Ryobi Intermediate Router Table

As a woodworking enthusiast, I've spent countless hours in the shop, honing my craft and experimenting with various tools. My latest acquisition is the Ryobi Intermediate Router Table, model A25RT03. With its promise of affordability and functionality, I was eager to see how well it would perform in my workshop. Here’s my in-depth look at this router table.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

The first thing I noticed upon unboxing the Ryobi Router Table was its vibrant green legs and the substantial size of the table itself. Measuring 32" x 16" x 1", the laminated MDF tabletop seems robust enough for typical DIY projects. The assembly process was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions. However, it's essential to take inventory of all parts before starting, as missing pieces can be a common issue.

The table's overall construction is decent for its price point. The MDF tabletop feels solid, although it’s worth noting that MDF can be prone to moisture damage, so keeping it in a dry environment is crucial.

Design and Features

One of the standout features of this router table is its adjustable fence with joining capabilities. The fence is constructed with MDF sacrificial faces, which can be replaced as they wear out. However, aligning the infeed and outfeed portions of the fence proved to be a bit challenging. Despite numerous adjustments, I found it difficult to achieve perfect alignment, which is critical for precise work.

The table includes an aluminum T-track on the fence, providing flexibility for attaching featherboards and other accessories. Speaking of featherboards, the table comes with one, but additional featherboards would have been a welcome inclusion.

The router mounting plate is made of plastic, a choice that impacts the table's overall durability. The plate's flexibility can lead to sagging under the weight of heavier routers, causing inconsistencies in cuts. The table does include leveling screws to align the insert with the tabletop, but getting it perfectly flush required some patience.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Ryobi Router Table boasts compatibility with various major router brands, including Bosch, Craftsman, Hitachi, Makita, Milwaukee, Porter Cable, RIDGID, RYOBI, and Skil. I tested it with my Bosch router, and while it wasn't listed as a compatible model, I managed to secure it with some additional screws I had on hand. This universal fit feature is a significant plus, especially for users who already own routers from different manufacturers.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the table does not come with mounting holes for DeWalt routers, which was a surprising oversight. If you own a DeWalt router, be prepared to drill your own holes or purchase additional mounting hardware.

Performance and Usability

In terms of performance, the Ryobi Router Table is a mixed bag. For light to moderate DIY projects, it serves its purpose well. I used it for edge routing on small decorative items, and it performed adequately. The integrated vacuum port was effective in dust collection, keeping the workspace relatively clean.

However, the table falls short in precision tasks. The plastic mounting plate's tendency to warp under the router's weight led to inconsistent cuts, particularly noticeable when performing more demanding tasks like cutting patterns or making tongue and groove joints. The fence's alignment issues further compounded this problem, making it challenging to achieve the level of accuracy required for professional-grade work.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is another area where the Ryobi Router Table shows its budget-friendly nature. The laminated MDF tabletop began to show signs of wear after several uses, particularly around the edges where workpieces frequently made contact. The printed guides and ruler marks on the tabletop also started to wear off, which could be problematic for long-term use.

The plastic components, including the mounting plate and fence, do not inspire confidence in the table's longevity. For occasional use, these materials might suffice, but for regular, heavy-duty use, they are likely to wear out or become damaged over time.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi Intermediate Router Table offers a budget-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts and beginners looking to add a router table to their workshop. Its large tabletop, adjustable fence, and compatibility with various router brands are definite advantages. However, the table's design and material choices limit its precision and durability, making it less suitable for professional-grade projects or heavy use.

Would I recommend the Ryobi Router Table? It depends on your needs and expectations. For casual DIYers or hobbyists who need a functional router table for light to moderate projects, this table provides good value for the price. It’s a decent entry-level option that can help you get started with routing tasks without breaking the bank.

However, if you require a router table for more precise and demanding work, or if you plan to use it frequently, you might want to consider investing in a higher-quality table with more robust materials and better precision features. The limitations in alignment, material durability, and overall precision make it a less viable option for professional woodworkers or more serious enthusiasts.

In summary, the Ryobi Intermediate Router Table is a serviceable tool for beginners and casual users but falls short of the mark for those seeking high precision and durability in their woodworking projects.