Hello everyone, I'm new to this website. I posted this question on Wood Central and had a member recommend this website. I must say I like the way it is layed out it so far.
I'm looking for all you guys that are more experienced in routers. I'm building a router table/cabinet for my shop basicaly to replace the Craftsman setup that I have. (1 3/4hp) The Craftsman has done a good job but I'm getting into some more things that I need more accuracy and control not to mention the bits that I would like to run are 1/2 shank. I've pretty much narrowed down the routers to 2 models.

The first one is the Dewalt DW618 2-1/4hp 12amps $154 @ online Home Depot.

The second one is the Bosch MR23 EVSK 2.3hp 15amps. $229 @ Menards

Honestly I really like Dewalt as have 2 other machines that are Dewalt, But I'm leaning towards the Bosch because I'm thinking that it will have more "guts" so to speak because of the 15amp rating.

Either one of these will do better than what I have now. Both should pretty much do everything I would want to do at this point and more with the added power.

Any thoughts as to which one of these you would go with??? Just another note, The base means nothing to me in fact I'd probably try to sell the base. I have 3 other routers with bases.

Thanks in advance!

Dale
Mid-Michigan

Dale:

I believe these are not directly comparable, for a number of reasons; though, they may be an appropriate this or that for you. I think the Bosch package includes both the Fixed-based and Plunge capabilities, and has a much stronger motor - the horsepower ratings are not the measure; as the amps are the amount of electricity drawn by the motor to perform the cut - 15 amps is as good as it gets, short of the ultra powerful Festool 2200; and yields a claimed 3.5hp on most other routers (as an aside, 15 amps is a true 2hp motor - 15 x 110 = 1,650 watts / 770 watts per horsepower = 2.14 hp - Bosch is being honest about the hp rating! Either router will serve you well - the Dewalt brand (Black & Decker owns Porter-Cable & Dewalt) are very good tools. Quality is expensive once, however ...
I hope this provides some guidance, and not too much confusion.
MikeD

Hi Dale - As Mike pointed out, I think you are comparing apples and oranges here. The Bosch has been out less than a year and despite the lower "advertised" HP is likely as strong or stronger than any out there. Also, being a newer model, out only about a year I believe. I suspect it will also offer built in lift capabilities in the base precluding the need to build or buy a lift for it.

Dale, there are a couple of differences between the two choices you mentioned. Dust collection accessories are readily available from the service center in Madison Heights. You can save a few dollars by purchasing this router from Amazon.com. It is priced $4 more there but you do not pay sales tax and shipping is free. You can view the specifics here: Amazon.com: DEWALT DW618 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable-Speed Fixed-Base Router: Home Improvement

The Bosch MRF23EVS is the fixed base only, the MRP23EVS is the plunge only option and the MRC23EVSK is the combo kit. The 23 router motor must be used in one of these bases because of the external power bus.(See the black section in the fixed base?) Yes, it has more power. It has a full 3" plunge depth, the most depth available in any router. The power cord swivels in the motor which is very useful for hand use. The always on LEDs really light up the work space. The height adjustment is linear so your switch is always in the same position. Both the fixed and plunge bases have a safety catch to prevent the motor from dropping out of the base when table mounted. The fine adjustment works after locking the height. The RA1151 centering cone(or a similar product) is needed to fine adjust the sub base plates. The RA1126 quick change adapter is not included with the router. The RA 1100 threaded guide bushing adapter also must be purchased separately. Right now Bosch is out of stock on the RA1177AT dust collection kit but more are on order. The VAC005 hose works with any standard 2-1/4" shop vac. I highly recommend you bite the bullit and purchase the combo kit if you go with the Bosch. I will PM you with the details of the best place to buy this router in MI. I am very happy with mine.

Note: The RA1177AT kit is due in stock on 02/13/12

Attached Thumbnails

Thanks for the info Mike!
The added power issue with the bosch is why I'm seriously consideing this router! I didn't know that Dewalt was owned by Black & Decker though!

Thanks!

Dale
Mid-Michigan

Thanks John for your input! Ya after reading these reply's so far I'm really looking at the Bosch now! It was appealing to me because of the added power & 15amp rating.

One thing though is I'm going to put this router in a lift so I'm not really looking for any kinda base. I'm prefer not to have any bases to be honest.

Thanks!
Dale
Mid-Michigan

Since about 1961 I think

Well I guess I didn't know that.

Black & Decker bought the Pentair Group in 2004 which included Porter Cable, Delta and DeVilbiss. Since that time they copied most of the Delta tools and had them produced under the PC name. Then they sold the Delta name to a Chinese company. The sad part is the Chinese company is building the Unisaw again in the US... Pity B&D didn't do that. Instead they destroyed the last US made tool company.

Gentlemen. A lot of wisdom in this forum!!!

Please, give me some advice about Dewalt DW621.

Thank you in advance