If you are a professional carpenter or do woodwork as a hobby, a router lift is quite an essential tool that you must have in your garage. With that said, for those people who are looking for a new router lift, we have come up with the best options available in the market so you don’t have to waste your time anywhere else. However, there are a few important things that you must check before buying a new router life for yourself:
- Plate Size: Almost all the options that you will find in the market, generally come with a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate or an 8 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate. Thus, you have to make a choice to pick one according to the size of your table. For larger table sizes, go with a bigger plate size, otherwise, a smaller one will be a better pick.
- Router Compatibility: One of the most important things that you must not neglect checking is router compatibility. If you use a router with a diameter of 3.5 inches or more, you will have to look for specific router lifts as not all router lifts are designed to support such large-sized motors. So, it’s very important to pick a router lift that is compatible with your router.
- Build Quality: You will notice that router lifts come in a variety of prices, and the build quality is what makes the prices differ. If you mostly use a large-sized router, you should definitely spend some money and pick a high-grade router lift as it will have a good build quality and additional useful features.
In case you want to know about router lifts in detail, we have also included a Buying Guide later in this article that you can check out before making your final decision. The buying guide covers all the important factors about router lifts that a new buyer should know about before buying a router lift, so it’s going to be a lot helpful for you if you read it.
Best Router Lift – Table
| Best Router Lift | Plate Size | Max Supported Router Diameter | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| KREG Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 4.2 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Triton TRA001 Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 3.5 inches | Check On Amazon |
| JessEm Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 4.2 inches | Check On Amazon |
| O'SKOOL Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 3.5 inches | Check On Amazon |
| SawStop Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 4.25 inches | Check On Amazon |
| ZahyoX Router Lift | 9 1/4" x 11 3/4" | 4.25 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Zooke Router Lift | 9.4” x 7.9” | 3.5 inches | Check On Amazon |
Best Router Lift Reviews
1. KREG Router Lift
Kreg is one of the best considerations to check out when it comes to router lifts as this brand has a pretty good reputation in the market for selling high-grade woodworking tools.
Speaking about this router lift from Kreg, it is known to offer convenient above-the-table router adjustments, fast and easily. In fact, this router lift comes with a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate made from hard-anodized material that won’t sag and even resists scratches.
Moreover, it is compatible with almost all the router tables that Kreg offers, and many other tables as well. Since the max supported router diameter of this router lift is 4.2 inches, you can try out a variety of router options with this lift. Apart from that, thanks to its bearing-guided carriage, it operates quite smoothly which you will definitely like.
Best Features:
- Plate size is 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″
- Compatible with 4.2 inches routers
- Has a built-in micro-adjust scale
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Scratch resistant plate
- Highly durable
- Adequate pricing
Cons:
- Installation might be time-consuming
2. Triton TRA001 Router Lift
Next up, we have another premium router lift option from Triton which is quite a popular brand that you will find in the market at the moment.
Triton TRA001 router is a powerhouse designed for expert woodworkers. The 3.25 HP motor operates seamlessly at 8000 – 21000 RPM, ensuring it can handle the most challenging workpieces with ease. Its standout feature is the dual-mode functionality, allowing users to effortlessly switch between conventional plunge and fixed-base router modes with a single button.
The automatic spindle lock facilitates quick and simple single-wrench bit changes through the base, enhancing efficiency in your work. Additionally, the soft start and variable speed options provide optimal control for various cutter types.
Best Features:
- 3.25 HP motor, 8000 – 21000 RPM
- Dual-mode functionality
- Single-button operation
- Automatic spindle lock
- Micro winder for continuous fine depth adjustment
- Soft start and variable speed
- Safety switch shutter prevents accidental power-on
- Fully enclosed guarding
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- Variable Speed
- 1/2″ and 1/4″ collets
- Automatic spindle lock for single tool bit changes
- Great for table mounting.
- Built in router lift and adjustment handle included
Cons:
- Heavy
- Not good for plunging.
3. JessEm Router Lift
The Mast-R-Lift II, crafted by JessEm Tool Company, is a top-selling router lift valued for its precision and endurance. With its exclusive Cam Locking System and double-sealed bearing construction, adjustments are smooth and vibrations are minimized. This lift simplifies above-the-table adjustments for all routers, improving workflow.
