18v Routers

About 18v Routers

18v cordless routers have revolutionised the way tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts approach routing tasks, offering the perfect balance between power and portability. These battery-powered tools eliminate the constraints of trailing cables whilst delivering impressive performance for edge profiling, rebating, grooving, and trimming operations. Available in trim router, plunge router, and combination formats, modern 18v routers feature brushless motor technology that maximises runtime and power efficiency from your existing battery platform.

The category encompasses specialist trim routers designed for one-handed operation and lighter tasks, through to full-featured plunge routers capable of handling demanding joinery work. Leading manufacturers including DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, and Bosch have developed sophisticated 18v routing solutions that integrate seamlessly with their respective battery ecosystems, making these tools particularly attractive to tradespeople already invested in a platform. Many models now feature electronic speed control, precise depth adjustment mechanisms, and LED work lights, bringing professional-grade capabilities to cordless operation.

Whether you're a joiner working on site installations, a kitchen fitter scribing worktops, or a DIY enthusiast tackling home improvements, 18v routers offer the freedom to work anywhere without compromising on control or cutting quality. The availability of both 1/4" and 1/2" collet options across the range ensures compatibility with your existing router bit collection.

Jargon Buster

• Brushless Motor: Advanced motor technology that uses electronic switching rather than carbon brushes, delivering up to 50% longer runtime, increased power efficiency, and extended tool lifespan with minimal maintenance requirements.
• Plunge Base: A routing configuration where the motor unit moves vertically on spring-loaded columns, allowing you to lower the spinning bit into the workpiece at any point rather than only at the edge. Essential for stopped grooves and interior cuts.
• Trim Router: A compact, lightweight router design optimised for one-handed operation, edge work, and laminate trimming. Typically features a 1/4" collet and fixed base configuration, making it ideal for lighter profiling tasks.
• Variable Speed Control: Electronic circuitry that allows adjustment of the bit rotation speed (measured in RPM), essential for working with different materials and bit sizes. Slower speeds suit larger diameter cutters and dense materials, whilst higher speeds deliver cleaner cuts in softwoods.
• Collet Size: The diameter of the shaft-gripping mechanism that holds router bits - either 1/4" (6.35mm) or 1/2" (12.7mm). Larger 1/2" collets provide better grip for heavy-duty bits and reduce vibration during demanding operations.
• Depth Stop: A mechanical or electronic system for setting precise cutting depths, typically featuring fine adjustment mechanisms for incremental depth changes measured in fractions of a millimetre.

Who Uses 18v Routers?

18v cordless routers serve a diverse range of professionals and enthusiasts:

• Joiners and Carpenters: For door hanging, window installation, creating housing joints, and general timber joinery work on site where mains power may be limited
• Kitchen and Bedroom Fitters: Scribing worktops to walls, trimming laminate edging, cutting hinge recesses, and profiling cabinet edges during installations
• Shopfitters and Retail Contractors: Creating display units, fitting shelving systems, and general millwork during commercial fit-outs
• Furniture Makers: Edge profiling, rebating for back panels, creating decorative mouldings, and general workshop routing tasks
• Staircase Installers: Trenching for spindles, profiling handrails, and creating housing joints in stringers
• Maintenance Teams: Repair work, modifications, and general building maintenance where a versatile, portable routing solution is essential
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects including laminate flooring installation, shelving construction, kitchen renovations, and creative woodworking
• Decking Specialists: Chamfering board edges, creating drainage channels, and detail work during outdoor timber installations

How to Choose the Right 18v Routers

Selecting the appropriate 18v router depends on several key considerations:

Router Type and Configuration: Trim routers offer lightweight, one-handed operation ideal for edge work and laminate trimming, whilst plunge routers provide versatility for interior cuts and deeper operations. Combination kits with interchangeable bases deliver maximum flexibility, allowing you to switch between trim and plunge configurations depending on the task.

Collet Size: Consider whether 1/4" or 1/2" capacity suits your existing router bit collection. Professional users often prefer 1/2" collets for heavy-duty operations and reduced vibration, whilst 1/4" options suit lighter trim work and offer more compact tool dimensions. Some models include both collet sizes for ultimate versatility.

Battery Platform Compatibility: If you've already invested in a cordless platform from DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, or Bosch, choosing a router within that ecosystem makes economic sense, maximising battery and charger utilisation across your tool collection. Consider whether the router is supplied as a bare unit or complete kit with batteries and charger.

Power and Speed Range: Variable speed control (typically 16,000-30,000 RPM) allows optimal performance across different materials and bit sizes. Brushless motors deliver superior power efficiency and runtime compared to brushed alternatives. Check the manufacturer's specifications for maximum cutting depths and material capacity.

Depth Adjustment and Control: Precise depth setting mechanisms are crucial for consistent results. Look for tools featuring fine adjustment wheels, depth stops with clear markings, and plunge mechanisms that operate smoothly under load. Electronic depth displays on premium models eliminate guesswork entirely.

Ergonomics and Handling: Consider the tool's weight, grip positioning, and balance, particularly for extended use. Soft-grip handles, LED work lights, and transparent base plates enhance control and visibility. Plunge routers should feature comfortable handles positioned for natural hand placement during operation.

