Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: Which To Buy?

In the battle for the best, we will compare the two best router kits- Bosch 1617EVSPK and DeWalt618PK. If you are new to DIY projects and woodworking and are confused about which product to choose, this is the right place. We will help you choose the best product for your need. We will start with the specifications, pros, and cons of both, ultimately leading to the differences between them.  So let’s compare Bosch 1617EVSPK vs DeWalt DW618PK.

Our Verdict

When you first compare Bosch 1716EVSPK vs DeWalt DW618PK, you can see that there is not much difference between the two products. Both have many similar functionalities and are perfect for any work. If you are new in this field, go with Bosch router. DeWalt is more suitable for professionals. Due to a slightly better performance of Bosch in terms of motor power, we opt Bosch 1617EVSPK over DeWalt DW618PK.

Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: Comparison Chart

Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: Differences 

1. Motor Power

Bosch 1716EVSPK has a 12-amp 2.5HP motor, which is sufficient for cutting through most materials. The DeWalt product has a 12-amp 2.25HP motor, which can also do the same work. But we see a slight difference between the power of two. Thus, the Bosch product has a slight edge over the DeWalt DW618PK here. Other than this, both have a soft start and give a clean finish. For much deeper understanding see the comparison of both brands as well.

2. Variable Speeds

You have 6-speed adjustments in the Bosch 1617EVSPK. On the front, it has a dial where you can regulate the speed. From 1-3, you can get RPM of range 8000-16500. This is useful for working with bits and cutters with a large diameter. From 4-6, the RPM ranges between 20000 to 25000. This helps to work bits having smaller diameters. It is also useful for working with softwood and laminate.

The constant response circuit maintains in maintaining RPM for better performance. The router doesn’t heat while working due to electronic speed control. In DeWalt DW618PK, controlling speed is easy. You need to turn the variable speed dial. From 1-3, you get RPM between 8000-14000 RPM. RPM between this limit is suitable for bits and cutters of large diameters. From 4-6, you get RPM that between 18000-24000. This range is fit for working on bits with a small diameter. It is also suitable for softwoods and plastic laminates. So, we see that the Bosch product is better than that of DeWalt due to a slightly more comprehensive range.

3. Fixed And Plunge Base

Both the products have both fixed and plunge base. The Bosch one has a precision centering mechanism. This helps in maintaining the bit while cutting. They also have clamp systems. With the clamp system, you can change the bases quickly without using any tool. It has a 2.56-inched wide opening that can accommodate large bits. The DeWalt DW618PK has a locking lever. It also has a 360- degree micro-adjustment ring, which helps the user in controlling the router better. You can also control the depth of cut. DeWalt provides better plunge depth than Bosch. 

4. Ergonomics

In Bosch router, with the help of depth rod, turret, and soft grip on handles, controlling the depth of cut is easy. The grip makes the handling smooth and comfortable. The fixed base system has hardwood handles and holes which are mounted on the table. You can also adjust the height of the bit from above the router table.

The 10-foot cord gives you freedom and flexibility in use. In the DeWalt router, you have two rubber handles that can be attached to the router for pushing the point. Changing bits is a straightforward task in this router using a spindle lock and wrench. The router has a stable design with the LEXAN sub-base. It also has more visibility while making radial cuts. The 8-foot cord gives you ample space to move around. Thus, in ergonomics, DeWalt DW618PK tops Bosch 1716EVSPK.

5. Collets And Other Features

In Bosch router, fixed collet has a diameter of 6inches while plunge has a diameter of 6-11/16 inches. In DeWalt, the fixed diameter is 1/2inches, and the plunge diameter is 1/6inches. An advantage in the Bosch router is that you can use both 1/2inched and 1/4inched collet and work with various bit sizes. The self-releasing feature makes changing bits a child’s play. In DeWalt, you have to choose between 1/2inched or a 1/4inched collet. Bosch has three, whereas DeWalt has five different adjustments for high precision. 

6. Dust Collection

The Bosch router doesn’t have any dust collection system. Although you can buy and use dust hoods with it. On the other hand, the DeWalt router has an efficient dust collection mechanism which prevents dust from clogging.

