Makita is certainly one of the best brands for professionals and DIYers who expect more from their power tools than the average Joe. The Makita RT0701CX7 compact router is an exceptional example of precision engineering and durability. This Makita router review examines the RT0701CX7 in explicit detail.
Regular visitors to this site may well believe that DeWalt is the only power tool brand for me. Truthfully, I have become quite a fan of DeWalt cordless tools, though this is more of a practical decision that I made some time back.
The first cordless tools I owned were actually Makita, I believe they had the best technology in those early days. Some may say they still do. While I certainly regard DeWalt as one of the top power tool brands, many Makita tools are, in my opinion, the best in their class. The Makita RT0701CX7 is probably one of these.
To be clear, the Makita RT0701CX is a corded compact router. The cordless model (Makita XTR01Z) utilizes the much-acclaimed Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion battery platform. The corded RT0701CX7 compact router is obviously cheaper than the cordless XTR01Z model, making it much better value for money if you’re not specifically looking for a cordless router.
When Only the Best is Good Enough
In order to make it onto this site, I have to feel that the product I’m recommending is worth buying. While the tools reviewed on Top Power Tools may not necessarily be my personal best choice, they have to be quality items and represent good value for money. In a sense, this means no Top Power Tools review will be a negative one. Though I will not hesitate to identify something that I feel is less than ideal.
The Makita RT0701CX7 compact router is something that I would definitely buy. It’s not one of those tools that I feel is okay… For the occasional DIY hobbyist. This is a remarkable tool. A professional-grade machine that can hardly be faulted, even by the harshest of critics. Yup, this is going to be one of those 5-star rave reviews. I believe the nimble little Makita router deserves nothing less.
Makita RT0701CX7 ǀ Comprehensive Review
Features:
- Weighs only 3.9 pounds
- Variable speed – 10,000 to 30,000 RPM
- 5A (1¼ HP)
- Electronic speed control maintains speed under load
- Precision, smooth rack and pinion depth adjustment
- Shaft lock for quick easy bit changes
- Heavy-duty aluminum motor housing and double insulation for ultimate durability
- Easy to use depths scale with 3 preset depth stops.
- 0 – 1⅜” depth capacity
- Accommodates ¼” shank router bits
- Kit includes Makita RT0701CX7 compact router; ¼” collet; plunge base; trimmer base; straight guide and wrenches.
Review:
There’s something about Makita tools that really gets me excited. The first time you hold the Makita RT0701CX7 in the palm of your hand, you get a sense of enduring quality and craftsmanship. Precision engineered, top-grade aluminum has a way of instilling complete confidence that this tool is not only going to produce exceptional results, it is going to continue doing this, relentlessly, for many years to come. It is this peace of mind that makes a brand like Makita worth paying a little extra for.
A professional carpenter will appreciate the value of a top-shelf immaculate machine. Even some DIYers (like myself) will understand the value of buying a tool that delivers a truly professional finish and will probably last a lifetime. It is with this in mind, that I’m setting about reviewing the Makita RT0701CX7. I guess, less demanding DIY hobbyists may be more interested in the Skil RT1323-00. This would be my recommendation if you want something cheaper, yet still insist on a good quality tool.
However, this is not a review of the cheapest compact router, it’s about the best. If you’re going to be comparing the Makita RT0701CX7 price, you’d be looking at comparable machines from brands like DeWalt and Milwaukee. We’re talking about high-end professional tools here.
As one of the best compact routers, the Makita RT0701CX7 will be met with high expectations. Starting with first impressions, I believe this tool has the wow factor. It has good quality plastic handles, a beautiful, rubberized grip, and a few plastic bits and pieces. For the most part, especially in the areas where it really counts, heavy-duty aluminum is used. This provides the durability that we expect from a high-end professional power tool and a blissfully low weight of just under 4-pounds.
The lightweight, superb ergonomic design makes this one of the easiest routers to use. Soft start and electronic power control do even more to enhance the superb user experience. When you use a tool this well-made, it seems almost effortless to achieve perfect precision. It makes life so much easier, allowing the novice to achieve professional results and improving the efficiency of experienced professionals. A win-win on every level.
One of the greatest advantages of buying a Makita tool, like this one, are the layers of durable design features. Top-quality materials are a good starting point. Taking things to the next level requires thoughtful design and attention to detail. Double insulation, protecting the machine from dust and contaminants is a perfect example of how the Makita engineers have painstakingly indevoured to manufacture a tool that can handle the toughest working conditions, without ever faltering.
I absolutely love using this router. The rack and pinion depth setting is sublimely smooth and unbelievably accurate. To speed things up, it has 3 depth stops and wonderful scale depth markings. The removable clear plastic shield is great, and you can fit an optional dust extraction port.
This kit includes a fixed and depth base, as well as a straight guide and the wrenches for bit changes. It uses standard ¼” shank bits. There are also a bunch of great Makita accessories and additional bases for basically any job you can think of.
Not everyone is prepared to pay top dollar for a professional-grade router. Those who are, naturally expect the very best. I reckon the Makita RT0701CX7 will meet these expectations. It is nothing short of pure magnificence. Well, that’s my opinion… For what it’s worth. I’ve always found Makita tools to be of the highest quality standard with the dealership service to match. Along with a great 3-year warranty, I think this is why the brand has such a loyal following. It’s hard to beat.