Made from tough 3/8-inch solid aluminum and hard-anodized, the Mast-R-Lift II fits most fixed base routers without adapters. Its unique clamping blocks support different routers, adding versatility to workshops. Locking mechanisms accessible from the top ensure stability during heavy-duty routing.
Best Features:
- Exclusive Cam Locking System
- Double sealed bearing construction
- Fits most fixed base routers
- Machined from solid aluminum
- Above-the-table bit changes
- Hard anodized for durability
Pros:
- Effortless above-the-table adjustments
- Compatible with various routers
- Sturdy construction for heavy-duty operations
- Smooth and precise adjustments
Cons:
- Limited compatibility with some router models
- Requires careful installation and setup
4. O’Skool Router Lift
O’SKOOL Router Lift Systems for 3-1/2″ Diameter Motors, a versatile and precision-crafted solution for router enthusiasts. This system features a 9-1/4” x 11-3/4” Plate and a 5-Piece Insert Ring Kit. The insert plate, meticulously crafted from CNC machined 3/8” solid aluminum, promises exceptional flatness and incorporates 10 set screws for precise leveling adjustments.
The O’SKOOL Router Lift stands out with its 3.5″ diameter carriage, allowing easy compatibility across various router setups. With a height adjustability range of 3 inches, it facilitates seamless router bit changes without removing the router from the carriage, saving both time and effort. The height adjustment screw, featuring a pitch of 20 teeth per inch, ensures precise adjustments, complemented by a zeroing index ring with a 50-angle scale for control down to 1/1000 of an inch.
Included in the package are 5 insert rings (3/8″, 1″, 1-1/4″, 1-7/8″, 2-5/8″), catering to diverse routing needs. The system is suitable for routers with 3-1⁄2-in.-dia bodies, but it’s essential to check the compatibility with your router motor and table size.
Best Features:
- Versatile router lift system for 3-1/2″ diameter motors
- 9-1/4” x 11-3/4” Plate with a 5-Piece Insert Ring Kit
- Compatible with popular 3-1/2” router models
- CNC machined 3/8” solid aluminum insert plate
- 10 set screws for precise leveling adjustments
- 3.5″ diameter carriage
- 3-inch height adjustability
- Height adjustment screw with 20 teeth per inch pitch
- Zeroing index ring with a 50-angle scale for precise control
Pros:
- Simple installation
- Excellent quality!
- Modified to fit Bosch RA1181 table
- Exceptional value
- Fix perfect in my Dewalt DW618 router moto
Cons:
- LED light is BRIGHT
5. SawStop Router Lift
Coming to the next router lift option on this list, SawStop is one of the most reputed and highly trustworthy brands that you can go with as it’s recommended by most professionals.
Thanks to its rigid construction and innovative design, the installation of this router lift is quite a simple and easy process. Although it’s a little bit on the expensive side, you won’t regret buying it because of its high build quality.
It comes with a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate, so you will need a fairly large work table to install it, but that should not be an issue for you. In fact, it is quite good and is compatible with almost all the routers with sizes up to 4.25 inch diameter. Not just that, one of the most attractive features of this router lift is that it comes with a lifetime warranty.
Best Features:
- Plate size is 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″
- Compatible with 4.25 inches routers
- Has a built-in micro-adjust scale
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Easy installation
- Wide compatibility
Cons:
- Expensive
6. ZahyoX Router Lift
ZahyoX is also one of the best brands that are highly popular for selling woodworking tools, so if you are looking for something in the mid-range, it can be a good choice to pick.
Looking at the features of this router lift, the hard anodized aluminum plate of this router lift is 9-1/4″ x 11-4/5″ in size which is slightly larger than standard. Apart from that, the double-sealed linear bearings are given on this router lift which offers resistance to dust infiltration and easy height adjustments.
Along with the router lift, the package also includes a crank handle, 2 centre positioning pins, 4 mounting plates, multiple set screws, 3 allen wrenches, 3 insert rings, and 1 start pin as well. In addition, you don’t have to worry about router compatibility as it supports motors with up to 4.2 inch diameter. On top of that, the manufacturer also provides a lifetime warranty.
