Shopping for a new router lift can be a pain in the butt if you are not really that handy. In such a way, you will not be able to maximize the versatility of the router table. More than that, you might even be mistaken in choosing a router bit. So, what can you do to make the right choice?
Keep on reading this article, of course! We are going to discuss our top six product recommendations for the best router lift. At the same time, we are also going to give you a buying guide so that you will know which important features to be on the lookout for. Believe us when we say that it is not only about extreme accuracy, height, or even ease.
With that said, take a look at our in-depth reviews so you can easily compare and contrast our product recommendations. In the process, you will also find out that router lifts are not just simple tables that you can adjust. Definitely, once you are done reading this, you will have a fuller appreciation of what a router lift is. But before anything else, let us first discuss what is a router lift.
Contents
What is a Router Lift?
It is simply a router table that has a mounting plate. There is also a carriage that is attached and this is responsible for holding the router. There is also a crank handle that can be removed which you can put in the mounting plate so you can raise up and down the carriage. You might think that other mounting tables can absolutely do this, but with a routing lift, you get optimum precision.
This is the case because there is already a dial on the plate which you can easily fasten on the crank. In turn, this can also measure the adjustments on height may it be on increments that are fine or 1/64 in. All in all, a router lift can solve three major problems in woodworking,
The first problem is that you no longer have to fumble underneath the table in order to adjust the height. The second problem is that you no longer have to remove the router in between projects if you are going to change the router bit. The last problem that is solved is it will be easier to make cuts on wood with a router lift.
Take a look at our comparison table so it will be easier for you to compare our product recommendations. As for our rating, it is based on the overall performance of the router lift. In terms of the product dimensions, this is important to note so that you can have an idea if this fits your woodworking table. The weight also holds precedence because this speaks volumes about portability and also the functionality. The Best For category is there for you to see what the specialization of that router lift is. Lastly, we have the warranty for those cases when it breaks down and you need repairs or replacements.
7 Router Lifts Reviews 2020 - Compared :
Let us now take a look at our six product recommendations. We are going to discuss their features as well as the pros and cons of using them. In this way, you will see which product fits your needs and preferences. Let us now start with the first router lift.
1.
JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift - Best Overall Router Lift
This router lift has a good cam locking mechanism, which means that it can be locked in place with just a simple twist with the use of a wrench. When you look at its left side, it remains unlocked, while the right side can be easily locked securely. It also has a bearing that is a double seal.
This means that it will be extremely easy to adjust the height. The bearing mechanism also makes sure that you have a smooth up and down movement. Further, the outside is sealed so it will not be susceptible to falling debris. At the same time, the smooth adjustment that we talked about earlier can help in extending the lifespan of the unit.
It also has a bit change feature that is above the table. Moreover, it can fit a lot of different bits. All in all, it is made of aluminum that has been anodized so it has a durable construction. Lastly, you can use it with other routers.
This might just be the router lift of your dreams if and only if you have used router lifts in the past. It can be a bit tricky to set up for beginners. Also, for those you have budgetary constraints, this might be too expensive for you especially if you are just starting out with using router lifts.
- Solid construction
- Unique look
- Easy to use
- Smooth movements
- Durable
- Compatible with a lot of routers
- A bit expensive
- There are no extra inserts
- Not for beginners
- A bit on the bulky side
- Not for beginners
This is the best router lift in this list. Just keep in mind that its hefty price is all about how long you are going to use it because its construction is extremely well made. You might as well be purchasing a router lift that will last for eternity if you choose this router lift.
2.
JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift - Best Lightweight Model
You will not believe how lightweight this router lift is. It only weighs 8.8 lbs. Therefore, you can easily take it with you anywhere. Also, it has a small form, therefore, it will not take a whole lot of space on your table. Just take note of the fit because due to its size it can be tricky to have a snug fit.
It is also very easy to handle and mount. You will not be frustrated anymore with a lot of tinkering underneath your table. There are also holes that come pre-drilled which you can easily put in the plate so that you can also attach more routers.
There is only a number of routers available with this one, but if what you currently have is not compatible with it, all you have to do is to get an adapter. It also has a good locking mechanism. There is a lock that is one-way and it is very easy to get to from the top of the table. Lastly, it comes with leveling screws and the machine itself.
This one is relatively cheap for a purpose because it will not last a long time. When it is new and you use it for at least twice a month, it is definitely durable but it breaks down due to regular wear and tears. Also, it is not compatible with a lot of routers, so you still have to make an extra purchase just to get your existing router to fit.
