Routers are the second most essential woodworking or carpentry power tool after the table saw. In addition, a router assists a woodworker or a carpenter in becoming an extraordinary professional through their workings. Furthermore, a router will allow its users to work comfortably and maintain precision on the work. The Makita brand focused on delivering quality woodworking tools to its users and earned the trust of professionals who were satisfied using its products. Therefore, we recommend that the readers go through the whole Makita Router review article to better understand the manufacturer and its products.
As we learn how crucial routers are, we should focus on selecting the right tool. There are many options in the power tool section for the router category, and each of the products has its unique specifications. For example, some are best for heavy industrial work, some are capable of small-scale cutting, some only allow fixed bases, some have incredible power settings, and some might have a wide speed range. Among all of these, a woodworking enthusiast has to choose the perfect one that compliments their needs.
The woodworking community will benefit from this review as it will cover some of the best products of Makita Tool Corporation in the power tool router category. In addition, this article will also discuss the Makita Tool Corporation manufacturer.
The Makita Tool Corporation
The globally renowned Makita Tool Corporation has been conducting its operation for over a century, and over time they are becoming more reliable with perfected design specifications. The innovative leader in power tool manufacturing has a strong R&D department that delivers the best-in-class product. In addition, their pieces of equipment are unbeatable in terms of quality and durability.
Makita Tool Corporation started its journey in 1915 as a motor sales and repairing company and later in 1958 started manufacturing power tools. The manufacturer provides a range of power tool products for its customers, including drill machines, saws, chainsaws, routers, blowers, hedge trimmers, combo kits, and accessories in the relevant field.
The global leader in innovative power tool manufacturing operates in over 40 countries with ten plants in 8 countries. Additionally, it has its head office located in La Mirada, California, USA. It conducts a smooth operation all over America, ensuring its products meet user demands. Overall, the experienced and ingenious manufacturer is reliable, and it will provide you with excellent products that will enhance user productivity.
Top 5 Makita Router Reviews For Both DIY & Professionals
This article will review one woodworking power tool, routers, from the well-renowned manufacturer Makita Tool Corporation. Furthermore, it will highlight the 5 best Makita routers’ specifications, features, advantages, and limitations for each product.
Makita RT0701CX7 Compact Router Kit
The first entry in this review article is the compact power tool Makita RT0701CX7 that offers a sufficient 1.25hp. First of all, take a look at what the router package includes.
Makita RT0701CX7 Accessories
- RT0701C Router
- Plunge base
- Trimmer base
- Straight guide
- ¼ inch collet
- Spanner Wrench
This compact router has a dimension of 17 x 10 x 7 inches with a 3.9 pounds weight, making it a super portable and easily accessible device. Additionally, it has heavy-duty aluminum motor housing for durability, and clear base construction ensures better visibility. The fixed base accepts template guides that are industrial grade. Furthermore, The 6.5amp motor offers a moderate 1.25hp, and it can operate from a standard 120V outlet.
The ergonomically designed router has a wide speed range of 10,000-30,000RPM, and its variable speed control dial lets the user operate it according to application needs. In addition, the compact kit also features a soft starting motor reducing startup torque and electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load. Moreover, the durable flat-top design ensures convenience for bit changes and adjustments and a quick-release cam lock system for fast base changes.
In terms of precision and accuracy, the router has numerous depth adjustment settings. It includes smooth rack and pinion fine depth adjustment, shaft lock for quick and straight bit changes, ¼ inch collet measuring better grip, and a precise, easy-to-read depth scale. In addition, the plunge base has a fine depth adjustment with three preset depth stops, increasing usability. Lastly, the reliable product comes with a 1-year warranty that encourages woodworkers to operate the device without worrying and focusing on their projects.
