Milling cutters: a mini workshop in your home

A milling cutter is not only a huge industrial machine that operates with a loud, frightening sound. For a couple of decades now, compact milling units began to appear in houses that do not take up much space and perform a variety of functions: cutting grooves, edges, holes, splines, chamfering, sawing, shaving, grinding, engraving, etc.

The most common routers are vertical mills, since they provide the master with the most comfortable work and often have a programming mode in which sketches, templates or drawings can be laid in advance.

Who needs a home router

A milling cutter is a specific tool, but some specialists need it constantly:

• Furniture makers for the formation of grooves for connecting dowels and dowels. A milling cutter for furniture makers is called lamellar or filler.
• Carpenters for wood processing.
• Small woodworkers: woodcarvers, engravers.
• Parquet flooring. Milling cutters for parquet flooring are called trimmer.

What to look for when choosing a vertical milling machine

Working (or vertical) milling stroke

The workflow directly depends on the value of this indicator. The higher this parameter, the larger the cutter can be used on the machine. If the stroke is small, the cutter and machine will not be able to perform work where deep grooves or holes are needed.

Availability and quality of speed governor control

Cutter speed (rotational speed) is a key parameter in the operation of the entire mechanism. The regulator allows you to adjust the rotation speed so that overheating does not occur and, as a result, breakdown or deterioration of the quality of the device.

Smooth start

A parameter that is incredibly relevant for milling machines with high power. The smoother the device is started, the less likely it is to break from a power surge and the more convenient it is to work with it.

Dynamic brake

This device can stop the operation of the tool very quickly if necessary.

Noisy device

Oddly enough, this is a very important factor for a router. Noise disturbs others (there is a lot of noise in the apartment, for a long time and at any time), and is also harmful to the employee himself.Constant presence in the area of ​​high annoying noise negatively affects the body and even the human psyche.

The best routers for low power (up to 1200 W)

The specificity of low-power milling cutters lies in their small size, mobility, ease of use and lightness. The power of such devices is sufficient to equip a workshop in the house, but they are not suitable for professional use.

This is explained by a number of their disadvantages: you have to work using cutters of a certain length and diameter - no more than 32 mm.

HIKOKI M8V2

This model is an excellent choice for making different grooves in wood. The combination of high power and rpm guarantees excellent performance parameters.

The presence of the soft start option makes it possible to perform cuts without chips. The model also includes an adapter for a dust collector, which is necessary to keep the workplace tidy.

The average price is 12,000 rubles.

• the ability to adjust the speed;
• spindle lock for easy cutter change;
• maintaining a stable speed under load;
• soft start function;
• in order to keep order in the workplace, the device has a guide for the vacuum cleaner.

• not detected.

Tesla TRE710

This is a small multifunctional router that is designed for working with wood blanks. The package contains additional bases and accessories, which makes it possible to use this model as an edge and traditional 2-hand router, as well as a trimmer.

Since the device is available in 6, 8 and 10 mm collets, it is compatible with most milling cutters. The device is equipped with stable electronic components, a soft start function and the ability to adjust the speed.

All components, with the exception of the collet, are fixed without a key, which makes the model comfortable both in assembly and in use.

The standard set also includes a parallel support and roller guide for edging. The model is sold in a secure fabric bag with storage compartments.

The average price is 10,000 rubles.

• two-handed base for use as a traditional plunge router;
• one-handed base is suitable for working with curvy grooves;
• an inclined base is a great option for interacting with corner edges;
• the ability to customize the number of revolutions;
• complete with storage bag.

• not detected.

Makita RPO900

This model is in great demand among professionals. It has established itself as a very reliable and durable machine. For the convenience of the user, the handles are rubberized. Body material: durable plastic, platform material: die-cast aluminum. The working stroke is 35 mm, the power is 900 W - quite average in terms of value. The device weighs quite little, therefore it is convenient to carry and store it. The milling cutter is conveniently and accurately adjusted; various templates are supplied with it.

The average price is 8,600 rubles.

• the set includes a copier;
• light weight (only 2.7 kg);
• comfortable rubberized handles;
• durable plastic case.

• there is no soft start system.

Interskol FM-55 / 1000E

A very good model of domestic production, which is a worthy competitor to foreign counterparts. Compact and low power. It is made mostly for plumbing work. The device has only 1 collet per 8 mm, the rest need to be purchased if necessary, however, in fairness, foreign counterparts are equipped in about the same way. The high-precision and reliable device justifies its price.

