18v Routers

About 18v Routers

18v cordless routers deliver the freedom of battery power without compromising on performance for routing, trimming, and profiling tasks. Available in compact trim router formats, full-featured plunge routers, and versatile combination kits, these tools eliminate trailing cables whilst providing the precision and control demanded by professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. Modern brushless motor technology maximises runtime and power efficiency, making 18v routers a practical alternative to 240v corded models for the majority of routing applications.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks 18v routers from leading manufacturers including DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, and Einhell Professional, all designed to integrate seamlessly with their respective battery platforms. Whether you need a lightweight trim router for one-handed edge work or a robust plunge router capable of handling demanding joinery tasks, the range encompasses both 1/4" and 1/2" collet options with features like variable speed control, precise depth adjustment, and LED work lights for professional-grade performance in cordless operation.

Applications

• Joiners and Carpenters: Door hanging, window installation, housing joints, and general timber joinery on site
• Kitchen and Bedroom Fitters: Worktop scribing, laminate edging, hinge recesses, and cabinet profiling during installations
• Shopfitters: Display unit construction, shelving systems, and millwork during commercial fit-outs
• Furniture Makers: Edge profiling, rebating, decorative mouldings, and workshop routing tasks
• Staircase Installers: Spindle trenching, handrail profiling, and creating housing joints in stringers
• Maintenance Teams: Building repairs, modifications, and general maintenance requiring portable routing solutions
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvements including laminate flooring, shelving, kitchen renovations, and woodworking projects
• Decking Specialists: Board edge chamfering, drainage channels, and detail work on outdoor timber installations

Choosing The Right 18v Routers

Router Type: Trim routers suit edge work and laminate trimming with compact, one-handed operation, whilst plunge routers provide versatility for interior cuts and deeper operations. Combination kits with interchangeable bases offer maximum flexibility for varied applications.

Collet Size: 1/4" collets suit lighter trim work and smaller profile cutters, whilst 1/2" options provide superior grip and reduced vibration for heavy-duty operations. Consider your existing router bit collection when selecting collet capacity.

Battery Platform: If you've already invested in DeWalt XR, Makita LXT, Milwaukee M18, or Bosch Professional 18V systems, choosing a router within that ecosystem maximises battery and charger utilisation. MyToolShed.co.uk offers both bare units and complete kits to suit different requirements.

Power and Speed: Variable speed control (typically 16,000-30,000 RPM) allows optimal performance across different materials and bit sizes. Brushless motors deliver superior efficiency and runtime compared to brushed alternatives.

Depth Adjustment: Precise depth setting mechanisms with fine adjustment wheels and clear markings ensure consistent results. Premium models feature electronic depth displays for enhanced accuracy.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating routers. Use FFP2-rated dust masks to protect against fine wood dust, which poses respiratory health risks regulated under COSHH requirements. Secure workpieces firmly with clamps before routing—never attempt to hold small pieces by hand. Remove the battery before changing bits and ensure cutters are fully inserted and tightened securely. Route in the correct direction (typically left to right) to maintain control and prevent grab. Use dust extraction wherever possible and maintain good ventilation. Only use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers, storing them in cool, dry conditions away from metal objects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 18v cordless routers match 240v corded models?

Modern brushless 18v routers deliver impressive performance that satisfies most routing applications, particularly when paired with high-capacity batteries. Whilst 240v routers may offer advantages for continuous heavy-duty production work, cordless models excel in portability and convenience for site work and general joinery. The performance gap continues to narrow with advancing battery and motor technology.

Will this router work with my existing batteries?

18v routers operate within specific manufacturer battery platforms—DeWalt XR, Makita LXT, Milwaukee M18, or Bosch Professional 18V systems. If you already own tools from these ranges, batteries and chargers are fully interchangeable. Check battery platform compatibility at MyToolShed.co.uk before purchasing, as batteries are not interchangeable between different manufacturers despite similar voltages.

What's the difference between a trim router and a plunge router?

Trim routers are compact, lightweight tools with fixed bases designed for one-handed edge work and laminate trimming, typically featuring 1/4" collets. Plunge routers allow the bit to be lowered into the workpiece at any point, making them essential for grooves, housing joints, and interior cuts. Many manufacturers offer combination kits with both base types for maximum versatility.