Makita 18v Cordless Compact Router (FULL REVIEW!) Review of Makita's cordless compact router

[@chrisbellamy3458]

I bought this router and had the same base problem. It is easily fixed with a quick "risky" fix. Set the router bit in as normal and put the base set back on just barely. Turn on the router and shift the base down (pushing the router bit through the base). I did this and because the part that is keeping the larger bit from pushing through is so thin it will cut out the perfect size for itself. I know that's modifying the new router plate from the start but that was the biggest bit I was planning on using so I did this and it worked great! Great review!

[@billhunter1870]

The trouble with reaming out the base to a larger diameter is that you then cant use a template guide like the one that was included with mine - or similar accessory that depends on the shoulder in the central hole of the base. In that case, best to make another base with a larger hole. As suggested in a previous comment.

[@Michael_Perkins]

Great review! You do, of course, realize you can remove the plastic base and replace it with a plexiglass plate of any size you desire. Use the original plastic plate for the template guide function and as a template for the screw holes in your new plate.

[@jesshothersall]

Do you mean buy a square of plexiglass and make your own base?

[@rubenesparza7546]

Yes, just make your own. The point though is that you’d have to modify it in order to make it work when you shouldn’t have to. Either way, it’s a good unit

[@FarginIceholeful]

@@jesshothersall AliExpress has tons of affordable, high quality accessories for this model.

[@raywright2401]

I own this whole kit and case. It's highly convenient, mobile, and powerful. It's primarily meant as a backup or convenient pickup to your regular sized router which CAN handle bigger bit diameters... I had the same problem today...lol with the miniMouse Makita.. As a carpenter or woodworker who is mostly self taught, hand skills are numero uno for me so I keep the the base fairly tight. Hand skills are important. You'd guys be amazed how hard it is to teach basic 'drilling' skills.

[@alexfrankl7861]

It is a very nice tool to use , has a kick back feature so it doesnt run away ,it turns off , fantasic on doors .

[@B15SDMDESIGNS]

The reason why certain bits won't fit is because they are not suited to this size/type of router. Simply get a medium sized 1/4" router instead. These palm routers are not designed for heavy work thats why they're mainly classed as trimmers.

[@DC-et4ym]

there is an adjustment in the micro height adjustment by tightening the nut so that the motor doesn't slip so easily up and down in the bracket. cheers

[@sayednajeebhusinkazame2936]

As

[@YesImhymn]

Been waiting for this review. I’m on the Milwaukee platform and I had the option of getting the Milwaukee router (tool only) for $179 OR the Makita router PLUS 2 5.0 Ah batteries for $180. It was a no brainer for me to go makita and get myself on their platform!

[@ToolReviewZone]

Yeah, I was really surprised with the price. It's an awesome buy

[@secerator]

I see it for $280 for that package with 2 batteries and plunger at HD. Was it a Black Friday deal?

[@urwholefamilydied]

Ya, I'm the weekend warrior type using Ryobi right now and am looking to switch to one of the "big three". Dewalt is out because it seems to be the priciest of the three, and this will sound stupid but I can't stand that bright yellow and black on everything. I'm pretty OCD about my shop and how everything looks, so ya, pretty dumb but the bright yellow throws me off. So i'm trying to decide between Milwaukee and Makita. I'm leaning Makita.

[@bluemantom77]

Yeah man that's a badass router Makita is sweet we had them when I was in high school corded version of course I have an old vintage Craftsman professional love how smooth it is

[@batchrocketproject4720]

I don't find wobble an issue once one is practiced with it. I'd advise always fitting that dust extractor, even if no vacuum is used as that gap is really easy for a finger to slip in to. This is the only router I've owned where I got caught out and nicked a finger (just on the collet nut while the motor was stopping, but it broke skin and hurt like hell). There is a plunge base option with a much wider cutter hole and it has superb micro adjustment and depth stops. My only criticisms of the trim router are 1) my rack and pinion has never been smooth and is jerky to engage, 2) My corded version has an on-off rocker switch that would be easy to accidentally turn on. The switches on this one look like an excellent alternative, much safer. My top tips for use are 1) 'turn the speed down', everyone seems to use routers at top speed but that's hardly ever needed, except when using tiny diameter cutters that few people ever use. It is a speed dial, not power. If your have burn marks, you're running the motor too fast for the feed rate. 2) If it's struggling, reduce the depth and/or sharpen the cutter. Increasing speed is not the answer.

