Best Cordless Routers for Joinery in York: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Bespoke Specialist
Trailing extension leads through a client's bedroom while trying to scribe a wardrobe filler panel is a headache every joiner knows. In York's Victorian terraces, where sockets are scarce and walls are never straight, going cordless isn't just a luxury—it's necessary for efficiency.
A good cordless router (or laminate trimmer) changes how we handle 'second fix' joinery. It allows for effortless round-overs on shelving, precise hinge recessing without the cable drag, and mostly importantly, clean scribes on awkward filler pieces.
In this review, I'm looking at three options I've assessed for site work: a budget body compatible with pro batteries, the ultimate trade kit from Trend, and a robust DeWalt unit perfect for fine adjustments.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Run Time / Battery Life"
"Manufacturers claim all-day usage on a single 5Ah battery."
If you're trimming softwood pine, perhaps. If you're putting a mould on solid Oak or Accoya, the motor draws significantly more power. Always carry a spare battery charged.
The Spec: "1/4 Inch vs 1/2 Inch Collet"
"It's just a smaller router."
These are trimmers, not heavy-duty workstation routers. They are perfect for edgings, hinges, and scribes. Do not attempt to cut kitchen worktop joints with these; you need a 1/2 inch corded beast for that.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
800W Cordless Wood Router for Dewalt 18V Battery
RAYLEEY
This is a surprisingly capable unit for the price, primarily because it utilises the DeWalt 18V batteries you likely already rely on. It's an excellent entry point for DIYers or apprentices needing a trimmer for lighter tasks like softwood architraves.
The Good
- Incredible value for money compared to big brands
- Includes 15 router bits to get started immediately
- Compatible with professional DeWalt batteries
The Bad
- Bare unit only - no battery included
- Vibration is higher than premium trade tools
- Not suitable for heavy daily trade use on hardwoods
Installer Tip:
This tool is great for 'breaking the edge' (light chamfering) on MDF shelving for wardrobes. Don't push it too hard on solid oak face frames; take multiple shallow passes instead.
Priced at £54.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonTrend 18V Cordless Brushless Router Kit T18S/R14K2
Trend
Trend is the gold standard for routing in the UK. This kit is a proper investment for the serious joiner. The inclusion of two batteries and both plunge and trim bases makes it the most versatile tool for fitting bespoke furniture.
The Good
- Complete kit: 2 batteries, charger, and cutter bases
- Deep power reserves for cutting abrasive materials like laminate
- Plunge base allows for precise hinge jig work
The Bad
- Higher initial cost
- Heavier than the bare trimming units
Installer Tip:
The plunge base on this Trend unit is perfect when paired with a hinge jig for fitting wardrobe doors. The guide bush centralisation is spot on, ensuring your doors hang straight every time.
Priced at £189.70 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonDEWALT 20V Max XR Cordless Router (Tool Only)
DEWALT
When you are scribing a filler panel against a wandering Victorian wall, control is everything. The DeWalt micro-adjust ring allows for incredibly fine depth changes without unlocking the base, solving the problem of inaccurate scribes.
The Good
- Electronic brake stops the bit instantly (safety)
- Maintains constant speed even under heavy load
- Dual LEDs illuminate the cut line perfectly in dark corners
The Bad
- Expensive for a 'body only' tool
- Does not include plunge base standard (sold separately)
Installer Tip:
Use the huge clear base plate to your advantage. When scribing a filler piece for a wardrobe, clamp a straight edge to your line and let the router do the work. The soft start prevents that initial 'kick' that can ruin a delicate scribe.
Priced at £151.27 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Can I use these routers for kitchen worktops?
Why is dust extraction important for wardrobes?
What is the difference between specific voltage ratings?
Why bespoke wardrobes over flat-pack?
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