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Routers are versatile power tools that are capable of cutting or hollowing out hard materials like plastic, metal, or wood. That’s why the best router bits for your tools are those that are capable of processing the materials you want to work with.
Straight, edge-forming or flush-trim router bits are just a few among numerous types of router bits you can choose from. Furthermore, the type of router you have will determine which bits you can use since CNC routers are not compatible with the same bit sets as handheld routers.
In this article, we are going to take you through some of the best router bits on the market and help you choose the set that meets your expectations.
The 8 Best Router Bits
| Best Overall: EDMBG Router Set | Check latest price |
| Best Carbide-Tipped: MLCS 8369 | Check latest price |
| Best CNC Bits: Whiteside Router Bit 705 | Check latest price |
| Best Tungsten Bits: Hiltex 10108 | Check latest price |
| Best Tongue and Groove Bits: Freud 99-036 | Check latest price |
| Best for Professional Use: Yonico 17702 | Check latest price |
| Most Versatile: Neiko 10115A | Check latest price |
| Most Affordable: KOWOOD Router Bit Set | Check latest price |
EDMG Router Set – The best router bits
The quality, versatility, and affordability are the attributes that set the EDMG Router Set apart from other router bit sets. There are 35 pieces in this router set and each of them is made of carbide, which means that you can sharpen them numerous times before you have to replace them.
The shank diameter of the bits in the EDMG router set is ½-inch and they are only compatible with routers that have the matching collet size. The shank size makes the bits from this set sturdy and capable of withstanding heavy-duty usage.
The set contains bits that can be used for flush trims, dovetail, or straight jobs among others, which enables you to choose the router bit that best fits the demands of the project you are currently working on.
The set comes with an aluminum case that contains the exact specifications for all router bits, which helps you keep them neatly organized.
Pros
- Built from a sturdy material
- All bits can be sharpened multiple times
- The set features all common types of router bits
- Bits from this set can handle tough materials
Cons
- Short warranty period
- Only suitable for routers that have ½-inch collets
MLCS 8369 – The best carbide-tipped router bits
Despite being just carbide-tipped, the router bits in the MLCS 8369 set are remarkably durable. Neither of the 30 pieces in the set is going to become dull quickly even if you use them to hollow out hard materials.
There are 5 straight bits, 3 dovetail bits as well as 2 flush trim bits in the set that enable you to perform all common woodworking and metalworking tasks. Router bits in the MLCS 8369 set have a ½-inch straight shank that enables them to process hardwood effortlessly.
In addition, some of the pieces in this set have a 45-degree cutting angle, and you can use them to diversify the range of cuts you are performing with your router.
The set ships in a wooden storage box that features the dimension and the illustration of the type of cut a particular bit is used for.
Pros
- Excellent durability at an affordable price
- The set comes with a three-year warranty
- Suitable for most router applications
- Router bits provide precision
Cons
- Not suited for professional use
- It is easier to replace bits than to sharpen them once they become dull
Whiteside Router Bits 705 – The best CNC router bits
If you are just starting with your CNC router, and you are looking for an affordable set of CNC router bits, then you should consider getting the Whiteside Router Bit 705 set. There are only five bits in this set, as it contains two conical ball nose spirals, two V-Groove bits, and an up-cut spiral.
The bits from this set are going to enable you to shape materials in virtually any way you want, as they can be used for 2D and 3D carving. The diameter of each bit in the set is ¼-inch and they may not perform well when used to process robust materials.
The Whiteside Router Bit set is designed for small CNC machines, which means that you will have to replace them if you want to take on more complex projects.
However, this set of router bits is one of the most affordable options for CNC machines, since most sets for these tools cost significantly more than the Whiteside Router Bit 705 set.
Pros
- A great choice for novice CNC router users
- Suitable for 2D and 3D carving jobs
- Made from sturdy material
- More affordable than similar router sets
Cons
- This set contains just five router bits
- Bits become dull quickly if they are used frequently
Hiltex 10108 – The best tungsten carbide router bits
Creating a picture frame or different types of panels will be much easier if you opt for the Hiltex 10108 router set. Bits in this set are made from tungsten carbide which enables them to keep their edge for a long time.