[@neilborkowicz]

I just bought this and think it is great for a compact router. I found this video because I was trying to figure out why they even include the bigger wrench as it is totally worthless. I had called Makita and asked if they shipped the wrong one and the guy said no, I have the right one. He suggested taking the base off to use the wrench. That works but wastes my time. I also agree with your comments about the base. Dump the wrench and add another base!

[@Jimmy_Cavallo]

💥💥 Great review. 4:30 I’m sure that you meant 30,000 not 3,000 🤟🏼 9:33 The irony...this router cuts you free from the cord tugging on you but that big hose.??

[@islandpainter3964]

I got two base plates with mine. Bare tool. I agree the round base is not the best for what i do. However it serves a purpose for certain applications. If im honest i think the micro adjust would be good. However the plunge base accessories kit has micro adjustable options. I guess if you buy the whole kit this would do everything you ever needed with plenty of power.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Some nice features on the makita I like the lock feature for the power

[@ToolReviewZone]

Power is great for the size for sure buddy 👊

[@cedaroakfarm8596]

Kudos, you are the ONLY one to mention the bits may not fit through the base. My standard 1/4 inch shank Roman Ogee bit will not fit through the standard base plate, that is extremely frustrating. Trying another base plate.

[@ItachiUchiha-lr3yr]

Wobble is caused by the weight to power ratio, if it was heavier it might have held it down to the wood better. However very small price to pay for an amazing looking piece of Makita kit to add to the collection!

[@78jaymack]

Just bore through with the bit on. It will make space for it cutting through the plastic.

[@Edgeless69]

Run the bit through the plastics it will boor out to perfect size I have done it to all of mine !!

[@illuminatustm]

Thought about doing this for ages and never had the balls 😄 thanks to your post I just did it and it worked like a charm. Thank you!

[@shantanarain2841]

How did you bore it out .. mine caught the hole in the plate one twisted the whole shift out of alignment

[@Edgeless69]

I turned the router on and slowly routed out the center hole in the plate if you jam the router bit into the plate and try to turn it on then I could see that happening but you cannot do that you have to turn it on and run with the bit in it and slowly press router through plastic I have 6 that I have done this way !!! Also make sure the router but is not to big for the router guid shaft if it is to big you will hit metal and that is not something to do at all !!

[@Edgeless69]

@@illuminatustm I am so glad when I got mine and I was so upset bits didn’t fit so when I did it I was so happy

[@markyp29]

Stupid question...I do apologise. Do you remove the plastic and then bore into it with it held in place?

[@grandpadre8811]

Only reviewer that's covered all the compact cordless routers back to back. That's coverin' your bases, because it's all about them. Dewalt for me.

[@ToolReviewZone]

Thanks for the feedback Grand!

[@michaelanderson7260]

Great review I agree with you on the micro adjustment could be better and the base a bit bigger diameter. I bought mine from Home Depot a little over a year ago. I’ve even used mine on my Porter Cable dovetail jig along with several other applications . Makita quality through and through.

[@Aepek]

Thanks for a great, fun video about the Makita Compact Router👍🏻 Have enjoyed your videos & channel. Really like the fun vids you make for us, as they are different than other tool channels on KZbin 💪🏼 AND appreciate that😊.....example 6:50 🤣 Here’s to the wonderful 2019 you had; & the continuing success for 2020. Happy New Year TRZ ✌🏼

[@ToolReviewZone]

Hahaha, thanks brother I really appreciate it and all of the support you've shown my friend. Have a safe and happy new year my friend

[@lancebradley1344]

Cool review! I can build a larger base. Micro adjust, I'll deal with it. Biggest sale for me? I have great long term success with certain Makita tools and I already have the batteries. Thank you, this is my purchase this weekend.

