Throughout the years, wood routers have played a vital part in every task and project related to woodworking and crafting. Enthusiasts, DIY practitioners, and professional workers have stood by this tool because successful project results wouldn’t have been possible without it. The problem is, there are many models of wood routers available in the market today, and it may be overwhelming to choose, especially for novices. The good thing is that we got the answer to solve that issue, here in this article. We will tackle two wood router units from different popular brands and provide you with valuable information between the two. So sit back and read further!
Which Wood Router Would You Pick?
In terms of wood routing, Bosch and DeWalt are considered as some of the top manufacturers of high-quality tools in the industry. Both brands continue to serve their clients with durable and integrated tools for all industry platforms, including the field of woodworking. With that being said, we’re going to compare their wood router products in this article: the Bosch Colt VS DeWalt 611 router review.
If you’ve been eyeing the two units and wondering which one may be better for your workshop, this article will present to you each one’s features compared to the other model. Let’s get started!
Motor Power
The Bosch PRO20EVSNK Colt Router utilizes a 5.6-Amp motor that kicks out a maximum output of 1 horsepower. On an average project, this HP rate is on the lower side, limiting the number of projects you can do with this palm router. You can still use it on small-scale projects, but the router would lack the ability to handle tougher routing jobs and larger woodworks.
On the other hand, the DeWalt DWP611 is powered by a 7-Amp motor that delivers up to 1.25 horsepower at its maximum. This rate also falls on the lower side of a router’s average power; however, the DWP611 has more to offer than the PRO20EVSNK model. This means that you can use DeWalt’s unit with a little bit more project applications than the unit from Bosch.
Besides, both models from Bosch and DeWalt utilize Soft Start Technology. This feature reduces the initial torque that’s released when you switch the router on. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about experiencing an overwhelming router speed and power on its start-up. With this function, you’ll be able to work on the tool with improved handle security and working confidence, as the speed and power build-up to your project’s required rate.
Winner: DeWalt DWP611
Motor Speed
When it comes to the units’ motor speed performance, both offer a great deal because of its variable speed feature. This function is essential, especially if your projects require a certain constant speed. You can modify and adjust the router’s speed from a specific range with the dial that the unit comes with. The measures from this feature will help you deliver accurate cuts because you’ll identify what kind of bit to use right away. Higher speed rates allow you to work on smaller bits, while lower speed rates let you use larger bits. Additionally, this feature also makes it possible for you to work with different types of materials, including softwoods, hardwoods, and laminates; that’s why it’s a good thing that both of these models have a variable speed setting.
Specifically, the Bosch PRO20EVSNK provides you with a speed range of 16,000 to 35,000 RPM; on the other hand, the DeWalt DWP611 has a speed range of 16,000 to 27,000 RPM. The fact that the unit from Bosch offers a higher maximum speed lets you work on wood projects that need accurate and clean cuts from smaller bits.
Winner: Bosch PRO20EVSNK
Ergonomics
For this factor, it looks like Bosch PRO20EVSNK is more equipped with ergonomic features than DeWalt’s unit. The fact that the DWP611 doesn’t have handle security measures makes it lose this round. As minor as it may seem, having hand support on the router’s gripping part plays a significant role in maintaining your tight grip on the tool. The supporting feature should help you secure your hand on the router as you maneuver and work with it against materials, especially on the hard mediums.
On the other hand, the Bosch PRO20EVSNK has finger support pockets to allow you to hold the router with better security and stability.
In terms of tool weight, the PRO20EVSNK is much lighter at 3.3 lbs, compared to DWP611 at 4.6 lbs.
Winner: Bosch PRO20EVSNK
Accuracy and Precision
Both the PRO20EVSNK and the DWP611 offer features that ensure you’ll have cuts with high accuracy and precision on the project you’re working on. The units come with micro-fine depth adjustments and fast and convenient bit changes. In ensuring that your router is capable of allowing you to create polished and accurate cuts, these features should be present. Remember that faulty bit changes and limited depth adjustments may lead to faulty projects, and may even require you to re-do the whole work. Fortunately, both the models from Bosch and DeWalt are equipped with features that secure this factor.
Winner: Tie
Warranty
You use your wood router continuously, especially with huge numbers of projects. The manufacturer must have your back when it comes to the usage wear and maintenance that your wood router would have. A one-year limited warranty supports the Bosch PRO20EVSNK for maintaining and repairing the tool. On the other hand, DeWalt provides a good warranty deal for DWP611, backing it up with a 3-year limited warranty and a 1-year free service for product repair and maintenance. DeWalt also guarantees your money back if you’re not satisfied with the unit’s overall performance within 90 days.
Winner: DeWalt DWP611
The Verdict
Among the factors we considered on both units, DeWalt’s DWP611 proves to win over Bosch’s PRO20EVSNK. It may have scored low on the Ergonomics department, but it definitely aced on the other remaining factors such as the motor power, price, and warranty. If you’re opting for the DWP611, this is the sign for you to take it home to your workshop!
Some other comparisons may give you some perspective, and help you make a decision on which router is for you. Give them a read and see what is most appealing to you.