Why Choose Makita RT0701CX7
- Compact design ensures portability and better usability
- A sturdy device with the heavy-duty aluminum motor housing
- A clear base construction for enhanced visibility
- Wide speed range with speed control dial
- Soft start motor feature with electronic speed control
- Smooth rack and pinion depth adjustment
- Easy to read depth scale
- Quick-release cam lock system
- Warranty from its reliable manufacturer
A Few Limitation
- There is no LED lighting option
- Not recommended for professional use
- Additional purchase needed for plunge base option
Makita RP2301FC Plunge Router with 3.25HP
The Makita RP2301FC is a heavy-duty plunge base router that will allow woodworkers to enhance their cabinetry, furniture making, and general carpentry ability with its smooth and efficient performance. This professional router comes with a package that includes the plunge base router, spanner wrench, extra depth adjustment knobs, and collet with ½ inch and ¼ inch sizes. The device is easy to use and ensures precision and accuracy for delicate woodworking projects with everything ready for work.
The RP2301FC router has a durable flat-top design with a dimension of 17.72 x 5.91 x 5.12 inches and 13.4 pounds of weight. The plunge base router also has an ergonomically rubberized handle with a built-in two-finger switch, and there is a lock system on the trigger for continuous use. Additionally, the plunge base device has a plunge depth capacity within 0 to 2.25inches, and a linear ball-bearing mechanism ensures smooth plunge action. Also, the plunge lock lever is convenient so that the user can operate it without complications. Lastly, it comes with twin LED lights that increase visibility meaning better routes.
One of the main reasons for using this router is its powerful 15amp motor that offers 3.25horsepower with a speed range of 9000-22000RPM. In addition, the engine comes with features like soft start, electric speed control, variable speed dial, and electric brake giving its users the ultimate routing experience with better usability and management. Also, it features quick-release micro-control plunge depth adjustment and a 3-preset depth stop. Furthermore, the 3.25hp router has a shaft lock for straight bit changes and a tool-less template guide system.
This plunge router also features a chip deflector that directs chips away from the operator, and there is an easy-to-read depth scale allowing users to control settings precisely. In addition, the ¼ inch and ½ inch shank router bit allow diverse operation with ¼ inch and ½ inch collet giving better gripping and adjustments. Furthermore, another impressive thing about this router is it offers its user options to customize the device for more advanced users with some additional purchase. Lastly, the Makita router comes with a 1-year warranty increasing its reliability.
Advantages of Makita RP2301FC
- Powerful 15amp motor with maximum 3.25HP
- Soft start motor and variable speed control
- Electric brake
- Convenient design with a trigger lock for more extended use
- Chip deflector and easy to read depth scale
- Quick-release micro-control depth scale with 3-preset depth stop
- Twin LED lights
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Drawbacks of Makita RP2301FC
- Weight is relatively heavier
- Expensive comparing other plunges base router
Makita RF1101 2.25 HP Low Noise Router
This next entry for best Makita router review is the product Makita RF1101 2.25 HP router that generates a low (81dB) noise during the routing process, making the working experience more pleasant. It comes in a package that includes a plunge base, ¼ inch collet, 1/23 inch collet, and wrenches. In addition, the product weighs around 7 pounds with a dimension of 9 x 6 x 9.5 inches. Also, the durable flat-top design router has rugged aluminum motor housing, making it a sturdy unit.
In power settings, the RF1101 has an 11amp motor that provides a moderate 2.25hp and is operable on a 127V AC outlet. In addition, it offers a speed range within 8000-24000RPM, and the variable speed control dial lets the user set it according to the application’s need. Furthermore, the soft starting motor reduces startup torque and allows better maneuverability with the electronic speed control feature that ensures speed consistency under load.
Another unique feature of this router is low vibration during routes ensuring stability and giving comfort to its user. In addition, the Makita RF1101 has an industrial cam lock lever for fast and straight depth adjustments and easy removal of the motor. It also has a large calibrated depth control ring, and the sub-base accepts the industry-standard template guide. Moreover, the all-ball bearing construction router takes ½ inch and ¼ inch shanks for better bit changes and adjustments.
Overall this unique product from the Makita manufacturer offers a stable routing opportunity where the carpenters or woodworkers can focus on their project without any vibration or noise. Therefore, the result of using this device is always to make precise routes on diverse projects.
