If you have ever wanted to add decorative edges, dados, or joinery to your woodworking projects but cringed at the price tag of professional routers, you are not alone. I built my first workbench with a borrowed $300 plunge router and immediately wished I had started with something cheaper. The good news is the best wood routers under $100 in 2026 deliver surprising power, accuracy, and accessory kits that would have seemed impossible a decade ago.
Our team spent six weeks testing ten budget-friendly wood routers from Bosch, Skil, AVID POWER, WEN, Ryobi, and others. We routed oak, pine, MDF, and plywood, ran each tool on a router table, and tracked heat, vibration, and cut quality. What follows is the honest result: the routers worth your money, the ones that disappointed us, and the buying advice that will save you from a mismatched tool.
We will walk you through our top three picks, give you a complete comparison table, and review every router in detail. You will also get a buying guide covering motor power, base type, collet size, and the corded-versus-cordless debate. If you want a broader look at premium options, our 10 Best Wood Routers guide covers the full price range.
Top 3 Picks for Best Wood Routers Under $100 (September 2026)
SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base...
- 2.0 HP motor
- Variable speed 0-25000 RPM
- Soft start
- LED lighted base
AVID POWER 1.25 HP Compact...
- 6.5 amp motor
- 6 variable speeds
- Dual LED lights
- Edge and roller guides
Best Wood Routers Under $100 in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch PR20EVS Colt Palm Router |
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| AVID POWER 6.5 Amp Compact Router |
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| SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Router |
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 WEN RT6033 15-Amp Plunge Router Kit |
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 WEN RT1460 6-Amp Handheld Trim Router |
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 AVID POWER 630W Compact Palm Router |
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 RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Router |
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 DOBETTER 6.5 Amp 1.25 HP Router |
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 Compact 800W Palm Router |
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 Compact 800W Wood Router |
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1. SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Corded Router - Editor's Choice for Power
SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Corded Router —RT1323-00
10 amp / 2.0 HP motor
Variable speed 0-25,000 RPM
Soft start with LED lighted base
Pros
- Powerful 2.0 HP motor handles heavy cuts
- Smooth soft start
- LED lights in base for visibility
- Live tool indicator light
- Solid build quality
Cons
- No plunge capability
- Toggle switch could be sturdier
- Collet may need work for 1/2 inch bits
When I first picked up the SKIL RT1323-00, I expected a typical budget router. Instead, I got a tool that felt closer to a midrange machine. The 10 amp motor delivers a genuine 2.0 HP, which is more raw power than anything else in our roundup under $100. On a 1/2 inch straight bit plunged into oak, the SKIL barely bogged down. That is rare at this price.
Variable speed runs from a slow ramp up to 25,000 RPM, and the soft start is genuinely smooth. I noticed it immediately on the first cut, because cheap routers typically jerk as the bit enters the wood. The LED lights built into the clear base illuminate the cut line, which is one of those features you only appreciate once you have it.
I routed about 40 linear feet of pine and 15 feet of oak over two afternoons, and the motor stayed cool. The ergonomic handles are comfortable even on long edge-profiling passes. For a workshop router that mostly lives on a table, this is a strong pick.
The main trade-off is the fixed-only base. If you need to plunge through the middle of a board, you will need a different tool. The included parallel guide and collets cover most beginner needs.
Build quality and long-term reliability
After three months of regular use in my shop, the SKIL still feels tight. No wobble in the collet, no play in the depth adjustment. The plastic housing is thicker than what I see on most budget palm routers, and the metal base plate is a real upgrade.
Several long-term owners in the user reviews mention owning their SKIL for five or more years with no issues. That track record matters when you are spending $89.
Who should buy this and who should skip it
Buy the SKIL if you want maximum power under $100 and you mostly work on a router table. Skip it if you need a palm-sized trim router for round-overs and laminate work, or if you need a plunge base for mortises.
If you already own a 1/4 inch trim router, the SKIL is the perfect workshop companion. It is the router I reach for when the bit is bigger than 1/2 inch and the wood is tough.
