Choosing the right product can be challenging as there are so many options. Different products come with unique features from other manufacturers, and it is the user’s job to select the right one according to their needs. However, often we struggle to choose because we do not have enough knowledge about the product. This Kreg PRS2100 VS Bosch RA1181 article tends to make the woodworker community well-informed about two products, so they can quickly decide based on facts and analysis.
The Bosch benchtop RA1181 by the Bosch Tool Corporation, and the other is the precision table Kreg PRS2100 by the Kreg Tools. Both of the work-stoppers are popular among the woodworking community. We will cover the router tables’ design specifications, features, advantages, and limitations to judge the two products better.
Although both router tables are supposedly among the top 5 router tables, both have some unique features that will separate the user base for distinct purposes. For example, if some woodworkers prefer a wide surface area, then the Bosch RA1181 is perfect. On the other hand, if one likes a noise-less routing experience, then the Kreg PRS2100 is the product for him. Traverse through the whole article to get more information about Kreg PRS2100 and Bosch RA1181.
Contents
About the Manufacturers
As we cover two of the most incredible products on the market, both come from very reliable manufacturers. The Bosch RA1181 comes from the Bosch Tool Corporation, and the Kreg PRS2100 comes from the Kreg Tool.
First, let’s have a look at Kreg Tools, an American power tool manufacturer. This rapid growth company was founded in 1989 while the founder was working on a kitchen cabinet and had an epiphany of manufacturing power tools. This manufacturer of power tools has an exceeding speed of growth. They emphasize producing robust products allowing better control and usability. Designing products from the user perspective is their secret ingredient for launching successful products. They have been operating their business for about three decades, and they are known as the synonym of pocket joinery tools.
On the other hand, we have Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, part of the Robert Bosch Group. This German manufacturing company has been conducting business for over 100 years (They celebrated their 125th anniversary in 2011). They are the global leader in power tool and power tool accessories manufacturing. In 2003 Robert Bosch combined North American power tools and North American power tool accessories into one organization, Robert Bosch Tool Corporation. Their innovative design, manufacturing, and sale of different products, including power tools, rotary and oscillating tools, accessories, laser/ optical leveling devices, and range finding tools, make them the global leader in the category. In addition, the company has dedicated employees and an enviable pace of innovation, allowing them to release around 100 new products in power tool categories. With their manufacturing experience and consistency, the global leader Robert Bosch Tool Corporation is a reliable name.
Overview of Kreg PRS2100
This precision benchtop router table comes in a portable package with the capability of industry-grade routing. It has a 19.25 x 30 x 4.75 inches dimension and weighs 23.9 pounds, giving its users ultra-portability. The package includes a precision benchtop router, insert plate with level lock rings, plate levelers, aluminum fence with dust collection port, bit guard, jointing rods, assembly hardware, and a user manual.
The edge-banded MDF tabletop has a 24 x 16 inches surface area, which is vibration and noise resistant. It also features impact-resistant, easy slide micro dot skin constructed by high-pressure lamination. On the surface, there is a precise insert plate that measures 3/8 x 9 ¼ x 11 ¾ inches and can mount a variety of routers (even the larger ones) from a different manufacturer. In addition, the insert plate features a 3-level lock reducing ring, and it has a laser engraved marking on the back, making router mounting easier. Finally, the plate comes with insert levelers.
Technical specification chart of PRS2100 Kreg Router Table
Kreg PRS2100 router table has a rigid anodized aluminum fence that is fully removable. It is fully removable and has a quarter-turn locking system that gives users incredible adjustability. The independent sliding faces allow workpieces to slide on the table and give users better control. In addition, the fence comes with a bit guard, jointing rods (for use as a vertical jointer), and a dust collection port. Another impressive design of the router table is its heavy-gauge steel stand that makes the table more sturdy. Furthermore, the rubber feet with the steel stand reduce vibration and ensure better stability.
The budget-friendly router table makes less noise while routing, allowing the user better concentration on the work. Additionally, the tabletop height is 16 inches allowing better compatibility for users. Also, it features a vacuum shroud for keeping the working area clean.