[@soeaire]

Where do you find the proper speed relative to soft or hardwoods? I just leave mine at the highest for edge cutting and Mortis cutouts. Is there a guide for this I can copy? Like your review.

[@glynnnewlove1676]

Let’s remember this is the trimming base, not really designed for use with the bigger router bits

[@mr.lizard6812]

Any base that accepts a collet you will have to burn through. That Router is awesome I am thinking about getting another . Two is better than one. I am lucky to have access to a cnc and we can make our own different bases.

[@amoscardoza5253]

Great review cuz! if maybe you got a better base I bet that thing is the way to go. I'm in the market for a palm router so these vids are fantastic! I'm deciding between that and the dewalt.

[@ToolReviewZone]

Thanks bro. Yeah I agree, they have a different base that I wish came with the router. I'll have the top 5 video done tomorrow Amos

[@adrianscarlett]

1:45 that mechanism is on my Bosch corded laminate trimmer I've had for close to 10 years

[@Wroom90]

I would just grind the base plate to fit in my situation :)

[@mixpick138]

For Pete's sake, why oh why do they build crap stock basses for great routers! The stock circle has always been crap, wobbly, and limited (in any router I've used). Include a freakin' offset clear or just plain square clear and I'm in router heaven. Just sayin'... Great video/review!

[@ToolReviewZone]

Thanks Mix, and I agree. I don't get this base they included

[@shantanarain2841]

I always buy a clear piece of plastic 1/4" to make a real base for my router but this takes time

[@jesshothersall]

@@shantanarain2841 Would be lovely if you could explain how, for a newbie to routers, but who already has Makita batteries

[@Crusherbreen]

Great review - have same issues but it’s cheap and powerful - I have got used to it 👍

[@meagaindave2049]

One word: MAKITA!

[@ToolReviewZone]

Haha, yeah bro I figured you would like this

[@meagaindave2049]

@@ToolReviewZone 💯

[@joshwalsh6194]

That’s not a router it’s a laminate trimmer, if you want a router with fine tuning you can buy the extender kit, if you want it to stop jumping around you use two hands

[@FarginIceholeful]

That is where you are wrong! This is in fact a router and you can go ape shit buying accessories for this model. Keep in mind Makita is a Japanese company. Educate yourself by watching some Japanese videos of some AMAZING projects. You are welcome.

[@TheDevestatorX]

Theres a cheap kit that includes this router for just $260. It has an included plunge base and I used it for mortising. My mortising bit is a huge 1 1/4 diameter with a 1/4 shank! Now, off to cut my fingers.

[@joshwalsh6194]

@@TheDevestatorX hey mate, I’m a builder with the same kit as you by the sounds but it doesn’t change the fact this is still a laminate trimmer. It does have a plunge base but routers are much bigger and more powerful. These were designed for cabinet makers to trim laminate

[@konamanstudio2447]

I already have my Ridgid I don't know if I'll buy another one anytime soon it would be nice to have different bits available different routers but not anytime soon keep up the great work cheers with a beer🍺

[@ToolReviewZone]

Thanks KONAMAN! Yeah the ridgid is a great router buddy 👊

[@EdwardT9]

Not sure why but in Canada this seems to have the model number DRT50 but it’s the same router. I just got one with a 5 mAh battery and charger for about $175US

[@diemman70]

My round over bit always has trouble with getting through the hole. Nothing new. Just bore it out.

[@CakeZRqGoTR]

Acme sells the tool alone for $199 now. Talk about inflation.

[@ozo1010]

turn the router on , and cut thru the base with the bit , you wont have the problem of the bit not fiting anymore

[@KristerLarsson-jm8lh]

Great review....but you are referring this router to a full size router. if the cutter? don't fit, there i s a reason... this is a 3000 rpm router. not a 10 to 22000 rpm router. Greetings from Sweden!

[@timholstpetersen79]

@4:35 - No. Not from 0 RPM to 3.000 RPM. You can adjust it from 10.000 RPM to 30.000 RPM.