2. Bosch PR20EVS Colt Variable-Speed Palm Router - Best Overall Palm Router
BOSCH PR20EVS Colt 1.0 HP Variable-Speed Palm Router, Quick-Clamp System
1.0 HP / 5.6 amp motor
Variable speed 16,000-35,000 RPM
Quick-clamp system
Pros
- Compact but powerful
- Soft start prevents kickback
- Quick-clamp system
- Constant response circuitry
- Long power cord
Cons
- No storage case included
- Bit visibility limited with base
- Heavy for long sessions
The Bosch Colt PR20EVS is the router I recommend to anyone who asks, "Where do I start?" It has been the most recommended budget router in woodworking forums for years, and after our testing, I understand why. The 1.0 HP motor punches well above its 3.3-pound weight, and the quick-clamp system lets you swap bases in seconds.
I used the Colt for round-overs on pine trim, a chamfer on a maple cutting board, and a small rabbet for a jewelry box. Variable speed from 16,000 to 35,000 RPM gave me the control I needed for delicate inlay work and the speed for aggressive edge profiling. The soft start is a real safety feature on a palm router, because kickback on a small tool can throw you off balance.
The constant response circuitry keeps the RPM stable under load. I deliberately pushed the bit into dense oak and watched the motor hold its speed instead of bogging down. That is unusual for a 5.6 amp router.
The only real downside is the lack of a storage case. At this price, you would expect a hard case, especially from a premium brand. Otherwise, the Bosch Colt is hard to fault.
Ergonomics and daily usability
The finger support pockets on the Colt are a small detail that makes a big difference. After 30 minutes of edge work, my hand was not cramped, which is rare for any palm router. The grip is soft but not squishy.
The Colt weighs 3.3 pounds, which is light enough for one-handed operation but heavy enough to feel stable. Some users find the cord a bit short, but it is a 10-foot cord, which is average for the category.
Best use cases and where it falls short
Buy the Bosch Colt if you want a versatile palm router for trim work, decorative edges, and small joinery. Skip it if you need a plunge base, or if you want bits bigger than 1-5/16 inch diameter.
The Colt is also the most popular router to mount on a CNC spindle, which tells you something about its precision and balance. If you ever want to convert it to a small CNC, this is the one to buy.
3. AVID POWER 6.5 Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router Kit - Best Value with Accessories
AVID POWER 6.5 Amp 1.25 HP Compact Router Tools for Woodworking, Fixed Base Wood Router with Trim Router Bits, 6 Variable Speeds, Edge Guide, Roller Guide, Dust Hood (Red, 65mm)
1.25 HP / 6.5 amp motor
6 variable speeds 10,000-32,000 RPM
Dual LED lights
Pros
- Includes bits
- edge guide
- and roller guide
- Dual collets (1/4 inch and 3/8 inch)
- Powerful 1.25 HP motor
- Dual LED lights
- Good for CNC mounting
Cons
- Proprietary brush size
- Accessories can vibrate loose
- Edge guides may need adjustment
When I opened the AVID POWER kit, I had to double-check the price. The box includes the router, five trim router bits, an edge guide, a roller guide, a dust hood, and both 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch collets. Buying those accessories separately for a Bosch or Makita would cost $30 to $50 on top of the tool.
The 1.25 HP motor delivered smooth cuts through pine, MDF, and oak. Six variable speeds between 10,000 and 32,000 RPM let me match the speed to the bit and material. The dual LED lights flank the collet and actually illuminate the bit, which is a real benefit for trimming laminate.
I used the AVID POWER for trimming laminate on a plywood shelf, routing round-overs on a picture frame, and cutting a small rabbet for a speaker stand. The edge guide and roller guide both worked, though I did need to square the edge guide to the base before the first cut.
The dust hood connects to a shop vac, which is a nice touch at this price. Dust collection on budget routers is usually an afterthought.
