Router speed and bit diameter: the dial settings in the makers' manuals

Why routers have a speed dial

Bosch's 1617EVS manual says the electronic speed control lets motor speed be matched to cutter size and material hardness.

Makita's RT0701C manual says the speed can be correctly adjusted to suit the material and bit diameter.

Taikra doesn't rank or test tools; every figure here is from the maker's own manual, linked. The rpm values are the makers' approximate figures for each dial number.

What rpm does each dial setting give?

DEWALT's DW618 manual lists approximate speeds of 8,000 rpm at dial setting 1, 12,000 at 2, 14,000 at 3, 18,000 at 4, 21,000 at 5 and 24,000 at 6.

DEWALT's DWP611 compact router manual lists 16,000 rpm at setting 1, then 18,200, 20,400, 22,600 and 24,800, up to 27,000 at setting 6.

Bosch's 1617EVS chart runs 8,000, 13,500, 16,500, 20,000, 21,500 and 25,000 rpm for dial settings 1 to 6.

Makita's RP2301FC plunge router manual gives 9,000 rpm at setting 1 and 22,000 at setting 6, and the RT0701C trim router lists a no load speed of 10,000 - 30,000 /min across its six settings. (Makita)

Which end of the chart is for large bits?

DEWALT's DWP611 chart names large diameter bits and cutters at the low-speed end, starting at setting 1, and small diameter bits and cutters, softwoods, plastics and laminates toward the high-speed end.

Bosch's 1617EVS chart lists nonferrous metals and larger diameter bits and cutters first, then softwoods, plastics, counter tops and smaller diameter bits and cutters.

Bosch adds that the chart shows the relationship between settings and application, that exact settings are determined by operator experience and preference, and that the bit manufacturer may also have a speed recommendation.

What the manuals add about the bit maker and low speeds

DEWALT's DW618 manual says the chart speeds are approximate and for reference only, and to always follow the bit manufacturer's speed recommendations, as some bit designs require specific speeds.

Makita's RT0701C manual cautions that operating the tool continuously at low speeds for a long time overloads the motor.

DEWALT's DWP611 and DW618 manuals say the electronics hold motor speed in low and medium speed operation, and to reduce the depth of cut or slow the feed rate rather than keep loading the motor. (DEWALT)

For collet sizes, bases and horsepower, see router bases and collets; every catalogued model is under routers.