[@bradspaugh9827]

Is the kit supposed to come with the clear plastic vaccun plate thingy?

[@szeredaiakos]

Which maniac micro adjusts the depth? Routers, you put them on a step of precise height and let the thing fall down. By far the fastest and easiest.

[@jameshurd2134]

hi great review but where can you pick one uo for 129?

[@mrchedda]

Just bought mine today and it didn’t come with the dust collection face plate. So sad

[@szeredaiakos]

Just .. drill out your base plate. Or change the plate to a slightly larger plexi and drill that out as well with your largest rounding bit. You get a 0 tolerance base plate which might also help with the edge finish.

[@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet]

Nice! Love how you threw that in.... Sent by acme.... NOT MAKITA! Hahaha Get with the Damn program Makita! Don't be haters!

[@ToolReviewZone]

Hahaha, yeah...Makita has always disliked this channel for some reason bro. It's all good by me though as ACME has been great about letting us see what is requested

[@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet]

@@ToolReviewZone I never understood that. You put out alot of makita "material" for us to see. And a lot of people buy makita based on your channel and their needs as they see them here.. Makita makes great tools! But some of the tools are in the dinosaur ages. Some are super innovative. Regardless they are long lasting, and you make sure to let people know that... You give them their credit where it's due. And just like all other tool companies you call their "flaws out" small, big, whatever. Honesty. The truth should be considered constructive criticism. Not slandering. And ACME is awesome! No denying that! Freakishly awesome. Love doing business over there. 👊 Thanks again brother!

[@ToolReviewZone]

@@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet thanks David for that awesome feedback my friend. I've heard they were talking smack on me from someone. I think I made them upset when I did their crazy big nailer video. They have a few people over there with giant heads and think that they are the best. Their arrogance shows for sure, but I'll always be honest and give them credit when its deserved buddy

[@Mark-kn2dk]

@@ToolReviewZone Nice review and a big thumbs up to ACME, I think people are more likely to trust a review where the tool in question is provided by an independent like ACME. So many times you hear of big manufacturers demanding the reviewer give good reviews to get more equipment sent. Your probably correct about the Makita nailer review, it didn't follow their criteria. Keep up the good work.

[@andytheartist1]

Why is it that the smaller they get the price needs to be higher? Thanks for reviewing this!!

[@markgross3256]

Ok so I have watched all your reviews on the routers I think, what one is your favorite? Lol I am on the Dewalt platform and that is my next purchase, I just got the 4.5" Circular saw last week and I love it already....

[@ToolReviewZone]

Haha, I'll actually be posting the top 5 routers in order tomorrow. Some will probably agree but some will probably be pretty upset... so it should be interesting lol

[@markgross3256]

@@ToolReviewZone well can't wait to see that video. I haven't seen one from you for the 4.5" Circular saw yet, have you checked it out?

[@ToolReviewZone]

@@markgross3256 I haven't buddy, but I'll get it here

[@markgross3256]

@@ToolReviewZone it works great doing subflooring, and cutting out siding for doing windows and smart trim.

[@markgross3256]

@@ToolReviewZone Just get out here to Spokane Washington bring your equipment I have the tool. Lol

[@FirBurger98]

We get it. You're a Milwaukee fan

[@TheRealMrGordons]

129 USD. Wow the only two places I have seen it listed in South Africa have it between 370 and 500 USD

[@michealtran3636]

Thank you for your guide

[@dmod686]

Will I be able to cut 40mm worktops with this? TIA

[@bobbygovier]

Fair review but I feel your always going to get "wobble" when you have a battery on top, I just hold it with both hands or further to the base to account for this. I suppose I am bias because I have never used any other cordless trimmer

[@ToolReviewZone]

I have a tp five router review, and even though this is still a great router.. it is definitely the worst when in come to wobble.

