Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs Dewalt DW618PK: Which One Do You Opt For?

Last Updated on June 13, 2023 by Georgie Smith

Think of your router as a deluxe TV remote. It comes with numerous buttons and functions that allow you to access features in your TV that you never thought exist. The woodworking router performs in this way. It is a versatile tool that will enable you to accomplish various woodworks.

In the past, the most equipped woodworking shops had numerous wooden planes that were excellent for cutting different joints and moldings. While these tools did a great job, a high-speed milling machine called a router replaced them. However, which is the best between Bosch 1617EVSPK vs. Dewalt DW618PK?

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It comes with interchangeable bits and is excellent for cutting a wide range of profiles. It also comes with curved edges and some internal cuts at a fraction of the time it would take in the past.

There are two types of routers available to users: the fixed base and the plunge router. The fixed base has edge molding, rabbets and dadoes and a plunging version that allows you to make better internal cuts.

However, the plunge router is excellent for people who need a little bit more functionality. Most woodworkers want to have both. The fixed base model because it handles stationary jobs correctly when mounted upside down and the plunge because is it good with handheld jobs.

The problem is, you can’t just buy two tools that are similar. Mode brands will offer you a router combo kit that has a single motor and both fixed and plunge bases.

So, you have heard about Bosch and Dewalt’s reputations in making the best routers. However, if you feel confused about which one will genuinely give you value for your money, stick around. This article provides a detailed review of the two and tells you which one is best for your needs and why.

Comparison: Bosch 1617EVSPK vs. Dewalt DW618PK

Bosch 1617EVSPK	DEWALT DW618PK
– Easy and fast template guide changes the guide adapter system tool free – Tool-free clamp system conversion for easy motor movement from base to base – Provides soft start with reduced start-up torque – Variable fixed base speed and horsepower plunge – Micro-fine depth adjustment – 2 Adjustable feather boards included – 8000 to 25000 rpm variable speed, 2.25 HP 12 amp motor – Dust collection port inclusive – Aluminum fence with mounting plate aluminum router and MDF face plates – Precision-centering design – Custom switch location – Enhanced visibility with wide base opening – Ships with the original manufacturers packaging – Soft contoured grip handle for comfort and easy controls Pros: – Easy to use – Suitable for various material cuts – High-speed motor operation – Both plunge and fixed base router combination – Strong, durable material construction Cons: – Requires regular adjustments – Slightly expensive Specifications: – Weight: 19.5lbs – Voltage: 240V – Cord length: 10ft – Collet capacity: ¼” / 3/8” ½” /8mm – Handle style: Dual Knob – Speed controls: Dial – Switch type: Toggle – Speed setting: Variable – Depth adjustment system: micro-fine depth adjustment – Depth adjustment range (fixed base): 1-5/8 in. – Base type: fixed/plunge – Base opening: 3-3/4 in. – Base dimensions (plunge): 6-11/16 in. x6-11/16 in. – Base dimensions (fixed): 6 in. x6 in. Unique features: – Variable speed dial – Constant response circuitry – Multiple adjustable positions – Base-to-base motor movement	– Easy and fast template guide changes the guide adapter system tool free – Tool-free clamp system conversion for easy motor movement from base to base – Provides soft start with reduced start-up torque – Variable fixed base speed and horsepower plunge – Micro-fine depth adjustment – 2 Adjustable feather boards included – 8000 to 25000 rpm variable speed, 2.25 HP 12 amp motor – Dust collection port inclusive – Aluminum fence with mounting plate aluminum router and MDF face plates – Precision-centering design – Custom switch location – Enhanced visibility with wide base opening – Ships with the original manufacturers packaging – Soft contoured grip handle for comfort and easy controls Pros: – Easy to use – Suitable for various material cuts – High-speed motor operation – Both plunge and fixed base router combination – Strong, durable material construction Cons: – Requires regular adjustments – Slightly expensive Specifications: – Weight: 19.5lbs – Voltage: 240V – Cord length: 10ft – Collet capacity: ¼” / 3/8” ½” /8mm – Handle style: Dual Knob – Speed controls: Dial – Switch type: Toggle – Speed setting: Variable – Depth adjustment system: micro-fine depth adjustment – Depth adjustment range (fixed base): 1-5/8 in. – Base type: fixed/plunge – Base opening: 3-3/4 in. – Base dimensions (plunge): 6-11/16 in. x6-11/16 in. – Base dimensions (fixed): 6 in. x6 in. Unique features: – Variable speed dial – Constant response circuitry – Multiple adjustable positions – Base to base motor movement