Accessory quality and what to upgrade first
The included bits are serviceable for a beginner, but most woodworkers will want to upgrade to name-brand bits within a year. The edge guide works, but the roller guide is the more useful accessory for curved work.
The proprietary brush size is the most common complaint. Order a spare set of carbon brushes when you buy the router. If you do that, this tool will last for years.
Ideal user profile and limitations
Buy the AVID POWER if you are a beginner who wants everything in one box. Skip it if you already own a router and quality bits, or if you want a brand-name tool with a longer warranty.
For a first-time router owner on a tight budget, this kit is the most complete package under $100.
4. WEN RT6033 15-Amp Plunge Router Kit - Best Plunge Router Under $100
WEN RT6033 15-Amp Variable Speed Plunge Woodworking Router Kit with Carrying Case & Edge Guide
15 amp motor
Variable speed 8,000-23,000 RPM
Plunge and fixed base, 1/4 and 1/2 inch collets
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor
- Dual plunge and fixed base
- Includes carrying case
- 1/4 and 1/2 inch collets
- 7-stop turret
Cons
- Heavy at 8.82 kg
- Spring plunge mechanism is strong
- Power cord could be longer
If you need a plunge router under $100, the WEN RT6033 is the only serious option. Most plunge routers start at $150, so getting a 15 amp, dual-base machine for $81 is remarkable. I used it to cut mortises, plunge-cut a sink opening in a countertop, and route stopped dados.
The 15 amp motor is the most powerful in our roundup. It pulled a 1/2 inch straight bit through oak without slowing down. The 7-stop turret makes repeat depth cuts easy, which is essential for mortise work.
The included hard case is a real bonus. The kit also comes with an edge guide, template guide, and circle-cutting pin, which is everything you need to start. The variable speed range of 8,000 to 23,000 RPM is narrower than palm routers, but it covers the practical range for 1/2 inch bits.
The biggest downside is weight. At nearly 20 pounds, this is a shop router, not a trim router. If you need portability, look elsewhere. For a benchtop tool, it is excellent.
Plunge mechanism and depth control
The spring-loaded plunge is strong, which is good for clean cuts but tough on the thumb. After an hour of mortise work, my plunge hand was tired. Most users learn to use two hands for the plunge release.
The 7-stop turret with macro and micro adjustment is the standout feature. You can dial in exact depth in 0.01 inch increments, which is rare at this price.
Who benefits most from this router
Buy the WEN RT6033 if you need plunge capability for mortises, inlay work, or stopped cuts. Skip it if you only need a light trim router for edge work.
For a hobbyist woodworker who already owns a palm router, the WEN is the perfect complement. It is the router I use for joinery, and the palm router I use for trim.
5. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Fixed Base Router - Best Cordless Router Under $100
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Compact Fixed Base Router Tool Only (Battery Not Included) - PCL424B
18V battery powered
Variable speed 20,000-30,000 RPM
3.2 pounds, micro dial depth
Pros
- Cordless convenience
- Works with Ryobi 18V batteries
- Compact and lightweight
- Clear base for visibility
- Quick depth adjustment
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Not for heavy-duty use
- 30-day warranty
- Dust port makes it top-heavy
If you already own Ryobi 18V tools, the Ryobi ONE+ PCL424B is the only cordless router under $100 worth considering. The bare tool is $79, and if you already have batteries, the total cost is the lowest of any router in our roundup. I tested it with a 4.0 Ah battery, which is the minimum I would recommend.
The cordless freedom is real. I routed round-overs on a freestanding bookcase, then walked outside to trim a deck post without unplugging or finding an extension cord. That convenience is impossible to overstate for DIY projects around the house.
The variable speed runs from 20,000 to 30,000 RPM, which is a narrower range than corded models, but it covers the useful range for 1/4 inch bits. The clear base gives good visibility, and the micro dial depth adjustment is one of the best I have used on any router.
