If you are searching for the best router lifts, seat, and take a chill pill, you are at the right place, this guide is aimed at the best router lifters.
In recent times, when craftsmen work smartly, precision tools like router lifts and angle finders, are important for woodwork projects. Router lifts can help you take accurate elevation measurements.
Like your building’s elevator, height adjustments of woodworking bits are seamless with functional router lifts. Instead of crawling under the router table to change, an above-table router lift does it with ease. The leverage that router lifts give can’t be over-emphasized. While it’s important to buy the best router lift, you should check the designs of its mounting plate and carriage mechanisms.
Some regular bit sizes are 1/32 and 1/64 inches. When well-made router lifts with micro-adjustment dials complete a turn, they correlate with the router bit’s depth. Most models of router lifts have detachable crank handle inserts, unlike pocket hole jigs. You will see these components on their mounting plates.
This buying guide gives you relevant technical information about different models of router lifts. It will help you choose the right lift model that works intuitively.
ROUTER’S LIFT BUYER’S GUIDE
Compatibility
Compatibility is one of the most important things to look at while buying your router lift. The reason is that not every router lift will work with every router table. Therefore, every product on the market features recommendations that work best for the lift.
If you will use the incompatible product it leads you to excessive vibration as well as awkward usage.
Durable Construction
You must know the material of the best router lift. What is the reason behind this? The reason is that if you will buy a lift that is made of cheap material such as plastic, then, you don’t have a long-lasting product or system.
It is the wiser quality of a person to invest his money on the product made of cast-iron or aluminum. Ideal or the best route lift is always made of steel. On the other hand, it is also a symbol of professionalism for a woodworker, just like a bench vice is.
Ease of use
One of the big things that separate the top-tier router lifts from the bargain models is how easy they are to use. All of them can be leveled, for instance, but some models make it far easier than others.
Some can be leveled from above the table, which is certainly the easiest method. Others require changing out washers or other parts, which requires testing how to level the router lift is, and taking the router lift completely off to change.
If it’s not quite right on the first try, you could end up spending some time getting it right, which is less time spent working on your actual projects.
This shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for you, necessarily, but you do need to honestly assess the value of your time. If you’re having to squeeze out time for shop projects already, it may be worth it to spend a bit more money to get an easier-to-setup router lift.
You should also research how easy it is to get a router setup to use with a router lift. Some router lifts require just a couple minutes of work to get the router installed, while others have a more complicated process.
Most designs are secure, so you shouldn’t worry about the router lift dropping your router during operation, but as with all devices, you should be aware of the amount of time you’re likely to spend setting things up.
Quality
Like with most things, better quality generally comes at a higher price. This is also true with router lifts, though we outlined some options that are excellent quality but won’t break the bank. If you choose to go with a cheap model, you run the risk of getting a router lift that isn’t up to the task.
Poor-quality routers announce themselves in multiple ways. A common fault is a warped baseplate. No matter how many times you try to level the plate, even using a laser level, and no matter how careful you are when trying to do so, it will never sit quite flush with the table it sits in.
This can become irritating when you’re trying to slide wood from the table towards the router, as it will catch on the lip that forms.
Mostly, this will just be irritation and make it harder to get the wood you’re working to sit flat, but if you’re working with softer woods, you run the risk of chipping or splitting the wood.
The good news is that the best way to avoid this problem is simple: buy a higher-quality router with a baseplate made of better materials. Not only will it be less likely to be warped, but it will also, in many cases, be more scratch-resistant, and generally last longer.
Plunge vs. Fixed Type
Router lifts work especially well with fixed plunge routers. The motor of the router will not be removable in this case, but it will still be easy to fix the router to the lift and make any necessary adjustments.
Those of you who have non-removable motor plunge routers should check that their model fits the router before you make your purchase. Most of the routers on the market will work with a fixed base router too. These have removable motors instead, which may work better when you’re trying to make your adjustments, depending on your specific project.
Locking Mechanism
You will gain versatility and accuracy when you locked a lift. What is the benefit of the best quality locking system? The best quality locking system always provides less play when the router is on. Some of the router lifts have bolt mechanism or lever locking system, unlike vacuum pumps.
Plunge Router
Indeed, every router lift is specially designed to work with a specific fixed plunge router. It is true is that the router where the motor of your router is removable and also fixes to the lift.
But, if you tool features with a non-removable motor, then, you just need to ensure that it will always fit your router lift as well.
Height Adjustment
The best router lift always featured with a crank handle or thumbwheel to adjust the height. Every person has its preference that which product works best for him. This means that you must have to pick an ideal choice according to your needs.
Lift Adapter
What is a lift adapter? If you are not sure that you will be using the same type of router down the road, then, we recommend you buy the best router lift. It features many insert holes and adapters.
Ball Bearing Design
If you want a smooth and convenient height adjustment, then, you must look for a ball bearing design on the best router lift. As these also feature a low-quality maintenance quality, so it will keep your focus on getting the work done.