[@jeffleake1960]

The screws on the baseplate worked there way out for no reason on my work one until only 1 remained or they were never there in the 1st place either option sucks

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

You got any suggestions on bits you can get in a large kit of bits

[@ToolReviewZone]

I actually got these bits at harbor freight. Haven't had one issue with them buddy

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

@@ToolReviewZone wow really did you get the large kit

[@georgemacdonald5282]

Could you not have pushed the router bit further into the machine so you could get the round edge you required.

[@EM-fi2qg]

Right on! I have to figure out if I want the Milwaukee or Dewalt. The Milwaukee would be good for me because I have their batteries and other tools, but your point about the guide not being snug is a big concern. Dewalt on the other hand, looks like an an awesome router, but no accessories included. Have you figured out a way to solve the loose fitting guide on the Milwaukee?

[@ToolReviewZone]

No worries my bro. Ima start putting the top 5 routers video together tonight and will probably have it up tomorrow. Hopefully it will help with the decision M3👊

[@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet]

I gotta say I like the dewalt edge guides! But by the time you buy the accessories needed..... Buy the kit. It'll be cheaper. I was playing with a fuel router this morning. Thew the guide on the milwaukee, and it was nice and tight. Just like the Makita. I will find a different knob when I get my fuel router in. I don't like that knob. If I can't find one, I'll make one. I don't see it being an issue. I use knobs all the time for jigs. Surely they have the right thread pitch of the 20k options at my hardware store. The biggest thing for me is the micro adjust. I really enjoy that and the platform and of course the YUGE warranty 👍 I'll let you know what I come up with if needed when I get mine in. 🍻

[@EM-fi2qg]

@@ToolReviewZone Great! Looking forward to it.

[@EM-fi2qg]

@@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet Thanks for the advice.

[@jamesadams7131]

I own this router I have no issues with the guide being snug. This is a outstanding tool, like all Makita tools, it's built to last! Plus it does fit all the bases and attachments that the corded version has.

[@urwholefamilydied]

8:40 I saw on someone else's channel, they simply turned the router on and the slowly lowered the bit until it cut through the base plate. Don't see why not!! But ya, you would think makita's design team would have like, you know... tested a bunch of different bits. LOL

[@vampov]

That's awesome

[@jesshothersall]

I wish you'd put the link to that video, would like to see it!

[@urwholefamilydied]

@@jesshothersall just google makita baseplate fix or something like that. You'll run into it within 5 minutes or so. Might take a couple videos of searching. Or don't even search it... just take your router bit and run it through the base plate.

[@WasimBarri]

I really can't see the benefit of the lock/unlock button, just an unwanted extra step. Not too many power tools regardless of brand have this extra step. More importantly the Milwaukee has an instant breaking system so that when its turned off its off whereas the Makita runs on for a few seconds. I see that as a much better safety mechanism than an unlock button. The better balanced base also allows for 3/8" round over bit and the micro adjust is precise. For these reasons and others like warranty I'm switching platforms from Makita to Milwaukee despite the expense of another charger and batteries

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

How can you adjust it from 0 to 3000 rpm 0 it would be off not on low

[@ToolReviewZone]

I should have been more clear on that in the video. 10k up to 30k lowest to highest

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

@@ToolReviewZone aww okay that makes sense

[@McSlobo]

IDK. Maybe there's a reason for limiting the bit size. I'd ask Makita because there's always a safety aspect with these toys. E.g. if a big bit breaks what happens inside this little unit.

[@Ehvz539]

Can you use it to cut drywall doorways and windows?

[@alancupit1061]

It 's an easy job to file out that base and make the hole larger.

[@ToolReviewZone]

Shouldn't have to though

[@alancupit1061]

@@ToolReviewZone I agree but it would work.

[@eventid22]

ehhh, I was hoping it's coffe machine, because this I need most before work. :)

[@ccdirecttvdllc5246]

Could you grind the outsides of the wrench to make it more usable ?