Moreover, you can easily sharpen each of the 24 bits in this set, as the material from which they are made enables them to remain fully functional after the sharpening process.
The shank diameter of bits in the Hiltex 10108 set is ¼-inch and you cannot use them to cut, trim or carve tough materials. Even so, you can use either of the pieces in this set for a broad range of carpentry jobs.
The set contains multiple straight, cove, and dovetail bits which enables you to perform any of these tasks with a great level of precision.
Besides, the set comes in a wooden storage box that features illustrations and cutting width of each bit so that you can easily find the one that best fits the project demands.
Pros
- The bits in the set remain sharp for a long time
- All bits make accurate cuts
- The Hiltex 10108 set brings versatility to router users
- Costs less than similar sets of router bits
Cons
- Only suitable for woodworking tasks
- Designed for hobbyists
Freud Adjustable Tongue and Groove Bit Set – The best Tongue and Groove router bits
Tongue and groove is one of the essential carpentry techniques, and the Freud Adjustable tongue and groove set is going to enable you to fit two pieces of wood seamlessly.
These bits allow you to adjust to the stock thickness as they contain 0.002-inch increments that let you alter the tongue and groove width using the adjustable dial.
You can adjust these bits in the range between ½-inch and 1-1/4 inch and regulate their groove width within the 7/32 to 3/8 inch radius. In addition, these tongue and groove router bits have a ½-inch shank diameter and you can use them to process all types of wood.
These Freud’s router bits are made from the TiCo high-density carbide and they have a red Perma-SHIELD non-stick coating that minimizes the amount of debris that sticks to the bits.
However, you should keep in mind that they are only compatible with table-mounted portable routers.
Pros
- The smooth width adjustment process
- The edge remains sharp for a long time
- Cuts through softwood and hardwood
- This bit set comes with the manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Compatible with portable, table-mounted routers
- These bits cost more than similar models
Yonico 17702 – The best router bits for professional use
There are only a handful of router bit sets on the market that offer more versatility than the Yonico 17702 router bit set. There are 70 pieces in this set and they are made of premium-grade C3 micro-grain tungsten carbide that enables them to remain sharp for longer periods.
Besides, sharpening bits from this set is not going to damage them, so you can continue using them without worrying about replacing them.
There are 8 different straight bits in the set, as well as six cove bits and four chamfer bits, which enables you to perform even the most complex routing tasks. The ½-inch shank diameter ensures that each bit moves smoothly through the surface and prevents it from creating a rough finish.
This set comes with a wooden storage box that helps keep bits organized, but the accompanying illustrations can be confusing for an inexperienced router user.
Pros
- The set contains 70 pieces
- All router bits are made from durable material
- Each bit produces a professional finish
- Compatible with a broad range of routers
Cons
- More expensive than similar router bit sets
- Requires regular cleaning
Neiko 10115A – Most Versatile
Instead of wondering which router bits you may need, you can get a router bit set like Neiko 10115A that contains 80 pieces. Bits in this set are made from YG8 tungsten carbide and they are heat resistant.
Consequently, it is unlikely that any of the bits are going to break even if you use them to process hard materials, but they may lose their edge quickly if you use them regularly to cut or carve hardwood and similar types of stock.
The ½-inch shank diameter enables you to fit bits from this set on almost any router, although you should still check if bits from the Nieko 10115A set are compatible with the router model you have.
Also, the set comes with an aluminum case that allows you to store router bits safely or carry them with you when you’re not working in your workshop.
Pros
- This router bit set contains 80 pieces
- Inexpensive
- Compatible with most routers
- The powdered coating reduces the daily wear and tear
Cons
- Frequent usage dulls these router bits quickly
- Aimed at novice woodworkers
KOWOOD Router Bit Set – Best For Beginners and Most Affordable
Inexperienced woodworkers who are just learning the ropes of the trade should try using the KOWOOD router bit set as it contains all bit types they can need. This set contains 24 anti-kickback pieces that move smoothly across surfaces.
It is worth noting that these router bits can only be used to process wood, and attempting to cut steel or iron with them will damage them. The shank diameter of these bits is ¼-inch which means that they may struggle if you try to hollow out hardwood with them.
