Best Router Lifts for Woodworkers and Carpenters
If you’re serious about woodworking, a router could be one of the most crucial tools you can have. Intricate molding profiles and joints can be cut using routers. When you combine the routers with one of the best router lifts in 2023, the precision and efficacy that you will get will be amazing.
A router lift is a piece of equipment that connects to a workpiece and transforms any bench into a router table with adequate space beneath it. If you want to get the ideal height for your working conditions, you need to exert some effort into micro-height adjustments and fine-tuning. Moreover, it will offer your smoother and top-notch results every time.
As you will be scavenging for the best router lifts, we have scoured top picks for you.
Here Are the Best Router Lift of 2023
JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift
– Best Overall
If you are looking for a versatile option to install a router table into your workspace or garage, this JessEm Router-R-Lift system can be the best choice. It is available in five carrying styles to be used with multiple workpieces. You will also find height adjustment pieces to upgrade or replace the older version of the router lift that you have.
It comes with a robust 3.5-inches motor that is compatible with commonly used and most renowned models. The package also includes a few plates and corner brackets to make the installation process a breeze. This shaft-mounted model weighs only 8.8 pounds that can be used anywhere.
- The ball-bearing features double-sealed models
- Contains a high-quality aluminum top plate
- Robust fastening system to spread the load equally
- Doesn’t contain mounting plates and corner brackets of all sizes
KREG Precision Router Lift
– Runner Up
This router lift from Kreg provides more configuration reliability for a multitude of tasks. It features a micro-adjusting wheel that helps you connect it with varying models. The user can improve the efficacy and productivity of this route lift by fine-tuning the bits’ adjustments.
It also features a sturdy aluminum plate that is anti-corrosion and will last longer. Moreover, the mounting plate has different dimensions, and the ball bearing guarantees proper functioning by operating with a normal force.
- Features micro-adjust scale to fix the heights
- Versatile design works well with more than 20 router designs
- Space-saving model can be disconnected easily
- Achieving fine changes might require several turns
INCRA Router Lift
– Most Accurate Lift Adjustments
The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is the perfect upgrade for any router table. It features an exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system with 3/8-inch, 1-inch, 1-5/8-inch, 2-5/8-inch, and 3-5/8-inch options for quick and easy ring changes with a perfect fit. This router lift also allows you to change your router bit from the top of the table for even more convenience.
The 9-1/4 inch x 11-3/4 inch x 3/8 inch plate size makes it compatible with all INCRA Router Tables and fits some other brands as well. Plus, its exclusive ball bearing mechanism ensures super smooth action and low friction. You can also enjoy ultra-responsive direct drive 16TPI lift screw mechanism thanks to its patented thread tensioning system that eliminates vertical lash.
Overall, the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is an excellent upgrade option for any router table with its exclusive MagnaLOCK reducing ring system and ultra-responsive direct drive motor. It offers quick and easy bit changes while ensuring super smooth operation and no vertical lash. This amazing router lift is definitely worth checking out!
- Easy-to-reach cam lock lever
- Smooth and accurate adjustments with micro-adjustments possible
- Fits a wide variety of routers
- The spindle lock feature prevents vibration from changing the routing depth
- Magna lock inserts provide a secure, flush fit
- No ability to zero out the dial indicator
- Difficult to do “plunge” applications due to height adjustment from the top of the plate
O’SKOOL Router Lift
– Most Precise Adjustment
The O’SKOOL Router Lift is a great choice for those searching for an efficient way to add precision and safety to their woodworking and routing tables. Its applicability to a variety of models makes it an ideal selection.
It comes with cam wheels which are easily adjustable and allow you to set the gap between your router table and router top opening. Additionally, the included leveling screws let you fine-tune your overall router flatness both on the top and bottom. The screws at the oval mounting holes can be adjusted to fit whatever style of router table you are working with — easily allowing you to complete your setup in short order.
One of its most impressive features is its quick change router bit option. Using its accompanying crank handle, you can adjust the height of your router bit from above the table accurately and precisely. What’s more, its micro-adjustment dial allows you to adjust the height of the router bit by 0.05 inches as you rotate its hex hole. This provides for incredible precision with every adjustment, meaning every project will be completed just as it should be!
To top it off, everything can be securely locked with the carriage provided — reducing shifts or other issues during use. Also included are precise centerlines which help locate the correct position of the bit quickly and effectively. Along with a 2-inch scale, this router lift is designed to save time on setup.
For those looking for a reliable, quick-changing router lift that can be easily customized to fit any space or job, this product is worth considering. It provides users with reliable performance and maximum control over their projects every time they work on them — allowing them to build beautiful projects with ease!
- Very sturdy and operates smoothly
- Graduated scale for fine adjustment
- Top plate is durable
- Raises high enough to change the bit with ease
- Better dust collection
- Base plate isn’t perfectly square
- Not compatible with DEWALT 618 router
Best Router Lifts Buying Guide
Woodworking is not just having the best table saws. Router lifts and router tables are considered the most versatile tool for professional woodworkers. If you are unsure how to choose the best router lift, our buyer’s guide will give you insights and needed information.
What Are the Advantages of a Router Lift?
The following are the most significant benefits that the best router lift can offer for your router tables.
Ease of use
The most significant advantage of owning a router lift is its ease of use. The router lift allows the woodworker or crafter to adjust the router bit’s height from above the table. It is generally done with a T-wrench or a thumbwheel arrangement on the base plate. Consider the ease of use while buying the best router lifts to ensure that they will come in handy for various tasks.