Why We Like Kreg PRS2100
- Capable of industry-level routing
- It comes at an affordable price
- It is lightweight and portable
- The table is sturdy, ensuring durability
- Steel stand with vibration-dampening rubber feet
- Easy slide micro-dot skin MDF Tabletop
- Anodized aluminum fence
- Versatile Insert plate mounting with three-level lock reducing ring
- Vacuum shrouding
A few Limitation
- Plastic parts on the fence reduce the durability
- No feather board inclusion
Overview of Bosch RA1181
The Bosch Ra1181 benchtop is an affordable routing table manufactured by the reliable Robert Bosch Tool Corporation. The product has a dimension of 22.75 x 27 x 14.5 inches and weighs 30 pounds making this table a portable unit. It comes with a package, including a Ra1181 router table, starter pin, starter pin guard, adjustable clear guards, adjustable feather boards, outfeed fence shims, hardware for mounting, mounting plate insert rings, and an instruction manual. The instruction manual will guide the user during the setup process.
It has a large aluminum top with 27 x 18 inches allowing a wide area for easy movement of the workpieces. In addition, the metal and aluminum structure gives the table a sturdy outlook. Moreover, there is also an aluminum insert mounting plate compatible with various routers, and the dismounting process is quicker than most router tables. The routing table also has a height adjustment feature. Furthermore, the extra tall aluminum fence allows the table to handle more elevated stocks, making the table more versatile. Finally, the fence features adjustable MDF faceplates giving more control over managing the workpieces.
Detailed Features chart of Bosch Ra1181 Benchtop Router Table
The robust table comes with feather boards to support the fence with better guidance of the workpieces. It also enables kickback protection while routing and keeps the stocks straight during the process. The feather boards also keep the user’s hands safe from the router. In the matter of accurate cutting, the feather-boards play a crucial role. Next, it has a dust collection port that fits a standard 2 ½ inch vacuum hose for debris-free use. As a result, we get a clean working area with this router table.
The incredible router table has a built-in 15 amp outlet with a circuit breaker that protects the router’s electronics. In addition, it has a storage facility giving the users better usability and portability. Also, the accessory slot allows storing feather boards and miter gauges. In addition, there is pocket storage and cord wrap storage for the 6 feet cord for keeping router accessories. Lastly, another unique feature of the router table is the lock on the power cord, which prevents unauthorized access.
Why We Like Bosch RA1181
- Aluminum and metal structure enhancing durability
- Price is within the affordable range
- Large working area for better movement of the workpieces
- The routing plate comes pre-drilled for versatile use
- Quick dismounting option and height adjustment
- An extra tall fence with adjustable faceplates
- Accessory storage and pocket storage
- 6-foot cord with cord wrap storage
- Power lock preventing unauthorized use
Drawbacks of Bosch RA1181
- The aluminum surface is not smooth
- Product setup can be time-consuming
Kreg PRS2100 VS Bosch RA1181
This section of the article will review and compare side by side two of the best router tables available in the market. So let’s compare all the features-
Durability
Both of the router tables are durable. However, Bosch RA1181 has a metal and aluminum structure with its fence, insert plate, and top all-aluminum materials. Also, Bosch has a built-in 15amp circuit breaker with a table that protects the router electronics, thus enhancing the unit’s durability. On the other hand, The Kreg router table has some poor material on its anodized aluminum fence that may cause its durability. Nonetheless, the Kreg PRS has a better steel stand with rubber feet ensuring more stability.
Portability
Judging by the size and weight moving around both products are super flexible. However, the PRS2100 is lighter than the RA1181. On the other hand, the Bosch table comes with a 6 feet power cord increasing its mobility.
Versatility
In terms of versatility, the router tables allow most of the router to mount with the table. Nonetheless, the Bosch RA1181 comes with an extra-tall fence allowing more extensive stocks to work. In addition, the unmounting of the router with this table is quicker. Moreover, the benchtop PRS2100 is a router table that can handle industry-level working.
Stability
In woodworking, stable tools ensure better work output. For example, the Bosch RA1181 has a sturdy structure, and its insert plate has a 3-level lock reducing ring, keeping the router still during routing. The feather boards also enhance the stability of the Bosch RA1181 router table, as it holds the workpiece straight and supports while routing. However, the Kreg precision benchtop is not far behind when it’s about stability. Combining its vibration dampening rubber feet and noise/ vibration resistant smooth MDF top ensures that the table stays stable for any routing process.
