If you’re in the market for a versatile router that won’t break the bank, the SKIL might just be the answer. In this SKIL RT1322-00 Router Kit Review, we’ll take a look at this 14 amp powerhouse that offers both fixed and plunge bases, making it one of the most budget-friendly options in the do-everything router category. But does its lower price point mean you’re sacrificing quality? I recently put this router head-to-head against the DeWalt and Bosch competition, and the results might surprise you.
Check current pricing on the SKIL RT1322-00
For more inexpensive woodworking tools that are genuinely useful for beginners and experts alike, see my list of 30 woodworking tools under $30.
Why I Chose to Review the SKIL RT1322-00
When most woodworkers think about full-size router kits, they typically gravitate toward the premium brands. But the SKIL RT1322-00 has been quietly gaining a reputation as a serious contender in this space, coming in at roughly $100 less than comparable models from DeWalt and Bosch. That’s a 40% savings that could go toward router bits, other tools, or simply staying within budget.
I purchased this router with my own money and have used it extensively in various projects. After comparing it directly with the top-selling DeWalt and Bosch router kits, I can confidently say it deserves your attention—especially if you’re building a tool collection or looking to maximize value.
Get current pricing on the DeWalt and Bosch
SKIL RT1322-00 Specifications
Before diving into performance, let’s look at what you’re getting:
- Motor Power: 14 Amps, 2.5 HP
- Variable Speed Range: 10,000 – 25,000 RPM
- Collet Sizes: 1/4″ and 1/2″ (both included)
- Cord Length: 6 feet
- Soft Start: Yes
- LED Light: Yes
- Electronic Feedback: Yes (maintains consistent RPM under load)
The Power Advantage: More Than Just Marketing
Here’s where the SKIL starts to separate itself from the pack. While both the DeWalt and Bosch routers offer 12 amps and 2.25 horsepower, the SKIL bumps those numbers up to 14 amps and 2.5 horsepower. In practical terms, this means you’ve got more headroom when working with larger bits or denser hardwoods. It’s not a night-and-day difference, but having that extra power available when you need it is definitely a plus.
The motor also features electronic feedback, which actively maintains your set RPM even when the router is under load. This helps ensure consistent results across your cuts and prevents bogging down in tougher materials.
The Game-Changing LCD Speed Control
This is hands-down the most innovative feature on the SKIL router, and it’s something neither the DeWalt nor the Bosch can match. Instead of just twisting a dial and guessing at the right speed, the SKIL features an LCD display that actually helps you determine the optimal RPM for your specific task.
Here’s how it works:
- Select your bit type from the menu
- Input the size of your bit
- Choose your material (hardwood, softwood, or plastic)
- Hit set, and the router suggests the ideal speed
You’re not locked into that speed—you can still adjust up or down using the plus and minus buttons—but having a solid baseline recommendation takes the guesswork out of speed selection. This is particularly valuable when you’re working with larger bits where running too fast could be dangerous or produce poor results.
For comparison, both the DeWalt and Bosch use traditional dial controls numbered 1-6, with the Bosch ranging from 8,000-25,000 RPM and the DeWalt from 8,000-24,000 RPM. The SKIL’s range of 10,000-25,000 RPM is slightly narrower at the bottom end, but in practice, I haven’t found this to be limiting.
Buy now and start routing smarter
LED Work Lights: A Thoughtful Touch
Another feature exclusive to the SKIL among these three routers: three built-in LED work lights. These don’t illuminate when you simply plug in the router—they only activate when you power on the motor, which is a smart design choice that extends bulb life and prevents unnecessary battery drain if you’re using an inverter setup.
While not a dealbreaker feature, these LEDs genuinely help when you’re working in dimly lit areas or when the router base is casting shadows on your workpiece. It’s one of those small touches that makes you wonder why the more expensive routers don’t include them.
Motor Design and Bit Changes
The SKIL uses a spindle lock button system for bit changes, similar to the DeWalt. Press the button, use a single wrench to loosen or tighten the collet, and you’re done. This is simpler than the Bosch’s two-wrench method, though admittedly, the DeWalt offers both options for maximum flexibility.