- Not that expensive
- Great for routing that is heavy duty
- Convenient to use
- Easy to set up
- Lightweight
- Good construction
- Durable
- Does not have a ball bearing system
- Lifting is not that smooth
- Mostly made of plastic parts
- Not that compatible with a lot of routers
- Plate set up can be tricky
This one is relatively cheap for a purpose because it will not last a long time. When it is new and you use it for at least twice a month, it is definitely durable but it breaks down due to regular wear and tears. Also, it is not compatible with a lot of routers, so you still have to make an extra purchase just to get your existing router to fit.
3.
Bosch RA1165 Under-Table Router Base with Above-Table Hex Key - Best for Compatibility
What is great about this router lift is the fact that it is very compatible with a lot of tables for your router. In fact, it is compatible with almost all of them. As for its bit hole, it has a large one which measures 3-¾ in. which can also be compatible with a kit if bits for your router.
Also, it is very easy to dismount and to mount. Therefore, it will be great to take with you on on-the-go projects. Its design is also very simple but it can be usedon a lot of jobs for routing. As for the depth adjustment, it can also be done from the top of the table. You only need to use a wrench that is leveling.
You can treat this as your router lift for emergencies. This is the case as it might be too simple. Professionals will find a hard time as it does not have all the complete features of a router lift. Its purpose only stops when it comes to adjusting the height and that is pretty much about it.
- Very friendly on the budget
- Compatible with a lot of router tables
- Portable
- Easy to mount
- A breeze to control
- Smooth lifting
- Might be too simple
- Professionals will not like it
- Smaller than the usual
- A bit flimsy for immense power
- Does not have any other unique features
If you have a lot of routers, then this might just be for you. Your purchase is worth it if you are only after compatibility. However, if you are all about versatility, this will definitely all short. Just like what we mentioned in the user critic, this is best to be used on emergency situations when there are no other router lifts available.
4.
INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift - Best for Precise Adjustment
This one has a very unique ball bearing system because it has five that are sealed. This means that you are allowed to even the slightest height adjustment. Therefore, you have more control and it is very accurate. The seals can also protect the unit from debris and dust and this will allow it to have a longer life.
It also only weighs 14.2 lbs. which is pretty impressive for a full and bulky unit. So keep in mind that this will add additional weight on your current router table. As for its cam lock, it can lock in place intuitively. So do not expect any wobbling from this one because once it is locked, it stays in that position.
Further, it comes with five reducing rings that are made of steel. With these many choices, you can get a lot of customization out of your router when it comes to the right fit. These rings can also help in preventing any type of vibration so that your router will remain intact and not under a lot of pressure.
Lastly, it has a good system for tensioning. Therefore, when you adjust the lift it goes on very smoothly. This also adds to the fact about accuracy and precision in overall adjustments.
This is definitely not for beginners as there will be a lot of set up to do. These setups are relatively worth it, but again, you have to do it right. This, in itself, is very tricky. Also, you really cannot travel with this as it is a bit bulky and heavy. Once you fix this up in one place, it is more likely to stay there for a long time.
- Extremely accurate
- Very comfortable to adjust
- Easy to use
- Has unique features
- Durable
- A lot of safeguards
- A bit on the expensive side
- Bulky
- A bit harder to set up
- Not that portable
- Tricky to place the plate
If you are someone who values accuracy and precision above everything else, this will be so perfect for you. Once you go through its tedious setup process, all will be worth it because you can even adjust your router lift in just a quarter of an inch. With that said, this is great for professionals who have been using router lifts for a long time because that is the only way that this unit can be used properly.
5.
Bench Dog Tools 40-150 ProLift Router Adjustment System - Best for Easy Maintenance
This router lift comes with bronze nuts that are preloaded. Therefore, when it comes to height adjustments, it will be so much easier. These nuts can also help in preventing any vibrations that can affect the router that is currently attached.
It also has what they call screws that are self-cleaning. It is branded as such because it requires little to no maintenance in terms of lengthening the life of your router lift. It can automatically clean itself. As for its material, it is made of cast iron so what you have here is durable.
At the same time, it has a ball bearing system that is dual. In this way, it is very comfortable and easy to adjust the height. More than that, it can be compatible with a lot of routers, and if it does not fit, then it is best to get an adapter.
It can be annoying to have the adjustment lever at the bottom of your table. The reason behind getting a router lift is to prevent this from happening. But with this design, you will struggle with fumbling with the lever underneath your table. It totally defeats the purpose of getting a router lift, in terms of convenience.
