Dewalt DWP611 Compact Router

The Dewalt DWP611 compact router is a well design, corded router that has plenty of power for it’s size. It’s a great option for a compact router if you like Dewalt tools and there’s not much negative to say about it. Let’s take a closer look.

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Cutting Power & Motor

This router has plenty of power for trim and laminate work. It’s 7 amp motor has a max of 1.25 HP and runs at variable speeds from 16,000 to 27,000 RPM. This amount of power is on the higher end of what you can find in a compact router in this price range. People using this router find that there isn’t much that can bog it down. Some people that use this for extended periods of work say that it heats up pretty quickly and runs pretty hot, so that is something to consider.

The soft start feature on the motor keeps torque at a minimum during startup and makes operation feel smooth when starting up. People like how smooth the overall operation of this router is with it’s soft start and variable speed adjustments.

Some people notice that there is some grease applied to the motor casing, which gets in the adjustment grooves and can collect sawdust or just be annoying. It’s worth inspecting your unit if you get one to see if there’s any excess grease to clean up.

Dewalt DWP611 Router Underneath

Collet & Bit Size

This router has a 1/4 inch collet and can fit 1/4 bits. Dewalt says this unit has an extended 8 slot collet to maximize surface contact for a tighter grip. People have pretty good luck with the bits staying in place on this tool but some have mentioned that the collet isn’t holding as well as they’d like.

The bit changing process is pretty straightforward and can be done with one wrench in combination with the spindle lock.

Dewalt DWP611 Router Bit Change

Fixed Base

This router comes standard with a fixed base attachment and it allows up to 1-1/2 inches of depth. It operates mostly as you’d expect if you have experience with compact routers.

The fixed base is made from aluminum and has a clear plastic sub-base. The sub base attachment has both a round side and a squared side, which some may or may not like. Some people prefer either a completely round or completely squared sub based to prevent running into awkward rotation situations when navigating the tool.

The depth of the base adjusts by loosening a clamp and then rotating the adjustment ring. One full turn of the ring changes depth by 1/2 inch. There is a depth adjustment scale and each mark is 1/64 inch. The ring system is fairly accurate. For super fine-tuned adjustments some might find it a little tedious to get use to locking it in right where they want it. Overall though, good for this level of a tool.

Dewalt DWP611 Router Sub Base

LED Lights

This router features two LED lights which are placed on the bottom of the motor unit, inside of the base. The lights are decent and people appreciate having them for extra illumination. There are some that feel the lights could be stronger, or that there could be more that the two lights for better visibility. But it works well and it’s better than no LED lights.

Dewalt DWP611 Router Bottom

Handheld Design

This router has a handheld, palm grip design and is can be used with one hand. It’s a compact router with a small size, but those who have used compact routers might notice that this feels a little on the heavier end of the spectrum. It is 4.1 lbs including the cord, which is a decent weight for a small router. People with average or large hands will find gripping the router to be easy, but smaller hands might struggle to one-hand this thing.

Dewalt DWP611 Router LED Light

Build Quality

This router is built with a typical combination of plastic and metal. It feels a little heavier than it looks, which gives it a good first impression on build quality. There are some plastic levers and switches, but nothing seems to have consistent complaints in terms of breakage. Of course, if something does break, Dewalt offers support and a warranty period.

People who use this router a lot and put it through the paces have pretty good luck with it. Some say that it can burn up bearings if worked long and hard. Other potential build quality issues are that some people have problems with the base tightening properly or the collet tightening properly. It’s best to fully inspect and test your router when you first get it so that you can work out any issues right away and not find them later down the road.

Dewalt DWP611 Router Clamp

Included Accessories

This router comes with a few accessories, and there are more available to purchase depending on how you intend to use your router. We looked at the basic kit, but there is also an option that includes the plunge base. Here’s what comes packaged with the base version of this router:

  • Fixed Base
  • Wrench

Other Available Accessories

Dewalt offers some accessories to expand the capabilities of this router, which need to be purchased separately. There’s may also be kits or packages that include these accessories. Here’s what’s available.

Fixed Base Edge Guide (DNP618)

Dewalt DNP618 Fixed Edge Guide

Plunge Base (DNP612)

Dewalt DNP612 Router Plunge Base

Plunge Base Vacuum Adapter (DNP616)

Dewalt DNP618 Fixed Edge Guide

Setup & Assembly

This router is pretty straightforward in terms of assembly and setup. As always, read through the manual so you understand the details of making adjustments and bit changes. Overall, you’ll be up and running pretty quickly with this router.

Warranty

Dewalt offers a 3 year warranty on defective parts or workmanship. They also include a 1 year free service contract and a 90 day money back guarantee. This is good enough to help you out if you have quality control issues in that first year of use.

Pros

  • Variable speed motor with excellent cutting power
  • Good visibility with clear base and LED lights
  • Quick depth adjustments
  • Not overly lightweight

Cons

  • Some people have issues with base clamping tightly
  • Can feel a little big or heavy for people with smaller hands

Technical Specifications

Amperage

7 A

Horsepower

1.25 HP

Max Speed

16,000 – 27,000 RPM

Collet Capacity

1/4 Inch

Fixed-Base Depth Range

1.5 Inch

Size (Height x Width x Depth)

11.4 in x 7.25 in x 5.5 in

Subbase Size

4 inch x 4.8 inch

Weight

4.9 lbs

Dust Collection

Yes with attachment

Cord Length

N/A

The Verdict

The Dewalt DWP611 has plenty of power for what most people would use a compact router for, and it will handle just about any trim or laminate work you throw at it. Adjustments are smooth and quick and bit changes are painless as well. If you are looking for a compact router but want something a little more beefy than the rest, this is a good tool to go with.

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