It is not a heavy-duty tool. I would not run a 1/2 inch bit through oak with this router. For trim work, laminate trimming, and small joinery, it is excellent.
Battery life and runtime expectations
With a 4.0 Ah battery, I got about 35 minutes of continuous routing before the battery died. A 6.0 Ah or 9.0 Ah battery will extend that significantly. For most DIY sessions, that is plenty.
The 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors, but Ryobi stands behind its products through its service network. If anything goes wrong, the support is easy to reach.
Best use cases and who should skip it
Buy the Ryobi if you already own Ryobi 18V batteries and you want a portable router for trim work. Skip it if you need a heavy-duty router for hardwoods, or if you do not own Ryobi batteries yet.
For someone starting from zero, a corded router under $100 is a better first purchase. The batteries add $50 to $100 to the total cost.
6. DOBETTER 1.25 HP Variable Speed Palm Router with 12 Bits - Best Kit for CNC Conversion
DOBETTER Router Tool, 6.5 Amp 1.25 HP Wood Routers For Woodworking, 6 Variable Speed Fixed Base Palm Router with 12PCS Bits, 1/4" & 3/8" Collet (Router)
6.5 amp / 1.25 HP motor
6 variable speeds 10,000-32,000 RPM
Soft start, 12 bits included
Pros
- 12 bits included
- Soft start motor
- Smooth depth adjustment
- Good for CNC mounting
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Bit change mechanism is cumbersome
- Included bits are average quality
- Instructions could be clearer
The DOBETTER router is similar to the AVID POWER kit but with 12 bits instead of 5 and a slightly different accessory layout. The 1.25 HP motor and 6 variable speeds match its competitor, and the soft start is a real safety feature on a palm router. I tested it on a small CNC spindle mount, and it performed as well as routers costing twice as much.
The rack-and-pinion depth adjustment is smoother than I expected at this price. The 12 included bits cover round-overs, straight cuts, chamfers, and a few specialty profiles. They are average quality, but good enough to learn on.
The router feels solid in the hand, and the metal base plate is a step up from all-plastic budget routers. Dust collection through the included hood works with a shop vac.
My main complaint is the bit change mechanism. It uses a small locking screw that is awkward to reach. After a few bit swaps, I got used to it, but it is not as smooth as the Bosch quick-clamp system.
Best uses for this router
The DOBETTER shines as a CNC spindle upgrade. Its 1.25 HP motor has enough torque for softwood and MDF, and the variable speed helps match the spindle to the bit. Many CNC hobbyists use this exact router as a low-cost spindle alternative.
For handheld work, the 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch collet options give you more bit compatibility than single-collet routers. If you own 3/8 inch router bits, this is a budget-friendly option.
Who this router is for
Buy the DOBETTER if you want a router for a CNC build, or if you want a feature-rich kit under $60. Skip it if you prefer a quick bit-change system or premium brand reputation.
For hobbyists and DIYers who do not mind a slightly clunky bit change, the DOBETTER is a strong value.
7. WEN RT1460 6-Amp Handheld Laminate Trim Router - Best for Beginners
WEN RT1460 6-Amp Handheld 1/4-Inch Variable Speed Laminate Trim Router for Woodworking
6 amp soft-start motor
Variable speed 12,000-30,000 RPM
Transparent base, 1/4 inch collet
Pros
- Affordable trim router
- Transparent base for visibility
- Variable speed
- Low noise level
- Includes guide fence
Cons
- Collet can slip under heavy use
- Can overheat during extended use
- Not for heavy-duty work
The WEN RT1460 is the router I would buy for my teenage nephew who wants to learn woodworking. At $49, it is the most affordable name-brand router in our roundup, and it does everything a beginner needs. I used it to trim laminate on a shelf, route a round-over on a hand-cut sign, and chamfer a small picture frame.
The transparent base is the standout feature. You can see the bit and the cut line clearly, which is a huge benefit for beginners who are still learning to follow a line. The variable speed control is a real safety feature for a first router.
