In woodworking, precision is paramount as it affects the final quality of your making structure. Sometimes making cuts, trimming, or joining pieces, you will need to make some height adjustments. And that’s why you should have the best router lifts for woodworking. With the right tool, you will find it easy to adjust and make precise cuts.
You don’t want to make mistakes with your choice of router lifts, and I’m helping you achieve that by offering you a review of the very best tools in the market.
Additionally, I’ve included a comprehensive buyer’s guide with all the necessary facts that you need to check in a router lift to ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
Read on to find more about the products.
Table of Contents
List of The Best Router Lifts For Woodworking
1. JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift
The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, is if not one of the best router lifts for woodworking thanks to its many amazing features. Its five double-sealed bearings are made strong and constitute a patented feature of adding tension to the threaded spindle, reducing backlash and vibration.
The great locking mechanism of the tool allows you convenience, especially for heavy-duty and long term operations. The locks are accessible from the top of the surface and engage with the crank handle that raises and lowers the Lift.
Additionally, the Mast-R-Lift II clamping blocks are unique as they enable users to use different fixed base routers with the Lift. The unit also fits most of the static base routers without the use of an adaptor collar.
The Summary of Top Features
- The tool has an exclusive cam locking system that accommodates heavy-duty and long term routing operations.
- The double sealed bearing construction of the Lift makes it strong and usable even with heavy routers.
- Its patented feature of adding tension to the threaded spindle helps remove backlash and vibrations.
- It uses 3/8-inch solid aluminum and Hard Anodized for durability
- The unit can fit most base routers on the market today, giving you room to choose the router best for you.
Pros
- It easily fits different routers.
- It uses a robust locking mechanism.
- The unit is sturdy and usable, even with heavy routers.
- It guarantees your durability.
Cons
- It is usable with routers that have a fixed base.
2. KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift
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. The Lift usually replaces the standard insert plate in a router table and works with any of the 20+ most known router models. It does not need adapters or modifications, yet it operates in a high-performance carriage that you raise and lower from above the table.
You do not need to reach under the table with the router lift to make any adjustments or change bits. The Lift has a crank to adjust the height easily from just above the table. The set up makes adjustments and works very efficiently.
The precision router’s design is in a way that every full revolution of the adjusting crank moves the carriage—and your bit—exactly 1⁄16″, though adjustments down to thousandths of an inch are possible. These adjustments are made accurate by the built-in micro-adjust scale that can be analyzed at any point to establish your baseline bit setup. In case you are working on repeat cuts, it is easy to exact height bit changes and readjust.
The Summary of Top Features
- The precision router consists of anodized aluminum, which makes the plate strong such that it won’t scratch or sag.
- It has a bearing guided carriage that gives you a smooth operation.
- It has an above table collect access that makes it possible for you to perform any bit changes and adjustments above the table.
- It makes use of a crank for accurate height adjustments.
Pros
- It is quick and easy to set up.
- Its height is easily adjustable.
- It is usable with a variety of tables.
- It is easy to rotate the router body for appropriate lift height.
Cons
- You should count the turns of the handle so that you can go back to a previous position.
3. JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift For 3-1/2″ Diameter Motors, JessEm# 02310
The double-sealed ball-bearing construction of this unit helps smoothly raise and lower your motor with ease. All machined components on the Rout-R-Lift II are usually CNC machined, which gives you confidence that you are working with a sturdy router.
The tool has diameter motors compatible with Porter-Cable 690/890, DW 610/616/618, Bosch 1617/1618, or any other routers with 3.5″ diameter motors. You, therefore, need not be worried that you will not find a fitting router. For strength and durability, the manufacturer uses aluminum to make the motors.
Like all the Router Lifts, you press the shafts on the Rout-R-Lift II into a shaft mount with hydraulic pressure. The rods are fitted to the top plate and put in place with some screws spreading the lateral load so that you get a very rigid and durable mount to withstand the most challenging routing operations.
The Summary of Top Features
- You quickly change the bits from above the table without the need for bent wrenches, and this makes your adjustments smooth.
- Aluminum with a phenolic top plate is a part of the Lift, which makes it strong and durable.