The average price is 10,000 rubles.

• very high quality workmanship, reliability;
• easy to use, ergonomic;
• high working accuracy - practically without backlash.

• slightly overpriced.

Bosch POF 1200 AE

Convenient low-power model of the famous German manufacturer is perfect for beginners in carpentry. It features a large milling depth (55 mm), ease of operation and reliability of the design. With all the positive qualities, the router is very inexpensive and affordable for almost anyone.

The average price is 6 800 rubles.

• the cutter has almost no backlash - it is quite insignificant;
• very affordable price;
• the set of revolutions is very smooth;
• the engine is not the most powerful, but this is enough for such a device.

• use in the transition from the body to the platform of transparent plastic, which is not very durable.

The best mid-range routers (1200 - 1900 W)

The devices in this category are in some way a "golden mean". Such devices can be used to work with more global tasks both at home and in professional workshops. In any case, it is necessary to take into account the fact that such a router is not very convenient to work with finely detailed coatings, since the accuracy of the final result can be very low.

HIKOKI M12SA2

This model is great for making grooves in wood. There are customizable handles that guarantee a comfortable and quality grip. The milling depth can be adjusted using a practical dial.

The average price is 16,700 rubles.

• high performance;
• precise and quick adjustment by means of a round handle and a lever;
• rubberized handle;
• ergonomic design;
• improved chuck vise.

• not detected.

KRUGER KR-1650

This router is suitable for curving edging, grooving and hole making. The power of the model is 1 400 W, and the number of revolutions of the working element fluctuates within the range of 16-30 thousand revolutions per minute (can be set using the regulator).

The collet compresses cutters with a diameter of 6.8 mm. To put it, you need to insert it into the collet, then press the shaft lock and, holding it motionless, securely fix the cutter with a key. The device comes with a large number of the most necessary cutters, which can be practically stored in the existing wooden box.

To allow the user to quickly and easily access the corner brushes, which may become unusable after a while, there are special screw holes.

The average price is 6 800 rubles.

• backup brushes included;
• additional cutters;
• plastic power cable;
• lack of gaps;
• smooth adjustment of revolutions.

• not enough collets in the standard set.

Elitech Ф 1800Э

Compact yet powerful (1800 W) router suitable for hardwood, durable plastics and even some metals. Reliable and durable, the device is suitable for both beginners and professionals.

Very smooth start-up, the ability to precisely set the depth of the cutter entry and the presence of a convenient backlight make the process of work pleasant and easy, and the model itself is desirable for a wide range of users. Plus, the price is affordable for such characteristics.

The average price is 9 250 rubles.

• almost complete absence of backlash;
• very affordable price;
• the set includes 3 collets for 8, 10 and 12 mm.

• the dust extractor does not do the job well.

Bosch POF 1400 ACE

The compact device has low power, with a large number of revolutions - up to 28 thousand rpm. This frequency allows the processing of hard wood species. The device is supplied with 2 additional collets for 6 and 8 mm.

Also a bonus is a convenient case for a copier. The disadvantage of the model is the lack of a starting device. However, this disadvantage is compensated by a decent weight - 3.5 kg. The reliability of the Bosch brand plus an affordable price make this model one of the most desirable for the consumer.

The average price is 10 350 rubles.

• very low price;
• small, but sufficient engine power for working with hard rocks;
• ease of use;
• the set includes a case for the copier.

• lack of a smooth speed set;
• the device generates a high noise level (about 95 dB).

Makita 3612 C

This router is quite difficult to find a worthy competitor. High-quality and very durable, with an 1850 W motor, it accelerates to 23 thousand rpm and is capable of working with very hard materials, and with constant load, the device can work for decades without breakdowns. Incredibly high reliability and costs a lot, but for professionals who use a router every day, this price is absolutely justified.

The average price is 22,400 rubles.

• ultra-high reliability;
• excellent ergonomics noted by many users;
• very powerful engine.

• high price compared to similar models.

The best high power routers (1900 - 2600 W)

High power routers are great for a wide range of jobs that medium power machines cannot handle. In particular, with the help of such devices, you can make straight and carbon connections, make panels, cut out facades for furniture, etc.