7. Weight

Bosch surely wins this tie as it weighs less. Bosch router weight around 18.2 pounds while DeWalt router weighs around 21pounds with the plunge one.

8. Durability

Made with aluminum, the Bosch router is very durable. Every part is of high quality and strength. DeWalt is no less in this regard. The DeWalt router has a metal housing, steel rods on base and brass bushing. Thus, the DeWalt router is comparatively better than Bosch in durability.

9. Price

Value for money is very high for both the products. Still, in monetary terms, DeWalt is costlier than the Bosch router.

Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: Similarities

Both the tools are generally considered the best router kits available in the market. They both have variable speed options, which give flexibility in use. Both are equipped with soft start feature with causes less damage to the material. Also, in both the products, you get two bases- one fixed and the other one plunged. Their body is made of aluminum in both the products, which makes them durable.

Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: Specifications

Bosch 1716EVSPK

• 2.5HP, 12-amp motor
• Soft start technology
• Plunge depth of 2(1/4) inches
• Variable speed between 8000-25000RPM
• Constant cutting speed
• Fixed base with 1/64inched increments
• 1-year warranty

DeWalt DW618PK

• 2.25HP, 12amp motor
• Variable speed in range 8000-24000
• Collets of 1/4 and 1/2 inches
• Soft start-up
• Dust collection system
• A Lexan sub-base

Bosch 1617EVSPK Vs DeWalt DW618PK: What Do You Get In Box?

• Bosch 1617EVSPK-router (see how it differs from Dewalt), plunge and fixed base, self-releasing collet chucks, chip shield, bit change wrenches, height adjustment wrench, carrying case.
• DeWalt DW618PK- router, motor pack, wrench, collets, kit box, large hole sub base, fixed and plunge base, vacuum adapter, concentricity gauge.

Bosch 1617EVSPK vs DeWalt DW618PK: Overview

Bosch 1716EVSPK

On comparing Bosch 1617EVSPK vs DeWalt DW618PK, the Bosch router kit is very reliable. The 12amp, 2.5HP motor is powerful enough to cut through hard surfaces. You get a choice of plunged and fixed router kit in the tool. The soft-start technology prevents damage. It slowly raises the RPM to its peak. This helps in regulating the speed so that you can work without damaging the wood.  You can see the full review of it here.

The router has a constant response circuit. This system ensures that there is enough power being supplied for a constant RPM. The device provides a wide range of speeds to work with. From the range 8000 to 25000 RPM, you can choose the one suitable for your work. Suitable speed results in a better and cleaner cut. 

Another advantage is that this Bosch Router has no problems with compatibility. Be it any router lift or router table; this Bosch router is compatible with most of them. 

Advantages Of Bosch 1716EVSPK

• Large motor with High RPM Rating- The 2.5HP motor is a huge advantage. It is one of the biggest motors in a router kit. Usually, 2.5HP is found in table models. The motor can produce RPM as low as 8000 and as high as 25000 for different job needs. 
• Motor with Variable Speed-Using the motor at just one speed for a long time leads to wearing out of the motor. Variable speed makes it multipurpose and also increases its life. Bosch has given a knob near the center for this purpose. You can easily change the speed by this knob.
• Durable body and design-Everyone likes to get the best at a lesser cost. But sometimes you might end up buying something that didn’t last long. Well, this isn’t the case with this tool. It has a durable aluminum housing. It can last very long without much wear and tear. You also get two polished handles with the tool. The handles with rounded design give a good grip and fit in hand. They are also helpful in plunging the base. Durability gets the bosch an extra point when we compare Bosch 1617EVSPK vs DeWalt DW618PK.
• Consistent speed-You gets a constant speed from the fixed base router while cutting. The constant response circuit is the system behind this advantage. Thus, the router can monitor itself. This is very helpful while long and heavy jobs.
• Huge collet capacity-This Bosch product has one of the largest collet capacities among various products in the market today. The capacity can be as low as 8mm. The highest capacity is 3/8inch. 
• Motor with Soft start technology-Tools with traditional engines often become very hot and challenging to hold. The soft-start technology prevents this. With this feature, the motor heats up and begins very quickly. The motor can maintain a fixed level of power during the whole period until turned off. The technology also helps in keeping a better grip on the handle.
• Two bases- Fixed and Plunged-An added functionality is the presence of two bases. The first one is the fixed one. It is a standard base with measurements detailed on the side. The base has a clear bottom. The clear bottom helps in seeing through while cutting wood. The second one is the plunged base. It is suitable for other applications. With its dimensions, it helps in applying pressure. Pushing it down will make it completely see-through. With plunged bases, you can make more detailed and more in-depth cuts in the wood. You can also work on larger wood pieces.
• Light in weight-Weight of the tool is an essential consideration before buying a tool. For a handheld tool, the weight should be such that it can be used comfortably. This product weighs around 18 pounds and is easy to work with and carry around.
• Carrying case-The product comes with a carrying case for better protection. The case with rugged design can absorb shocks in case you drop it. 