- It has a double sealed bearing to the spindle that helps the router smoothly raise and lower your motor with ease.
Pros
- It has a double-sealed design for ball bearings.
- It uses aluminum and phenolic plates.
- It provides a rigid mount for your loud.
- It easily bears the tension of the Lift.
- You the bits from above the table.
Cons
- You will need to purchase extra corner brackets and mounting plates. The package you get does not include all sizes.
4. Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Designed for Rockler Tables
Comfortably raise and lower your router without having to remove it from your table with the Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Designed for Rockler Tables. The unit has a convenient and straightforward cam router adjustment system, which lets you quickly make precise 0.001″ bit height adjustments from above. For added precision, you can operate the included lift crank with a naked eye.
The tool features five sealed ball bearings on the lifting screw and cam lock, which provides you smooth operation as you do your job. It also includes five steel reducing rings for instant ring changes. All the five steel reducing rings are magnetic for an easy, quick, and perfect ring fit.
This Lift can work with lots of routers. Some of the compatible routers include Bosch 1617EVS, 1618 Craftsman, 17543 Craftsman 17540, Craftsman 28190, DeWalt DW610, DeWalt DW618, Hitachi M12VC, Hitachi KM12VC, Milwaukee 562, Milwaukee 5626, Milwaukee 5615, Milwaukee 5616, Milwaukee 5619, Porter Cable 7518, Porter Cable 690-699 series, Porter Cable 890 series, Rigid R29302 and Makita 1101.
The unit can work with a variety of router tables. Some of them include Bench Dog ProMaxRT, Cast-Iron Router Table ProMAX, Cast-Iron Router Table Extension for Table Saws, ProTop Contractor, and Portable Router Table.
The Top Summary of Top Features
- It is convenient for use as you can adjust your router bit’s height just by slipping in the lift crank and winding up and down.
- It has an exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system for instant ring changes and perfect ring fit.
- It has a unique ball-bearing mechanism for super-smooth action and low friction.
Pros
- It has an ultra-responsive, direct-drive 16TPI lift screw mechanism.
- It allows for precise height adjustments.
- The height of your router bit is easily adjustable.
- It provides a smooth action with low friction.
Cons
- The side crank does not work effortlessly as compared to mounted thumb wheels.
5. Jet 708124 XLIFT-K: Xacta-Lift Router INS w/DLX Fence
Jet 708124 XLIFT-K: Xacta-Lift Router INS w/DLX Fence is an efficient lift model with a unique lifting mechanism. Its removable handle helps you adjust for appropriate depth adjustments.
The appropriate positioning of the unit’s guards enhances flexibility. You will also enjoy using the removable handle, which adds to your convenience.
For your massive projects, the Lift is powerful and will support them. The router’s insert plate consists of anodized aluminum, and the model has two shafts made of steel that are ¾ inches each. These features add rigidity to the router bit.
The Summary of Top Features
- You can position the router guards appropriately to enhance flexibility.
- It has a wide opening at the base so that larger router bits work comfortably.
- Its plate is made of anodized aluminum to improve its sturdiness.
- You can adjust the removable handle for convenient use.
Pros
- It allows for depth adjustment.
- It has an adjustable handle.
- It can accommodate large router bits.
Cons
- It can bear friction for a short period.
6. Router Lift FX
Router Lift FX allows you to adjust the bit height from the top of your table. Your work, therefore, becomes relatively easy and convenient. The unit has plate sizes that perfectly fit the router tables you are using. It is also compatible with the large opening inserts that you may want to use for your work.
You can use a great variety of routers with this tool-whether they are small or medium-sized. As you shop, you just need to find the one that is most convenient for you.
It has a heavy-duty plate that provides support for projects of different weights. The robust design of this plate makes it withstand significant amounts of pressure.
The Summary of Top Features
- It has a heavy-duty plate that provides sufficient support.
- The scale is of a convenient size that allows it to fit the router tables that you are using.
- You can easily make adjustments to the bit height from the top of the router table.
Pros
- It is of robust design.
- It offers you a great set up where you can use many tables.
- It is easy and quick to install.
- It is easy to master how it works.
Cons
- The height of the tool cannot be locked.
