DeWalt 20V Max XR Cordless Compact Router Review

Price at ACME Tools: imp.i284638.ne...
The DeWalt DCW600 brushless router offers a ton of power with the convenience of cordless. A big thanks to ACME Tools for lending me the router to review!

[@jonnymandoonthemove157]

My shop glows yellow. Got this tool recently.

[@pathonnn]

Same brother

[@StevenLarkin]

quite enjoyed your review. I like that you pushed the unit to see what it can handle. Just picked this little guy up and I am VERY pleased I did

[@Ozzzy506]

After watching router vids for hours i am going to buy this one. Thanks!

[@maddawgzzzz]

How you like it ozzy?

[@Ozzzy506]

I bought it for work. I like it very much BUT with the packet it came with a 8mm and a 1/4. Even thoe it said in the specs that it would come with a 6mm so i cant really use 80% of my bits with it :/

[@AllenReinecke]

Picking mine up tomorrow. One of the best trim routers out there. I got it as a FREE tool with a "drill/driver- 5Ah + charger" combo at HD today (YT's jeffostroff ID'd a pricing glitch that no longer worked minutes after my order!) Ryobi palm router going back as that single speed 29000 rpm is just too fast! Total cost for everything after the return ends up at about $105. I'm not complaining! Great video. Thx for all your reviews

[@DoresoomReviews]

That is a killer deal! You're gonna love the router, enjoy!

[@AllenReinecke]

@@DoresoomReviews Done well this year so far. Saved over $200 versus new on "factory blemished" Ryobi tools in the 30% off and free shipping New Year sale at Directtoolsoutlet.com. Couldn't find the "blemishes" at all! Your reviews help so much with my purchases!

[@k.j.6570]

Hi,what's the difference between 600 & 604 ?

[@markarita3]

Excellent review. Just ordered it...can't wait 'till it arrives!

[@diabeto6963]

It's on sale right now at Home Depot for $199 including a 5 amp hour battery

[@jlbathome9162]

The battery system currently locks consumers into buying 1 brand of cordless tools, I have 5, 5ah dewalt batteries, some times I want another cordless brand or the option to buy a different brand, but the battery investment won't allow that option. Other brands like Makita, Ryobi, Ridgid, Kobalt, ect... Consumers need a battery mating option. An adapter that lets you mate other 20v batteries to other brands. Thank for the great review.

[@DoresoomReviews]

Right now the only system I know of that does what you're asking is Metabo's Cordless Alliance System in Europe: www.cordless-alliance-system.com/ Stuart at ToolGuyd did an excellent write-up on why battery compatibility may never be a thing among major brands though: toolguyd.com/why-wont-power-tool-brands-standardize-their-battery-packs/

[@smokefentanyl]

Dude they sell adapters.. all over Amazon and Alliexpress. The concern is every tool has their own protection circuit, which likely doesn’t work if you just adapt it onto another brand

[@DANTE8119PUMAS]

just bought this for 120 brand new I love it!!!

[@Swearengen86]

Where from?

[@RussianNightmare]

Thank you for the review, I am looking to purchase one and this was very helpful.

[@Richard-wk9le]

Great video your explanation of the height adjustment rings was the best I ve seen and helped me decide between the Dewalt and the Makita.

[@PaulPruneau]

TX for the review. Super helpful.

[@jeffnay6502]

I think you should show how to correctly set the fine adjustment ring to the correct position, so that your measurements will work out correctly. I adjusted the main adjustment ring, so that my bit was just flush with the cutting surface. Then I moved the fine adjustment ring to zero. Now when I move the main adjustment ring, by turning the adjustment ring to the Right, I should be able to set it, to the correct depth. Moving to the Right, or counter clockwise, moves my bit down, while moving to the Left or clockwise moves my bit up. I do not know why is shows the same measurement markings, when you turn to the Left, or to the Right? If I turned the main adjustment ring to the Left, my bit would be further up into the base, so it would be less, then zero.

