Cordless Routers

About Cordless Routers

Cordless routers combine the precision of traditional mains-powered tools with the freedom of battery operation, making them essential for modern woodworking and joinery. These versatile power tools excel at edge profiling, rebating, grooving, and trimming across timber, MDF, plywood, and composite boards. Whether you're fitting kitchen worktops, installing door furniture, or creating decorative edges, cordless routers deliver professional results without trailing cables or dependence on power outlets.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks cordless routers in several configurations to suit different applications. Compact trim routers with 1/4" collets are ideal for lighter edging work and laminate trimming, whilst plunge routers with 1/4" or 1/2" collets handle heavier-duty tasks like mortising and template work. Modern brushless motor technology delivers impressive runtime and performance that rivals corded alternatives, with models available across 18v platforms from leading brands including Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, and Einhell Professional, plus Makita's powerful 40v XGT range for demanding professional applications.

Applications

Cordless routers serve a wide range of trades and applications:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Kitchen fitting, door hanging, window installations, and bespoke joinery work on-site
• Cabinet Makers: Creating decorative edges, rebates, and grooves in furniture construction
• Shop Fitters: Installing retail displays, countertops, and commercial joinery requiring portability
• Worktop Installers: Precision cutting for hobs, sinks, and edge profiling of laminate and solid surfaces
• Property Maintenance: Repairs and improvements across multiple locations without reliable mains power
• Staircase Installers: Template routing and precise fitting work in awkward positions
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvements including kitchen installations and built-in furniture projects

Choosing The Right Cordless Routers

Collet Size: For lighter trimming and edge profiling, a 1/4" trim router offers excellent control. For demanding applications including mortising and deeper grooves, choose a 1/2" plunge router. Some versatile models offer interchangeable bases for maximum flexibility.

Battery Platform: Most cordless routers operate on 18v systems, with Makita offering 40v XGT options for professional applications. Choosing a router compatible with your existing battery ecosystem provides excellent value, whilst higher capacity batteries (4.0Ah-6.0Ah) deliver extended runtime.

Motor Technology: Brushless motors provide superior efficiency, increased power, and longer tool life. Featured across DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Einhell Professional ranges, they offer better long-term value for regular users.

Speed Control: Variable speed adjustment (typically 10,000-30,000 RPM) allows optimisation for different materials and bit sizes, essential for clean cuts without burning.

Budget: MyToolShed.co.uk offers options from entry-level Sealey and Einhell Professional models for occasional users, through mid-range Bosch and DeWalt options, to premium Milwaukee Fuel and Makita XGT tools for daily professional use.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect against flying debris, and hearing protection due to significant noise levels. Dust extraction should be employed wherever practical, as routing generates substantial fine dust subject to HSE workplace exposure limits under COSHH regulations. When extraction isn't feasible, wear appropriate respiratory protection.

Ensure workpieces are securely clamped before routing—never hold small items by hand. Allow the router to reach full speed before engaging the workpiece, and move anti-clockwise around external edges to prevent dangerous climb-cutting. Always disconnect the battery before changing bits or making adjustments, and inspect router bits regularly for damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cordless routers match the performance of 240v corded models?

Modern 18v cordless routers with brushless motors deliver comparable performance to many corded equivalents for most applications. Whilst extremely demanding production work might favour mains-powered tools, cordless models excel for site work and typical joinery tasks. Premium options like Makita's 40v XGT range offer exceptional power without compromising portability.

How long do batteries last when routing?

Runtime varies based on material hardness, bit size, and depth of cut. Generally, a 5.0Ah battery provides 20-40 minutes of active routing time. Professional users typically maintain at least two batteries per tool to ensure uninterrupted workflow, with lighter trimming consuming less power than deep plunge cuts in hardwood.

Do I need both 1/4" and 1/2" collet sizes?

This depends on your applications. For general edge profiling and lighter joinery, a 1/4" trim router covers most requirements. However, heavier routing tasks and larger profile bits benefit from a 1/2" plunge router. Some models accept both collet sizes via adaptors, offering maximum versatility for varied work.