Website Last Modified March 4, 2023. Chain synchronizing 4-post lifting system, Includes collars for use with different routers. If you use routers that are 3-hp or higher, you are sure to have a saggy result over time if you dont use any cross-bracing or support. Most users even prefer this product because this product fits a variety of tables. I'm looking at router lifts and trying to discern if there is a big advantage/disadvantage over the major players (Rockler, Jess-Em, Kreg, Woodpeckers, etc). Dedicated cam-lock mechanism prevents spindle rotation. The plunge is the moveable part of your router fixed unto the router lift. small and large adjustments compared to the previous version. Terms and Conditions, Router tables are stationary tables used for woodworking. Mechanical Router Lift OFL2.0K in KREG format If you are a professional craftsman or a beginner with lots of workshop hours working with a router, you should consider getting a router for the following reasons: The router lift has a heavy base plate, which prevents vibrations when you use the router. Now JessEm have upped their game and taken it to a new level with the JESSEM Mast-R-Lift Excel II Router Table Top With Integral Router . To know if the router lift will fit into your table, you need to know the plate size and there are two widely used plate sizes, the 8 x 11-inch, and the 9 x 11-inch. The great benefit of a router lift is its ability to adjust the height to the router motor and the router bit to the ideal height for the project. It has a long-lasting protection guarantee as it comes with an auto-protection against dust and other particles that could ruin the lift. The ball bearing mechanism allows for smooth movement as the lift up and down. One exception, though, is the Milwaukee 5625-29, which at this time of writing, only the Rockler and the JessEm router lift can fit this router and offer over-the-table bit changes. Update Privacy Preferences You should look for a router lift made from cast iron or quality aluminum. This tool features easy installation and it works with large diameter routers. The Bosch RA 1165 is an updated router lift replacingthe RA 1164 and serves as the new base for many fixed-base router models. 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. Did you test Rocklers Pro lifts?If so how did they compare to the ones you tested? They attach to the router lift, and then the router motor slides into place with the collars clamping down on the motor for a secure attachment. Before you purchase any router lift product, check the manual, specification, or dimensions of the product and make sure it fits and is strong enough to carry out any task thrown at it. The 22-1/2" deep x 26-1/2" wide stand is made of 2mm & 3mm thick powder-coated steel and is height adjustable from 22-1/4" to 43-3/4" tall in 1" increments. *Prices listed in this article were as shown on amazon.com (USA) as of December 2022. The Master lift has a better plate and can accept a larger motor. We like the crank handle better, but the thumbscrew allows you to make extremely precise height adjustments. If the materials of your router lift are rugged, you are assured as a user to experience very low vibration as well as low noise. Its best for handlers who dont always use awood routerbut need a handy one. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift features an exclusive cam locking system that prevents dropouts while you are working. It works with any router with a 3.5-inch diameter motor its machined steel body is extremely durable. A router lift relieves you of constantly bending under your table for you to reach out and adjust the height of your router. This unit features a 9-inch by 11-inch aluminum surfacea direct fit for most router tables and other attachments. The system works using a one-way lock/unlock mechanism placed on a handy spot on the router lift, Compact and smooth-styled design for all kinds of workshop, Superior lock/unlock system placed on a reachable spot, Works mostly like a piece of mechanical equipment with lesser precision, 9-1/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch x 3/8-Inch plate size is compatible with all INCRA Router Tables, Exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system, Exclusive ball bearing mechanism for super-smooth action, Provides high accuracy when on both the horizontal and vertical axis, Ultra-responsive, direct-drive 16TPI lift screw mechanism, 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8 plate size is compatible with all full-size Rockler router tables, The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift weighs just 14.2Ibs, making it easier to mount on your router table and also portable, The router-lift comes with a five sealed ball bearing system that makes it easy for users to adjust the height for greater precision and handling, A self auto-protect feature that ensures durability, Accurate thread tensioning system for better height adjustments, Eliminates friction and vibrations on the router table using the five reducing rings made from steel to flush the lift on the router table and fit perfectly with your router, Eliminates wobble or shaky table using the cam lock system; once you turn the cam lock to the right, the router lift locks the table instinctively, Comfortable height adjustments on the table using the seal ball bearing system, Not an entry-level router-lift for first-timer users, Compatibility: Porter-Cable 690/890 series, Bosch 1617-16-18, DeWalt 610, 616, 618, Dimensions: 