Which is better for cutting mortises?

The 1617EVSPK. Its plunge base lets you set the depth and lower the bit into the wood, which a fixed base cannot do cleanly. The 1617EVS needs a separate plunge base or a router table with a lift.

Is the combo kit worth the extra $25?

Yes if you will plunge. At $229.95 on November 3, 2026 versus $205.00 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, the kit adds a plunge base and a case for about $25, far less than buying a plunge base alone.

Which is better for a router table?

The 1617EVS suits a table well: it is lighter, cheaper and has a longer fixed-base depth range of 1-5/8 in. The kit's fixed base works in a table too, but you pay for a plunge base you will not use there.

Do they use the same motor?

Yes. Both are the 2.25 HP, 12 Amp Bosch motor with 8,000-25,000 RPM, Constant Response circuitry and microfine depth adjustment. The kit adds the second base and the case.

Which has more collet options?

The 1617EVS lists 1/4 in., 3/8 in., 1/2 in. and 8 mm collets. The kit ships with 1/2 in. and 1/4 in. self-releasing collets, which cover most bits.

Which is easier to handle?

The 1617EVS at 8.3 lb is lighter for handheld edge routing. The kit with the plunge base fitted is heavier, but the plunge base gives more control on deep cuts.

Bosch 1617EVSPK 2.25 HP Combination Plunge and Fixed-Base Router Kit vs Bosch Electronic Variable Speed Fixed-Base Router, 2.25 HP 1617EVS

Buy the 1617EVSPK kit if you need plunge routing, such as mortises, stopped grooves or template work. Buy the 1617EVS if you only need a fixed base, for table mounting or edge work. The kit's lowest recent price was $229.95 on November 3, 2026; the fixed-base 1617EVS was $205.00 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, about $25 less.

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