I love to make things. That is why it is down on the list. The SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift features a durable phenolic router table resting on 4 threaded steel posts. I have a sawstop cabinet saw with wood side tables. The Incra Mast-R-Lift-II (made by Jessem) is different (besides color) only in that it has steel throat plates that are held in place by strong magnets, and do not require tools to remove/replace. Its durable, accurate, and smooth. NEW AND IMPROVED: The Bosch RA1165 Under-Table Router Base is the new base for the 1617 1618 series routers, replacing the RA1164. Find materials, components, equipment, MRO supplies and more. Thus, a router lift offers you versatile ways of using your router. We also source locally made router table components (like our router . Easy to assemble and use. Not all router lifts are compatible with every router type. Thus, it saves you time and makes it easier to use your router. Thus, professional artisans looking for cutting-edge route-lifters would have a hard time using this lift. JessEm Rout-R-Lift has a dedicated lock mechanism that prevents the rotation of the axle. In fact, it is a very limited incompatibility. All rights reserved. The ProLift is constructed specifically to fit Bench Dog router tables. *Prices listed in this article were as shown on amazon.com (USA) as of December 2022. You should look for a router lift made from cast iron or quality aluminum. Company. It features a spring-assisted wrench that allows for fast height changes. For other router modes like the Porter Cable 7518, users need to reduce the collar to adjust the diameter so the router can fit perfectly. Plunge-base routers have spring-loaded supports that allow the user to lower a spinning bit into the field of a workpiece. We like the crank handle better, but the thumbscrew allows you to make extremely precise height adjustments. 10+ million models from leading OEMs, compatible with all major CAD software systems. One thing to keep in mind is that a rockler table will only fit a router lift sold by rockler, I don't recall the size offhand but the kreg is a more "standard" size that fit the incra, jessem or woodpecker lifts. Which wood router should one choose when on a budget? Users are also required to check and clean the affected area and parts of the router lifts before every use. You would think that the price tag is because the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift will be compatible with almost all sizes, brands, and types, but that is not the case. You would make all adjustments to the height the same way. The right router lift also comes with a solid mount where you can bolt in your router plates. JessEm Mast-R-Lift: 2432-inch router table top with an integrated router lift. Whats more? BuildEazy is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. In general, fixed-base router motors will separate from their base, allowing them to chock into a router lift. Highly-rated for durability and versatility, this router lift might pose a learning curve for some more familiar with an entry-level router lift; reviews recommend looking up Youtube tutorial videos if youre more of a beginner or accustomed to a simpler model. Scroll down to read more about our top picks for the best router lift for router tables. Router Table Compatibility: Fits all INCRA Router Tables and some other brands that use a 9-1/4" x 11-3/4" x 3/8" plate size with a 0.750" corner radius. Several customers advise that it is cheaper to purchase a kit consisting of a precision router and fixed routers rather than pay a premium charge for the individual pieces. Best Basic Table: Skil RAS900 Router Table; 8. Mechanical Router Lift OFL2.0K in KREG format If you are fresh into using a router table and want to get your way around the equipment before you bore like a pro,you should consider getting this piece. Please verify which router you plan to use before purchasing one of these lifts. Another factor you should verify before you buy a router lift is its compatibility with your router. A router lift will save you lots of valuable time and enhance the speed and accuracy of your router. Well tell you the pros and cons and give you our opinion on which one is the best. Without the router lift, you need to change the bit by accessing the tool from under the table. At that point, a screw-type adjustment rod lifts the router up and down, bringing the bit above and below the work surface. In general, more bearings provide a smoother movement, so a double ball bearing mechanism is an improvement over the standard. Commonly, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock features adaptive collars. Before getting a router lift, you must be sure the plunge will fit into the lift. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing. The router lift is great to have. It also features above-table height adjustments and an adjustment lock for convenience and accuracy. This router lift is an economical alternative versus compatible routers that commonly cost US$200 or more, wrote one customer. This unit features a 9-inch by 11-inch aluminum surfacea direct fit for most router tables and other attachments. Fits all Kreg router tables and many competitive brands. base using a unique adjustable clamping block and system with a standard top plate. I just need a decent lift/router when I need to round over or chamfer something. Look out for router lifts that work with a bolting system or lever locking system. Since router lifts, router tables, and router bits are so entwined, it is important for customers to understand the unique specifications they need for their specific projects. They can be used for the sanding, shaping, and detailing of different wood. 5 images maximum / 31.25MB per image / jpeg, pjpeg, png, gif. Great for making small adjustments in height. These devices keep pressure and friction on the adjustment screw to a minimum, allowing the user to slowly raise or lower it to the ideal height. This allows users to make quick bit changes, adapt the collars to smaller bits, and hold the collars in place securely. At the same time, the fixed router offers more precision as it has a router base.Thus, if you are looking for a router with more versatile functions, you should go for the plunge type. The plates need to fit the openings in the top of these tables. Whichever router lift you choose, ensure that it has a locking function to avoid frustration from a bit lowering from vibrations, causing inconsistent results from one end of a workpiece to the other. Not sure it adds much on top of the Kreg. This model works best for professionals or casual users looking for a high-end router lift. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. Due to the nice lifting housing installed in this product, it can accept different types of medium to small-sized routers such as Porter-cable, bosch, Dewalt, etc. The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials. Bearing-guided carriage provides smooth operation. Router bits are just like saw blades, and wood chips and dust can stop them from functioning correctly. This responsibility falls greatly on the low-friction ball bearing system. The aluminum construction is lightweight yet durable, and the single piece motor carriage improves stability. Quote Tom King Mentors 7k LocationLake Gaston, NC Posted February 6, 2018 Fixed-base routers are another option, but replacing fixed routers isnt very straightforward. California Do Not Track Notice. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a fantastic router lift. One thing we like about the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is that of is an exclusive product that comes with different but handy features. Its not bulky and wouldnt take up all the space on an average routing table. The lift is usually locked by a lever or sometimes a bolt that fastens to the table to keep it in place until you release the mechanism. If you want to upgrade to a different top later, you don't want to buy new plates or, gasp, new lift. Siphonic Jet vs Gravity-Fed Toilet: Which One Should You Choose? It has all the features a professional router lift has for optimal function. The most important thing to consider before choosing your router lift is if it will fit your router and your router table. Both very good and built very well. Tips on How to Maintain your Router Lift. But in most cases, the motor is permanently attached. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch by 11-3/4-Inch at Amazon.com. If the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is that expensive, wouldnt you like to comfortably fix it on your router table? Its spindle boasts double-sealed bearing construction and gives the Rout-R-Lift II router lift smooth height adjustments for use with a 3.5-inch router motor, and the router insert plate has lift adapters to provide a sturdy and durable mount. The Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is also a great buy, although it costs more than the table itself. You can easily adjust the height of your bits even when there is a material on the plates, Cam lock mechanism that holds the lift in place, Features an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Auto-leveling system for enhanced precision, It comes with a set of twist lock insert rings for better control and accuracy, Features a 3-stop auto-leveling system for better height adjustment, Improved accuracy and precision using the thumbwheel system, Best for professionals who are looking to seamlessly adjust the height of their bits without any other additional tools, Compact design that fits into an averagely sized router table, An improved version of the PRS5000 with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Designed for professionals looking to work long hours on their routing table, Not the perfect fit for big-sized router bits, The Mast-R-Lift II has five double sealed bearings. However, be careful when purchasing and make sure your router can fit perfectly before you place any orders. In this informative review, you will learn all you need to know about these products to help you make the right decision when you invest in a router lift. Ben PS this is my current setup. Is it possible to remove the router from the base? Below is a collection of some of the best router lifts on the market. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Some customers complained that installing this piece into their bearing-guided carriage was difficult because it was too big for their router table. . The installation on both sides of the table isn't ideal if I want a wide table. The system works using a one-way lock/unlock mechanism placed on a handy spot on the router lift, Compact and smooth-styled design for all kinds of workshop, Superior lock/unlock system placed on a reachable spot, Works mostly like a piece of mechanical equipment with lesser precision, 9-1/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch x 3/8-Inch plate size is compatible with all INCRA Router Tables, Exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system, Exclusive ball bearing mechanism for super-smooth action, Provides high accuracy when on both the horizontal and vertical axis, Ultra-responsive, direct-drive 16TPI lift screw mechanism, 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8 plate size is compatible with all full-size Rockler router tables, The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift weighs just 14.2Ibs, making it easier to mount on your router table and also portable, The router-lift comes with a five sealed ball bearing system that makes it easy for users to adjust the height for greater