Short Makita 1101 router review
- Durability with flat-top design and aluminum motor housing
- Low noise routing
- Less vibration while working
- Soft starting motor with reduced startup torque
- Variable speed dial and electronic speed control ensure better speed management
- Industrial cam lock lever for depth adjustment and motor removal
- Industry-standard template guide
- 1-year warranty
Drawback
- LED light option is not available
- Dust extraction feature is missing
Makita XTR01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless & Cordless Router
With their innovative technology, the Makita XTR01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion router, the Makita manufacturer brings yet another incredible product. It is a convenient device that provides all the features of a regular router and more with its unique 18V LXT Lithium-Ion, brushless, and cordless tool-only features. However, before we dive into the details of this incredible unit, let us check out what the package includes.
Makita XTR01Z Accessories
- XTR01Z compact brushless router
- 18V LTX Lithium-Ion 5Ah battery
- 18V LTX Lithium-Ion rapid optimum charger
- Trimmer base
- Straight guide
- Spanner wrenches
- 1/4inch collet
- Interlocking case, X-Large
The complete package compact router has heigh, width, and length ratio of 6.2 x 8.5 x 5.8 inches with 4.6 pounds of weight. The aluminum housing and base construction router has a quick-release cam lock system for depth adjustments and Fast base changes. Also, it has a clean base construction and dual LED light for better visibility of your workings. Furthermore, the router’s ergonomic design includes a rubberized handle for comfort, an on/off button with a separate lock system for preventing unwanted startup, a shaft lock for quick and easy bit changes, and an easy-to-read depth adjustment scale. Also, it accepts industry-standard template guides.
The most alluring part of this power tool is its motor and power settings. This cordless device uses 18V LTX 5Ah slide-style batteries (Makita was first to introduce an 18V Lithium-ION cordless Tool) with a dual-port optimum charger that communicates with the battery’s built-in chip, allowing faster and efficient charging. Additionally, the battery takes 45 minutes to fully charge the router, the fastest charging in the category.
Furthermore, it has a Makita Brushless motor which is 50% more efficient, with all the standard features, including soft start, electronic speed control, and variable speed dial that allows options for speed settings within the range of 10000-30000RPM. In addition, the motor features start protection computer control that protects it from overload, over-charge, and overheating. Therefore, with its purpose-built motor, battery technology, and enhanced communication, this device combines to deliver seamless performance, excellent runtime, and efficiency for full-range woodworking or cabinetry projects.
XTR01Z Makita battery router review
- Aluminum housing and base construction
- Quick-release cam lock
- Dual LED light
- On/off button with separate lock
- 18V LTX 5Ah slide-style battery that charges in 45 minutes
- 50% more efficient brushless motor
- Variable speed dial, soft start motor, and electronic speed control ensure better control over speed.
- Start protection computer control for overloading, over-charging, and overheating protection.
- Shaft lock for quick and easy bit changes
- Precise, accurate, better control, comfortable usability, and efficient router at an affordable deal
- A 3-year warranty on tool, battery, and charger
A Few Limitation
- Additional purchase recommended for a more customized option
- Separate buy for dust extraction
Makita RD1101 2.25 HP Router (D-Handle)
The last entry in this best Makita router review is the D-Handle Makita RD1101 router. Like all the other products, this one is also impressive with its unique features. First, the D-Handle router comes in a package that includes the RD1101 router, ½ inch collet, ¼ inch collet with nut, wrenches, and instruction manuals. Second, the compact router has a 12 x 6 x 9.5-inch dimension with 7.9 pounds of weight. In addition, the rugged aluminum motor housing with a 3.25-inch diameter for better handling is engineered with all-ball bearing construction.
Furthermore, the durable flat-top design of the router ensures stability while bit changing and accepts ½ inch and ¼ inch shank bits. It also includes a large calibrated depth control ring for better depth adjustment, accessible brushes, trigger switch with lock-on, and the front knob has the option to set in two places allowing comfort for the left or right-handed operator. Moreover, the plunge router has an industrial cam-lock lever for depth adjustments and quick motor removal. Finally, the sub-base accepts industry-standard template guides.
Now for the motor power specification, the powerful 11amp motor offers a maximum of 2.25HP with a variable speed range of 8000-24000RPM, and it can run on a 115V outlet. Additionally, the D-Handle router features a soft start motor for better maneuverability and electronic speed control to ensure consistent speed under load. Also, the variable speed control dial allows setting the rate according to the application’s need.
