Router bits – technical differences and areas of application
Router bits – technical differences and areas of application
Milling bits are indispensable tools when cutting, shaping or hollowing out wood, plastic or metal with precision. They come in many variants, each designed for specific tasks and materials. For both professional craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts, choosing the right milling bit can be a challenge, as differences in material, geometry and shank type have a major impact on the result.
In this article, you will get an overview of what to consider when choosing milling bits, as well as an introduction to the most common types and manufacturers on the market.
The article presents a selection of milling bits representing different types, materials and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of the technical differences and areas of application, so you can more easily choose the bit that suits your project. The product descriptions are based on publicly available information from manufacturers and retailers and are summarised to provide a clear and neutral basis for comparison.
Factors to consider when buying milling bits
When choosing milling bits, it is important to take into account both the material you will be working with and the type of milling you want to perform. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Material and coating
Milling bits are typically made of HSS (High Speed Steel), carbide or with a diamond coating. HSS bits are suitable for wood and plastic, while carbide bits handle harder materials such as aluminium and steel. Coatings such as titanium nitride (TiN) or diamond increase wear resistance and lifespan.
2. Shank type and compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling machine. The most common sizes are 6 mm, 8 mm and 12 mm. A properly fitted shank ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and geometry
The cutting angle affects how the bit removes material. A positive cutting angle provides fast chip removal, while a negative angle gives a smoother surface. Spiral bits direct chips away from the workpiece, reducing the risk of overheating.
4. Area of application
Consider whether you need to mill edges, make grooves, hollow out workpieces or process profiles. Each type of task requires a specific bit shape – for example, ball end mills for hollowing and slot cutters for precise grooves.
5. Price and quality
The quality of a milling bit is often reflected in the price. Cheaper bits may be sufficient for hobby use, while professionals should invest in durable bits with high precision and longer lifespan.
Products in focus
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled workflow. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with delicate materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection nozzle allows for the attachment of extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Nozzle with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection nozzle diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate measuring 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which allow precise adjustment of the fence. A special tool system makes it possible to change the router bit from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers, and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joinery, and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter, and dovetail router
Product descriptions
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled workflow. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with delicate materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection nozzle allows for the attachment of extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Nozzle with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection nozzle diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate measuring 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which allow precise adjustment of the fence. A special tool system makes it possible to change the router bit from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers, and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joinery, and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a sturdy storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter, and dovetail router
Different types of milling bits
Milling bits come in many designs, each optimised for specific tasks and materials. Here are some of the most commonly used types.
1. Slot cutters
Slot cutters are used to make grooves, slots and joints in wood or plastic. They come in different diameters and cutting depths, making them versatile for both furniture building and veneer work.
2. Edge cutters
Edge cutters are used to process edges and profiles. They can create rounded, bevelled or decorative edges and are often used when fitting worktops or mouldings.
3. Ball end mills
Ball end mills have a rounded tip and are used for hollowing, shaping and 3D milling. They are ideal for detailed work in wood and plastic.
4. Spiral cutters
Spiral cutters direct chips away from the workpiece and provide a cleaner surface. They come in variants with upward or downward spirals, depending on whether you want to minimise fraying on the top or bottom of the material.
5. Corner and template milling bits
These bits are used for precision work where a template is followed or repeated cuts are made. They are popular in furniture production and when adjusting veneered surfaces.
Different brands of milling bits
The market for milling bits is broad, and several manufacturers specialise in different types and quality levels.
Bosch
Bosch offers a comprehensive range of milling bits for both professionals and hobby users. The brand is known for high quality, precision and long lifespan.
Makita
Makita produces milling bits that combine robustness and precision. Their bits are particularly popular among craftsmen working with wood and veneer.
CMT
CMT is an Italian brand specialising in milling tools for woodworking. They are known for their sharp edges and durable coatings.
Festool
Festool focuses on precision and user-friendliness. Their milling bits are designed to work perfectly with Festool’s own machines and systems.
Dewalt
Dewalt offers a wide range of milling bits suitable for both wood and metal. They are known for their durability and good price-to-quality ratio.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a milling bit and a regular drill bit?
A milling bit is designed to cut sideways and shape the material, while a regular drill bit only cuts in the longitudinal direction. Milling bits are therefore used for hollowing, profiling and edge processing.
Can I use the same milling bit for both wood and metal?
It depends on the bit. Carbide bits can often be used for both wood and metal, but it is recommended to choose a bit specifically designed for the material you are working with to achieve the best result and lifespan.
How do I maintain my milling bits?
Clean the bits after use to remove resin and dust. Store them dry and in a case to avoid damage to the cutting edges. Dull bits can often be resharpened.
What speed should I mill at?
The milling speed depends on the material and the bit. In general, harder materials require lower speed, while softer materials can be milled faster. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
How long does a milling bit last?
The lifespan depends on quality, use and maintenance. A quality bit that is used correctly and kept clean can last for many years, while cheaper bits wear out faster.
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