BEST ROUTER LIFTS
| NAMES | FEATURES | WHERE TO BUY |
| JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift 02310
|
Reinforced 9-1/4” x 11-3/4” CNC machined phenolic top plate
The threaded spindle runs on two double-sealed ball-bearings The dedicated cam-lock mechanism prevents spindle rotation Sized for the popular 3-1/2” diameter fixed-base router motors |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Router Lift FX
|
The plate is heavy-duty, providing you sag-free support
The plate is sized to fit all of your router tables The lift housing will accept a wide range of small to medium-sized routers Compatible with large opening inserts |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift
|
Allows precise above-the-table setup changes for most table-mounted routers
9-1⁄4″ x 11-3⁄4″ x 3⁄8″ hard-anodized aluminum plate won’t sag, resists scratches Fits all Kreg router tables and many other brands with insert plate mounted routers Precision indexing ring with micro-adjust scale simplifies bit height changes |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift
|
Hard anodized 9-1/4” x 11-3/4” CNC machined aluminum plate
The threaded spindle runs on a double-sealed ball-bearing The dedicated cam-lock mechanism prevents spindle rotation Unique clamping system fits most fixed-base router motors |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420 Router Lift
|
Includes a quick-lift mechanism which makes raising the router to any coarse position or bit-changing height lightning-fast with no cranking
Lift Dimensions – 9.25″ x 11.75″ x 3/8 Thickness Robust construction combined with near-instant elevation changes Fine adjustments are just as fast with a built-in micro-adjust thumb wheel |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock
|
Built for heavy-duty precision
11.75 x 9.25 In. the top plate fits perfectly into each SawStop router table Aluminum plate Phenolic ring material |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| JET JRL-912 Router Lift
|
Sturdy Four-Post, chain-driven design ensures smooth operation
Above the table height and lock adjustment results in simpler, more efficient adjustments Precision milled aluminum carriage bracket and level screws result in a smooth, accurate, and easily adjustable work surface Fits Powermatic PM2000B Router Extension Table, and Jet Router Table |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table
|
Two dedicated dust-collection
Easy-to-use adjustable weatherboards Accessory slot Mountable base |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Goplus Aluminum Extra-Large Extension Router
|
Extra Large Extension Table to the Main Table
Retractable Guard and Suits Most Router Bits Multifunctional Fence and Exact Miter Gauge Selected Material and Rugged Durable Frame Quick Installation and Easy Care and Cleaning |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Lift
|
Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards
Accessory slot Storage pocket Cord-wrap storage Power-cord lock |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift 02310
The new Rout-R-Lift II from JessEm Tool brings affordable precision to the entry-level router lift market. This model is designed for use with Porter-Cable 690/890 series, Bosch 1617/1618 series, Dewalt 610/618 series, and Craftsman 1754x/28190/ 28084 router motors.
| PROS | CONS |
| It takes less than 10 minutes to have it working and is both robust and convenient to use thanks to the aluminum and steel construction. | Since the JessEm inserts are more expensive than others, people wish there were more included. |
| Adjusting the bit height is precise and smooth with this router lift. | For the money you pay, you only get one ring included. |
Router Lift FX
Adjust bit height quickly and easily from atop your router table, and enjoy sag-free support from the heavy-duty plate. The plate is perfectly sized to fit all of our new router tables, while the lift housing accepts a wide range of small-to-medium sized routers.
| PROS | CONS |
| Comes with the adjustment bit for easy height adjustment | Little bit heavy |
| Also has a sag-free support mechanism | Does not ship internationally |
| Flexible plates to accommodate all different router tables | |
| Shipped between 2 and 3 days |
Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift
Take control of your table-mounted router for quick, accurate, reliable, and repeatable setups. The Precision Router Lift helps you elevate your routing capabilities by providing precise control when making router setup changes or changing bits. The lift replaces the standard insert plate (9-1⁄4″ x 11-3⁄4″ x 3⁄8″) in all Kreg router tables plus many popular brands.
The router lift holds 20+ popular router models without the need for adapters or modifications in a high-performance carriage that you raise and lower from above the table.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing router table, setting up a new one, or building your custom table, the Precision Router Lift is the perfect routing accessory. It offers the precision you demand to achieve exacting routing standards, along with the fast, easy performance you want to spend less time setting up and more time routing.
| PROS | CONS |
| Simple to adjust the height of your bit with a few twists of the crank. | May require slight shaving of the plate to fit specific tables. |
| The lift action is smooth and accurate | Some people dislike that once you lock the bit in position, you can’t go back to a previous position without counting the turns of the handle. |
| Fits many types of tables. | It can be a little difficult to center the router if you use bushings at your table |
| No need to struggle with rotating the entire router body for the lift height you need. | |
| Easy to install. | |
| Makes for very easy use |
JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift
The new Mast-R-Lift II from JessEm Toolsets a higher standard by which router lifts will now be judged. Ball-bearing construction and a new cam lock feature are part of a new design that you now can use with more than one router. The new Mast-R-Lift II fits most fixed base router motors on the market right out of the box.