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8, The high plate does an excellent job of supporting the router lift, Not recommended for people who are looking for a long term investment in router lifts, 38 x 9 14 x 11 34 (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) Hard-anodized aluminum plate wont Sag, resists scratches, Above-table collet access allows fast, easy, above-table bit changes, Accepts 20+ popular routers without requiring pads or adapters, Made from high-quality aluminum plates for optimum durability, Spring-assisted lift system for easy and comfortable heights adjustments. Some customers complained that installing this piece into their bearing-guided carriage was difficult because it was too big for their router table. The router offers more accuracy and precision. The most important thing to consider before choosing your router lift is if it will fit your router and your router table. One thing we like about the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is that of is an exclusive product that comes with different but handy features. JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift Check Latest Price Key Features Plate Size: 13.7 x 11.2 x 12 inches Material: Machined aluminum Weight: 13.69 pounds This is another pick from JessEm for router lift reviews, and once you go through its features, you will know why we are fascinated with it. With a bit of familiarization with router lifts and how to choose the best one, shopping for the best router lift becomes a bit more straightforward. Higher quality lifts will be easier to install than budget models, but they will both work about the same when complete. The lift comes with unique features that make your end product have a professional finish. Weve also included a buyers guide where we look at the router lift to see what it does and how it works to learn whats important to look for while shopping. Standard mounts found on a router lift has a lot of benefits that one cant pass by. You can do this using the T-wench found on the base plate of your router lift. One of the distinct advantages of this router is that you can adjust heights and even change out yourrouter bitsabove the table.. Comes with 3 insert ring to reduce the size of the opening in the plate, with the . Will my table be compatible with my router lift? The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is considered a tool for professionals, and beginners shouldnt purchase this product. One of which is the ability to make sure your router insert plates are firm. Tool Review: Kreg Model PRS5000 Router lift Smooth and precise router lift By Owain Harris Aug 21, 2018 Kreg's newest precision router lift is the PRS5000. Great for making small adjustments in height. You would think that the price tag is because the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift will be compatible with almost all sizes, brands, and types, but that is not the case. Thus, it saves you time and makes it easier to use your router. Another great choice is the JessEm 02310 Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift, which is our pick for the best value. The JessEm 02310 Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift is our pick for the best router lift for the money. Each router lift will have a list of tools its compatible with, so you will need to find it for each model you consider. With no tools needed for the insert rings, this easy-to-adjust router bit simply clicks into place. This mechanism is handy when making tiny adjustments. you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge. Any recommendations are appreciated. The BD includes a decent router table fence, which can mount either inboard or outboard of the router bit (there are two sets of mounting slots for the fence in the table extension.) This router features Incras MagnaLock collars, which have magnets to snap the collars into place. There is a serious downside to using the INCRA router is that it only works with Rockler tables, so unless you have one, this option is off the table. JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch by 11-3/4-Inch- Most Compatible Router Lift. The lift is lightweight, thus do not add extra weight to the router table. However, you should note that the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift is only compatible with a few routers. Rockler much smaller. This material is specially designed and engineered with high-resistant elements to ensure it doesnt wear off with rigorous usage. Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Designed for Rockler Tables. JessEm made a ground-breaking statement with this product. The PRS5000 is an upgrade of the PRS3000, with Kreg paying more attention to accuracy and precision. PRL V2 (PRECISION ROUTER LIFT) This new router lift features the proven robust construction of the Precision Router Lift combined with the near instant elevation changes of the Quick Lift. It fits most routers, thats why its our pick for best overall. The PRS5000 comes with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system. NEW AND IMPROVED: The Bosch RA1165 Under-Table Router Base is the new base for the 1617 1618 series routers, replacing the RA1164. Whichever router lift you choose, ensure that it has a locking function to avoid frustration from a bit lowering from vibrations, causing inconsistent results from one end of a workpiece to the other. Is it possible to remove the router from the base? Learn more. These devices keep pressure and friction on the adjustment screw to a