When choosing a new router, focus on function and be realistic about your needs.
plan to use your router more as a handheld tool than under a table. Although useful, unless you plan to use really large profiling bits or raise panels for cabinet doors, a full-sized router is more machine than you'll need for ordinary profiling and joint-making. That extra weight, size and power can even work against you on smaller or delicate
work. Still, if your budget will allow it, a 3- or 3.25-hp router will give your router table the gumption only exceeded by a shaper. It's an investment that can easily wait for a while until you get serious about the heavy-duty jobs. With that said, once you step up to a big router, there are many good fixed-base or plunge models to choose from.
Combo Kits ... Best of Both Worlds
Twenty years ago or so, routers were only made with dedicated bases. Fixed-base or plunge-base ... the twains just never met. Not anymore. If you can't decide between buying one or the other, a combination kit may be the perfect solution. Here, you get a motor pack that mounts in either a fixed or plunge