Two of the unique design advantages of this router is that it creates less noise (81dB) and less vibration while in a routing process, allowing the operator a more comfortable and concentrated environment for completing their projects. Overall, carpenters or woodwork enthusiasts can attend most cabinetry and furniture works with this router’s design and features. In addition, they will enjoy the process with efficient, convenient, and accurate routes.
What We Like
- D-handle for comfortable operation
- Powerful 11amp motor with maximum 2.25HP and 8000-24000RPM
- Soft start, electronic speed control, and variable speed dial
- Less vibration and less noise(81dB)
- Calibrated depth adjustment ring
- Accessible brushes and trigger switch with lock
- Durable flat-top design and sub-base accept industry-standard template guides.
- Rugged aluminum motor housing and all-ball bearing construction
- Reliable with manufacturer warranty
Where It Can Improve
- Dust extraction port is not available
- LED light addition will allow illumination of the working base
- Above height adjustment is not effective
A Few Tips While Selecting A Router
As we can see from the above description of different routers, many unique features serve many purposes. Therefore, the user needs to choose the right one according to his working needs. And to accomplish that goal, we are giving you some tips to choose the feasible one for you. However, before looking for a router, first, determine your work purpose and check your budget. Then select the best one within your budget. Now, let us have a brief about selecting criteria and concerns.
Construction: The design specifications and construction material; will determine how the router will behave and how long it will serve adequately.
Versatility: Check out how diverse the range of work capacity is on your device. For example, what bases it can operate on, which material the router can use for cabinetry works, etc.
Usability: Consider the setup process, maneuverability, noise option, vibration settings, and portability.
Power settings: Another important thing the user should consider is to check the amperage, motor speed, and corded or cordless option. Also, look for standard motor features, like soft start motor, variable speed dial, electronic speed control, and more.
Depth Adjustment: Precision and accuracy are crucial, so check various depth adjustment settings, bit changes, and base/ bit removal or installation options.
Stability: Select the most stable one comparing its construction and behavior during the work process.
Reliability: Lastly, check out the manufacturer and warranty package to end up with a better device.
Conclusion
This article covers 5 of the best routers from the manufacturer Makita who have over a century of experience in producing power tools. Each of the products covered in this Makita router review article is impressive, incredible, and unique. For specific routing project requirements, the compatibility of different routers may vary. For example, if the user needs a heavy-duty router with ample power, we suggest selecting the Makita RP2301FC 3.25HP plunge router. Also, if they are looking for a cordless unit without compromising strength, the Makita XTR01Z 18V LXT cordless, brushless unit will satisfy your need.
Furthermore, if you prefer less noise and less vibration router with excellent usability, you should choose the D-Handle RD1101 Makita 2.25hp router, and it will serve you perfectly. However, whichever you select, you can rest assured you get the best product as these are the best products from a reliable manufacturer. In addition, each of the products features all the significant features a router must-have. Consequently, users will get accuracy, precision, and efficiency on their woodworking projects.
Suppose you are a woodworking enthusiast or a carpenter from any skill level. In that case, we believe this article will assist you in gaining a better understanding of a few of the best Makita products. Therefore, we recommend you choose any of the ones according to your compatibility and start your extraordinary cabinetry or furniture projects right away.
FAQ
Why should I choose any Makita Products?
Makita tool corporation has been manufacturing power tools for over a century, and they are the best in their relative field. With their excellent R&D and engineering team, the innovative manufacturer is appreciated globally. In addition, they are reliable and provide a warranty with each of their products and maintain good customer relations for future services.
Is there any Cordless router available?
The Makita XTR01Z 18V LXT is a cordless router that will provide all the standard router features with a 5Ah Lithium-Ion battery.
What is the Makita LXT battery?
The LXT technology is the world’s most extensive tool system powered by an 18V slide-style battery. This innovation is Makita’s unique innovation that shapes power tool manufacturing to some extent.
Which one from Makita is better? XTR01Z or RP2301FC?
Both of the products are equally incredible. However, users can choose one over the other according to their needs. For example, if they need ample power, they can go with the Makita RP2301FC. On the other hand, if they prefer cordless devices, they may select the Makita XTR01Z.