Best Router for under $200.00 ?

I like the PC 690 1 3/4 hp. You can get another base from PC for $49, or ebay for $29 like I did and just mount that in homemade table and you only need one motor. I have 6 PC’s and 3 ryobis over the years. 2 ryobi’s have gone, but all pc’s are still kickin’

I’ve got the Freud among others and don’t think you can beat it, especially as it eliminates the need for a lift when used in a table.

-- RTB. "dumb animals are not stupid they simply can't talk "

I like Tooldads idea. I have a PC on my christmas list.

-- Adrian ..... The 11th Commandment...."Thou Shalt Not Buy A Wobble Dado"

I’ve used PC’s and Freud. I have a Freud and like it. But, I’ve been using a long straight bit in it and the bearings can’t handle it smoothly. I never had that problem when I was doing solid surface with the PC. Either would still be a good choice. But, as I remember, the PC would tackle anything without a whimper.

-- arborial reconfiguration specialist

i have a 2 1/4” hp dewalt combo that i got from lowes. things a beast. its never slowed down for me once and has even been dropped off of my workbench (opps) but it still keeps on kickin.

I like my Bosch 1617EVS. It’s not normally under $200 with both bases. However, I usually seek refurbs and got mine for $189.

I also have a Bosch trim router, several 690’s, a big Hitachi plunger, and a single speed 1617, but like the 1617EVS best as a “main” do-most-things-well router.

I buy as many of my tools as possible refurbed or blems, and the 690’s were $79/each with straight bases.

-- - Real men read directions

If you get a pc and it sounds at all wrong take it back. The last one I got was a dud and didn’t hold up. Hopefully they fixed it, but then again the last router I got was a rigid.

-- http://www.woodsongsfurniture.com

If you would like to go even cheaper, the Sears craftsman 2hp fixed base router is great, its only like 90 bucks. It actually looks and acts alot like the new porter cables. Compare the pictures and they look like they were made in the same factory. Non the less, this router is amazing, I have it in a table and it runs very well, it has variable speed, and it never really slows down. It comes with an edge guide, a 1/2 and 1/4 inch collet. It also has lights under the base of the motor so that as your routing, you can see what your doing, Which by the way is very very helpful, when free handing signs and what not. I don’t know if your a craftsman person, because alot of people think there products are cheap, and I’ll agree with that on alot of there items but this router is definitely one exemption. 11 out of 10 stars, check it out, you will not be disappointed.

-- Tyler, Illinois