| PROS | CONS |
| The lock built into the lift will ensure that it remains stable | No dial indicator to help you zero in on the height that you want. |
| Great customer service has been helpful to many people. | The router plate also is not magnetic, meaning that some other dial indicators you install might not be reliable or stable. |
| This lift by JessEm is very well made, | |
| It fits most routers while allowing you to do make exact adjustments with ease. | |
| Easy to set up and use. |
Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420 Router Lift
Woodpeckers® Model 420 V2 Router Lift combines instant elevation change with micro-adjustment to dramatically reduce the time it takes to change a router bit while allowing the user to “dial-in” bit height for precision milling of stock. With a simple twist of the spring-assisted lift wrench, the router motor is free to be moved to any vertical location without requiring any other action. Fine, precise bit height changes are equally as effortless by “dialing” the thumb-wheel to make accurate adjustments.
| PROS | CONS |
| It’s able to fit snugly in the opening of any router table while still providing you with the fine adjustments you’re looking for. | This thumbwheel is also stiff to use for some people, even if the adjustment crank is smooth. |
| High-quality lift. | Some users mentioned it takes some time to get used to the way this router lift works. |
| Made to fit even a 3.25 hp router motor. | It’s also not made of aluminum and isn’t as durable as other models. |
| Install it smoothly without breaking the bank on something more expensive. |
SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock
Built for heavy-duty precision, the SawStop Router Lift features a chain-synchronized four-post lifting system, positive lock, precision above-table elevation measurement and adjustments, and adaptive collars to fit multiple router sizes. 11.75” x 9.25” top plate fits perfectly into each SawStop Router Table.
| PROS | CONS |
| A four-post lifting system with positive lock mechanism | It’s not compatible with premium router lifts like Bosch because of the size of its router reducer collar. |
| It comes with a Phenolic insert ring (3 3/4 inches) | |
| Designed for heavy-duty precision with maximum and minimum router diameters of 4.25 and 3.25 inches |
JET JRL-912 Router Lift
This router lift kit with brake offers several features for an accurate and efficient routing experience. The sturdy four-post, the chain-driven design offers smooth operation for the lifting mechanism. Above the table, one turn of the dials raises and lowers the lift up to 2mm at a time. The convenient lock dial ensures the lift will stay in position no matter the load on the tool. The precision-milled aluminum carriage bracket and leveling screws guarantee and accurate and easily adjustable routing experience.
| PROS | CONS |
| An accurate lock adjustment mechanism | This router lift is not compatible with wider router tables. |
| Four-post and chain-driven design | |
| It includes a Powermatic router lift with a brake mechanism |
Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table
The Bosch RA1171 Router Table features a cabinet-style design with a smooth laminated work surface for precision woodworking, making it an ideal benchtop solution for any workshop. The cabinet-style construction is ideal for stability, storage, and dust collection. Its rigid aluminum router mounting plate is pre-drilled for compatibility with a variety of routers and above table height adjustment with many common routers.
| PROS | CONS |
| Zero chance of kickbacks and sawdust because of the fence-protection unit | Its carriage travel is less than 2.5 inches. |
| Complete router table package that 3 plate rings, 2 out-feed fence shims, a starter pin, and other accessories. | |
| Laminated bench-top and dust collection system for woodwork procedures | |
| Aluminum fence design with adjustable MDF feather boards and faceplates |
Goplus Aluminum Extra-Large Extension Router
The main table is made out of aluminum – making it a very durable option. There is also an extension table, giving you a maximum workspace of eight inches by 18 inches – great for longer pieces of wood. The grooves on the main surface help to chip away dust, making it easier for you to clean up after use.
| PROS | CONS |
| A transparent guard with a grooved surface that prevents wood chips and sawdust from making a mess of your workspace | Making fine adjustments with the multifunctional fence setting might be difficult. |
| Durable extension table and main router table structures | |
| Electric design for woodworking amateurs | |
| A wide 6-inch (diameter) base plate |
Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Lift
he Bosch RA1181 benchtop router table provides a large work surface for precision and versatility. The large aluminum top makes the table both durable and portable. Designed to fit a variety of routers, this router table is a versatile piece of equipment that will serve as an indispensable part of any woodworking shop.
Its rigid aluminum router mounting plate is pre-drilled for compatibility with a variety of routers and above table height adjustment with many common routers. Its 2-1/2 In. the dust-collection port offers better dust collection for a cleaner work environment.
This benchtop router table includes mounting hardware, features a tall aluminum fence with adjustable MDF face plates, two outfeed shims, and an aluminum router mounting plate.
| PROS | CONS |
| One year warranty | A little bit heavier |
| Also attached with a workbench | |
| 27” X 18” large working area | |
| MDF faceplates with aluminum fence | |
| Comes with two adjustable feather boards |
CONCLUSION
The list we have provided you included all the best products available on the market. We recommend you to read this article before purchasing any product. We strongly recommend you to try one of these listed products. It is also better for you to obtain that router lift that fits most of the router tables. These products also come with plenty of impressive features, so it can make your life easier. It will also boost the production of your work and also save you money.