minimum, allowing the user to slowly raise or lower it to the ideal height. I love to make things. These mounts are pre-drilled to save you the stress of drilling on your own. ADUSTABLE: The RA1165 conveniently allows depth adjustment of bit height from above the table. But in most cases, the motor is permanently attached. You can make height adjustments four times faster with tools or screws, and the anti-backlash locking system ensures that the router will stay put. Users are also required to check and clean the affected area and parts of the router lifts before every use. Rout-R-Lift Prestige for Plunge Based Routers - Imperial and Metric Options. What is a router lift without a height adjustment system? Models without the lock can slip from the vibrations created by the router causing the routing to be inaccurate. While professionals and serious users find this product from minimal to average, new users, enthusiasts, and hobbyists will enjoy it because it is very affordable. The locking mechanism of your router lift should be top-notch if you wish to enjoy precise and accurate routing sessions. Enable registration in settings - general. We feel that the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is the best router lift for most people. Its much easier to get accurate measurements from a lift that uses ball bearings. See It allows you to change your routing bits from above the table and complete control over all adjustments. Router lifts features the component called rugged base plate which is needed during the routing process for increased stability. The router lift is made of anodized aluminum. Since router lifts, router tables, and router bits are so entwined, it is important for customers to understand the unique specifications they need for their specific projects. Router lifts made from plastics or cheap alloys will break when used for long routing sessions. Bench Dog Tools(such as the Bench Dog tools 40-150 prolift) and Kreg router lift also provide great options for quality router table lifts. When you need to change your router table or your bench dog table, and you dont want to spend too much while doing it, consider getting the Router Lift FX. The best router lifts for professionals are from steel. In some cases, the user can remove the motor from the plunge base. Proper maintenance begins with purchasing the right router table for your lift or buying the necessary lift components. With a router lift, you can make minor adjustments on the go without removing the router or reaching out to under the table.. They hold the router motor upside down, with the router bit protruding above the surface. I do a lot of. For its price, the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift comes with so many unique features you would find in professional router lifts. Plunge routers offer versatility as you can manually adjust the position of the bits. At the same time, the fixed router offers more precision as it has a router base.Thus, if you are looking for a router with more versatile functions, you should go for the plunge type. A router lift is a valuable addition to the already existing tools in your workshop. Its made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. Bearing-guided carriage provides smooth operation. This improvement eliminates the need for a crank handle to make precise router bit height adjustments. This allows universal kits to fit motors from just over 4 inches in diameter to some as small as 3 inches. BACKYARD WOODSHOP 14.7K subscribers Subscribe 129K views 5 years ago I compare Incra Ls Positioner, against the Kreg Router Fence and. The more lift adapters you have, the easier it will be to find a router that will work with your router lift. If you have plans to remove the router lift from the base frequently, you should not buy a lift that is difficult to install. Keep reading to learn about features to consider when looking for a router lift, and check out some of the best options on the market. On Sale. Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE 690/890, Bosch 1617/1618, DeWALT 610/618/616, and Craftsmans 1754/17540/28190 models. The cam lock feature intuitively locks the router table at one spot when you turn it to the right. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. When it comes to long-term durability, material is a significant factor. Buildeazy accepts no responsibility for any injury to any person occurring while using or undertaking this project or any other Buildeazy project, either directly or indirectly. It includes several collars that allow you to use the lift with different sized router motors, and it also comes with the required hex wrenches. It does come with just one insert collar, but users can purchase additional collars from JessEm. It features a spring-assisted wrench that allows for fast height changes. Out of the box, it is set up to accept the ubiquitous Porter-Cable 7518 router, but it can easily be reconfigured to fit 20 other popular models without extra adapters or modifications. The router is out of the way when not in use and gives me use of the entire table for my other projects., Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE, DeWALT, and Bosch router lifts. Twisting clockwise will lift the router, while twisting counterclockwise will lower it. I use a Tridon router on a Kreg plate so no expensive extra lift. The more complex the installation the more chance there is for error and the more parts you need to purchase, the better the chance they wont be available. All