Hey everyone! I'm diving into the world of plunge routers and I'd love your insights. I know the "best" router can mean different things to different people, but I'm specifically looking for a corded, handheld option that excels in dust collection. My workspace is really small, and I can't work outside, so keeping things tidy is super important to me. Right now, I'm considering the Festool OF 1010 since I've had a good experience with my Festool sander and extractor. It sounds fantastic for dust collection, but I'm wondering if there are more budget-friendly routers that can still deliver strong dust control. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
1 Answer
When looking for a plunge router, consider what size collets you need—1/4”, 8mm, or 1/2” to match your bits. The Festool 1400 can handle all three, while the 1010 only takes 1/4” and 8mm. For a budget option, check out brands like DeWalt, Bosch, or Makita. They offer good performance without breaking the bank.
I’d definitely recommend the OF 1400! It’s powerful and can take 1/2” bits, plus it has an awesome ratchet system. The dust collection works great as long as you use it properly. I’ve managed to do detailed work with the 1400, although it can feel a bit wobbly at times.