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Router upgrade, considerations.

TonyFlyingSquirrel

Master Member
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Considering one of these as it has the plunge and dust collection, and I’ve always had good fortune with Dewalt tools.
DEWALT Router Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, Variable Speed, 12-Amp, 2-1/4-HP (DW618PK) https://a.co/d/0aE4cHkP

My only beef is that it doesn’t have the led light underneath, and a search found that if I want the led, I’d have give up dust collection, which is non negotiable. I suppose I could creat a light kit for the acrylic base if needed.

Are there others out there in this price range or slightly more that are:
Chorded
Led lit
Dust collection
All in one unit?
 
Check out Bosch...
I did, but no dust collection AND Led Light.
Brick and mortars nearby have limited variety.

So far, searching online yields the Dewalt as the winner. Would still like to source one that has both though.
Since I do this in my shop, don’t need battery operated either, corded is fine with me, and preferred.
 
Gemini sez: If you want a corded router that features built-in LED lights and includes the dust collection adapters right out of the box, here are two excellent options:

The Mastercraft 9.5A Single Speed 1-3/4 HP Corded Fixed Base Router with Built-in LED Light is a great standard option for edge profiling and grooving. It features three bright LED lights to banish shadows from your workpiece and comes with a clear chip guard and a vacuum adapter to keep your work area tidy.



Mastercraft 9.5A Single Speed 1-3/4 HP Corded Fixed Base Router with Built-in LED Light
Mastercraft 9.5A Single Speed 1-3/4 HP Corded Fixed Base Router with Built-in LED Light
CA$152.29
MasterCraft
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If you need more power and versatility, the Mastercraft 11A 2-HP Corded Combination Plunge & Fixed Base Router with Case steps up to a 2-HP motor and includes both fixed and plunge bases. It also features bright LED lights and includes the necessary dust extraction adapters for a clean workspace.



Mastercraft 11A 2-HP Corded Combination Plunge & Fixed Base Router with Case
Mastercraft 11A 2-HP Corded Combination Plunge & Fixed Base Router with Case
CA$209.99
MasterCraft
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Recommendation: If you are just doing basic edge work, the 9.5A Mastercraft is a perfect, budget-friendly choice. If you plan on doing interior cuts, mortising, or deeper grooves, spend a little extra on the 11A Combination Router for the plunge base functionality.

f you are shopping the US market for corded routers with built-in LED lights and vacuum compatibility, here are two of the most popular options:

The DEWALT DWP611 1-1/4 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router is a massive staple in US home improvement stores. It features dual LED lights for maximum visibility and a clear sub-base so you can easily see your bit. It is fully compatible with DeWalt's dust collection adapters (like the DNP615) to hook directly into your shop vacuum.



DEWALT DWP611 1-1/4 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact RouterDEWALT DWP611 1-1/4 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact RouterDEWALT DWP611 1-1/4 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router
DEWALT DWP611 1-1/4 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router
CA$239.00
DEWALT
4.7 (1k+)
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The Ridgid Compact Router is another highly rated US market option. It includes a built-in LED light to illuminate your work area and features a micro-adjust dial for very precise depth control. Like the DeWalt, it is designed to pair with standard vacuum attachments for active dust extraction while you work.






Ridgid Compact RouterRidgid Compact RouterRidgid Compact Router
Ridgid Compact Router
CA$178.00
RIDGID
4.3 (861)
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If you like, I can look up the specific vacuum hose adapters needed for either of these US models to ensure they will fit your current shop vacuum setup. Do you want me to do that?
 
The biggest Canadian Tire in Ontario is just up the road from me. I can go in and take photos, hold the thing, and send you my impressions.
Appreciate that, I’m gonna troll YouTube videos through the weekend first, then I’ll have a reasonable look before deeper dives. Thanks so much for offering!
 
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