Makita RT0701C Compact Router:

The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router is an excellent option if you’re in the market for a wood router that’s both compact and highly affordable. The RT0701C packs enough punch to handle most general purpose routing tasks, for example, routing small profiles, dovetailing, and door hinge profiles, etc., thanks to its 6.5A, 120W motor capable of generating a variable output of between 10,000 and 30,000 RPM at up to a maximum of 1.25 horsepower.

While it probably lacks the power needed to handle heavy-duty tasks (for example, wide-scale routing of harder woods, and commercial jobs, etc.), the RT0701C will be a welcome addition to anyone such as hobbyists, homeowners, and even professional woodworkers who want a consistent, quality finish on smaller-scale projects and softer woods.

As mentioned, the Makita RT0701C comes with a 6.5A, 120W motor, which while not being the most powerful motor in a modern router by any means, will be more than sufficient to handle the majority of your general purpose routing needs.

The fact is, many people don’t require a router capable of handling commercial-grade jobs (these typically have a power of 3HP plus, versus the 1.25HP maximum power of the RT0701C). The additional cost isn’t worth it for all that unused potential, not to mention the extra hassle that comes from using a power tool that’s heavier and more cumbersome. The RT0701C offers a happy medium; all the power you need for lighter tasks, but from a package that’s much more manageable and affordable.

When you do require more output, the RT0701C still packs a good punch thanks to its variable speed capable of between 10,000 and 30,000 RPM, and you can adjust this quickly and easily by selecting from 1-6 on the unit’s red variable speed control dial (see image below). Having such a wide speed range available gives you more flexibility to adapt the router’s output to whatever task you’re completing, and to whatever bit size you’re using (the general rule of thumb with routing is the larger the router bit, the lower the speed should be).

The Makita RT0701C comes fitted with a few features to help improve the quality of its output. Firstly, it features an electronic speed control which works to keep the router’s speed constant during loading (applying a load will usually slow down a motor’s output), and maintaining a consistent speed helps the router to deliver a better quality finish to whatever wood you’re working on.

Secondly, it also features a soft start motor which helps ease you into whatever router task you’re completing. You’ll enjoy more control over the router itself and its output when the speed increases gently, as opposed to going from zero to one hundred percent pretty much instantly which can lead to mistakes as the unit lurches into life. The RT0701C is a lot more manageable and less intimidating as a result, making it ideal for beginner hobbyists and woodworkers alike.

A key requirement of any fixed base router is the ability to adjust its depth as quickly as possible, and the RT0701C achieves this via a quick release cam-lock system (see image below), which allows for easy-yet-accurate depth adjustments in seconds thanks to its rack-and-pinion mechanism and easy-to-read depth gauges. The cam-lock system also makes it straightforward to swap out the standard fixed base on the RT0701C, for example, to a plunge base or tilt base that you can either purchase separately or as part of a kit when you buy the router itself (we cover RT0701C accessories here).

Routers are inherently customizable given that you can change the particular router bit to suit whatever task you’re completing, and this Makita model is no different. It features a convenient shaft lock mechanism for quick and easy bit changes – just press the red shaft-lock button (see image below), loosen the collet cone with the supplied spanner wrench, and you can remove the current router bit in seconds. Makita has made this process even more straightforward thanks to the flat-top design of the router, allowing you to keep it standing on its head while you access the required components without fuss or hassle.

The RT0701C features an ergonomically designed body for increased comfort, helping to make it as comfortable to use as possible over prolonged periods – an essential requirement for any handheld router. The case itself is also very compact (measuring just 10″ x 8″ x 6″), and this makes it an excellent option for smaller, more fiddly tasks given that it is much easier to control than comparable, larger-bodied routers. You don’t need to worry about visibility while routing either, as, despite the absence of any LED lights, the base design is open and unrestricted to improve visibility, as well as overall handling and performance.

The router features a heavy-duty aluminum motor case engineered for increased durability and weight reduction. The use of aluminum is a welcome change over the widespread use of plastic in today’s power tools, and it gives you the peace of mind that the RT0701C will be sturdy enough to be something that you can use for years to come.

The Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router provides a great mix between ease of use, power, and value for money.

No, it probably won’t be the router of choice for those looking for a tool capable of handling heavy-duty or commercial-grade tasks, but that shouldn’t necessarily put you off. It’s simple enough to use and features enough innovative features (electronic speed control, soft motor start, convenient cam-lock system, etc.), to make it a serious contender as the go-to power tool for any beginner’s or professional’s general purpose routing requirements.

Throw in Makita’s stellar reputation for design and manufacturing quality power tools, along with the serious value for money offered by this model, and you certainly can’t go wrong with the RT0701C compact router.

You can check out a summary of the various advantages and disadvantages of this Makita router below.

Makita RT0701C vs XTR01Z

(Scroll table if needed)

Model Number:	RT0701C	XTR01Z
Manufacturer:	Makita	Makita
Motor:	6.5A, 120W	Makita BL Brushless Motor
Brushless Motor:	No	Yes
Power Source:	Corded Electric	18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery (sold separately)
Warranty:	1 Year Limited	1 Year Limited
Collet Size:	1/4″	1/4″
No Load Speed:	10,000 – 30,000 RPM	10,000 – 30,000 RPM
Base:	Fixed	Fixed
Variable Speed Control:	Yes	Yes
Depth Adjustable:	Yes	Yes
Tool Dimensions:	10″ x 8″ x 6″	6.2″ x 8.5″ x 5.8″
Tool Weight:	3.9 lbs	4.6 lbs (with battery)
	Read Reviews	Read Reviews

As standard, the RT0701C is capable of edge routing only due to its fixed base. In this situation, you could make height adjustments either before routing or by stopping-midway and adjusting the height via the cam-lock mechanism.

Alternatively, you could use a plunge base which allows you to route in central areas as well as the edges, and this is available separately, or as part of the RT0701CX7 and RT0701CX3 kits (among other accessories) as shown below.

Makita RT0701CX7 Compact Router Kit

Includes the Makita RT0701C 1-1/4 HP compact router, 1x Plunge Base, and 1x Straight Guide.

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Makita RT0701CX3 Compact Router Kit

Includes the Makita RT0701C router, 1x Plunge Base, 1x Tilt Base, 1x Offset Base, 1x Trimmer Guide, 1x Straight Guide, 2x Dust Extracting Attachments, 2x Spanner Wrenches, 1x Tool Bag.

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Makita 196094-2 Compact Router Plunge Base

The Plunge Base features a plunge capacity range of 0 in. to 1-3/8 in. for easy penetration into the work piece. The fine depth adjustment has three preset depth stops for added precision.

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1. Does the RT0701C feature a variable speed control?

2. Does it feature an LED light in its base?

3. What comes with the Makita RT0701C?

4. How does the depth adjustment mechanism work?

5. Does this kit come with a case?

6. Does the RT0701C come with any router bits?

7. What collet sizes can be used with this router?

8. What plunge base is compatible with the RT0701C?