router lift has this information to guide buyers. At that point, a screw-type adjustment rod lifts the router up and down, bringing the bit above and below the work surface. Double ball bearing construction allows for extremely smooth and accurate movement. Pay attention to the instructions and mounting your router is fast and easy., Dimensions: MDF top 16 x 24 feet; router plate 9 x 11 x inches. It has elevated my precision while reducing setup times.. The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials. A ball-bearing mechanism uses 5 bearings to ensure smooth movement throughout the range of the tool. Handheld routing is not nearly as accurate as table-mounted routing, but its difficult to adjust the cutting bits height or change it without climbing under the table. With a positive lock mechanism that keeps your gear stable and secure for the duration of your job, you can easily take elevation measurements to get precise control over any projects that come across your router table. The lift is usually locked by a lever or sometimes a bolt that fastens to the table to keep it in place until you release the mechanism. The Precision Lift has some desirable features, like ball-bearing adjustments made in 1/16-inch increments from above the table. Best Premium Router Lift - Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420. Its very durable. Its like a manually controlled whack-a-mole, but it allows you to make all height adjustments and change the bit from above the table. Fits most routers, . I dont do a lot of routing so I dont need the best out there. Anyone looking to get more from their 3-inch router without breaking the bank may want to check out JessEms Rout-R-Lift II. Router Lift OFL 2.0K . Still, it doesnt work with popular router tables such as Kreg-brand unless users purchase a conversion kit which would cost more, coupled with the fact that the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is pricey. Steel is the best balance between weight and strength, though there were aluminum bodies on a few of the models on our list that were extremely durable. To ensure you get a clean-cut, consider rooting the end of the grains of the wood project you are working on before their edges. 38" x 9 14" x 11 34" (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) hard-anodized aluminum plate won't sag, resists scratches. As the last line of defense in keeping your home powered during an outage, reliability is an absolute must with any portable generator. Most router lifts used a crank handle with the hex end that fits into the lift and allows a user to turn it to raise or lower the router. But that's not all. California Do Not Track Notice. The Jessem looks nearly identical to the Incra with the exception of the rings, as expected since Jessem makes the Incra rebranded unit. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. To lower the noise disturbance, Kreg created a rigid steel base and vibration-dampening rubber feet to absorb the noise-making rattling. The detachable crank handles on the router fit into the plate. Down sides are cost of Jessem accessories. Before you get a router lift with any of these features, you should check your preference and figure out the one that works best for you. Using my Rockler router fence. It's a solid lift that has recieved great reviews if you have a Bench Dog Table. Ben PS this is my current setup. One customer praised its quality as hands down, the best tabletop router table on the market, and another wrote, Well-designed product. Copyright 2023 Thomas Publishing Company. Both Jessem and Incra lifts rock a clamping system made of 4 aluminum blocks which can be adjusted accordingly to your router size. Router lifts are considered as precision tools that provide its users with accurate height adjustments. The router lift is a very handy and practical way to boost the ease of use and versatility of your router table. Best Professional Router Lift - Incra Mast-R-Lift II. Features a simple adjustable clamp locking mechanism that works best with routers of 8-1/4-inch by the 11-3/4-inch base. You may run into issues like broken plates or parts while uninstalling the router lift. Router lifts allow you to raise and lower your router motors a lot easier and faster. With this product, precision would be your friend. In terms of those slight adjustments, when you rotate the adjusting crank once, it moves the bit upward or downward precisely by 1/16 inches. I have a sawstop cabinet saw with wood side tables. Dont assume the router lift plate will accurately fit your router tables opening. We will keep you posted. Kregs PRS2100 benchtop router tableprovides the industrial strength and power of a full-size router table at a portable size, whether youre in the shop, garage, or on a worksite, this precision router table offers the accurate depth and height adjustments you need to make your woodworking project a success. Another customer suggested shopping around for rings from other router models as they can be cheaper than the Mast-R-Lift II options (they found a bargain of five reducing rings for under US$100). What is the mechanism behind the router lift? Easy to assemble and use. First, lets look at some benefits of using a router lift. To lift the router in the router lift, insert the included adjustment handle into the height-adjustment screw built into the tables surface. Fits all Kreg router tables and many competitive brands. Best for Casual Use: GoPlus Electric Aluminum Router Table; 10. Choosing the best one can be