[@DoresoomReviews]

I think they just left off putting negative or positive markings since sign convention can be ambiguous. Negative could mean retract the bit, or take a deeper cut depending who you ask. Right handed threading is practically a universal language and less likely to be confused.

[@francotirador941]

Tank you for your review help me decide I’m on my way to Home Depot and also subscribing to your channel

[@alonzobrewster719]

Very cool review. I learned what I want know about the router. What are blue devices that held your wood in place?

[@DoresoomReviews]

Those are Kreg Bench Dogs: amzn.to/4b2oukf And the Kreg In-Line Clamp: amzn.to/3Un3xuG Both work pretty well with any bench that has 3/4" dog holes.

[@Sulkanator]

Excellent review. Thank you.

[@carpenterone3]

Awesome review as always dude 💯

[@DoresoomReviews]

Thanks!

[@bullet1218]

You need to remove the battery when changing the bit

[@DoresoomReviews]

Yes, the battery was removed when I showed how to change the bit around 3:10

[@MoTuzi]

Well, explained product. Bravo!!!

[@FernbarkFrist]

I watched your review of the Ryobi and this unit. Seems like you like this one a little more, but for someone who uses a router twice a year???? What's your pick.

[@DoresoomReviews]

They're very different tools. The Ryobi is much less powerful - I don't think it would be up to the task of pretty much any of the applications I used this DeWalt router for in the video. It's also MUCH louder with a ton more vibration. But if you're only going to use it a few times a year for rounding over some edges, it's a way better deal at less than half the price of this one bare tool. Even less if you get it as a free tool add on to the two battery starter pack during Ryobi days.

[@miguelledezma1394]

Seems pretty great. But ill wait till the m18 router launches to make my decision on which one to buy.

[@fcschoenthal]

I was lucky enough to get a DWP611PK (includes the plunge base) at an estate sale for $50. Do you happen to know if this cordless version will fit the same bases as the corded version?

[@DoresoomReviews]

Yes, it fits the same bases as the DeWalt corded compact router.

[@jeffdigiovanni2139]

Hi! is the collet for the DCW600 compatible with the DWP611? ...or more generally, can there an 8mm collet out there that is compatible wit this unit?

[@DoresoomReviews]

I'm really not sure, sorry.

[@michaeldriskell6431]

What work table do you use in the video?

[@DoresoomReviews]

It's the Kreg KWS1000. I reviewed it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZPKh32knJyar5Y

[@michaeldriskell6431]

Thank you for the reply! I appreciate your content :)

[@Drmeter-fv9fy]

Amazing video ,btw, would you like to test 2.0 Megapixels HD WiFi Endoscope / power supply etc. ? :)

[@Justin-uc8sc]

Such to device as such to suitable for to make such wood work?

[@DoresoomReviews]

Much yes woodwork.

[@mehdizitouni1220]

180$ love that its 299£ bare unit in uk what a stupid jump

[@DoresoomReviews]

Dang, that's a crazy price hike!

[@LickorishAllsorts]

I think the actual word you’re looking for is “theft”.

[@carterscustomrods]

I'm self taught, have 1 functioning arm, and leg, but I'm a giantish guy.... would this be a good first router? Anything I might not be able to do with 1 large hand (XXL Workglove size) such as bit changing? And can I get this for like $40? Or is my broke(n) butt gonna have to get a "Chicago Electric"? Lol I have other newer Dewalt's, but hot-dang routers just cost too much. Lol

[@DoresoomReviews]

I don't know about one handed operation - I think it's going to be tough to use any router that way when it comes to bit changing. But I really doubt you'll find this for $40, since it retails for $160-$200.

[@carterscustomrods]

@@DoresoomReviews lol thanks. I can always hope.

[@javierarroyo4790]

611 and 600..which is better.

[@DoresoomReviews]

I haven't used the 611 corded version, but personally I like the cordless convenience of the 600. The corded version will be lighter though if that matters to you.