7. Woodpeckers Precision Woodworking Tools PRL-V2-420 Precision Router Lift
Woodpeckers Precision Woodworking Tools PRL-V2-420 Precision Router Lift has a thumbwheel micro adjuster that allows quick and easy bit height adjustments. It also has a comfortable reading scale built into the top that enhances your adjustments’ precision and accuracy.
Additionally, the Quick-Lift wrench of the unit allows you to bypass the micro-adjustment mechanism and elevate the router collet to use your wrenches above the table. The manufacturer has made the Lift with a one-piece motor carriage to improve rigidity.
The Summary of Top Features
- It has a one-piece motor carriage to give rigidity.
- It has a thumbwheel micro adjuster for quick and easy adjustments.
- It has an easy reading scale on the top for accurate and precise adjustments.
Pros
- It is easy to install.
- The unit fits nicely in a router table as well as giving you room to make adjustments.
- It is a high-quality lift.
- It fits even a 3.25 hp router motor.
Cons
- You may need some time to master how the router works.
- The thumbwheel can sometimes be stiff.
- It does not compare to other models, as the manufacturer does not use aluminum to make it.
8. Rockler Pro Lift Router Lift (8-1/4” x 11-3/4” plate
If you want a multi-purpose model, the Rockler Pro Lift Router Lift (8-1/4″ x 11-3/4″) plate is a suitable choice. The model can easily be customized, and this gives you a relaxing time as you work.
The Lift has a quick gear that helps you make fast height adjustments and a snap-lock that allows tool-free to insert ring adjustments. The insert ring can be released automatically by activating its push button.
Its massive duty steel construction gives it an impressive useful life. Thus once you buy it, you know you will use it for quite sometime before it breaks down.
The Summary of Top Features
- It is a multi-purpose router and thus very appropriate for a variety of projects.
- The router table can easily be customized, and this gives you comfortability during work.
- The router has a quick gear that helps make quick adjustments.
- The insert ring can be released automatically by activating the push button, which allows you to work faster and better.
- It has a massive-duty steel construction that makes it last longer.
Pros
- The model is durable
- The unit is of heavy-duty steel construction.
- It has a machined aluminum plate.
- It allows quick height adjustments.
Cons
- It is quite an expensive model compared to the others.
9. SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock
SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is made for massive duty projects. It has a positive lock and a chain synchronized four-post lifting system, which makes you work efficiently. Its adjustment mechanisms are ultra-responsive, making work very easy.
The router lift accommodates above table elevation measurements and adjustments. It has adaptive collars that fit multiple router sizes.
This unit’s adaptive collars fit different routers, and there is no limit to the router size to get.
The Summary of Top Features
- It is ideal for height adjustments and making elevation measurements, thus providing accuracy and precision as you work.
- The router lift has a minimum diameter of 3.25 inches and a maximum diameter of 4.25 inches, making it appropriate for massive duty projects.
- The router has adaptive collars that fit various routers and does not limit you on the router size.
Pros
- It is appropriate for massive duty projects.
- It has a phenolic insert ring.
- It has a positive lock mechanism.
Cons
- It is not compatible with some router lifts.
10. JET 737000 Jrl-912 Router Lift
JET 737000 Jrl-912 Router Lift is fit for use regardless of your tool’s load because when you turn the dials once, you raise or lower the Lift up to 2mm. It makes use of a four-post-chain-driven design to provide room for smooth operations.
You cannot avoid making adjustments when working with a router lift, which makes you appreciate any router that offers you this option. The JET 737000 Jrl-912 Router Lift has above the table height and locks adjustment, which allows you to make changes easily and quickly.
The precision-milled aluminum plate and leveling screws of the unit offer you a routing experience that is accurate and easily adjustable. You can also use this tool in outdoor spaces because of the aluminum top.
The Summary of Top Features
- The model is easy to install, and therefore you save time for the actual woodworking job.
- The router’s clamp safely holds the Lift, which allows you to work with reduced noise and vibrations.
- The Lift has a top precision-milled plate made of aluminum, which will enable you to use it in outdoor spaces without worrying about corrosion by adverse weather conditions.