Bosch 1617EVSPK

DEWALT DW618PK

– Easy and fast template guide changes the guide adapter system tool free
– Tool-free clamp system conversion for easy motor movement from base to base
– Provides soft start with reduced start-up torque
– Variable fixed base speed and horsepower plunge
– Micro-fine depth adjustment
– 2 Adjustable feather boards included
– 8000 to 25000 rpm variable speed, 2.25 HP 12 amp motor
– Dust collection port inclusive
– Aluminum fence with mounting plate aluminum router and MDF face plates
– Precision-centering design
– Custom switch location
– Enhanced visibility with wide base opening
– Ships with the original manufacturers packaging
– Soft contoured grip handle for comfort and easy controls

Pros:

– Easy to use
– Suitable for various material cuts
– High-speed motor operation
– Both plunge and fixed base router combination
– Strong, durable material construction

Cons:

– Requires regular adjustments
– Slightly expensive

Specifications:

– Weight: 19.5lbs
– Voltage: 240V
– Cord length: 10ft
– Collet capacity: ¼” / 3/8” ½” /8mm
– Handle style: Dual Knob
– Speed controls: Dial
– Switch type: Toggle
– Speed setting: Variable
– Depth adjustment system: micro-fine depth adjustment
– Depth adjustment range (fixed base): 1-5/8 in.
– Base type: fixed/plunge
– Base opening: 3-3/4 in.
– Base dimensions (plunge): 6-11/16 in. x6-11/16 in.
– Base dimensions (fixed): 6 in. x6 in.

Unique features:

– Variable speed dial
– Constant response circuitry
– Multiple adjustable positions
– Base-to-base motor movement

Bosch 1617EVSPK Reviews:

Introduce this tool in your work and start to experience professionalism in all you do in the comfort of your budget. This Bosch 1617EVSPK router has a combination of both fixed-base and plunge routers for enhanced productivity. The router runs on a high voltage and big motor to ensure convenience and precision in all your cuts.

It also features a variable speed setting to guarantee you have both the muscle and speed to handle the most difficult tasks and materials. For different material routing, you can set the rate of choice to ensure you attain accuracy even with the most challenging task.

The tool has high-grade material construction for flexibility, durability, and stability. The router has a comprehensive kit that makes it easy for you to choose the routing technique. Additionally, it has a convenient design that is carefully put together to ensure the overall equipment is durable and will provide precision.

It has an in-built constant response circuitry to regulate and maintain a constant speed throughout the cut for quality production. It also features different point base adjustments without the use of other tools. This router also operates with powerful horsepower to ensure it gets your routing job easy hence resulting in excellence in your production.

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DEWALT DW618PK Reviews

When looking for an everyday-use tool, it’s essential to ensure you take a keen interest in various specifications. With this DEWALT DW618PK, you are not only investing in a quality product, but instead, you are sure that you will experience excellence in your work.

It has unique features that make its performance exceptional regardless of the type of material you intend to cut through. This router has eight slot collet for easy tightening and loosening of bits for enhanced results. It also has an adjustment ring that enables easy control with depth changes.

Additionally, this router has a convenient design using the best material for durability and excellence with every use. It runs on a low voltage power to ensure you save on energy cost and still attain quality results in your production. With this router, you will not require to have extra tools for you to adjust the base as it allows tool-free adjustments.

The kit is packed with all the necessary assembling tools to ensure it takes less time to assemble the router right from the box.

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Which is the Winner?

Both Bosch 1617EVSPK and DEWALT 618PK are convenient for every workshop use. Each router in its design will ensure to bring glory to your production even with everyday usage. However, if you are looking for a tool that will fit your budget expectations DEWALT DW618PK is the right router for you.