Accuracy
A smooth device is provided by the best router lift, which is usually built of a ball bearing system. This enables precise and fluid height changes. Many of them will adapt to a tenth of an inch difference.
Stable, solid base plate
This reduces vibration and provides greater stability during routing. Thus, you will rest assured of getting smooth and finest cuts without chips.
Standard mount
The finest router lift also has standard mounts for your router plate to be bolted on. Pro woodworkers recommend Pre-drilling.
What To Look for When Purchasing a Router Lift?
Material
Consider the materials that go into the construction of the router lift. You won’t have a long-lasting system if you get a lift made of low-cost and pure-quality materials like plastic. Investing in anything composed of anodized aluminum or cast iron is a better idea. The finest router lift for your router table will ideally be constructed of sturdy materials like steel.
Locking mechanism
You’ll gain precision and adaptability with a locked lift. Once the router is turned on, a high-quality locking system reduces vibrations and prevents the workpiece from wobbling.
Plunge
No matter which router lift you choose, it will be made to work with only one type of plunge. It’s where your router’s motor is removed and secured to the lift. If your router has a non-removable motor, check to see if it will fit in your router lift or not.
Ball bearing design
It is critical for the finest router lift to have an efficient ball-bearing design. It not only provides seamless height adjustment but also allows the user to work on different types of projects. These are also low-maintenance, which helps you stay focused on the task at hand.
In case you’re not sure if you’ll be using the same router in the future, invest in a router lift with different adapters and insert holes.
Plate sizes
It is always a great idea to determine the plate size. There are two commonly used plate sizes: 814 x 1134-inch and 914 x 1134-inch. Before you buy a new routing lift, make sure you measure the plate in your old one and double-check the model you want to buy.
Compatibility
The most essential factor to consider when purchasing a router lift is whether it will fit your router and router table. Each router lift will include a list of suitable tools, so look it up for each type you’re considering. Remember that if you change your router or table in the future, you’ll need to double-check compatibility, so you might want to consider some of the alternatives.
Adjustments
When setting up your workstation, you’ll need to think about router table adjustments, and certain router lifts make this easier than others. You will be able to level the table from the top with the help of the best lifts. However, the cheaper version comes with plastic inserts which function fine, but they aren’t as handy as the controls located above the table.
Installation
A router lift of higher quality will be easier to install than cheap versions, but they will perform similarly once installed. Some may also require you to acquire additional components in order to properly set them up, which requires time and money. The more complicated the installation, the higher the risk of error, and the more components you’ll need to buy, the more likely they won’t be accessible.
Additional accessories
Some versions include attachments to assist level the rise in the router table and lift adapters that let you use the lift with different-sized routers. It will be easier to discover a router that will operate with your router lift if you have a lot of lift adapters. Some accessories are difficult to come by afterward, so make sure you have everything you need before buying.
While using router lifts, it is also important to clean the router bits. A router bit can become dull faster if you work with plywood, resin-filled sheet goods, or even just solid wood. Regular maintenance can prevent them from stopping functioning. Just soak router bits in detergent water for 10 minutes and then use a brush to clean them. When done, use a rag to dry them thoroughly before reassembling them.
How Do I Upgrade Router Lifts
Are you wondering if you can upgrade shop-built router lift with pre-existing tool. The answer is yes. For more information, check this video from Woodsmith.
How Much Do Router Lifts Cost?
As highly rated router lifts come in various shapes, designs, quality, and materials, their price range may vary widely. Here is a rough estimate of how you plan shopping for router lifts while considering the cost:
Cheap
Though a router lift is essential for woodworkers, even the cheaper ones will cost around $200 to $250. One cannot work precisely without using top-quality router lifts. However, if you are on a budget, even the cheaper options will work fine.
Mid-range
The router lift in this category offers great value for money. You can expect to pay $250 to $350 to buy mid-range products. As the choices are more in this category, we advise doing thorough research and examining each product before making the final choice.
Expensive
If you want to make a one-time investment, buying router lifts from high-end brands can be the best decision. These will range somewhere between $350 to $500. The products will be from high-end brands which charge for the value they offer and the built quality their products have.
How Have We Chosen the Best Router Lifts To Review?
When it comes to choosing the router lifts for woodworkers, we advise you to explore the best options available in the market. While reading our complete buying guide is the best method to pick the appropriate router lift, we also took into account a few other aspects while making our list. These variables enable us to offer you the most up-to-date information about the items listed above, assisting you in making the best selection possible when it comes to buying woodworking tools.
Brand’s reputation
A product’s brand is an excellent predictor of its quality since the manufacturer behind it has a strong reputation. A brand that is recognized for high-quality built material and components and excellent service is also more likely to deliver the best products.
Genuine customer reviews
When making a decision, we first check for public reviews from authentic customers who have already bought and used the product. It is because all of our suggestions are made by real people who have no motive other than to promote router lifts that they adore.
Price
Price is one of the criteria we evaluate when selecting options to be on our best router lift’s list. We also want to make sure that all of the tools we propose are reasonably priced and suitable for a wide range of budgets.
PEOPLE ALSO ASKED
A: A router lift is a device that attaches to a work surface and converts any bench with enough room beneath into a router table. The router motor is inverted and the router bit protrudes over the surface.
A: You don’t necessarily need a router lift for many routers. The fine adjusting knob on most combination kit routers allows for modest height adjustments with the fixed base.
A: Bit height may be adjusted from the top of the table with router lifts. You will not experience fumbling under the table for the router motor to be released and adjusted.