- It can easily adjust up to 2mm, giving you room to work with loads of different weights.
- The mounting plates have a locking dial that helps prevent mechanical drifting and has screws leveled.
Pros
- It is useful in outdoor spaces.
- Its plate is of aluminum, thus durable.
- It is easy to install.
- It comes with an adjustable lock mechanism.
- A brake mechanism drives the router lift.
- It has a four-post chain-driven design.
- It provides a smooth performance because of the locking dial in the mounting plates.
Cons
- The router lift is not acceptable on more comprehensive router tables.
The Best Router Lifts For Woodworking Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the most suitable router lift will make your work very easy, and your cuts more precise. The right unit is, however, not easy to find. So, I have listed some of the significant features you should look out for when buying a router lift to help you out.
- Locking Ability
The router lift should be locked in place to facilitate precise cuts. A good ride should, therefore, lock in your adjustments and settings. When the lift locks appropriately, you will not mess up with height and depth.
There are several locks, and the recommendation is for you to get one with a bolt or a cam lock because they tend to be more stable.
- Bearing system design
Different lifts have different bearing mechanisms. You need to check if the design is an open one or a sealed material that the Lift comprises. Experts, however, will advise that you get a closed system.
Ball bearings usually facilitate smooth height adjustments. Mostly, they are of bronze, making them provide smooth actions and require less maintenance.
- Compatibility with other models
Not all lifts are compatible with specific models of routers. Make sure you check the model that you have so that you purchase a consistent router lift. It will be discouraging to buy a router lift to determine that you cannot use it with your router model.
The tools compatibility with the router is essential because when you fail to ensure compatibility, you will not avoid poor performance.
You will find it listed compatible models on the box, but you can also check with your manufacturer.
- Built-in plunge router
A built-in plunge router allows you to remove the motor from the Lift to attach it to a fixed stability lift. We have routers that do not allow you to remove the engine. When buying a router lift, please check if the router that you are currently using has a removable motor.
- Height adjustment
When you purchase a router lift, you do so because you want the room to make slight height adjustments. You make these adjustments in two ways: one with a thumbwheel and second with a crank handle.
The most recommended way to go about this is by looking at what feels more natural for you. Make sure you check and test how the Lift changes height before you purchase. You want one that will work best with your hands.
- Construction
The construction of the router lift is crucial for durability and sturdiness. Plastic is a very soft material, and you should not get a router made of it. It will break faster, and you will have to purchase another router lift.
The recommendation is that you pick a router lift made of aluminum, cast iron, or steel. These materials are known to be healthy and durable.
- Weight
The weight of the tools that you are lifting is critical. If you want to work with more massive tools, get a router lift to lift it properly. You wouldn’t want more massive tools to damage or weaken the router lift.
- Insert ring sizes and plates
A lift that has various sizes when it comes to the insert ring is the right choice. The rings come in handy in changing and using different diameter bits. These components usually give you stability as you work.
The insert plate needs to fit your router into the tabletop openings. You often need to check the dimension of the insert plate openings. This attribute will aid in choosing a lift that will accommodate your insert plate comfortably.
- Included adapter
Due to financial constraints, you want to get a more powerful router lift and not change it. Most people worry that the smaller router cannot accommodate the router lift.
For this reason, there is an adapter that comes with the router lift. It helps your lift work with any router. You, therefore, need to determine if you need an adapter so that you get a ride that comes with one.
Conclusion
A router lift is a tool that you should have as a woodworker. It will allow you the privilege of making accurate height adjustments and precise cuts. Most of the lifts are easy to install and use, which will help you save much time as you work. The massive metal base of the Lift usually enhances steadiness and stability such that you experience reduced vibrations. When you do with reduced vibrations, you can operate for longer, which improves your productivity,
My overall best router lift is the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift, which is usable with multiple tables, comfortable to set up and adjust. This Lift allows you to rotate the router for the most convenient lift height.
If you have a question, opinion, or suggestion about this post, kindly share it with me in the comments section below. In the meantime, happy shopping!
Tyron Otieno
Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. He founded this website to help other woodworkers, whether hobbyists or professionals by sharing his knowledge and experiencie after a decade of woodworking.