challenging, though, because there are plenty of models available and its not something you find in every household. Thanks to the built-in chain-synchronized design, the adjustment mechanism is very sharp and responsive. Having a locking mechanism on your left is the best way to ensure accuracy while youre working. I like the Incra fence that you show in your link. If our buyers guide has helped make it clear what you should look for while shopping please share this guide to the six best router lifts on Facebook and Twitter. With the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift, you advance your routing capabilities as it gives you control whenever you are doing router setup changes and changing the bits. Check the technical components of the router carefully. Thomas uses cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Bosch RA1165. However, the base model doesn't include any featherboards or even a router switch. Twist the router counterclockwise until it stops (this is usually a very small twist), and pull the motor from the base. Unless there is a router table designed specifically for a router, its best to go the universal path. Its six-depth stop position provides accurate height adjustments allowing this router lift to protect from accidents without the need to buy a new router lift. Many people ask us how our router table packages can be so inexpensive. The JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift for 3-1/2 Diameter Motors is a very durable, top-notch tool made with long-lasting materials. JessEm Mast-R-Lift: 2432-inch router table top with an integrated router lift. JessEm Rout-R-Lift has a dedicated lock mechanism that prevents the rotation of the axle. Understanding each feature will help determine which router lift will work best for you. Now that you know a bit more about the features that make the best router lifts and how to choose one, there may be more questions on your mind. With fine-tuning and micro-height adjustments, you can dial in the perfect height, providing smooth, consistent results every time. The router lift features an offset wrench that allows you to change your bits without bending under the table. . Router lifts are often an afterthought, but they are crucial for opening up your routers versatility. It also has an auto-protect feature, and it is also a bit portable. It helps to increase accuracy and precision, which makes your finished products have a professional touch. You can upgrade to other sophisticated router lifts when you are buoyant enough.. You can easily adjust the height of your bits even when there is a material on the plates, Cam lock mechanism that holds the lift in place, Features an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Auto-leveling system for enhanced precision, It comes with a set of twist lock insert rings for better control and accuracy, Features a 3-stop auto-leveling system for better height adjustment, Improved accuracy and precision using the thumbwheel system, Best for professionals who are looking to seamlessly adjust the height of their bits without any other additional tools, Compact design that fits into an averagely sized router table, An improved version of the PRS5000 with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Designed for professionals looking to work long hours on their routing table, Not the perfect fit for big-sized router bits, The Mast-R-Lift II has five double sealed bearings. The router base is designed for use with 1617, 1617EVS, 1617EVSPK routers. The noise-canceling MDF table ensures you wont disturb neighbors as you complete your projects. If you are also getting a custom router table,you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge. The Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420 Router Lift is our premium choice router lift. Mind you, there are two sizes of this lift and the one . Its a very inconvenient and inaccurate way to set up your router. Iron is durable but its heavy and it also corrodes and rusts quickly. I purchased the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II-R lift at the same time, from the same Rockler store, and they confirmed the two were compatible. Let us know what you think about our list in the comment section below. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to drop in place. First, this router lift wouldnt burn your purse when you get one. You should check out the specifications and accessories of your router to see the best router lift that would suit it. We highly recommend looking for a model that provides locking functionality. The anodized aluminum provides clean cuts while offering long tool life. The model is perfect for heavy-duty routers as it offers seamless rotation and control.. The KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is our pick as the best router lift overall. Another issue we had with this model is that you cant zero in the height gauge, so the markings give you an idea of how far youve moved, but you will need to do the math. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Before getting a router lift, you must be sure the plunge will fit into the lift. With special level screws and plate thickness, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock can function with most router tables models without any problem. Its a good system that allows for accurate measurements with little effort. Jessem master lift II and Router Lift II. Users are always enthusiastic about this router lift because it is a product that wont die off quickly.