Can cordless wood routers provide enough power for tough jobs?

A: It depends on the specific model and the type of job you’re doing. Some cordless wood routers can provide plenty of power for tough jobs, while others may struggle.

Q: Can I use a cordless wood router for extended periods of time?

A: Cordless wood routers can be used for extended periods of time, but you’ll need to make sure to keep the battery charged and be prepared to take breaks as needed.

Q: How important is brand when choosing a wood router?

A: Brand can be an important consideration when choosing a wood router. Some brands are known for producing high-quality, reliable routers, while others may have a reputation for lower quality. Make sure to read reviews and do your research before making your purchase.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the decision of whether to choose a corded or cordless wood router ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you need a lot of power and don’t mind being tethered to an electrical outlet, a corded router may be the better choice. If you value mobility and ease of use, a cordless router may be the better choice. By considering factors like power needs, mobility needs, safety concerns, and price, you can make an informed decision and choose the wood router that’s right for you.