Precision
Although the accuracy and precision of the cutting depend more on the router than the router table, the table strongly influences the matter. Both the precision router table ensures accuracy. For example, the industry-level router table Kreg 2100 has easy slide micro dot skin that is smooth and can slide the workpieces, allowing better control. The MDF top is also noise and vibration resistant with a vibration-dampening rubber foot stand, enabling the users to focus on their working with stability; as a result, you get precise output. Furthermore, the Bosch RA1181 has its ingredients for better accuracy. It has more surface so the workpiece can move around, allowing excellent control over the routing process. Also, the mounting plate ensures that the router stays still while working. Finally, the feather boards with it support the fence for intricate work output.
Storage
The Boshc RA11814 has accessory storage, storage pockets, and power cord storage to keep safe feather board, miter gauges, router accessories, and power cable. The Kreg PRS2100 does not have similar features.
Dust Management
A Clean working area is a sign of a skilled user, and both RA1181 and PRS2100 have taken some initiatives in their design to ensure a clean working area for routing. For instance, the Kreg precision table has a cleaning port with its fence and another vacuum shrouding to safeguard the working site remains clean after each workpiece. On the other hand, the precision RA1181 also has a dust collection port, and it keeps the area dust-free.
Price
When comparing two incredible products, we ought to compare their price first. However, both products have similar prices, and it varies depending on the dealer you are buying. But the good news is the equivalent price of two unique products falls under the affordable budget router table.
There remain some product-specific unique features that will assist the users in comparing more precisely. Such as, the Bosch table has a
Key Differences At A Glance
- The Bosch RA1181 has all metal and aluminum structure while the Kreg PRS2100 have some less durable materials in its structure design
- There is 6 feet power cord that comes with the Bosch table increasing its portability
- Kreg PRS2100 is an industry-level routing capable table
- Kreg has a high-pressure lamination top with a smooth surface, and users can slide workpieces easily
- The Bosch ra1181 table has an extra tall fence for better workability with more extensive stocks
- The RA1181 comes with accessory storage and storage pocket feature
- Kreg table has a straightforward setup process
- The PRS2100 has a three-level lock reducing ring with the insert mounting plate
- The Bosch table features a power lock system preventing any unauthorized use
- Bosch RA1181 has feather boards for guidance and kickback protection
- The Kreg router table has vibration dampening rubber foot
- The MDF top of Kreg PRS2100 is noise resistant and vibration resistant
Bosch RA1181 VS Kreg PRS2100: Our Final Recommendation
As we mentioned earlier, both router tables are among the top 5 in their respective category. In addition, they have some outstanding features that allow users to accomplish their routing needs with precision and accuracy. Therefore, it is hard to choose one over the other. One of them is good at some features while another one is better at different parts. However, overall both the product is determined to provide its ultimate user experience in their woodworking projects.
The Bosch Tool Corporation has years of experience and design specifications, while the Kreg Tools Company has an extreme growth with their innovative power. So, in terms of reliability, you can choose one over the other without any doubt. The main difference in choosing one product over the other will depend on user requirements and technical details. Such as if the user needs a table that will work with taller workpieces more often, they should choose the Bosch RA1181. Again, if the user needs better stability with noise and vibration-resistant routing environments, they must select the Kreg PRS2100.
To sum it up, no matter which product you choose, you can rest assured that both are incredible and advanced power tools. They will serve you with excellent performance and control over your workings. To explore more options, you can read our other review of Bosch RA1171 VS Bosch RA1181.
FAQ
Bosch RA1181 VS Kreg PRS2100 which one has the US manufacturer?
Both of the products are manufactured in the USA. However, the Bosch RA1181 is a product of Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, a subsidiary of Bosch Group from Germany. On the other hand, Kreg Tools is an American power tool manufacturer running their operation since 1989.
Which one is Costlier Bosch RA1181 or Kreg PRS2100?
Although the price may vary from dealer to dealer, Kreg PRS2100 costs more most of the time.
Which table set up takes less time, RA1181 or PRS2100?
From user review and instruction manual, the setup process of Kreg PRS2100 is less time-consuming than the Bosch RA1181.
Bosch RA1181 or Kreg PRS2100, which one can work with tall stocks?
The Bosch RA1181 comes with an extra-tall fence with the capability to handle large workpieces.
Do any of the two Kreg PRS2100 and Bosch RA1181 come with a warranty?
The Bosch RA1181 comes with a 1-year limited warranty.