[@JomilaHosan]

Jones Barbara Hall Jeffrey Wilson Patricia

[@ariels9161]

the door to your cupboard are not straight

[@DoresoomReviews]

Yep, cheap cabinets with limited adjustability on the hinges.

[@benjenkins2415]

I know this review is a bit old, but great work walking through the features and testing it out.

[@poppy9372]

Liked the close up shots! Good coverage of the features. Better than reading the manual. I bought one and the accessory guide.

[@michaelc7283]

Hi Then using the flexvolt battery dewalt does have a 20v 6.0ah battery that might run cooler and a little lighter then the flexvolt battery. Also i can't wait to feel out the new milwaukee m18 router. It's a router so not expecting to do crazy stuff on it. Just nice to know you can. I haven't seen any Carpenters where I'm at using a router to cut out osb for window openings. The question is how would it do cutting out a window opening with cdx plywood. Now that will be cool to see. I still use a sawzall or once a while a jigsaw. Pretty cool, got to try it out. Thanks for the info and video

[@craighatch3221]

Great review,I have switched almost everything to Dewalt. No regrets!

[@zylent8251]

Dewalt is really professional brand, probably not best but very good.

[@melgross]

They are very reliable.

[@booboo-nl3wi]

@@zylent8251 it is the best!!

[@SLAMBANGO]

18v dewalt was great 20v. Dewalt is cheap crap.. no power.

[@booboo-nl3wi]

No power?? You have got the battery on haven't you?

[@mdsd77]

The thing looks awesome, like it came out of an aircraft factory.

[@scottrogers9542]

So this review is from a new tool use, but I have owned 3 of these and they are absolute garbage. With light use, 2 have already burnt out, the adjusts on all 3 have been a living nightmare. The base gets stuck on the cylinder. I have even waxed the cylinder and base to try and prevent. It didn’t help at all. I have 1 left in working order and it doesn’t cut anywhere as nice as the Milwaukee I have purchased. The Milwaukee already has more working time than all 3 of the dewalt’s combined and the zero issues. Still works like brand new

[@DavyTracy-l7i]

Brown Dorothy Anderson Donald Thomas Sharon

[@ToolShow]

Wonder how the power will compare to the new Milwaukee Compact cordless router... can’t wait to find out! Thanks for the review!

[@DoresoomReviews]

Looking forward to October to find out!

[@Golgafrinchamdent]

Yeah, I'm wondering about that too. Willmaukyee has a different fine-adjust mech that I might like better than the DeFalt ring/collar. Plus Red goes up to 31,000 rpms.

[@clementinoaldama76]

Excelente review gracias.

[@ironmantooltime]

Excellent review 👍

[@kyleguy2305]

FYI Home Depot has a buy one 4ah 6ah battery port and bag for 200 and get 1 free tool and you can choose the router, currently 200$usd

[@DoresoomReviews]

Thanks for the heads up on that awesome deal! I'd been eyeing the DeWalt brushless sander for a while, and I just bought the kit with that as my free tool. Not quite as great a deal as the router, but still a good one!

[@kyleguy2305]

@@DoresoomReviews Awesome! You'll have to make a video on the Palm Sander!

[@marvinbenjamin3015]

I think the plunge base will have more balance with the flex volt battery

[@fettyguapo]

marvin benjamin they have a plunge base for this model?

[@dundasjunctionmodelr.r-jam8267]

Too late , purchased the Makita brushless router c/w plunge base, great router

[@DoresoomReviews]

I haven't used that one, but have only heard good things about it!

[@tundrawhisperer4821]

Which Makita model did you get?

[@irishRocker1]

I was trying to get a 618 but was very hard to find in Ireland and UK at the moment. The DWP611 was another option. It didnt come with a kit with all the attachments though so I bought this for now, and later will get a DWP611 fixed base since it also fits this plunge base etc. Will probably install that in a router table and can pop it out and use the DCW600 plunge if needed

[@8harim]

great video. thanks a lot

[@jesterraj]

Plus you had a bigger battery on as well...good review....

[@DoresoomReviews]

Thanks!