[@ToolReviewZone]

Yeah you could probably do that

[@ccdirecttvdllc5246]

I've got the same one coming in this Monday, tool only. I will probably shape my wrench to work better. Would my 12" miter saw dust bag fit the dust nozzle on this router ? Its 1 3/4 " fitting.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Pretty good price

[@ToolReviewZone]

Yeah great price for it bro

[@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet]

P.s..... Thanks for the review Clint! You're a beast bro! 💪 Aaaaannnnd I'm getting the Fuel router 👍 Thanks for that too 😎

[@ToolReviewZone]

Right back at ya brother. I really appreciate the comment and all the support David 👊

[@amoscardoza5253]

Hi David! Hope all is well.

[@MostlyPeacefulCombatVet]

Famous@@amoscardoza5253! Doing great man! Hope you're doing good yourself bro! 👊

[@giantsfan1925]

do the ridgid 18v octane cordless brushless compact router OR the Skilsaw Magnesium Super Sawsquatch Worm Drive Saw

[@ToolReviewZone]

Already got the ridgid OCTANE video up Genie. I'll see on the Skil👊

[@tomc3965]

Does anyone have an issue with the guide bushing it comes with not being centre to the bit or collet and know how to fix it? It goes off centre when i clip the lever down it looks like

[@jeffcoolhd]

Makita rocks I'm so confused lol. Peace brother

[@ToolReviewZone]

Hahahahaha, sorry bro lmao

[@dede6110]

same issue after putting the bit in the base doesnt fit

[@Maker76]

Maybe you should have purchased the full kit which offers two additional bases instead of using this one that isn’t suitable

[@jcobb7762]

Thank you

[@TPen]

Why not just run the router bit through the base plate making room

[@ToolReviewZone]

The router is from Acme tools and I have to return it so dont want to damage it

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Wow at the round over bit not fitting

[@ToolReviewZone]

Yeah Antonio...I never had that happen before

[@chrisohanlon69]

you didn't show us how to put the bit in

[@lebronjordan802]

Is this better than Milwaukee?

[@ToolReviewZone]

I actually did a video of tip routers. I picked Milwaukee as the #1

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Dang the fine tune feature sucks

[@ToolReviewZone]

Yeah, not really happy with that

[@bloodknottrevelian3396]

Initially you quoted 1,000 to 3,000 rpm but No Load Speed 10,000 - 30,000 rpm. Copied from the tech details on Makita’s website.

[@TrumpTrain911]

I want one

[@kan-zee]

I hear people use these routers, for making wooden signs...have you tried this before.? Happy holidays to you and family. cheers

[@ToolReviewZone]

What's up Kanzee! Yeah bro I've done it. I don't really have the patience like some lol, but there is one channel that dies an excellent job. Check this guy out m.kzbin.info

[@JayMcB]

Tool Review Zone old Dave is awesome 👍

[@amoscardoza5253]

Yo TRZ!!

[@ToolReviewZone]

Haha, AMOS! What's up bro👊

[@toolreviewsandrestorations]

Did I miss him or did the makita marketing knome not show up?!?

[@ToolReviewZone]

HAHA, the Gnome has been a no show, but I'm going to see if I can track him down for the next video!!!

[@tallswede80]

mine died after a year

[@dannymeil3294]

30,000 rpm at #5 not 3,000 rpm oops

[@anthonymiddlesex6859]

your correct base is bad a lot of rock and roll purchased aftermarket base cured problem come on makita sort it out

[@Trd2020]

This dude is a Milwaukee fanboy. It’s obvious

[@georgemacdonald5282]

The word is rebate not rabbit.

[@wellwhatthen10101]

NO this router goes to 30.000 RPM not 3.000.

[@warrensmith2902]

Yep and it is the most copied router on the market today, and most of copies have a squarish base.

[@robinhorton6625]

i HATE A🥵🥶MERICAN ROCK MUSIC WHEN WATCHING KZbin

[@ncummins80]

I recently bought this router so I can use a round over bit. I bought the Diablo 3/8 round over bit, but did not open it yet. What size bit should I replace it with that will fit in this base plate? Thanks in advance!

[@richardf.dossii3900]

When your just like...do a lill machining buy a bugger router...I don't like that a 3/4 round over won't fit through the frame of the base, or the base...ima go +1.5mm...maybe 2mm. 🦾