The set contains multiple V-grooving, straight, and dovetail router bits so that you can perform trimming or grooving tasks effortlessly.
Like all other sets we covered in this article, the KOWOOD router bit set comes with a storage box that contains information about each piece in the set.
Pros
- Anti-kickback design ensures even movement across the surface
- Offers more bits than beginners need
- Enables users to cut wood quickly
- Costs less than most router bit sets
Cons
- Bits from this set lose their edge quickly
- Cutting metals with these router bits is not possible
Factors you need to consider while choosing router bits
Although choosing a router bit set isn’t necessarily a complicated process, there are still several factors you need to take into account before buying the set.
The material from which the bits are made plays a large role in their durability since the bits that are made of tungsten carbide tend to lose their edge slower and they don’t break down easily.
So, let’s take a look at some of the most important features you should look into before you choose the bits for your router.
Router bit type
Router bits are designed for different purposes, and you cannot use a straight bit to perform angled cuts, since you can only do that if you have a chamfer bit.
That’s why you must check if the set you are interested in offers all types of bits you are going to need to complete your projects.
Same bits can have different dimensions so getting a ½-inch and a ¼-inch straight bit, for instance, is going to extend the scope of tasks you can perform with your router.
Project demands
Knowing which materials you want to trim, cut, or hollow out, will help you get a better idea of which router bits you are going to need.
Bits with a ¼-inch shank diameter are usually not durable enough to process tough materials, and you should opt for bits with a ½-inch shank to avoid having to deal with vibration while using a router bit.
Besides, bits that have ½-inch shanks are easier to control which allows you to process material with more precision. However, you must make sure that the bits you choose are compatible with the router you have.
Material from which the blade is made
Nearly all router bits are either made of high-speed steel or carbide, and the main difference between them is durability.
HSS bits are heat resistant which enables you to use them continually for a long time, but they will become dull quickly if you are working with hard materials often.
On the other hand, bits that are made of carbide usually last longer than HSS bits as they don’t lose the edge as quickly. However, router bits made from carbide are more expensive than HSS bits.
Number of bits in the set
Router bit sets vary in size since you can find sets that contain from five pieces up to 80 pieces. Sets with a large number of bits are better suited for experienced woodworkers that often work with different stock gauges.
A 24-piece set usually contains all common router bit types, which makes it a great choice for DIY or novice woodworkers. However, such a set is less likely to have replacement bits you can use in case a straight or cove bit breaks down.
Opting for router bits that can be sharpened once they become dull will increase your efficiency and ensure that you can use the same bit for a long time.
The size of the router’s collet
The vast majority of routers come with interchangeable collets that enable you to use bits that have ½-inch and ¼-inch shank diameters. Even so, you must check if the collection on your router is compatible with ½-inch or ¼-inch shanks before you purchase a router bit set.
A router bit with a ¼-inch shank can process most types of lumber, but a high level of vibration may impact its accuracy and make it difficult to control. ½-inch shank bits are more expensive than ¼-inch shank bits but they are generally sturdier and more durable.
FAQs
Answer: The installation process of router bits is fairly simple, as you just have to place the bit’s shank into a collet on your router.
Answer: The answer to this question depends on how frequently you are using your router and the hardness of materials you are working with. In most cases, you will be able to use the same bit for several months without having to sharpen it or replace it.
Answer: Yes, you can but you are going to need a diamond hone to complete this task. That’s why it is better to take the bit you want to sharpen to a professional that knows how to restore the bit’s sharpness without altering its shape.
Answer: Cleaning a router bit after using it is recommended since the debris that sticks to it can impact its functionality.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Router Bit Set?
Although they may not seem very important the outcome of your woodworking projects depends on the router bits you use. However, you cannot just opt for any router bit set as you may encounter compatibility issues.
The EDMG Router Set is one of your best options if you have a router that is equipped with a ½-inch collet. The Whiteside Router Bit 705 set is aimed at novice CNC router users, while the Yonico 17702 router bit set that contains 70 pieces is one of the best choices for professionals who are using conventional table-mounted routers.
Which of the best router bits are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know or find out more about the best plunge routers.