[@someguywithabeard5886]

Random fact: the Dewalt DNP612 plunge base works with this compact router! took a while to find info about it, but just sharing.

[@tthomasokc]

Thanks for this. I was just ogling this tool at Lowe's over the weekend.

[@abm2958]

I just bought one and have been using it for the last couple of days, it's a great tool.

[@shelby50411]

Hi no info online..do anyone know if the collet and nut on dewalt dcw600 also compatible on the dewalt dwp611?

[@kleintjk]

Nice job in this

[@DaCake2]

First, thanks for the vid! Question... if you had a choice to go with this model or the Bosch 1617EVSPK, which would you go with? I love the idea of going cordless and Im heavily invested in the dewalt cordless system, but I was told to get a plunge router kit and was recommended the Bosch. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[@DoresoomReviews]

I have that exact Bosch kit myself, and love it! I think a cordless router is an awesome complement to a corded one, but wouldn't start with one. So I'd pick the corded kit if I were in your shoes.

[@DaCake2]

@@DoresoomReviews Thank you so much for replying back and giving me some advice. Would you mind me asking why the Bosch kit is better when your getting started, vs a cordless? Im still going with the Bosch, but Im just curious and would like to know what makes them so different? Thanks!

[@DaCake2]

@@DoresoomReviews Also, I noticed Bosch has a kit with a Benchtop Router Table. Do you recommend getting one of those? Thanks again!

[@DoresoomReviews]

The corded router will have more power if you want to mount it in a router table and use it with large panel bits, or do something really demanding like slab flattening. Plus if you mount it in a router table you'll be able to install a separate kill switch on the table within easy reach for safety, where you'd still have to reach underneath to turn a cordless router off. I suppose I should have asked for what applications you plan on using a router for - if it's nothing bigger than the bits I used in the review and you've got plenty of batteries it might sway the decision the other way. It is awfully nice to have a smaller router that can fit into tighter spots and not have to deal with keeping a cord out of the way.

[@DaCake2]

@@DoresoomReviews Thank for the reply. I'll mostly be using it for smaller home projects. Building coffee tables, storage boxes, frames, maybe some trim, etc... I noticed that the Bosch I was looking at has a kit with a bench router table and that caught my eye. Would be nice to have that table I think? Im kicking around the idea of going with that corded kit for right now and in the future maybe getting the cordless dewalt if it goes on sale? Thoughts?

[@Macdiz]

Could I cut down the middle of 6 foot x 5/8" fence pickets with this thing? I got one free with batteries and I've never used one, but I'm putting up a fence and I'll keep it if I can use it for that.

[@DoresoomReviews]

I would think a circular saw would be much better suited for that task. That being said, if you use a straight edge guide I think this router can handle that cut.

[@StreetKingz4Life]

The router that everyone's talking about, will wait with my corded till the price drop hopefully lol

[@Macdiz]

I got one free with a battery set (6ah & 4ah) for $199, add this router and the price goes down to $169 at home depot. The deal is on slickdeals.net, hopefully you haven't gotten the router in the year that has passed since this comment!

[@smokefentanyl]

Check Amazon periodically, got it for 195 CAD, vs 240 CAD regular price

[@normferguson2769]

I lost my router manual for this router so I had to refresh my mind with your video as I had not used the router in a few months. Thanks.

[@nicolasduchesneau9233]

So, looks like I chose right! Good review!

[@electricianron_New_Jersey]

Just bought mine on Home Depot.com w/ FREE 5.0 ah battery.

[@DoresoomReviews]

Nice!

[@artgutierrez7589]

How much?

[@unclestrawhat3646]

Just the video I needed. Thanks!

[@brendamclaughlin9629]

Awesome review! What bit set do you use?

[@silenthill5794]

I'll bring this video current by adding this. I just picked this router up at Lowes with their buy 2 batteries and charger and get any single tool free. So I got 2 5ah batteries and a single charger, and got the 219.00 router for free. Hell of a deal until someone replies and tells me it's not really. When I first turned it on to test it out I thought something was wrong with it when I noticed how quickly it stops when you turn it off. So far I like it a lot.

