Top 3 Battery-Powered Palm Routers in the UK 2024
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Palm routers have become increasingly popular in the UK, thanks to their portability and convenience, especially for woodworking on-site or in areas without easy access to power outlets. These compact, cordless tools are ideal for edge trimming, profiling, and detailed work, all while providing the freedom of movement that corded routers don’t offer.
Nationaltradesmen.co.uk aim to review the best battery-powered and powered tools in this review, we’ll explore the top three battery-powered palm routers in the UK, focusing on their features, performance, and value for money.
1. Makita DRT50ZJX3 18V LXT Cordless Router/Trimmer
Key Features:
- Battery: 18V Li-ion (sold separately)
- Variable Speed: 10,000-30,000 RPM
- Plunge Depth: 40mm
- Collet Size: 1/4″ (6mm and 8mm collets included)
- Weight: 2.1kg (with battery)
- Accessories: Multiple bases, dust extraction attachment, straight guide
The Makita DRT50ZJX3 is one of the most popular battery-powered palm routers in the UK, thanks to its exceptional versatility and power. It shares many features with the highly-rated Makita RT0700C corded router, but in a cordless format. With an 18V Li-ion battery, it delivers the freedom of movement without sacrificing the power needed for trimming, edging, and more intricate woodworking tasks.
Performance:
The Makita DRT50ZJX3 offers a variable speed control ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the material you’re working with. The brushless motor enhances battery efficiency, ensuring longer runtime and reduced wear on the motor. The multiple base options (trimmer, plunge, and tilt) offer unmatched versatility for various woodworking tasks, from simple edging to more complex plunge routing.
Pros:
- Brushless motor for longer battery life and efficiency
- Versatile with multiple bases for different routing tasks
- Variable speed control for precision
- Durable and well-constructed
- Soft-start feature for smooth operation
Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Heavier than some competitors
Verdict:
The Makita DRT50ZJX3 is an excellent choice for professionals and serious DIYers alike, offering great versatility, power, and precision. While it’s on the heavier side, its wide range of capabilities and reliable battery life make it a top pick for anyone looking for a cordless palm router .
2. DeWalt DCW604NT-XJ 18V XR Cordless Router/Trimmer
Key Features:
- Battery: 18V XR Li-ion (sold separately)
- Variable Speed: 16,000-27,000 RPM
- Plunge Depth: 55mm
- Collet Size: 1/4″ (6mm included)
- Weight: 2.4kg (with battery)
- LED Lights: Dual LED work lights for enhanced visibility
- Accessories: Includes plunge base, fixed base, and dust extraction port
The
is a cordless palm router that offers both power and precision. It features a brushless motor and dual bases (plunge and fixed), providing users with versatility for a range of routing tasks. With its 18V XR battery, this model delivers plenty of power for tasks like edge trimming, cutting grooves, and even plunge routing into denser materials.
Performance:
The DeWalt DCW604NT-XJ performs well, offering variable speed control and constant speed electronics, ensuring consistent speed even under heavy load. The 55mm plunge depth makes it highly versatile, allowing for more intricate work, while the dual LED lights are a welcome addition for visibility in low-light conditions. The battery life is impressive, especially considering the tool’s power and versatility.
Pros:
- Brushless motor for enhanced runtime and efficiency
- Dual bases (plunge and fixed) for versatility
- Variable speed control and constant speed under load
- Dual LED lights for better visibility
- Soft-start feature for smoother operation
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier compared to other models
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Higher price point
Verdict:
The DeWalt DCW604NT-XJ is ideal for professional woodworkers who need a powerful, versatile cordless palm router for both light and heavy tasks. While it’s a bit heavier and more expensive than some of its competitors, its high performance and additional features make it a worthwhile investment for serious users.
