Best Trim Router Under £100
Finding a capable trim router for under £100 is easier than ever, with several major brands offering compact, precise tools perfect for edge work and sign making. We have analysed specifications, user reviews, and brand reliability to find the best value options for your workshop.
Quick answer
The Bosch GKF1250CE is the best trim router under £100, offering class-leading power and a reliable plunge base. For a budget-friendly cordless option, the Ryobi RRT18-0 ONE+ delivers surprising performance if you are already in the Ryobi ecosystem.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, RPM)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Bosch GKF1250CE
Powerful 1250W motor with variable speed and plunge base.
| Product | Best for | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GKF1250CE | Overall power | 1250W, plunge base | 4.7/5 | Check Amazon |
| Ryobi RRT18-0 ONE+ | Cordless convenience | 18V, brushless | 4.4/5 | Check Amazon |
| Makita RT0700CX7 | Precision and build | 700W, 1/4" collet | 4.6/5 | Check Amazon |
| Einhell TC-RO 1155 E | Budget value | 1150W, variable speed | 4.2/5 | Check Amazon |
| Draper 240V Trim Router | Basic edge work | 600W, fixed base | 4.0/5 | Check Amazon |
Bosch GKF1250CE
Best OverallPros
- Powerful 1250W motor handles hardwoods
- Includes plunge base for versatility
- Constant electronic speed control
Cons
- Plunge base can feel slightly stiff
- Dust extraction adapter sold separately
The Bosch GKF1250CE is a powerhouse in a compact package, offering 1250W of motor that easily cuts through oak and mahogany without bogging down. Owner reviews consistently praise its smooth variable speed control and the included plunge base, which adds significant versatility for mortising and groove cutting.
While the plunge base action can be a little tight out of the box, it loosens up with use. The lack of an included dust extraction adapter is a minor annoyance, but the overall build quality and performance make it the clear winner for anyone needing a capable trim router under £100.
Ryobi RRT18-0 ONE+
Best CordlessPros
- Brushless motor for longer run time
- Part of the huge ONE+ battery system
- LED light for clear work area
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not as powerful as corded models for deep cuts
The Ryobi RRT18-0 is a fantastic cordless trim router that offers great freedom of movement for trimming laminate or light edge work. Its brushless motor provides good efficiency, and the variable speed trigger gives you control. User reviews highlight its low vibration and comfortable grip.
Its main limitation is power; it struggles with deep passes in hardwoods compared to corded rivals. However, for its intended use and if you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries, it is an excellent value tool that delivers on convenience.
Makita RT0700CX7
Best PrecisionPros
- Extremely smooth and precise depth adjustment
- Compact and lightweight design
- Very low vibration levels
Cons
- Only 700W, less power than the Bosch
- Plunge base is an additional purchase
The Makita RT0700CX7 is revered for its build quality and precision. The micro-adjustment system allows for incredibly fine depth setting, making it a favourite for detailed sign making and inlay work. Owners consistently rate it highly for its smooth operation and low vibration, which reduces fatigue.
The lower 700W motor means it is not ideal for aggressive cuts in hardwoods, but for its intended purpose of trimming and light profiling, it is superb. The fixed base is excellent, but the plunge base is sold separately, which is a consideration if you need that versatility.
Einhell TC-RO 1155 E
Best BudgetPros
- Very low price for the power offered
- Includes parallel guide and spanner
- Variable speed with soft start
Cons
- Plastic base is less durable than metal
- Depth adjustment is not as precise
The Einhell TC-RO 1155 E offers impressive power for its price, with a 1150W motor that can handle most DIY tasks. It comes with a parallel guide and a soft start feature, which are welcome additions at this budget level. User reviews note it is a solid performer for the occasional user.
The main compromises are in build quality; the plastic base feels less robust than the metal bases on the Bosch or Makita, and the depth adjustment mechanism is not as fine. For a first router or light use, it is an excellent budget choice that punches above its weight.
Draper 240V Trim Router
Best for Basic UsePros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for basic laminate trimming
Cons
- Single speed, no variable control
- Low power limits use to softwoods and laminates
The Draper 240V Trim Router is a basic, no-frills tool designed for simple tasks like trimming laminate worktops. Its lightweight design makes it very easy to control for one-handed use. Owner reviews confirm it works well for its intended purpose.
However, the fixed 30,000 RPM speed and 600W motor mean it is not suitable for routing profiles in hardwood or for deep cuts. It is a functional tool for the absolute minimum budget, but the Einhell offers much more power for a small price increase.
What to check before buying a trim router under £100
When shopping on a budget, you need to focus on the features that matter most for your projects. Power is the primary consideration; a 700W to 1250W motor is ideal for most DIY tasks. Variable speed is also important, as different bit sizes and materials require different RPMs for a clean cut and safe operation.
The collet size is another key spec. Most trim routers use a 1/4" (6.35mm) collet, which is standard for trim router bits. Some models, like the Bosch, also accept 8mm bits, giving you more options. Finally, consider the base. A fixed base is fine for basic edge work, but a plunge base adds versatility for grooves and mortises.
Mistakes to avoid
A common mistake is buying a router with too little power for your intended use. A 600W model is fine for laminate, but it will struggle with hardwoods. Always match the motor power to the hardest material you plan to cut. Another error is ignoring the dust extraction. Routing creates a lot of fine dust, and a model without a dust port will make a mess.
Do not overlook the importance of a good depth stop or micro-adjustment. For precise work, a smooth and accurate depth adjustment is essential. Finally, remember that a trim router is not a full-size router. It is not designed for heavy-duty work in a router table, so keep your expectations realistic for its size and power.
FAQs
Can a trim router cut hardwood?
Yes, but you need a model with at least 1000W of power, like the Bosch GKF1250CE, and you should take shallow passes to avoid bogging down the motor.
Is a plunge base necessary for a trim router?
No, but it is highly recommended as it allows you to start a cut in the middle of a workpiece, which is essential for grooves and mortises.
What is the best trim router for laminate worktops?
The Bosch GKF1250CE is excellent due to its power and smooth speed control, but the Ryobi RRT18-0 is a great cordless option for quick trimming jobs.
Can I use a trim router in a router table?
Yes, many trim routers can be mounted in a small router table, but they are not designed for heavy-duty use and lack the power of a full-size router.
What is the difference between a trim router and a plunge router?
A trim router is smaller, lighter, and designed for edge work and light trimming, while a plunge router is larger and allows the bit to be lowered into the material.
How important is variable speed on a trim router?
Very important, as it allows you to match the bit speed to the material, preventing burning on softwoods and ensuring clean cuts on hardwoods.
Are cordless trim routers as good as corded ones?
For light trimming and convenience, yes, but corded models generally offer more consistent power for demanding cuts in hardwoods.
What size collet do I need for a trim router?
Most trim routers use a 1/4" collet, which is the standard size for trim router bits. Some models also accept 8mm bits for more versatility.
Is the Einhell TC-RO 1155 E good for beginners?
Yes, it is a great budget-friendly option for beginners due to its low price and decent power, but the plastic base is less durable than metal alternatives.
What safety gear do I need for a trim router?
Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection, and consider a dust mask as routing creates fine wood dust that can be harmful if inhaled.
Our verdict
For the best overall trim router under £100, the Bosch GKF1250CE is the clear winner, offering unmatched power and versatility with its included plunge base. If you need a cordless option for convenience and already own the batteries, the Ryobi RRT18-0 ONE+ is the best budget-friendly choice. For pure precision and build quality, the Makita RT0700CX7 is a superb tool for detailed work.