Its low voltage performance guarantees you low energy consumption hence resulting in extra savings. On the other hand, the Bosch 1617EVSPK although it operates on high voltage, it takes minimum time to cut on any material. Therefore, in our own opinion, we would prefer you invest on the Bosch 1617EVSPK router to the DEWALT.

How to Choose?

Did you know that routers are highly addictive because of their functionality? Therefore, do not feel surprised, if you find yourself with more than two.

A router is one of the most quintessential tools. Regardless of the type of woodwork you do, there is a good chance that you will need a route for at least one operation. There are numerous options available, so it is difficult to make a choice.

The most critical question you need to ask yourself is: what do you need to do with your router? Here are a few features that are critical when choosing the best router for your needs.

Speed

There are different speed levels to consider from single–speed, multi-speed to variable-speed. The ability to adjust the rate depends on the type of work you will be doing, the bit diameter and the type of wood you are using.

Of course, the rate you work with will determine the quality you produce. It will also determine whether the conditions you are working on are safe.

The router specifications

There are different motor sizes available, and each configuration has its unique benefits and demerits.

Pal Routers

These are about 1HP and sometimes less. They have a compact size and impressive performance. They are perfect for hinge mortising, trimming, slot cutting, edge forming, decorative inlays, and window cutouts. It mainly used ¼ inch-shank bits. Because they only use this shank bit, they are not suitable for more massive routing operations.

Mid-Size Routers

These range from 1 ¾ HP or 2 ¼ HP. They are the mainly popular size in lineups because they are easy to use and versatile. There are a wide variety of operations that include all the things a palm router can do and all the large-scale dovetailing, template design work, panel cutting and circle cutting.

They can handle both a ½ inch and ¼ inches. They also have a couple of bases that users can choose. Note that most of the aftermarket route accessories are for this type of router.

Full-Size Routers

These are great because they are strong and are, in fact, the workhorses of the router family. They are 3HP to 3 ¼ HP and are purposely for production use. They are best for CNC operations. Because of their massive sizes, they are not ideal for everyday handheld tasks.

The Style of the Base

The base style you select is just as important as the size of the motor. There are several styles to choose from, and each depends on what you feel is right for your tasks.

Fixed Base

These are the standard types of routers on the market. The bases come with fixed handles and knobs on the opposite side of the plate. These handles help to guide the router. While they do get mounted on a router table, they can only handle edge routing operations.

These are ideal for jobs that require guide bushings such as box joint jogs and dovetails. It has a quick set right style depth adjustment.

Plunge Base

This one is a favorite of many because of its versatility. It can function like a fixed base plus other operations that need to have the bit plunged into the wood from an edge. These are perfect for fluting, mortising, blind grooves, and dado cuts.

It works better because the motor moves up and down on the machined springs that get loaded in the columns. Traditionally, it gives its users more depth stop settings with micro-adjustments and allows users to fine-tune it to the exact specifications they require.

D-Handle Base

It is almost similar to a fixed-base router. The main difference is that instead of two knobs, it has just one and a D-handle that allows users piston grip control. It also comes with a locking on/off trigger power switch.

If you need to have multiple bases, always go for brands that give you combination kits. Often, these involved both plunge and fixed bases in one prepackaged kit. It is affordable because you mostly get two for the price of one.

The Parts

Eventually, you will have to change a few pieces because of wear and tear. When making a purchase, consider how well the aftermarket accessories will fit your router. Always check to find out whether there are enough spare parts for the brand you are buying. You also need to ensure that these parts come at a reasonable price.

You also need to seriously think about the accessories that the device will come with when purchased. Most manufacturers give you router bushings, edge guides, universal subbases, dust collection attachments, router plates, and template guides.

Are These Routers Safe for Mounting Under a Table?

Yes, these routers can get safely mounted under the table. A router table doubles the usefulness of your router. It makes cutting long moldings, smoothing edges and mold projects more comfortable and safer.

The table allows your device to work upside down thus allowing a user to run the wood over the router as opposed to running the tool over the timber. There are a variety of router table sizes. Lightweight models are portable while some are meant to be stationary.

The router table works by attaching the fixed base router to the underside with bolts. Ensure that these bolts are tight to keep you and everyone in your workshop safe. There is a guard on top of the table that fits over the bits and ensures that they will not fall off and cause injuries. Beneath this guard, there is a collet that holds the bit.