The motor housing features a flat top, which makes changing bits much easier when you flip the router upside down—a small but appreciated design detail.
One thing worth noting: the power switch is a straightforward toggle with clear “on/off” markings, making it easy to verify the router’s state at a glance. The 6-foot cord is the shortest of the three routers I tested, which could be limiting in some shop setups, but it’s rarely been an issue for me with an extension cord nearby.
Fixed Base: Solid Performance with Familiar Controls
The SKIL’s fixed base uses a macro/micro adjustment system that will feel familiar if you’ve used other routers. Line up the arrows, slide the motor into the base, and you’re ready to go. Macro adjustments are made by depressing a button and moving between notched positions, while fine adjustments are handled by turning a dedicated knob—one full rotation equals 1/16th of an inch.
The base features:
- Clear bottom for visibility
- Elongated, rubberized handles for comfort
- Slots for edge guide rods (edge guide included)
- Dust collection adapter included
The handles are ergonomically shaped and do feel comfortable, particularly when routing from a lower position. However, when working with your elbows higher (standing over the workpiece), the elongated shape isn’t quite as comfortable as a round handle would be. The Bosch’s round handles on its fixed base proved more versatile across different working positions, but for most users and most situations, the SKIL’s handles work just fine.
Plunge Base: Where Budget Meets Functionality
The plunge base follows a similar design philosophy: practical, effective, and straightforward. The plunge mechanism uses a flip-up lock lever—unlock, set your depth, lock it back down. It’s not quite as intuitive as the Bosch’s squeeze-and-release system, but it gets the job done reliably.
Key plunge base features include:
- Three macro depth settings with micro-adjustment
- 1/4″ increment turret stops
- Depth adjustment rod with scale
- Clear base for workpiece visibility
- Dust collection adapter included
- Adjustable upper limit stop
That last feature—the adjustable upper limit stop—is something I haven’t seen on other routers. By turning a rod, you can set a stop that prevents the router from plunging all the way up. I’m honestly not sure when I’d need this feature, but it’s there if you find a use for it.
The plunge action is smooth, though not quite as buttery as the Bosch. This is likely a cost-saving measure, and while the Bosch does feel more refined, the SKIL’s plunge mechanism is perfectly adequate for the vast majority of routing tasks.
What’s Included: Excellent Value for Money
This is where the SKIL really shines. For significantly less money than the competition, you get:
- Router motor
- Fixed base
- Plunge base
- Edge guide (parallel guide)
- Collet wrench
- Both 1/4″ and 1/2″ collets
- Dust extraction adapters for both bases
The included edge guide is basic but functional. While the aftermarket edge guides available for DeWalt and Bosch are superior, those cost extra—and they won’t fit the SKIL anyway. For most edge-guided routing operations, the included guide will serve you well.
What you don’t get is a hard case. The router comes in standard packaging, so if portability matters to you, you’ll need to source your own storage solution. The DeWalt comes with a canvas bag (barely better), while the Bosch includes a nice hard case. If this is important to you, factor in the cost of a case when comparing prices.
Performance in Real-World Use
I’ve used the SKIL RT1322-00 for various routing operations including edge profiling, dadoes, mortising, and template work. The 2.5 HP motor has plenty of power for these tasks, and the soft start feature makes for controlled, safe startups every time.
The motor does a good job maintaining consistent speed under load. When plowing through hardwoods with larger bits, you can hear the motor working, but the RPM stays steady and the cuts come out clean.
For router table use, the motor switches and controls are accessible, though the LCD speed control is positioned in a way that makes adjustment slightly more cumbersome than a simple dial would be. If you’re planning to use this router primarily in a table, be aware that speed changes will require a bit more effort than with a dial-controlled router.