3.Bosch GKF 18V-8 Professional Palm Router
The Bosch GKF 18V-8 Professional Router is the latest addition to Bosch’s professional range of cordless tools, designed specifically for woodworkers who need a compact, powerful, and highly portable router. Powered by an 18V battery, it delivers on the promise of freedom from cords while maintaining the precision and quality Bosch is known for. In this review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, and overall value of the Bosch GKF 18V-8 to see if it’s worth the investment for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
- Battery: 18V Li-ion (part of the Bosch Professional 18V system)
- No-Load Speed: 13,000 RPM
- Collet Size: 6mm / 8mm
- Plunge Depth: 40mm
- Weight: 1.05kg (without battery)
- Design: Ergonomic grip with a lightweight, compact body
- Brushless Motor: For enhanced battery efficiency and longer life
- LED Lighting: Illuminates the workspace for improved visibility
Performance:
The Bosch GKF 18V-8 delivers impressive performance for such a small and lightweight router. With a maximum no-load speed of 13,000 RPM, it’s perfect for tasks like edge trimming, chamfering, and small routing projects. While it doesn’t match the power output of corded models or larger routers, it’s more than sufficient for light to medium-duty tasks. The brushless motor not only ensures better battery efficiency but also provides consistent power even under load.
One of the standout features is its ergonomic design. Weighing just over 1kg without the battery, the GKF 18V-8 is incredibly easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during extended use. Its compact size makes it ideal for tight spots and precision work, while the soft grip handle ensures comfortable and controlled operation. The router also features LED lighting, which improves visibility when working in dimly lit areas, a thoughtful addition for those who often work in workshops or on-site in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Battery Life and Portability:
As part of Bosch’s Professional 18V system, the GKF 18V-8 is compatible with a wide range of Bosch 18V Li-ion batteries. This allows for greater flexibility, especially for users who already own other Bosch 18V tools. The router’s battery efficiency is impressive, allowing for several hours of light to moderate work on a single charge (depending on the battery size used). For more demanding tasks, having a spare battery on hand ensures minimal downtime.
The cordless design offers excellent portability, making it a great option for tradespeople who often work on-site or in locations where power outlets may not be readily available. The lightweight body further enhances portability, allowing users to carry it easily from job to job.
Build Quality:
Bosch is renowned for its build quality, and the Bosch GKF 18V-8 is no exception. It features a robust construction with high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. The adjustable depth stop allows for precise cutting, and the router maintains its accuracy even after extended use. The compact size doesn’t compromise its sturdiness, making it a reliable tool for professional use.
Pros:
- Cordless Freedom: Portable and easy to use anywhere without being tied to power outlets
- Lightweight & Ergonomic: Comfortable to use for long periods, especially in tight spaces
- Brushless Motor: Improves efficiency and extends battery life
- LED Lighting: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions
- Great Battery Compatibility: Part of Bosch’s 18V Professional series, allowing for easy battery sharing
- Durable Build: High-quality materials ensure longevity and reliability
Cons:
- Limited Power: Not as powerful as corded or larger routers, making it better suited for lighter tasks
- No Variable Speed: Lacks a variable speed option, which some users may prefer for more intricate work
- Battery & Charger Sold Separately: As with many cordless tools, the battery and charger are not included, increasing the overall cost
Verdict:
The Bosch GKF 18V-8 Professional Router is an excellent option for woodworkers seeking a compact, portable, and reliable palm router. While it may not match the power of larger corded routers, it excels in precision work and portability, making it ideal for edge trimming, small routing jobs, and detailed tasks. Its compatibility with Bosch’s 18V battery system, coupled with a durable build and brushless motor, makes it a solid investment for professionals who need a lightweight and flexible tool on the go.
Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast looking for a versatile cordless palm router, the Bosch GKF 18V-8 offers great performance, portability, and convenience. Just be prepared to invest in a battery and charger if you don’t already have one from Bosch’s ecosystem but watch out for the new kid on the block the GLF-8 palm router coming out and will be reviewed separately on nationaltradesmen.co.uk.
Conclusion
When choosing a battery-powered palm router, it’s important to consider your specific needs, such as the type of tasks you’ll be performing and whether you need a more portable or powerful tool. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top three models:
- Makita DRT50ZJX3 18V LXT – The most versatile and powerful cordless palm router, ideal for professionals who need a reliable tool for a wide range of woodworking tasks.
- DeWalt DCW604NT-XJ 18V XR – A powerhouse with dual bases and impressive precision, perfect for heavy-duty tasks and fine detailing alike.
- Bosch GKF 18V-8 – Lightweight and compact, ideal for light trimming and precision work, with excellent portability.
Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, these top three battery-powered palm routers will enhance your woodworking projects with the freedom of cordless operation and reliable performance.