- Easy to set up
- Does not require a lot of maintenance
- Easy to use
- Accurate in lifting
- Pre-loaded screws are convenient
- A little bit on the expensive side
- Does not have unique features
- A bit unbalanced
- You can only adjust it at the bottom
- Not compatible with all routers
- A bit bulky
This will be a great supplement to your other existing router lift. Do not get us wrong, it is still a good and workable router lift, but it is not understandable that you still have to adjust it underneath the router table. Although there is accuracy, it is still undermined due to the fact that you cannot see what is going on as you are straining under the table.
6.
Kreg PRS3000 Precision Router Table Lift - Best for Heavy Duty Routing
This router lift has a plate that has a heavy gauge and it is made of aluminum. Therefore, what you have is very solid construction. At its bottom, there is also a thumbwheel so you can easily adjust it without using any other tools. The crank system is pretty much conventional, so you can easily adjust it accurately.
As for its lift system, there is the assistance of spring, so the lifting is very smooth and comfortable. This will also not put additional pressure on whatever material is sitting on the table. It weighs 15.6 lbs. and is not susceptible to the vibrations. As for its cam lock system, it is located at the top and it also has a dial system.
Further, the layout of this one is very simple which makes it great to be used by beginners. The leveling system is automatic and you can choose from three functions. There are also insert rings that have a twist lock. These ensure a tight and snug fit.
This has slight problems in terms of compatibility. Even though you purchase an adapter, it will still not fit if it was made to not accommodate larger router bits. Also, you have to keep on repurchasing insert plates from the same brand as other insert plates cannot work with this.
- Has a good layout
- Easy to adjust
- Easy to set up
- Great for heavy duty routing
- Adjustment is very accurate
- The insert plate is limited
- Has the tendency to not it router bits that are larger
- Not lightweight
- Not portable
- Adjustment lever is at the bottom
This is the router lift for you if your main concern is combatting the vibration so you can effectively use your router. This holds well against heavy-duty routing, so you are assured that your unit is stable and secure. Further, it has a nice layout so you can clearly see what it is you are working on.
Benefits of Using a Router Lift
1 Base Plate that is Solid
When you buy a router lift, it comes with a base plate that is very solid. Therefore, what you have is a more robust and stable than the default insert plates of your table used for routing. When you have a stable base plate, it helps in preventing vibrations to reach the material that you are working with.2 Ease of Use
This is actually the main purpose why you should be purchasing a router lift. You do not have to keep on adjusting the height from under the table. Also, there are models that only make use dial systems and levers so it will be easier for you to adjust the height.3 Precision and Accuracy
Most router lifts contain ball bearing systems which can help you determine the exact height that you are going to adjust it to. At the same time, the lift is going to be very smooth so however little your adjustment is, the lift makes sure that it matters.4 Standard Mount
This points out to very easy setup. Most models already come with a mount and even pre-drilled holes, so all you have to do is to bolt it down and you are good to go.Buying Guide
Let us now go over the important factors to be on the lookout for when you are buying a router lift.
1 Construction
Of course, you are going to mount heavy things on it. On top of that, you are also going to adjust the height of the said material. You have to make sure that it has the capacity to hold the material but still lift smoothly. This is where having a ball bearing system is beneficial.2 Router Compatibility
Before you can do anything else, you have to make sure that the lift matches with your router. If it does not fit, you have to purchase an adapter to make sure that it locks in place. You also cannot force it to fit because that will damage the unit.3 Adjustment System
Is it by lever? Do you just turn a dial? Do you need a tool for it to be adjusted? There are a lot of different designs and you have to choose which one is the most convenient one. One thing is for sure, choose one where you can adjust from the top of the table.4 Type of the Plunge
Most router lifts use a plunge router that is fixed. This makes it possible for the router to be removed. Therefore, you have to make sure that the plunge that you are using is compatible with the router. If you have a model that cannot be removed, just check with your manufacturer if it is compatible with the router that you are going to use.Conclusion
Those are what you need in order to buy a quality router lift. In order to find the best one for your needs and the right one that fits the price, check out the features and how they perform. That is now made easy due to our product recommendations.
Just remember that in buying router lifts, there will be times when you need adapters to have the right fit. You do not have to worry about the extra cost as you will use these adapters for different purposes. Furthermore, it is best to choose a router lift which you can adjust from the top of the table because that is the very essence of owning a router lift.
