BOSCH RA1171 vs RA1181 Router Table – Which One to Buy?

A router table is a stationary tool consisting of a router mounted on a table and is used to shape pieces of wood at a variety of angles in order to achieve different kinds of cuts.

This makes it possible to execute a diverse range of woodworking projects easily.

The RA1171 and the RA1181 are two distinctly designed router tables that have a lot of features in common as they both are made by the same world-renown manufacturer.

Both these models are reliable, versatile and durable tools that boast of exceptional performance and precision.

Let’s have a look at both these products and understand the difference between the two.

Quick Review of the Bosch RA1171

Bosch is a well-known manufacturer of industrial tools as well as household appliances and automobiles. Founded in Germany in 1886, its products are considered top quality and reliable the world over.

The Bosch RA1171 Cabinet-Style Router Table delivers both power and precision.

With its smooth laminated work surface, tall aluminum fence measuring 4-⅞ x 25-⅛ inches and aluminum router mounting plate, this tool makes it possible to achieve perfectly accurate cuts of various kinds.

Further, it is designed to fit a variety of routers and can be mounted on any workbench.

This table can handle even tall stock easily with the help of adjustable MDF face plates and easy-to-use featherboards which ensure support and control while feeding stock. The user enjoys smoother operation at maximum precision.

Its two-port dust collection system keeps the workspace clean and the noise reduction system allows more convenience for the user.

The cabinet style design of this router table lends extra stability and storage space to the woodworker, making the process of routing easier and more efficient.

For a closer look at the RA1171, check out this video:

Special Features

• Cabinet Style Design ensures better stability, storage, and superior dust collection
• Tall aluminum fence with adjustable MDF faceplates make it possible to work with tall stock with maximum precision
• Rigid aluminum mounting plate provides for more accuracy and is compatible with a variety of routers as it is predrilled, thus, adding to its versatility
• Dust Collection System: Two dust ports – one at the fence and one at the cabinet – of 2½ inches each, ensure a cleaner workspace by removing maximum dust and debris with the help of vacuum hoses
• Adjustable featherboards that are easy-to-use, attach to the fence and router table, provide additional support while feeding stock across the router table, and allow for protection against kickback
• Accessory slot for additional featherboards and optional accessories like a miter gauge

Limitations

• Slightly bulky
• Worksurface could be bigger
• Assembly could be easier
• Doesn’t come with miter gauge
• Slightly high on the price scale

Designed to fit the needs of the serious woodworker, the Bosch RA1171 Cabinet Style Router Table combines accuracy with versatility.

Both professionals and DIY-enthusiasts would find this product extremely useful in carrying out a range of applications.

 

Quick Review of the Bosch RA1181

The Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table improves the woodworking experience with its larger work surface which ensures greater precision and convenience during operation.

With an aluminum top designed for superior durability, it is at once versatile and portable.

Like the RA1171, this router table has a tall aluminum fence and aluminum mounting plate that is compatible with different routers and allows for table height adjustments.

It has a 2½-inch dust collection port that removes dust and debris from the workspace.

This product has adjustable featherboards and also an accessory slot for additional featherboards as well as optional accessories.

The storage pocket and built-in cord wrap assist in making portability easier while safety is provided by the power-cord lock which prevents unauthorized use.

This unboxing video gives you a close look at the Bosch RA1181:

Special Features

• Benchtop router table design with a large aluminum top designed for durability and for providing a bigger work surface for maximum precision
• Tall aluminum fence with adjustable MDF faceplates make it possible to work with tall stock with maximum precision
• Rigid aluminum mounting plate provides for more accuracy and is compatible with a variety of routers as it is predrilled, thus, adding to its versatility
• Dust Collection port of standard 2½ inches ensures a cleaner workspace by removing maximum dust and debris with the help of vacuum hoses
• Adjustable featherboards that are easy-to-use, attach to the fence and router table, provide additional support while feeding stock across the router table, and allow for protection against kickback
• Accessory slot for additional featherboards and optional accessories like a miter gauge
• Storage pocket for router accessories
• Power-cord lock ensures safe use

Limitations

• Slightly bulky
• Doesn’t come with miter gauge
• Only one dust port
• Onboard storage features could be improved
• Lacks a more compact design
• Slightly high on the price scale

The Bosch RA1181 can be used to achieve cuts of various sizes and shapes, with its efficient design. This benchtop router table can be an extremely useful tool on the jobsite for the professional as well as for the small contractor.

It makes woodworking and carpentry a smoother and quicker task.

 

Key Differences

There are significant similarities between the features offered by the Bosch RA1171 and RA1181 but the inherent differences between their build type, size, and weight make up for two very distinct designs that are worth contrasting.

Here’s a quick look at both their specifications – 

Summary

If you’re searching for a sturdy router table, the RA1171 and the RA1181 are both great options in their price range.

But the RA1181 has a slight edge in the competition due to its easier assembly, portability, and weight even though it lacks the storage features and dual dust port of the RA1171.

In the end, though, it comes down to which features are more important to you in order to decide between these two models by Bosch.