Router bits from different brands – see the differences
Router bits from different brands – see the differences
Milling bits are indispensable tools when you need to work precisely with wood, metal or plastic. They are used to shape, hollow out or process materials with high accuracy – both in professional workshops and DIY projects. However, there are many different types and qualities, and the choice of the right milling bit depends on the material, machine and desired result.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to consider when choosing milling bits, as well as an introduction to different types and brands worth knowing.
The article presents a selection of milling bits from various manufacturers to give a broad picture of the market. The purpose is to show the variation in design, materials and areas of application, so you can more easily assess which type best suits your projects. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers, summarised to provide a clear overview.
Factors to consider when buying milling bits
When choosing milling bits, there are several factors to consider – in terms of quality, precision and durability.
1. Material and coating
Milling bits are typically made of HSS (High Speed Steel), carbide or with a diamond coating. HSS is suitable for softer materials such as wood and plastic, while carbide bits offer longer life and can be used for metal and harder woods. Coatings such as titanium or nitride can increase wear resistance and reduce heat generation.
2. Shank type and compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling machine or drill. There are cylindrical, tapered and hexagonal shanks. A correct match ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and geometry
The cutting angle affects how aggressively the bit cuts into the material. A low angle gives a smoother surface, while a steeper angle removes material faster. The choice depends on whether you prioritise finish or efficiency.
4. Area of application
Consider which material you will primarily be working with. Some milling bits are specialised for wood, while others are designed for metal, plastic or composite materials. A universal set can be practical, but specialised bits often deliver better results.
5. Price and quality
Price and quality often go hand in hand. Cheaper bits may be fine for light hobby use, but for frequent or professional use, it pays to invest in quality bits that stay sharp longer and deliver more precise results.
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 working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive 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 port allows for the attachment of dust 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: Port 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 port 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 of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed 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 a 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, joints 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 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 both 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 solid 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 solid 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 solid 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 working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive 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 port allows for the attachment of dust 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: Port 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 port 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 of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed 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 a 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, joints 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 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 both 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 solid 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 solid 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 solid 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 variants, each designed for specific purposes and materials.
1. Spiral milling bits
Spiral milling bits are the most common and are used to remove material efficiently. They come in both up-cut and down-cut versions, where up-cut bits pull chips away from the workpiece, while down-cut bits provide a smoother surface.
2. Ball milling bits
Ball milling bits have a rounded tip and are used for 3D shaping and contour milling. They are ideal for detailed carvings in wood and plastic.
3. Groove milling bits
Groove milling bits are used to make grooves and joints, e.g. in furniture making or panel assembly. They come in many widths and depths depending on the task.
4. Edge milling bits
Edge milling bits are used to process edges and profiles. They can create decorative shapes, roundings or chamfers and are popular in furniture production.
5. Special bits
There are also special bits for e.g. aluminium, fibreglass or laminate, where the material’s properties require special cutting edges and coatings.
Different brands of milling bits
The market for milling bits is broad, and several manufacturers have specialised in different segments – from hobby use to industry.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of milling bits for both wood and metal. The brand is known for solid quality and precision, and their bits suit both professionals and DIY users.
Makita
Makita produces milling bits with a focus on durability and efficiency. They are particularly popular among tradespeople who want reliable equipment for daily use.
Festool
Festool is known for premium tools and milling bits with high precision. Their products are aimed at professionals where accuracy and finish are crucial.
DeWalt
DeWalt offers robust milling bits that can handle demanding tasks. The range spans from universal bits to specialised solutions for metal and hardwood.
CMT
CMT is an Italian brand specialising in woodworking. Their milling bits are known for sharpness, long life and a wide range of profiles.
Frequently asked questions
What is a milling bit used for?
A milling bit is used to shape, hollow out or process materials such as wood, metal or plastic. It can create grooves, edges, holes and profiles with high precision.
Can the same milling bit be used for different materials?
Some milling bits can be used for multiple materials, but the best results are achieved with bits designed for the specific material. The wrong choice can lead to faster wear or uneven results.
How do you maintain milling bits?
Clean the bit after use to remove chips and dust. Store it dry and in a case to avoid damage to the cutting edges. Dull bits can often be resharpened.
What speed should I use when milling?
The speed depends on the material and the bit. Higher speed is typically used for softer materials such as wood, while lower speed is recommended for metal to avoid overheating.
When should a milling bit be replaced?
When the bit starts to burn the material, makes more noise than usual or leaves uneven edges, it’s time to replace or sharpen it.
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