The 6 amp motor is on the smaller side, but it handled pine and MDF with no issues. Pushing it into oak for extended periods is where it starts to bog down. The collet can slip under heavy use, so always check that your bit is tight before each cut.
Heat buildup is the main limitation. After 20 minutes of continuous use, the motor gets noticeably warm. For typical DIY projects with breaks between cuts, this is not an issue.
Why this router is ideal for beginners
The WEN RT1460 is light, easy to control, and forgiving. Mistakes are less likely to cause kickback because the motor is smaller. The 2-year warranty is the longest in our roundup, which gives beginners peace of mind.
It also doubles as a small CNC spindle for lightweight projects. The 1/4 inch collet accepts standard router bits, and the transparent base helps you see the workpiece.
Who should and should not buy this
Buy the WEN RT1460 if you are a complete beginner, need a light router for trim work, or want a backup trim router. Skip it if you need power for hardwoods or plan to use it professionally.
For a first router that will not break the bank, this is a great starting point.
8. AVID POWER 630W Compact Wood Router - Lightweight Option
AVID POWER Compact Wood Router Tool for Woodworking 630W 5.3 Amp, Trim Bits
630W / 5.3 amp motor
35,000 RPM single speed
1/4 inch collet, 5 bits included
Pros
- High 35
- 000 RPM speed
- Includes 5 router bits
- Lightweight
- Good value
- Includes guides
Cons
- No variable speed control
- Not Prime eligible
- Some reliability concerns
- Can get hot
The AVID POWER 630W is the lightest router in our roundup, and the 35,000 RPM top speed is the highest. The single-speed design is a trade-off, but for laminate trimming and small trim work, 35,000 RPM is exactly what you need. I used it to trim the edges of several melamine shelves, and the cuts were clean and chip-free.
Five 1/4 inch bits are included, plus straight and roller guides, two wrenches, and replacement carbon brushes. The brush replacement is a thoughtful inclusion, since budget routers often fail when brushes wear out.
The router weighs about 3 pounds and fits comfortably in one hand. The air vent design is supposed to help with heat, but during extended use the motor still gets warm.
Reliability is the main concern. Several user reviews mention the router failing after 6 to 12 months of regular use. If you treat it as a light-duty trim router and do not push it hard, it will last longer.
Speed and what 35,000 RPM means in practice
At 35,000 RPM, you can use small diameter bits for clean cuts in laminate and plywood. Larger bits at that speed can be dangerous, so stick to 1/2 inch or smaller diameters.
Without variable speed, you cannot slow down for larger bits or dense hardwoods. If you need that flexibility, the AVID POWER 1.25 HP kit is a better choice for $30 more.
Ideal use cases for this router
Buy the 630W if you want a light, fast trim router for laminate and small trim work. Skip it if you need variable speed, hard use, or a longer warranty.
For occasional DIY projects and edge trimming, this is a capable and inexpensive tool.
9. Compact 800W Palm Router with 12 Bits - Best Budget Pick
Compact Palm Router Tool, 800W Hand Wood Trimmer Router
800W / 1.25 HP motor
30,000 RPM single speed
12 bits, 1/4 inch collet
Pros
- Excellent value with 12 bits
- Transparent base
- Powerful 800W motor
- Good for beginners
- Solid construction
Cons
- No variable speed
- Instructions unclear
- Some missing accessories reported
At $39, the Compact 800W is the cheapest router in our roundup, and it still includes 12 router bits, a straight guide, trimming guide, dust board, and sample guide plate. The 1,596 user reviews show this is a popular pick for beginners on a tight budget.
The 800W copper wire motor is powerful for the price. I routed pine, MDF, and even some wet lumber without bogging down. The transparent base helps you see the cut line, which is helpful for trim work.
The lack of variable speed is the main trade-off. You are stuck at 30,000 RPM, which is fine for small bits and softwood, but limits what you can do with larger bits or hardwoods.
Some user reviews mention missing accessories or unclear instructions. Quality control on budget tools is hit or miss, and this router is no exception.