precision and handling, A self auto-protect feature that ensures durability, Accurate thread tensioning system for better height adjustments, Eliminates friction and vibrations on the router table using the five reducing rings made from steel to flush the lift on the router table and fit perfectly with your router, Eliminates wobble or shaky table using the cam lock system; once you turn the cam lock to the right, the router lift locks the table instinctively, Comfortable height adjustments on the table using the seal ball bearing system, Not an entry-level router-lift for first-timer users, Compatibility: Porter-Cable 690/890 series, Bosch 1617-16-18, DeWalt 610, 616, 618, Dimensions: 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8, The high plate does an excellent job of supporting the router lift, Not recommended for people who are looking for a long term investment in router lifts, 38 x 9 14 x 11 34 (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) Hard-anodized aluminum plate wont Sag, resists scratches, Above-table collet access allows fast, easy, above-table bit changes, Accepts 20+ popular routers without requiring pads or adapters, Made from high-quality aluminum plates for optimum durability, Spring-assisted lift system for easy and comfortable heights adjustments. What is the mechanism behind the router lift? However, the base model doesn't include any featherboards or even a router switch. The router lift is a very handy and practical way to boost the ease of use and versatility of your router table. Some models can be a bit more difficult to crank, but its usually accurate and smooth. Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best router lifts 2023. PRL V2 (PRECISION ROUTER LIFT) This new router lift features the proven robust construction of the Precision Router Lift combined with the near instant elevation changes of the Quick Lift. Best Budget Router Lift - JessEm Rout-R-Lift II. Identically, there are various other models that are tested by the professionals and . Easiness of Use When setting up your cam lock, we recommended following instructions directly for where to position your clamps; customers were able to interchange their piece with different routers, like the Bosch 1617, as long as they paid attention to how they installed it. ROUTER TABLE Inventors of the Router Lift in 1999, JessEm Tools offers a variety of router tools and accessories from lifts, plates, fences, table tops and stands. Twisting clockwise will lift the router, while twisting counterclockwise will lower it. In some cases, the user can remove the motor from the plunge base. Having a locking mechanism on your left is the best way to ensure accuracy while youre working. The ball bearing mechanism allows for smooth movement as the lift up and down. Quick and easy set up with straightforward instructions, Can work with plenty of router table options, You will have to count the turns of the height-adjustable handle if you wish to come back to the previous bit position after locking in the bit in a new position, Difficult to center the router on your table if you have bushings on it, Router reducer collars (included): 3 1/4 & 3 1/2, Not compatible with quality routers like the Bosch router. The lift replaces the standard insert plate (9-14" x 11-34" x 38") in all Kreg router tables plus many popular brands. Includes Mast-R-Lift II, 3 x Insert Rings - 35mm (1-3/8), 50mm (2) and 63.5mm (2-1/2), 1 x Insert Wrench, 1 x Crank Handle, 10 x Stainless steel set screws with Blue Nyloc Patch, 4 x Mounting Screws. I'd need a shim for my Bosch router and a set of the aluminum inserts which don't have a price yet. This model is the R model and not the regular version; therefore, if you dont own a Rockler table, it may be hard to fit it into any other table. Threaded spindle runs on a double-sealed ball-bearing. It is Incras collar system that makes it truly interesting. Bosch RA1165. The router lift then raises and lowers the router bit using a crankshaft or thumbscrew. When we talk about the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift, we focus mainly on the features which make it stand out from other router lifts, and that is quality. Also, most kits come with interchangeable rings or collars for router bits. If it comes out, youre in business. The great benefit of a router lift is its ability to adjust the height to the router motor and the router bit to the ideal height for the project. It also allows you to change your router bits from above the table, which is impossible without them. Keep reading to learn about features to consider when looking for a router lift, and check out some of the best options on the market. With the various craft manufacturers trying to outdo themselves, we expect new router lifts with enhanced features and new technologies to hit the market soon. What To Look For In Router Lifts WWW17 WOOD magazine WOOD magazine 87K. Stay up to date on industry news and trends, product announcements and the latest innovations. To help you make the right choice when you get a router lift, here are some frequently asked questions about router lifts: A router lift comes with a mounting plate and a carriage system that mainly use the ball bearing mechanism. And while there are a half dozen routers in the running the top brand and performance make Makita a professionals choice. If your router allows you to separate the motor from the base, you can attach the motor to a router lift. The detachable crank handles on the router fit into the plate. If you are into craft equipment from JessEm, you should check out the Mast-R-Lift. All professional woodworkers and enthusiast need stability during their time on the project. These mounts are pre-drilled to save you the stress of drilling on your own. The carriage comes with either a crank handle or a thumbwheel that you can use to adjust the height of the router. Its a very inconvenient and inaccurate way to set up your router. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a perfect choice for users who value quality and precision. Most users even prefer this product because this product fits a variety of tables. Mind you, there are two sizes of this lift and the one . Jessem master lift II and Router Lift II. This improvement eliminates the need for a crank handle to make precise router bit height adjustments. If you use routers that are 3-hp or higher, you are sure to have a saggy result over time if you dont use any cross-bracing or support. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. Compatibility: routers with 9-1/4-in. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Dont assume the router lift plate will accurately fit your router tables opening. The Rockler Router Lift FX At $250, . Made by Kreg Tools,the Kreg PRS5000 with precision router lift, and cam lock height adjustment is an anodized aluminum, ball-bearing router lift that makes router setup easy thanks to the above table bit changer. Just to be sure, check it beforehand. With this product, precision would be your friend. Copyright 2023 Thomas Publishing Company. This tool features easy installation and it works with large diameter routers. Universal routers achieve a flexible fitment by offering adapters and collars designed to fit a range of motors. I use a Tridon router on a Kreg plate so no expensive extra lift. DeWalt 610/618/616 (3.5" Motor Dia.) The Rockler is more expensive and you got to buy more stuff besides what it comes with. House Grail is reader-supported. These components are known to come with predrilled holes so that users dont have to stress themselves. We feel that the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is the best router lift for most people. You need to get yourself a router lift! Router Lift OFL 2.0K . Some models come with accessories to help level the lift in the table, and they may also come with accessories called lift adapters that allow you to use the lift with different-sized routers. But too light, and it will only be able to be used for light-duty routers. With a bit of familiarization with router lifts and how to choose the best one, shopping for the best router lift becomes a bit more straightforward. For a router to work with a router lift, it must be able to separate from the base. Pivoting Router Lift OFL3.0K in KREG format - pivot-5- to 50- for router motors with neck holder 43 mm exact height fine adjustment & magnetic reduction plates. By holding the router motor upside down, the router lift allows the router bits to stick out of the workbench. This kit includes the Rockler Pro router lift, an aluminum router insert plate, and a ring with a set of hex keys on a keychain. The Kreg precision router lift is different for professionals who arent ready to sacrifice height adjustments and accuracy on the altar of price. Now JessEm have upped their game and taken it to a new level with the JESSEM Mast-R-Lift Excel II Router Table Top With Integral Router . Another issue we had with this model is that you cant zero in the height gauge, so the markings give you an idea of how far youve moved, but you will need to do the math. This material is specially designed and engineered with high-resistant elements to ensure it doesnt wear off with rigorous usage. The top-precision milled plate measures 9 x 11 inches, and, with the double-sealed ball bearing systems, it provides smooth rotation for its entire lifespan. If you acquire an Incra router table and a router that can fit into the lift, getting this product is recommended, but it is a terrible choice for some people, especially if they are on a budget. Best Professional Router Lift - Incra Mast-R-Lift II. Thomas Regional are part of Thomasnet.com. USE WITH PC 690/890, BOSCH 1617/1618, DEWALT 610/618/616, CRAFTSMAN 1754/17540/28190, Quality router lifts with affordable pricing, A reasonable number of pre-drilled holes on the insert-plate that works with the specified routers, A functional locking mechanism that holds the router in place for long hours of constant work. With jig bases and templates, the PORTER-CABLE 4216 router lift is a multi-compatible router model with a wood capacity of -inch to 1 -inch. There truly is a sweet spot. Since that time other manufacturers such as Kreg and Incra have joined the market with top quality router lifts. Additional parts like rings and side brackets will surely back you a few dollars. Thus, you can seamlessly make changes to your bit height and use the settings repeatedly for different cuts. However, if you are looking for something more specific, the PORTER-CABLE 4216 12-inch dovetail combo kit (US$291.58, Amazon) gives you a larger wood capacity range. It is also essential to clean your bits too. We also found no list of compatible routers anywhere, including their website, so choosing it for your table is a bit risky. Some accessories are hard to find afterward so make sure you have what you need before you make a purchase. To ensure you get a clean-cut, consider rooting the end of the grains of the wood project you are working on before their edges. $419.99 USD. Due to a router lifts design, the lifts work surface supports all of the weight. The more lift adapters you have, the easier it will be to find a router that will work with your router lift. Rout-R-Lift Prestige for Plunge Based Routers - Imperial and Metric Options. The sealed bearing protects the lift against dust/work debris, increasing the machines lifespan. Key features: Variable speed: 8,000 to 24,000 RPM These lifts can be the way to go if you tend to use different routers, arent sure which size you own, or plan to upgrade and would like a bit of flexibility. Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE 690/890, Bosch 1617/1618, DeWALT 610/618/616, and Craftsmans 1754/17540/28190 models. When it comes to long-term durability, material is a significant factor. You can make height adjustments four times faster with tools or screws, and the anti-backlash locking system ensures that the router will stay put. Since 2003. Any recommendations are appreciated. Many of the best router lifts feature multipoint locking systems to keep the motor right where it needs to be. 28 Results Filter By Corner Routing Guide Set $39.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/4" Shank $16.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/2" Shank $24.99 New Still, it doesnt work with popular router tables such as Kreg-brand unless users purchase a conversion kit which would cost more, coupled with the fact that the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is pricey. The PRS5000 is an upgrade of the PRS3000, with Kreg paying more attention to accuracy and precision. Another way a router lift might adjust the height is with a thumbscrew. This model is for 3.5-inch diameter motors, but you have five style choices depending on what size router you want to use. However, this quality comes with a cost as the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is quite expensive, one of the most expensive on this list. With the new PRS5000, you no longer have to reach under your router table to change your bits or make height adjustments. To know if the router lift will fit into your table, you need to know the plate size and there are two widely used plate sizes, the 8 x 11-inch, and the 9 x 11-inch. Some high-end models will also include micro-adjustments made by turning the adjustment knob in small increments for dialing in very specific settings. Anyone looking to get more from their 3-inch router without breaking the bank may want to check out JessEm's Rout-R-Lift II. You can seamlessly alter the height of your bits with better precision. Bosch RA1165 Router Lift - Best Budget Router Lift 4. The in-built locking system, this model comes with an in-built locking system that works above the router table. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II Router Lift is an entry-level router-lift designed for routerslooking to own a lift without breaking the bank. Before you start shopping for a router lift, there are a few important features to consider. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to drop in place. Another great choice is the JessEm 02310 Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift, which is our pick for the best value. Enable registration in settings - general. It uses a ball-bearing-guided carriage that provides a smooth process when adjusting the height. Made by Kreg Tools, the Kreg PRS5000 with precision router lift, and cam lock height adjustment is an anodized aluminum, ball-bearing router lift that makes router setup easy thanks to the above table bit changer. A router lift holds a router upside down so that the router can stay in place while the user manipulates the workpiece across the bit. Unique clamping system fits most fixed-base router . Its perfect for those still experimenting with a router and not looking to make a long-term commitment. Handheld routing is not nearly as accurate as table-mounted routing, but its difficult to adjust the cutting bits height or change it without climbing under the table. What is a router lift without a height adjustment system? The top plate of this router lift is made of hard-anodized aluminum. You can go for options like the handheld router for this purpose. Weve also included a buyers guide where we look at the router lift to see what it does and how it works to learn whats important to look for while shopping. With router bit depth adjustment, theres no need for constant height adjustments. You can also change the router bit from above the table using the lift to extend it out. The KREG PRS5000 works perfectly, and the only negative thing we can think to say about it is that it doesnt fit all routers. The Rout-R-Lift II comes in 5 different styles depending on the router and router diameter you plan to use. Users can use the various jigs, templates, and router bits to connect them with many different models. When it comes to achieving silky-smooth height adjustments, finding a router lift with a ball-bearing adjustment mechanism is the route to go rather than a basic screw-type spindle. The noise-canceling MDF table ensures you wont disturb neighbors as you complete your projects. You can use your old router tables, but you have to consider two things: Professionals also advise that users add a cross bracing under the router table if they want to use a router lift. This allows universal kits to fit motors from just over 4 inches in diameter to some as small as 3 inches. Models without the lock can slip from the vibrations created by the router causing the routing to be inaccurate. Without this component, your height adjustment system and elevation measurements will be problematic. The downside to the JessEm 02310 is that to install it in some tables, you need a specific plastic lift that only JessEm sells at a very high price. The best router lifts for professionals are from steel. The lift is compatible with most router tables and has a fantastic lifespan., The only drawback of this model is the absence of a dial indicator for height adjustments and zeroing. Not all router lifts are created equal, and not all router tables can accommodate them. It has a 16 tooth per inch (TPI) lift screw mechanism for even more control over the table height. JessEm made a ground-breaking statement with this product. I am currently using a Bosch 1617EVS in the Bosch fixed base mounted on a cheap Router Table plate in my workstation (not the best, but kinda nice Bosch gives you a base that can be .