[@DoresoomReviews]

That's a great deal!

[@andrewparsons5505]

Hi, thanks great review. I’ve now gone and brought one, all be it the 18v Uk version. My one question is, what rule is that clamped to your work piece ? Think i need one. Keep up the good work.

[@DoresoomReviews]

It's a Swanson 6' straight edge: amzn.to/3xitop4

[@nelezbubjet]

И сколько в мире поделок под макиту , от кустарного китая до брендов!

[@dfinma]

4:50 It may seem counterintuitive but it's best to use the round side of the base when following a straight edge. If the router rotates the cut is still straight. If using the flat edge any wobble will make a non-straight cut.

[@DoresoomReviews]

You make an excellent point!

[@rocastormwash]

Excelente información sobre esta herramienta. Gracias P.R.

[@stevesiefken6432]

You mentioned it overheated. What actually happened? Did the motor stop or were you feeling uncomfortable running hot? Great video!

[@DoresoomReviews]

It's been a while since I made the review, but if I remember correctly it went into thermal shutdown. If it had just gotten warm/hot and kept running, I probably would have worded it differently.

[@MrBoundaryRider]

Really useful review thanks.

[@stevenphamnguyen3610]

Thank you!

[@treebossmike8818]

I have the Makita Brushless Router. Don’t know if you used that one or not, if anyone has how would it compare to this one? Can you use an edge guide? Does it come with any other base plates or just the one you demo’d? Does that spinning depth adjustment mean you micro-adjust or are their stops for certain depths? What about dust collection? RIGID will be releasing very soon an OCTANE router with a dust port you can connect (just like the Makita).

[@DoresoomReviews]

I haven't used the Makita unfortunately. As far as edge guides, bases, and dust collection, those accessories for the DeWalt DWP611 compact corded router will fit this one, but all have to be purchased separately. There's no depth stops on this base, but the plunge base should have them.

[@treebossmike8818]

Doresoom Tool Reviews thanks for the info. Do you believe Dewalt raised the price to $199 for this? 🤦‍♂️ SMH!

[@manmanchannel5854]

can you please for the Amazon link for this router's blade

[@DoresoomReviews]

This will use any 1/4" shank router bit. There are hundreds/thousands of different profiles though, so I can't really link to a specific one without more details. Diablo brand offers great performance for the price.

[@downslee]

I would like to know what table that is at kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWOuZ4iIp9t7rqc

[@DoresoomReviews]

It's the Kreg mobile project center: amzn.to/30glGje I reviewed it a while back: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZPKh32knJyar5Y

[@hamishtanner3571]

whats the power like in comparison to ridgids current. not the octane version

[@DoresoomReviews]

I haven't used the Ridgid, sorry.

[@MistAtsiM]

I need an offset base for this guy... Can any1 help?

[@DoresoomReviews]

Sorry, I don't think DeWalt makes one. I found the D26673 offset base, but it looks like it's only compatible with their corded laminate router D26670. I'm surprised they don't have one, since I found offset bases for the M18 router, the Bosch Colt, and the Makita 18V router while searching for a DeWalt one.

[@Blah-blah-sure]

Nice video eith demos on wood. Question i tried using a round over bit and it couldn't cut it? Had speed detting on 3 n switched it. What gives.

[@DoresoomReviews]

What species of wood was it - something super hard? And were you using a slim pack 5 cell battery in it instead of a 10 cell pack? Those are my only guesses, otherwise I'd think something's wrong with the router if it stalls out with a simple round over bit.

[@johnolp149]

The bit may have been dull.

[@interman7715]

Great review of a really nice tool

[@Jeziorski7]

when its locked, my ring still rotates 1/32nd of a inch. Is it supposed to do that?

[@DoresoomReviews]

I think mine had a tiny bit of play in it too. Is the bit actually moving up and down as well?