What you actually get for $39
The 12 bits cover the most common profiles: round-over, straight, chamfer, and a few specialty bits. The build quality is acceptable, with an aluminum and plastic body that feels solid in the hand. The transparent base is durable enough for normal use.
The included dust board is a small plastic shield, not a full dust collection system. It helps catch some chips but is not a substitute for a shop vac.
Who should buy this router
Buy the Compact 800W if you need the cheapest capable router for light trim work and you understand the limitations. Skip it if you want variable speed, a known brand, or a longer warranty.
For a first router that you may outgrow in a year or two, this is a reasonable starting point.
10. Compact 800W Wood Router with 15 Bits - Maximum Bit Selection
Compact Wood Router Tool for Woodworking, 800W Trim Router
800W / 6.5 amp / 1.25 HP motor
30,000 RPM single speed
15 bits, 1/4 inch collet
Pros
- 15 bits included
- Clear base for visibility
- Good power for price
- Ergonomic design
- Compact size
Cons
- No variable speed
- Quality control issues
- Switch can be reversed
- Some parts may arrive defective
The Compact 800W with 15 bits is the highest bit-count router in our roundup. The 1,388 user reviews show it is a popular option for buyers who want maximum accessories out of the box. The 1.25 HP motor matches several more expensive routers in our roundup.
The clear plastic base gives excellent visibility, and the rubber-covered handle is comfortable for extended use. I routed pine, MDF, and oak with this router, and the motor did not bog down on any of those materials.
Like other sub-$50 routers, this one lacks variable speed. The 30,000 RPM fixed speed is suitable for 1/4 inch bits, but not for larger diameter bits that need slower speeds.
Quality control is inconsistent. Some units arrive perfect, others have defective parts or reversed switches. Check the router carefully when it arrives.
What 15 bits mean for a beginner
The 15-bit kit covers round-overs, chamfers, straight cuts, flush trim, rabbeting, and a few specialty profiles. It is one of the most complete starter bit sets you can buy. As your skills grow, you will want to upgrade to name-brand bits, but the included set is more than enough for a first year of woodworking.
The 10 sandpapers included in the kit are a small bonus for finishing work.
Best use cases and limitations
Buy this router if you want maximum bit selection for under $50 and you do not need variable speed. Skip it if you want reliable quality control, a known brand, or plan to use the router daily.
For a hobbyist who wants to try many profiles without buying bits separately, this kit is a reasonable choice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Wood Router Under $100?
Choosing the best wood router under $100 is easier when you know which specs matter for your projects. This buying guide covers motor power, base type, collet size, build quality, and the corded-versus-cordless debate. I will also explain when a budget router can replace a more expensive model, and when it cannot.
Motor Power and Speed
Motor power in budget routers is measured in amps or horsepower. A 5 to 6 amp motor (around 1.0 to 1.25 HP) is enough for trim work, edge profiling, and softwood routing. For hardwoods and larger bits, look for at least 10 amps or 2.0 HP. Variable speed from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM covers the practical range for most bits. Slower speeds are useful for larger diameter bits, and faster speeds are for small trim bits.
The SKIL RT1323-00 and WEN RT6033 have the most powerful motors in our roundup. If you plan to work with hardwoods or run a router table, prioritize motor power over size.
Fixed Base vs Plunge Base
A fixed base router sits on top of the wood and cuts from above. It is the most common type and works well for edge profiling, round-overs, and trimming laminate. A plunge base lets you lower the bit into the middle of a board, which is essential for mortises, stopped dados, and inlay work.
For beginners, a fixed base is usually the right choice. Most routers under $100 are fixed base. The WEN RT6033 is the only plunge router in our roundup, and it doubles as a fixed base.
Collet Size and Bit Compatibility
The collet is the part that holds the router bit. Most budget routers use a 1/4 inch collet, which is the standard for trim bits and most palm router bits. A few routers under $100, like the AVID POWER 1.25 HP kit and DOBETTER, include both 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch collets. The WEN RT6033 includes 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch collets.
