DeWalt 20V MAX XR Compact Router vs DEWALT DW618PKB Router Kit

Buy the DCW600B if you work on site or away from outlets and mostly cut edges, roundovers and small profiles. Buy the DW618PKB if you route in a shop and need the plunge base, half-inch bits and sustained power for dados and raised panels. The cordless router is light and easy to control one-handed, but it is a trim router with a fixed base only. The corded kit is heavier and tethered, yet it holds speed under load and gives you two bases and finer depth control. Owners of both rate them well for build; the DW618PKB has the longer track record.

• Choose the DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCW600B if you want a grab-and-go trim router that runs on your existing 20V batteries and handles edge work, roundovers and light flush trimming.
• Choose the DeWalt DW618PKB if you need a full-size router with a plunge base, half-inch collets and steady power for dados, mortises and table use.