How It Compares: SKIL vs. DeWalt vs. Bosch
I recently completed a comprehensive head-to-head comparison of the SKIL RT1322-00 against its two main competitors: the DeWalt DW618PK and the Bosch 1617EVSPK. You can read the full comparison here, but here’s the quick summary:
SKIL Wins:
- Price (40% less than competition)
- Motor power (2.5 HP vs. 2.25 HP)
- LCD speed control with smart recommendations
- LED work lights
- Included edge guide
Where SKIL Falls Short:
- Shorter power cord (6 ft vs. 8-10 ft)
- Plunge base not quite as refined as Bosch
- No hard case included
Interestingly, when I tallied up points across all categories in my comparison, the SKIL actually came out on top overall—something I wasn’t expecting when I started the test.
For detailed reviews of the individual competitors, check out:
Who Should Buy the SKIL RT1322-00?
This router is ideal for:
Budget-Conscious Woodworkers: If you’re building a tool collection or working within a tight budget, the SKIL offers exceptional value. You’re getting features that match or exceed the premium brands at a fraction of the price.
Beginners to Intermediate Users: The LCD speed control is genuinely helpful if you’re still learning optimal speeds for different bits and materials. It removes guesswork and helps you achieve better results faster.
General Shop Use: For a router that’ll handle everything from edge work to template routing to mortising, the SKIL is more than capable. It’s a true do-everything router.
DIYers and Home Woodworkers: If you’re not running a professional shop where tools take daily abuse, the SKIL will serve you well for years.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
The SKIL might not be the best choice if:
You’re Setting Up a Dedicated Router Table: While it’ll work in a table, the LCD speed control is slightly more cumbersome to adjust than a simple dial. If you’re primarily doing table routing and want the absolute easiest speed changes, consider the DeWalt or Bosch.
You Need the Most Refined Plunge Action: If your work heavily emphasizes plunge routing and you want the smoothest possible action, the Bosch is noticeably superior (though at a significant price premium).
Portability is Critical: Without an included case, you’ll need to sort out your own storage solution if you regularly transport your tools.
Verdict: Best Budget Router Kit Available
After extensive testing and comparison, I can confidently recommend the SKIL RT1322-00 as the best value in the fixed-base/plunge-base router category. Yes, the Bosch has a more refined plunge base, and the DeWalt has some clever features like its removable cord. But the SKIL delivers 90% of the performance at 60% of the price—and actually surpasses the competition in several key areas.
The LCD speed control alone makes this router stand out. Combined with the extra power, included accessories, and LED work lights, you’re getting a feature-rich package that punches well above its price point.
For most woodworkers, the SKIL RT1322-00 offers everything you need in a full-size router kit without the premium price tag. It’s capable, well-designed, and frankly, a better value than I expected it to be.
Check current pricing and buy the SKIL RT1322-00
See How It Compares:
I tested the SKIL alongside the Bosch and DeWalt router kits in a full head-to-head video. You can watch that comparison here:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the SKIL RT1322-00 be used in a router table? Yes, it works fine in a router table. The LCD display is accessible but slightly less convenient to adjust than a traditional dial. For occasional table use, it’s perfectly adequate.
Q: How does the power compare to DeWalt and Bosch? The SKIL actually has more power—2.5 HP versus 2.25 HP on both competitors. This translates to better performance with larger bits and denser materials.
Q: Is the LCD speed control worth it? Absolutely. It’s genuinely useful for determining optimal speeds, especially when working with unfamiliar bits or materials. It takes the guesswork out of speed selection.
Q: What’s the warranty coverage? At the time of writing this article, SKIL offers a 3-year warranty with tool registration.
Q: Will aftermarket edge guides fit the SKIL? No, the DeWalt and Bosch aftermarket edge guides won’t fit the SKIL. However, the included edge guide is adequate for most operations.
Looking for more router options? I’ve also reviewed the SKIL Cordless Compact Palm Router, perfect for lighter-duty work and trim applications.
For the ultimate router comparison, check out my head-to-head battle: SKIL vs. DeWalt vs. Bosch where I tested all three routers side-by-side across multiple categories.