These devices are intended solely for professional use, so it is completely inappropriate to purchase such milling cutters for domestic use.

Tesla TRE2200

The high power of this tool makes it possible to penetrate the material up to 75 mm. The model has an integrated module for maintaining the number of revolutions under load (constant electronic nodes) with the ability to adjust the revolutions.

The device is supplied with 2 collets of 12 mm and 4 adapter sleeves, the dimensions of which are 2x6 and 2x8 mm respectively. Thanks to the shaft locking function, you can easily and quickly change cutters.

A copying sleeve (template) is supplied with the device for the most comfortable work.

The average price is 12,900 rubles.

• vertical stroke (75 mm) allows the cutter to be lowered deeply;
• the parallel base makes it possible to make cuts corresponding to the edge of the workpiece;
• stepped base, swivel type - 3 presets for diving depth;
• function of regulating the number of revolutions;
• high precision of milling settings.

• not detected.

HIKOKI M12V2

This is a model with a high-power motor, with which it was possible to achieve high performance parameters of the device. The maximum milling depth of the workpieces is 65 mm. The body of the device is covered with markings, according to which you can set the required value.

The tool is excellent for milling edges, splines, grooves, profiling, etc. This router will be a good assistant when working with plastic materials, gypsum board, MDF, wood blanks and acrylic.

In the model we are considering, electronic control is installed. There is a soft start function that maintains a stable speed during operation, thereby reducing the risk of damage and not affecting tool performance.

Shaft locking is an option that simplifies and increases the speed of changing cutters.

To regulate the speed, there is a regulator with a range of indicators from 8 to 22 thousand rpm. The speed is clearly adapted to the material being processed and the specific job. For quick collection of shavings, you can connect a vacuum cleaner to the tool. The package contains a key, an adjacent support and a user manual.

The average price is 22,200 rubles.

• adjustable speed;
• soft start option;
• eccentric action.

• not detected.

Bort BOF-2100

This model is perfect for working with wood blanks of different types and strengths.The device is used for precise milling of holes, edges and grooves.

This router is the perfect choice for professionals. The base of the tool is made of a strong alloy, and the speed setting makes it possible to significantly increase the scope of the device.

The average price is 6,300 rubles.

• does not make noise;
• ease of use;
• high performance;
• the presence of a soft start function;
• availability.

• no clip included;
• large gap.

DeWALT DW 625 E

The renowned manufacturer DeWalt specializes in the production of various high quality tools. The DW625E is professional and can handle wood, plastic and even soft metals like aluminum.

A vertical stroke of 80 mm is a high figure for a compact milling machine. Although some users note that the figure is a little overestimated and in practice it turns out to be 77. The model has a very smooth start. The start button is made like a slider without a fuse.

It is strange that the set does not include a collet of the most popular size - 8mm. It needs to be purchased separately for a lot of money. The powerful 2000 W motor is capable of handling hard materials, while the weight of the device is 5.6 kg.

The average price is 26,000 rubles.

• very good, decent quality;
• regulators are convenient and reliable;
• very powerful engine;
• the presence of a soft start system;
• reliable rip fence.

• no fuse on the start button;
• no collet for 8 millimeters - you need to buy it separately;
• the working stroke of the router in practice is slightly less than the declared one.

Makita RP2300FC

The Japanese model, characterized by the highest quality, great power and many additional features, is one of the most requested milling cutters among professional woodworkers.

The engine power is 2300 W, the spindle accelerates to 23 thousand rpm. This power noticeably affects the weight, which is 6.1 kg. The body is made of the most durable plastic, and the platform is made of high-alloy aluminum. There is a good LED illumination of the working location. The set comes with a sophisticated copying device for exact repetition of complex grooves according to the pattern. The high price for such a device is fully justified.

The average price is 23,400 rubles.

• comfortable rubberized handles;
• durable aluminum base;
• the highest Japanese workmanship;
• very powerful engine;
• the presence of a soft start.

• high price, but for such a set of qualities it is fully justified;
• the presence of a tiny backlash on the collets.

The best edge routers

The key difference between routers and routers is static. Due to their design features, in such devices it is impossible to raise and lower the milling cutter, so the milling settings are set before starting work. This measure makes it possible to easily process the edges of the workpiece, but it is not possible to perform other work.