[@Jeziorski7]

@@DoresoomReviews not too sure actually ill have to investigate. At thew time, I just took it out of the box

[@Mike-dy8bq]

Nice and through review. Thanks

[@DoresoomReviews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SuperMasseyferguson1]

Whats the difference between 18v and 20v DeWalt batteries? Can they be used on both tools?

[@DoresoomReviews]

The DeWalt 18V batteries are from their previous generation of tools and aren't compatible with their 20V tools. DeWalt does sell an adapter DCA2203C that allows you to use 20V batteries on 18V tools though. As far as 18V vs 20V goes, it's actually mostly marketing. You'll notice that "Max" follows the use of 20V, which means when you fully charge the battery the terminals read 20V, but when you put it under load it's still 18V. Same goes for the 18V batteries' behavior.

[@dougsaunders8109]

If they are 18v XR and 20v XR. One is US (20v) market and the other is Europe/U.K (18v). They are the same thing with different badge as long as they are XR

[@DoresoomReviews]

Thanks for the clarification, I forgot about the North America and Europe 18 vs 20 differences.

[@Mattcamel51]

I'll be getting this soon. Thanks for the review

[@DoresoomReviews]

Glad I could help!

[@drock5597]

@@DoresoomReviews the current off the shelf DW plunge base should fit this right?

[@rossredington5755]

They all just copied the makita 1 boring

[@DoresoomReviews]

This is far from a copy of the Makita. Form factor-wise it's pretty much DeWalt's corded compact router with a spot for a battery on top.

[@TinManKustoms]

Great review My big question is why haven't any of these manufacturers come out with a paddle switch like angle grinders. I would like to think that it would be safer setup

[@DoresoomReviews]

Interesting idea! Sometimes I change my grip up while in the middle of routing though, that might cause some problems with a paddle switch.

[@garyschmidt7320]

I think about the only thing close to a paddle switch would be a trigger switch as used on a D-handle. Seems to me that it would detract from the safety.

[@Xpdgxkgkhx]

Конечно все круто и качественно , но цена

[@DoresoomReviews]

Yeah, it's currently the most expensive cordless router out there, by quite a bit. The Milwaukee coming out in October is set for the same price too.

[@chrisj9008]

I keep waiting for a package promo with either bases or batteries rather than just bare tool. Its on my short list. I am vested in my yellow batteries so its going to be go to even if the M18 may end up a bit better. Great review.

[@mdsd77]

Chris Jennings yep I am waiting for the blackfriday or christmas package as well...FYI, you can buy battery adapters, I use them, have plenty of M18 batteries I use on my dewalts, including a few other brands. In fact I use my old NiCad DeWalt tools using the M18 batteries, even the Ryobi tools...next adapter on my list is the M18 to ridgid

[@martinacuna7869]

Question Dewalt users. Can you use a 20v flexvolt battery on a 20v max tool for a long time. With the tool not messing up over time, Thanks.

[@DoresoomReviews]

I wouldn't be concerned about damaging a 20V tool from use with a Flexvolt battery. For this router, I didn't notice the body of the tool heating up enough to be concerned about. The Flexvolt battery just acts as a 20V battery capable of outputting more current while staying cooler, much like Milwaukee and Bosch have done with their 18V platforms and their high output and Core18V batteries. Depending on the tool, the individual tool itself may have thermal lockout built into it as well, not just the battery.

[@sh0cktim3]

Yes its called flexvolt cuz it changes to 20volts when in a 20v tool.

[@SLAMBANGO]

20v dewalt has NO POWER Do not buy this crap

[@sizif717]

Another nice review! How do you compare that to the Makita one?

[@DoresoomReviews]

Thanks! I haven't used the Makita unfortunately. I have held both though, and I prefer the Makita's slimmer grip.

[@69sungam]

plastic craaaaap...

[@DoresoomReviews]

What parts are plastic that you object to? The router body and the structural portion of the fixed base are metal.

[@69sungam]

If you try like festool, panasonic or fein and reed the insript. of the plastic number.... then if you hold it in your hand ...you will see the diffrent...i think...but its not made in usa...