Disadvantages Of Bosch 1617EVSPK

• Expensive- The product costs more than other products in the market.
• Absence of a dust hood

DeWalt DW618PK

With a 12amp, 2.25HP motor, the DeWaltDW618PK is there for all your needs. It is equipped with variable speed and two bases.  The variable speeds range between 8000 to 24000RPM for different types of cutting. With the wide RPM range, you can make different types of cuts on large and also small woods. 

The collet size of this product is 1/4inch and 1/2inch. You can now work in a dust-free atmosphere with a dust collection system. The standard-sized system is attached to the shop vacuum, which keeps the dust away. 

The fixed base is adjusted at increments of 1/64inch. This is possible by an excellent adjustment ring. The plunge base has adjustable turrets. The turrets have five different positions with an increment of 1/32inch. 

Advantages Of DeWalt DW618PK

• Heavy Duty Motor-Motor is an essential component of a router. You can perform heavy-duty tasks with 120V, 2.25HP motor at 12Amp. You can also use it for milling and cutting.
• Soft Start-With the soft-start feature, the router starts slowly without damaging the material. It also enables you to position your hand and material well. Soft start also prevents the handle from becoming too hot to handle.
• Variable speeds-Adapting to this DeWalt product is easy. The speed is electronically controlled. The range is between 8000-24000RPM. You don’t need to bother about the torque. The electronic feedback system ensures that torque is always linear. This is important while working for commercial purposes. 
• Presence of two bases- Fixed and Plunged-The fixed base provides stability and lies perfectly flat on the table. It can be handheld or fixed to the table. The base is according to industry-standards and is compatible with most tablets. The plunge base needs a lesser force to work. Thus, it gives the user more comfort while using it. The handles have a coating of elastomer, which makes handling easy. The design is for both right-handed and left-handed people. 
• Versatility in bits-You can use both 1/4 and 1/2-inched collets. Both are useful for different purposes, although 1/2″ gives better stability. Also, you don’t need a secondary wrench for working.
• Compatibility and adjustment-You can very easily adjust the bit to 1/64″. The use of an adjustment ring makes this work simple. The product is compatible with most router tables and lifts. 
• Dust collection system-A lot of dust is produced in the routing process. The efficient dust collection system prevents sawdust from settling.
• Design -The DeWalt router is very ergonomic. With large handles and elastomeric grip, it gives a good grip. It remains stable while working due to low profile.
• Durability-The materials used in the unit are of superb quality. The aluminum housing, brass brushing, and steel rod are very durable. All these materials make it durable.

Disadvantages Of DeWalt DW618PK

• Not fit for commercial use
• No edge tool guide is given with tool

FAQs

Final Thought

After comparing Bosch 1617EVSPK vs. DeWalt DW618PK, we found that both the products are convenient to use, versatile, and give perfection. However, Bosch 1617EVSPK has a slight edge in the motor power. It can cut more efficiently with higher speed. It doesn’t have a dust-collection system. But since it is better in most factors, we would advise you to go with Bosch 1617EVSPK. Moreover, you can but dust hoods and use them externally.