Ryobi Router Review
Here we go with another review: this time we have prepared a comprehensive guide to Ryobi router. So, if you’re after this product you are in the right place. As always we have brief introduction to routers, manufacturer’s offer, specs and features of available models and of course pros & cons. At the end you’ll find summary of other reviews. Enjoy!
Check out the below deals if you’re after a great price!
Basic Information on Routers
A router is a device that is used in order to cut out or to hollow out a portion of a material. This material could be thick and hard pieces of plastic or wood. This may also be used for thinner metal sheets. However, routers are more commonly used for woodworking. There are different varieties of routers. The variations are often based on the styles that they create when performing, such as the plunge, D handled, and double knob handled types. There are also certain varieties that are based on the speed of the routing.
Which Ryobi Router Is Right For You?
Ryobi claims that its routers are ideal for woodworking tasks. Just a glance at how these devices look, one would immediately get the impression that these routers are very convenient to use. This is because of the ergonomic design that these generally have. Aside from the ergonomic feature, these are also very effective in making grooves, round edges and cuts. Ryobi has three router models but it must be pointed out also that the laminate trimmer may also be considered as a router. It basically has the same mechanism although it is a smaller version of the router and is usually meant for materials such as formica. The different Ryobi routers are as follows:
- Ryobi 1-1/2 Peak HP Router Kit
- Ryobi Router Table with 1.5 Peak HP Router
- Ryobi 2 Peak HP EVS Plunge Router
- Ryobi Laminate Trimmer Kit
- Ryobi 18 Volt One+ Laminate Trimmer
Below you can find the main specs for all models:
| Ryobi 1-1/2 Peak HP Router Kit | Ryobi Router Table with 1.5 Peak HP Router | Ryobi 2 Peak HP EVS Plunge Router | Ryobi Laminate Trimmer Kit | Ryobi 18 Volt One+ Laminate Trimmer | |
| Model | R163K | R163RTA | RE180PL | TR45K | P600 |
| Motor | 120VAC, 8.5 A | 120VAC, 8.5 A | 120VAC, 10 A | 120VAC, 4.5 A | |
| Battery | 18 V | ||||
| RPM (no load) | 25,000 | 25,000 | 15,000-23,000 | 25,000 | 26,000 |
| Collet Size | ¼” | ¼” | ½” with ¼” | ¼” | ¼” |
| Net Tool Weight | 6.50 lbs | 16 lbs | 9.68 lbs | 3 lbs | 2.30 lbs |
| Cord | 10 ft | 10 ft |
Features and Pros & Cons
- Ryobi 1-1/2 Peak HP Router Kit
This is a very powerful router which is powered for high performance by an 8.5 Amp motor. With a die cast aluminum base, this guarantees precision and stability. Comfort is provided to the user because of the ergonomically designed handles. It is also near the handles that the switches for operation are located. For depth adjustment, the quick release button is present in the device. Aside from this, there is also a micro-adjustment knob meant for easy resetting of depth of cuts. Illumination on the material being routed is provided by a LED light. A purchase of this would include a non-slip mat, which would hold the material in place while routing is being done.
- Ryobi Router Table with 1.5 Peak HP Router
This particular Ryobi router model has basically the same characteristics as the 1-1/2 Peak HP Router Kit. The most the distinctive feature though is the 13”x18” die cast aluminum table. This provides the user with 234 sq. inches of work area. This also has a cast aluminum fence that comes with a sliding in/out feed blocks. The adjustable bit guard on the other hand also serves as a vacuum port. When using the router for longer materials, the fence face can simply be slid. Height and depth adjustments are made easy. This may be a bit bulky compared to other Ryobi models without a table.
- Ryobi 2 Peak HP EVS Plunge Router
This is the only Ryobi router model that has variable RPMs. The machine can be started at a slow pace at 15,000 RPM at first. This can be adjusted to pick up speed electronically to the maximum of 23,000 RPM. The AccusStop mechanism, which is unique in this router model, can be used to make micro-adjustments to depth in cutting. The spindle lock makes it easy for the user to just wrench once in order to replace the bit.
- Ryobi Laminate Trimmer Kit
Light and compact, this is the tool that could be used to deal with smaller materials. This has a woodworking sub-base which could be used for different applications. Laminate trimming with just one hand can actually be done with this device. Good visibility on the routing task is made visible by the presence of a clear sub-base. Depth adjustments can easily be done with the cam-lever clamp.
- Ryobi 18 Volt One+ Laminate Trimmer
With a 26,000 RPM, this device ensures a very fast and efficient trimming. This is perfect for those who are left-handed because the base can actually be repositioned for left-handed operation. The clear base also ensures visibility on the works being done. This may be corded but what makes it amazing is that this does not make it inconvenient to the user. Bit changes can be done very easily because of the big spindle lock.
Here’s a great video on how to ‘zero in’ your Ryobi router:
Users’ Reviews
Unfortunately there are very few reviews, so we find it hard to objectively assess Ryobi routers. As with other Ryobi tools, their routers are not in such high demand.
If you’re unsure whether to go for it or not you can check out other routers reviews.
Below you can find some of the very few opinions.
“Routing has never been this easy with the help of Ryobi since it has all the mechanisms that guarantee accuracy.” —- Neil P.
“The clear base allows me to check on what I am doing with the material.” —- Bruce B.
“It’s the high RPM capabilities that I like the most because it makes my job done faster.” —- Rich P.
“I am having a problem with its depth adjustment latch. I think that it is a bit sloppy.” —- Roland T.
“The depth of the cut can sometimes be not precise; adjustments have to be done.” —- Don C.