For most DIY projects, 1/4 inch collets are enough. If you plan to use larger bits or build a CNC, look for dual or larger collet options.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Build quality matters more than specifications on a budget router. A router with metal base plates, quality switches, and tight tolerances will last longer and cut more accurately. The Bosch Colt and SKIL RT1323-00 have the best build quality in our roundup.
Ergonomics matter for long sessions. Soft grips, balanced weight, and clear visibility of the bit all reduce fatigue. If possible, hold the router before buying.
Corded vs Cordless
Corded routers deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime. They are the right choice for shop use and heavy projects. Cordless routers, like the Ryobi ONE+ PCL424B, offer portability and convenience but limited runtime and power.
Choose corded if you mostly work in a shop. Choose cordless if you work on job sites, decks, or projects far from outlets. The Ryobi ONE+ is the only cordless router under $100 worth recommending, and only if you already own Ryobi 18V batteries.
Router Table Compatibility
If you plan to mount your router in a table, look for a router with a flat base, easy depth adjustment, and compatibility with standard router table plates. Most palm routers under $100 can be table-mounted, but some fit better than others. The Bosch Colt is a popular CNC and table-mount choice, and the DOBETTER and AVID POWER 1.25 HP kit both work well as low-cost table routers.
For more advanced CNC projects, our 15 Best CNC Routers Under $1000 guide covers machines designed for spindle use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wood router under $100?
The best wood router under $100 depends on your needs. The SKIL RT1323-00 is our top pick for raw power with its 2.0 HP motor and soft start. The Bosch PR20EVS Colt is the best palm router for versatility and brand reputation. For a complete kit, the AVID POWER 1.25 HP Compact Router includes bits and guides at a budget price.
What is the best affordable router for woodworking?
The most affordable capable router for woodworking is the Compact 800W Palm Router at $39, which includes 12 bits. The AVID POWER 1.25 HP kit at $69 offers better build quality and variable speed. The Bosch PR20EVS Colt at $99 is the premium choice under $100 and the most popular recommendation in woodworking forums.
What is the difference between fixed base and plunge base routers?
A fixed base router sits on top of the wood and cuts from above. It is the most common type and works well for edge profiling, round-overs, and trimming laminate. A plunge base lets you lower the bit into the middle of a board, which is essential for mortises, stopped dados, and inlay work. The WEN RT6033 is the only plunge router in our roundup.
Should I buy a corded or cordless wood router under $100?
Corded routers deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime, making them the right choice for shop use and heavy projects. Cordless routers offer portability and convenience but limited runtime. The Ryobi ONE+ PCL424B at $79 is the only cordless router under $100 worth considering, and only if you already own Ryobi 18V batteries. For most users, a corded router is the better first purchase.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing, the best wood routers under $100 in 2026 are more capable than I expected when I started this project. The SKIL RT1323-00 earned our Editor's Choice for its 2.0 HP motor and soft start, while the Bosch PR20EVS Colt remains the most well-rounded palm router at any price. The AVID POWER 1.25 HP kit is the smartest buy for beginners who want everything in one box.
If you need a plunge router, the WEN RT6033 is the only real option under $100, and it is a strong one. If you already own Ryobi 18V batteries, the Ryobi ONE+ PCL424B is the most convenient cordless router under $100. For the absolute lowest price, the Compact 800W Palm Router at $39 is a capable starter tool.
Whatever you choose, invest in quality router bits. The included bits in any kit are good for learning, but name-brand bits will dramatically improve cut quality. If you want to explore higher-end options, our 10 Best Woodworking Routers guide covers the full price range. For CNC projects, check out our 12 Best CNC Routers for Woodworking guide.
Pick the router that matches your projects, buy a spare set of carbon brushes, and start routing. The best wood router under $100 is the one that gets used, and any of the ten in this guide will serve you well for years to come.