Best Features:
- Plate size is 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″
- Compatible with 4.2 inches routers
- Has a Hard Anodized Flat Top Plate
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Premium quality
- Bundle includes plenty of accessories
- Adequate pricing
Cons:
- Installation might take time
7. Zooke Router Lift
The Zooke precision router lift is a top-notch tool that revolutionizes woodworking with its performance and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a hobbyist, this lift enhances your woodworking experience.
This fits woodworking machines with motor diameters from 64mm to 66mm, making it versatile. Crafted from lightweight aluminum alloy and strengthened with stainless steel rods, it’s both durable and rust-resistant.
With a lifting stroke of 51mm (2 inches) and a simple manual lifting mechanism, adjusting your router lift is easy and secure.
Best Features:
- Universal design compatible with 64-66mm diameter motors
- Aluminum alloy and stainless steel construction
- Maximum lifting stroke: 51mm (2 inches)
- Manual lifting method for precise adjustments
- Smooth and bright surface finish
- Equipped with mounting screws and wrench for easy installation
Pros:
- Versatile compatibility with various woodworking machines
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Smooth and stable manual lifting mechanism
- Easy installation with included mounting hardware
Cons:
- Limited lifting stroke compared to some other models
- Manual adjustment may require more effort for heavy-duty operations
Buying Guide for the Best Router Lift
A router lift is quite an amazing tool that every carpenter should install on their work table to manage the router height efficiently without needing to go down. There is no doubt that spending some of your hard-earned money on a new router lift is quite worth it.
However, most people don’t know how to pick the best suitable one from the market. That is why we highly recommend you to read this buying guide thoroughly until the end.
1. Plate Size
First of all, one of the most important things to check in a router lift is its plate size. In general, router lifts come with a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate or an 8 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate size. So, the one that you should pick for your work table depends on the table’s size. If you have a large-sized work table, you should definitely go for a router lift with a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate. Otherwise, if you have a compact setup, the router lifts with a smaller plate size would be a good pick for you.
2. Build Quality
Apart from the features and size of the router lift, you must ensure that you spend your hard-earned money on a high-quality one. If you compare several router lift options in the market, you will find that they vary a lot in terms of pricing. One of the factors that affect the price of any router lift is its build quality. As long as it is possible for you, we highly recommend you go for the high-quality router lifts. You will not only get the benefits of extra features on the expensive models, but they will even last for a longer time as well.
3. Compatible Routers
As you look for the router lifts in the market, one thing that you have to be specific about is the compatible routers. In case you are about to buy a new router, then you can go for any router lift option whichever fits your budget. Otherwise, if you already own a router lift, then it is highly important that you only choose the router lift that can be attached to your existing router. While some router lifts only support routers with 3.5 inches diameter, some larger lifts even support motors with up to 4.2 inch diameter as well.
4. Warranty
Aside from the size and build quality of the router lift, the brand value of the product matters as well. We highly recommend you to go for the brands that have a good reputation in the market. It is because the top brands generally offer better after-sales services than the newcomers. Apart from that, you will find that most of the top router lift brands offer a lifetime warranty which is definitely a perk for you.
Conclusion
As you might have already seen in the article so far, picking a new router lift from that market is quite an easy and simple task if you know about the key features. Since we have provided you with all the information and shortlisted some of the best options from the market, you can compare them and pick the right router lift for yourself pretty easily. In case you need any extra help, you can also consider reading the buying guide as well. Apart from that, if you are still confused and are not able to come down to a final decision, here are some of our personal recommendations that you can consider checking:
- From the list, the KREG Router Lift is one of our personal favorite router lifts as it comes with a large 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate, and supports routers up to 4.2 inches in diameter. In fact, the pricing is quite adequate and the build quality of this router lift is very good. On top of it, it is backed by a lifetime warranty which makes it a perfect deal for you.
- On the other hand, if you want to purchase something affordable, the JessEm Router Lift is going to be the best option for you. It has a 9 1/4″ x 11 3/4″ plate and supports routers up to 3.5 inches in diameter. In fact, the construction of this router lift is quite sturdy, thanks to the CNC machined materials which offer additional durability.
- Apart from these options, you can also go with the Triton Router Lift which is a bit on the expensive side but is excellent in terms of build quality. The package includes a bunch of useful accessories as well that will help you in the installation.