Professional vs DIY Features: Premium models from Einhell Professional, Milwaukee Fuel, and DeWalt XR ranges offer enhanced build quality, longer warranties, and features like electronic speed maintenance under load. DIY-focused options provide excellent value for occasional use whilst maintaining safety and performance standards.

Popular Accessories

• Router Bit Sets: Comprehensive collections of HSS or tungsten carbide-tipped bits for profiling, rebating, grooving, and trimming operations. Essential for maximising your router's versatility across different applications.
• Guide Bushes: Precision metal collars that fit to the router base, allowing accurate template following for repetitive cuts and intricate shapes. Available in metric and imperial sizes to suit different applications.
• Edge Guides: Adjustable parallel guides that reference against the workpiece edge, ensuring straight cuts at consistent distances. Invaluable for groove cutting and rebating operations.
• Router Tables: Convert your handheld router into a static routing station, improving control and safety for smaller workpieces. Look for tables with integral dust extraction and adjustable fences.
• Dust Extraction Adaptors: Connect your router to a vacuum system for cleaner, healthier working conditions. Essential for prolonged indoor operations and compliance with HSE workplace dust regulations.
• Additional Battery Packs: High-capacity 5.0Ah or 6.0Ah batteries extend runtime for demanding operations, minimising downtime on site. Consider keeping spare batteries on charge rotation for continuous productivity.
• Router Mats and Templates: Non-slip work surfaces and pre-made templates for common joinery tasks like hinge recesses and letterbox openings, improving accuracy and reducing setup time.

Safety Information

Router operation involves rotating cutters at high speeds and requires appropriate safety precautions:

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses or a full face shield to protect against flying chips and dust. Hearing protection is essential as routers generate significant noise levels, particularly at higher speeds. Dust masks or respirators rated FFP2 or higher protect against fine wood dust, which poses long-term respiratory health risks and is regulated under COSHH requirements.

Workpiece Security: Ensure workpieces are firmly secured with clamps or a vice before routing. Never attempt to rout freehand or hold small pieces by hand. The router's torque can cause workpieces to spin or kick unexpectedly, particularly during deep cuts or when using large-diameter bits.

Bit Installation: Always remove the battery before changing bits or making adjustments. Ensure bits are inserted to the full depth of the collet and tightened securely with the appropriate spanners. Never exceed the maximum RPM rating marked on router bits.

Feed Direction: Route in the correct direction (typically left to right when viewing the work from above) to maintain control and prevent grab. Climbing cuts (feeding in the same direction as bit rotation) should only be attempted by experienced users in specific circumstances.

Dust Management: Wood dust is a fire hazard and health risk. Use dust extraction wherever possible and maintain good workshop ventilation. Clean accumulated dust regularly from the tool's motor housing and ventilation slots to prevent overheating.

Battery Safety: Use only manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers. Store batteries in cool, dry conditions away from metal objects that could cause short circuits. Discontinue use if batteries become damaged, swollen, or excessively hot during operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 18v cordless routers match the power of corded models?

Modern brushless 18v routers deliver impressive performance that satisfies most routing applications, particularly when paired with high-capacity batteries. Whilst corded routers may offer slight advantages for extremely demanding production work or continuous heavy-duty use, cordless models excel in portability and convenience, making them the practical choice for site work and general joinery. The performance gap continues to narrow with each generation of battery and motor technology.

Will this router work with my existing batteries?

18v routers are designed to work within specific manufacturer battery platforms - DeWalt XR, Makita LXT, Milwaukee M18, or Bosch Professional 18V systems. If you already own tools from these ranges, the router will share the same batteries and chargers, providing excellent value. Check the battery platform compatibility before purchasing, as batteries are not interchangeable between different manufacturers despite sharing similar voltages.

What's the difference between a trim router and a plunge router?

Trim routers are compact, lightweight tools with fixed bases, designed for one-handed operation during edge work, laminate trimming, and lighter profiling tasks. They typically feature 1/4" collets and excel at portability and control for detail work. Plunge routers allow the bit to be lowered into the workpiece at any point, making them essential for creating grooves, housing joints, and interior cuts. Many manufacturers offer combination kits that include both base types, providing maximum versatility from a single motor unit.

How long will the battery last during routing operations?

Runtime depends on several factors including battery capacity (measured in Ah), material hardness, cutting depth, and bit size. As a general guide, a 5.0Ah battery typically provides 20-40 minutes of continuous routing in softwood, with longer runtime for intermittent use. Dense hardwoods and deep cuts will reduce runtime. Investing in high-capacity batteries (5.0Ah or above) and keeping spares charged ensures uninterrupted productivity on site.

Do I need both 1/4" and 1/2" collet sizes?

The choice depends on your typical applications and existing router bit collection. 1/4" collets suit lighter trim work, laminate operations, and smaller profile cutters, whilst 1/2" collets provide better grip and reduced vibration for larger bits and heavy-duty operations. Many professionals opt for 1/2" routers with reducing collets for 1/4" bits, providing maximum versatility. Some trim routers only accommodate 1/4" bits due to their compact motor design, which is perfectly adequate for their intended applications.