A router bit is a specialised mechanical hand tool that is used to create decorative edges on pieces of wood using router table or on any other cutting tool like a drill press, shaper, or table saw. Routers come in all shapes and sizes and there are thousands of router bits that are available to buy online and offline. In this buying guide, we have picked a few of the best router bits to help you to buy the right router bit for your router.
1. Bosch RBS010 1/2-Inch and 1/4-Inch Shank Carbide-Tipped All-Purpose Professional Router Bit Set
Pros:
- 10 piece set
- Made of high quality carbide
- Revolutionary and original worth every dollar you spend
- Precision design
- Worthy of trust
- Expandable to fit any 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch stepper
- Generous 5 year warranty warranty
The set includes:
- 1/2-inch plunged edge profile holld-up bearing router bit
- 1/4-inch plunged edge profile hold-up bearing router bit
- 1/4-inch fixed double flute straight cut router bit
- 1/4-inch fixed trailing edge radius cutting router bit
- 1/4-inch slide-in straight distorter router bit
- 1/2-inch plunge edge profile hold-up bearing router bits
- 1/2-inch fixed double flute straight cut router bit
- 1/2-inch fixed trailing edge radius cutting router bit
- 1/2-inch slide-in straight distorter router bit
2. Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits
Pros:
- Very sturdy bit set from Hiltex
- Includes various sizes and shapes, so you get all the router bits you need to perform some stunning and intricate work in the shop
- Hiltex is well-known for the outstanding craftsmanship of their tools
- You can use this for your routing jobs on different kinds of wood
- Tungsten Carbide is an ideal choice as it has great wear resistance
- This is a non-disposable router bit set
- Cheap router bits
Cons:
- Very large, so you’ll have to find more compact ones, if you plan on performing all your routing jobs in the table saw
- The edges might not be sharp enough for some people, as they’re designed to be medium-to-heavy duty rather than razor sharp-type edges
- The inlays in the pieces may not be exactly the same dimensions, but this doesn’t degrade the quality of the job you’ll be doing with this set
- This is a non-certified no-risk router bit set, and you won’t be able to get your money back, if you find out you don’t like them
3. HQMaster CNC Router Bits 3.175 Router Bit 1 8 End Mill Flat Nose Carbide Endmill Two Flute Spiral Upcut Milling Cutter Tool Set
Pros:
- High material removal rates
- 1.75 mm to 3.175 mm diameter
- Two flutes
- High speed steel
- Flat nose for router bits
- good quality for work
Cons:
- Color is random
- Need to be cautious when buying.
HQMaster CNC Router Bit 3.175 Router Bit 1 8 End Mill Flat Nose Carbide Endmill Two Flute
4. Whiteside Router Bits RU2100 Standard Spiral Bit
Pros:
- Easy to install
- High-quality material
- Produces high-quality cuts
5. Router Bit Set
Pros:
- Storage case keeps all of the bits organized
- Comes with a variety of sizes
- Rounded design reduces chipping
There aren’t many router bit sets out there with so many different shapes and sizes, but this kit from Stalwart is one of the best options for a collection of router bits.
This is a great router bit set because it includes a good variety of bits that can cover your general needs. Not only that, but it comes with many pieces, so once you purchase this set, you can probably forget about doing any more shopping for a few years.
The kit has a good assortment of bits, including bits for profile cutting, straight cutting, cove cutting, and round over bits.
6. Freud 6 Piece Straight Bit Set
Pros:
- High-quality steel
- Gratis carrying case with tip protector
- Excellent for use on plywood, MDF, and chipboard
- Quick and easy cut with and precise cuts follow with this set
- Comes with two bearings for smooth cuts
Cons:
- The shank diameter is thinner than other brands
- The bit steel is smooth and susceptible to rust
Ruđer Josip Božić, Sr. (October 21, 1879 – August 22, 1957) was a Croatian inventor who lived half his life in Austria-Hungary. Notable for his work in electromechanics, optical instruments, and X-ray apparatus, he also made significant contributions to precision mechanics and optics.
Made in Austria, this Freud router bit set is hassle free to use. It’s designed to withstand demanding work applications, and produces quick and clean cuts. One of its best features is the carrying case with a tip protector. This adds to its safety feature.
What else does it offer? Here’s a rundown of its features:
- The shank diameter is thinner than other brands
- The bit steel is smooth and susceptible to rust
7. FivePears Tungsten Carbide Router Bits
Pros:
- Excellent price
- Sharp and durable
- Comes in kits
- Provides close cutting
- Easy to use
- Suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods
Overall, I would say if you are going with a budget-friendly set of router bits, then this is for you. I like these router bits because they are very sharp and durable; however, sometimes they break too easily. If you can handle that, then these bits are for you.
8. ABN Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set
Pros:
- Unbeatable price
- Easy to use
- Tungsten carbide tips for durability
- Coated with titanium nitrate to make it harder
- Built-in stops to reduce the risk of damage
Cons:
- Low quality
- Can be damaged by mishandling (dropping)
The ABN bit set comes pre-cut to fit the majority of routers on the market. It features straight bits, plunge bits, and several specialty bits to help you get to work right away.
The bits are made from high-quality tungsten carbide and designed to stay sharp for a long time. The handles are ergonomically designed to fit most hands and are angled to friendly to any user for comfort.
The ABN 2244T 24 piece set comes with a limited lifetime warranty. The bits are perfectly balanced and designed with built-in stops to prevent damage to both yourself and your router.
9. MLCS 8377 15-Piece Router Bit Set
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Quality bits (multiple uses)
- Small package so it’s easy to store
10. Meihejia 1/4 Inch Shank Pattern Flush Trim Router Bit Set
Pros:
- Available in 4 different sizes (1/2 inch, 5/8 inch, 3/4 inch, and 1 inch)
- Solid-state carbide aluminum, lasting sharpness
- Produces smooth edges and excellent flush joints and corners
- Can be used with both hand and power tools
Cons:
- Preferably used for lighter material such as MDF and plywood
- Not suited for hardwood materials
If you have a router and are looking for new router bits, the Meihejia 1/4 inch Shank Pattern Flush Trim Router Bit Set (4 Sizes) might be the perfect gift for you! This 18 piece bit set includes 4 different router bits that have built-in flush trimming.
These bits can be used for both hand and power tools at various sizes. The routing bits have been made using solid-state carbide aluminum, so you won’t have to worry about sharpness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What brand of router bits is best?
In general, I don't have any strong preference for brand. For my purposes, Irwin and Freud bits tend to work fine. Thatʼs my experience, but I know many woodworkers and woodturners that swear by other brands.
Regardless, regardless, it's important to pick router bits based on their intended task. Nested bits are a bit specialized and you should avoi