Whether you’re a professional woodworker or DIY hobbyist, choosing the right router for your needs is crucial. Two of the top options on the market are the Bosch 1617EVSPK and the DeWalt DW618PK. Both kits contain a versatile fixed base and plunge base router along with accessories.

In this article, we’ll compare the key features of these popular wood routers to help you determine which is the better fit for your projects.

Our goal is to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each router so you can make an informed purchasing decision.

We’ll look at important factors like motor power, speed control, dust collection, accessories, and ease of use. And we’ll also share how these routers perform for different woodworking applications based on hands-on user reviews.

Whether you need a rugged router for heavy-duty use or something more precise for detailed work, both the power tool Bosch router and DeWalt deliver. By the end of this in-depth comparison guide, you’ll know which of these variable speed routers is the right match for your needs and budget. Let’s dive in!

Bosch vs Dewalt Wood Router

Feature	Bosch 1617EVSPK	DeWalt DW618PK
Motor Power	12 amp, 2.25 HP	12 amp, 2.25 HP
Speed Range	8,000 – 25,000 RPM	8,000 – 24,000 RPM
Bases Included	Fixed and plunge	Fixed and plunge
Depth Adjustment	Microfine, 1/64″ increments	Micro-fine, 1/64″ increments
Dust Collection	2″ sub-base opening	Through-column system
Weight	18.2 lbs	22.6 lbs
Warranty	1 year	3 year

Key Feature Comparison Bosch 1617evspk vs Dewalt dw618pk

Let’s dive into the details and see how the Bosch 1617EVSPK and DeWalt Router DW618PK routers stack up in terms of features and specifications.

Motor Power

• Both routers have robust 12 amp motors that deliver 2.25 HP for routing even hardwoods.
• The Bosch has a 8,000 – 25,000 RPM speed range while the DeWalt offers 8,000 – 24,000 RPM.
• They provide constant speed control even under heavy load thanks to electronic feedback technology.
• They both have soft start motors and constant response circuitry to keeps the RPM (rotations per minute) steady by providing a constant power supply. 

Bases

• The Bosch 1617EVSPK includes both a fixed base (RA1161) and plunge base (RA1166).
• Similarly, the DeWalt DW618PK has a fixed base (DW6184) and plunge base (DW6182).
• The bases on both models allow for quick release and swapping of the motor pack without tools.
• Bosch’s bases have rounded handles while DeWalt’s bases use rubber overmolded handles.
• A fixed-base router is the best choice when using a dovetail jig.

Depth Adjustment

Router	Depth Adjustment
Bosch 1617EVSPK	Microfine adjustment in 1/64″ increments
DeWalt DW618PK	Micro-fine depth ring adjusts in 1/64″ increments

• The depth can be adjusted from above the table for both routers when mounted in a table.

Dust Collection

• The Bosch has a 2″ sub-base opening for attaching dust extraction accessories.
• The DeWalt uses a through-the-column dust collection system for cleaner visibility.

Plunge Routers

• Both the Bosch and DeWalt kits come with plunge base routers that allow for precise depth adjustment during use.
• The plunge routers can make stopped cuts and template cuts that fixed bases cannot.
• DeWalt’s five position turret stop allows for preset plunge depths.

Combination Router Kits

• These kits provide versatility by including both a fixed and plunge base router in one package.
• They allow users to tackle a wider variety of woodworking tasks with a single motor pack.
• Switching between bases is quick and easy due to the tool-free release systems.

Router Tables

• Adding a router table provides larger routing surface for handling big projects.
• The fixed bases on both models have holes for mounting to router tables.
• They allow above-table height adjustment for convenience and consistency.

Router Bits

• Many types of bits are available: straight, spiral, edge forming, joinery, grooving, etc.
• Carbide-tipped bits last the longest under heavy use.
• Bit shank size must match router collet size (1/4″ or 1/2″).

Edge Guides

• Edge guides attach to the baseplate to keep the router a set distance from the workpiece edge.
• This allows routing parallel to edges for improved consistency and straight lines.
• Precise guide bushes enable routering specific shapes and patterns.

Real-World Performance

Now that we’ve compared the features, let’s look at how the Bosch 1617EVSPK and DeWalt DW618PK perform in real woodworking applications based on hands-on user reviews.

Typical Woodworking Uses

Both routers can handle a wide variety of woodworking tasks like:

• Edge profiling – Adding decorative edges or rounding over sharp corners
• Groove cutting – For inlays, joinery, and slotted cuts
• Pattern and template routing – Cutting precision shapes and designs
• Router table use – For jointing, rabbets, dados, and more
• Sign making and engraving – With small precision bits
• Trimming laminates – For custom laminate countertops

Plunge Capabilities

The plunge bases expand the routing versatility for stopped cuts, mortises, cavities, and freehand use. Users praise the precision and control offered by both plunge routers.

User Feedback

Here’s what real owners are saying about using these wood routers:

“The Bosch 1617EVSPK router has become my go-to for just about every project. The power is more than enough for dense exotic woods and the adjustable speed lets me tune it precisely.”

“I love how easy it is to swap bases on the DeWalt DW618PK. Being able to quickly change from fixed to plunge base makes it so versatile.”

“The DeWaltDW618PK router is a workhorse in my shop. I’ve used it for hundreds of hours without a hitch. The dust collection works great too.”

“Routed some decorative edges on over 200 feet of oak boards with the Bosch 1617EVSPK and it performed flawlessly. Great value kit.”

Recommended Uses

Bosch 1617EVSPK

• Precision joinery work – Excellent fine depth control
• Router table use – Wide speed range to tune RPM
• Freehand use – Comfortable rounded handles

DeWalt DW618PK

• Heavy duty routing – Durable for high-volume use
• Edge forming – Through-column dust collection keeps work area clean
• Plunge cutting – Smooth rack and pinion plunge function

Both are excellent all-around wood routers suitable for virtually any project. Their performance reflects the quality and value they provide.

Final Verdict – bosch vs dewalt

After comparing the features and real-world performance of the Bosch 1617EVSPK and DeWalt DW618PK routers, here is my final verdict.

Both routers are excellent choices that won’t disappoint. The Bosch offers slightly better fine depth control and a wider speed range. Meanwhile, the DeWalt touts a superior dust collection system and comfortable rubber handles.

For detail-oriented woodworking like joinery and fine engraving, I would recommend the Bosch 1617EVSPK. The microfine depth adjustments really shine for precision users.

For heavy duty use and projects that produce lots of sawdust, the DeWalt DW618PK gets my vote. The through-column dust collection results in a cleaner workspace and improved visibility.

You can’t go wrong with either of these versatile wood router kits. They provide professional capabilities at a very reasonable price point. If you’re looking to add routing abilities to your workshop, be sure to take a close look at both the Bosch 1617EVSPK and DeWalt DW618PK.

Check out more detailed reviews on each model to determine the best choice to suit your projects and budget. And let us know if you have any other questions as you evaluate these excellent wood routers!

Frequently Asked Questions