Bulat FR-900

It is a high-powered model with excellent performance figures. With its help, the most laborious milling operations are carried out. The base of the device is made of sturdy aluminum, which reduces the weight of the router and protects the material from damage.

Integrated electronics assemblies make interaction with the model as comfortable as possible. They allow you to adjust the number of revolutions for a specific material. There is also a soft start option, a colorless shield and the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner to prevent chips from entering the operator.

The average price is 2,300 rubles.

• compactness;
• lightness;
• comfortable operation;
• the presence of a copier and a guide as standard;
• availability.

• users question the reliability of the tool.

BOSCH GKF 550 Professional

This model will be an excellent tool for processing edges, chamfers and other decorative elements made of wood. Free access to brushes implies the possibility of their easy change without the need to resort to the services of service centers. The device has a floating switch for simple and comfortable operation.

The adjacent base guarantees a stable position of the cutter for the most accurate milling performance.

The average price is 5,400 rubles.

• adjacent support for precise work execution;
• compactness;
• lightness;
• high speed of rotation of the cutter for interaction with thick materials;
• comfortable operation.

• lack of cutters in the package.

Vityaz MF-1300

This router makes it possible to work comfortably with wood blanks. With this device, you can curly work the edges or cut profiles. The presence of two rubberized handles ensures a firm grip of the router, which reduces the amount of vibration.

The base of the tool is made of sturdy aluminum, and the presence of a special scale makes it possible to adjust the milling depth. The device can be adjusted for a specific task by changing the number of revolutions. High assembly reliability guarantees durability.

The average price is 5,700 rubles.

• the ability to adjust the depth of milling;
• blocking of the shaft;
• large support;
• the presence of an extension cord for connecting a vacuum cleaner;
• speed setting.

• the indicator of the adjustment accuracy in the milling process falls out all the time;
• lack of a smooth start function.

Hammer FRZ710 Premium

Hammer (not to be confused with the car brand of the same name) is a well-deserved manufacturer of very good quality power tools. The FRZ710 PREMIUM is positioned as an edge router, but it can partially be used as a conventional router, but with a cutter stroke of only 30 mm.

It is possible to use the device as a router only in cases of extreme necessity. In the usual role - processing of edges - vibrations may appear, which can slightly spoil the 100% accuracy of work. First you need to adjust. All in all, this is a great simple home model that is not suitable for professionals.

The average price is 9,500 rubles.

• the set includes 3 most popular collets for 6, 8 and 10 mm;
• very simple compact home model, which is always "at hand";
• good performance of edge operations.

• when working, the router is difficult to hold in your hands, you can feel tangible vibrations.

Makita RT0700CX2

The very compact model of the edge router from the Japanese manufacturer Makita is one of the best among such baby machines. However, the filling is rather weak for serious work. The 710 W motor accelerates the spindle to 30 thousand rpm, which allows the model to work with hard wood species. The cutter retracts a maximum of 35 mm.

The working area is protected by transparent plastic, which is better not to press hard: there were no breakages, but with the naked eye it is clear that this part will not withstand strong pressure.

The average price is 14,300 rubles.

• good price for such a device;
• excellent workmanship, ergonomics;
• powerful motor with high rotation speed.

• fragile plastic platform requiring careful handling.

What to choose after all

Distinctive features of low-power milling machines are:

• compact dimensions;
• mobility and ease of transportation;
• convenience of work;
• simple, clear settings and controls.

The power of mini-mills is enough for equipping a home workshop, however, on an industrial scale or for real professionals, they are of little use, since there is not always enough power, settings and depth of cutter entry.

Medium power cutters are designed for more serious work than the "little" models.Such devices can be kept for household needs, but they can also be purchased for small enterprises where products are produced in small batches. Such devices are rude in terms of movement and it is not worthwhile to carry out work that requires jewelry precision.

High power milling cutters are designed for a wide range of jobs for which the power of an average tool is not enough. High-power cutters can perform corner and straight join operations, make panels, cut out various furniture fronts, etc. This technique is made for professionals. The purchase of such a machine is justified if the master constantly works on it or on the scale of a small enterprise.

Edge milling cutters, unlike classic vertical cutters, are static: they do not have the ability to raise and lower the cutter, so the work parameters must be set before starting work. Trying to carry out any other kind of work with an edge mill is fraught with damage to the material.