Ensure that the table gets clamped before you begin working. Then, turn on the router and place the wood to be cut against the fence. Once you start feeding the timber to the router bit, keep it aligned so that it creates a grove through the length of the wood.

Fixed Base or Plunge Router for Router Table

A fixed base router works better with a router table because they are easier to set. Most people operate under the misconception that a router table and a plunge router and difficult and dangerous combinations.

It couldn’t be further from the truth. The main difficulty is that it is awkward to adjust the height of the bit above the table, unlike when using a fixed base router.

When the baseplate insert is not screwed down, you will have a difficult time unlocking the plunge lock and manually plunging the bit into the desired height since the plunge springs will push the baseplate out of the table.

The best way to do it is to turn the router’s depth adjustment knob. This process is however slow, and you need to release the plunge lock on the route before turning the knob. Also, most plunge routers do not come with such knobs although aftermarket accessories are available.

How to Use a Router to Cut Letters

Lettering or numbering can get split into materials for practical reasons like creating a sign for your home. It also gives you the freedom to add a personal touch to your Keepsake box. For these types of tasks, you will need a plunge router because it can cut more than just the edge of your wood. You will also need a clamp to hold the template as you route.

Always check your template closely and ensure that you have chosen the right cutter and a guide bush. The most convenient option for beginners is to buy a bush pack that is specifically for the template you will be using. For example, a bush pack that has an 8mm straight cutter and a 12mm template guide bush are perfect for the standard 57mm templates for both numbers and letters.

What You Need to Do Before You Start:

First mark your workpiece: The first thing you need to do before you make the cuts is to trace the characters using a pencil on your workpiece. You can also mark, with lines, where the letters will get placed.

Make sure that your numbers are at least 10mm apart, but this will vary depending on how big or how small your letters are concerning your template. You may choose to use a guide batten to make sure that letters are aligned.

Clamp Your Template: Make sure that your template gets secured with clamps. Just make sure that the braces will not interfere with the path taken by your router.
Feed the direction: Always rout in a clockwise direction around the inside or the template.
Brushing: Take regular breaks to brush the dust and ensure the guide bush has not come loose. Use a handheld blower to remove the waste material and keep the debris from misshaping the template.

For the Numbers and Letters:

Set the router: make sure you fit the guide bush to the base of the router and the cutter at the collet. Adjust the height so that they are perfect for the routing depth.
Position and start routing: place the router on the template and make sure the guide fits into the aperture as you wish to cut.
Begin routing: place your router on the template and get the gut bush to the fits you want to cut. Switch on the router and plunge it into the router bit then into the surface material. Activate the plunge lock and ensure that the guide bust spigot is always touching the inside edge of the template.
Finish character: Once you have come to the end of a character, switch the router off and wait until the bit comes to a complete stop before you start releasing the plunge locking mechanisms and removing the router from the workpiece.
Adjust the template: Always have the model butted up against the guide batten and if you are using one, release the clamps that are holding it in place then slide it along until you get to your next character following the pencil markings you have. Re-tighten the clamps and switch the router on and continue cutting.
Finish: Once the routing of characters gets done, switch the machine off and set it aside. Loosen the clamps and remove the guide batten to reveal the completed masterpiece.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a ½” bit on a router meant for ¼”?

A: If the router does not come with a 1/2” collet, you probably cannot. You also have to look at the horsepower of the router to find out the bits with which it can work. The larger the bit, the more power is needed both to spin and to cut wood.

Q: Is it possible to use a trim bit than a pattern bit or does one have to purchase both?

A: Yes, you can use a trim bit for making your patterns. The main difference between these two bits is the location of the bearing.

Q: How do I know the direction that my router is spinning?

A: when you are holding the router and looking down at the top, the bit will be spinning clockwise. If it is not, draw a black arrow at the base of the router in the direction the bit is rotating.

Conclusion

It is now convenient and fast for you to complete those jobs that were previously impossible. With a router, you can personalize all your furniture and other woodwork.

If you are a professional, you can now curve your logo as a way to market your work. Whichever router you choose to buy, remember to consider the features that are most critical to the type of job you do.

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