Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Router Table RA1171 - Precise Shop Work

In this review of the RA1171 benchtop router table, the bottom line is straightforward: it is a good-value, cabinet-style benchtop table best suited to hobbyists and light shop use who need expanded material support and dust control. The table's tallest selling point is its large, rigid aluminum router mounting plate combined with a tall aluminum fence and adjustable MDF face plates, which together deliver accurate cuts and the ability to handle taller stock with confidence. Assembly varies by user, but once set up the RA1171 performs reliably for most feeder and jointing tasks.

Key Features

• Tall aluminum fence: A 4 7/8 in x 25 1/8 in fence gives solid support for taller work pieces and better control during passes.
• Adjustable MDF face plates: Face plates on the fence smooth contact with stock and allow the out feed to be offset for jointing tasks.
• Rigid aluminum mounting plate: The flat router mounting plate stays true under load and is predrilled to accept a variety of routers for accurate bit placement.
• Feather boards and accessory slot: Two adjustable feather boards plus an accessory slot provide extra guidance and the option to add a miter gauge or 3/4 in accessories.
• Dual dust collection ports: Cabinet-style design includes two 2 1/2 in dust collection ports to keep the work area cleaner while routing.
• Dual outlet convenience: A dual outlet switch with a 6 ft power cord helps manage both router and dust extraction from one location.

Who It's For

The RA1171 is aimed at hobbyists, DIYers and small shop owners who want a sturdy benchtop router table with features that make edge work and jointing easier; its tall fence and adjustable face plates are especially useful for handling taller stock. Users who value a precise router mounting surface and standard dust port compatibility will appreciate the aluminum plate and cabinet-style cleanup.

Those who should look elsewhere include professionals needing a heavy-duty floor-standing table for continuous, high-volume production or woodworkers who expect very quick, tool-free assembly; some buyers report mixed experiences with setup time and complexity.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a heavy-duty aluminum mounting plate that maintains flatness for accuracy.
• Large, supportive fence and adjustable MDF faces that make working with tall stock easier and safer.
• Useful accessories included such as feather boards, clear guard, starter pin and mounting rings for flexibility out of the box.
• Cabinet-style design with two dust ports helps keep dust under control when paired with standard 2 1/2 in vacuums.

Cons

• Assembly can be time consuming or fiddly for some users, with mixed reports on ease of setup.
• As a benchtop unit it may not suit heavy industrial workloads that benefit from a larger, floor-mounted table.

Specifications

Product type	Benchtop router table
Top material	Laminated MDF
Fence size	4 7/8 in x 25 1/8 in aluminum fence
Dust ports	2 ports, fit 2 1/2 in vacuum hoses
Mounting plate	Rigid aluminum, predrilled for multiple routers
Included accessories	Mounting plate rings, feather boards, clear guard, starter pin, guard, fence shims
Power	Dual outlet switch with 6 ft power cord

Our Verdict

The RA1171 benchtop router table is a practical choice for hobbyists and small shops that want a precise, feature-rich surface without the footprint of a floor model. Its rigid aluminum plate, tall fence with adjustable MDF faces and dust collection make it a strong value for routine routing and jointing, though those seeking continuous heavy production should consider more robust floor-standing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this table accept common routers?
The aluminum mounting plate is predrilled to fit a variety of routers, and it includes three mounting plate rings to accommodate different router sizes.

What size dust hose fits the ports?
Both dust collection ports accept standard 2 1/2 in vacuum hoses for typical shop vacs and extractors.

Are feather boards included?
Yes, two adjustable feather boards are included and the accessory slot accepts additional feather boards or 3/4 in accessories such as a miter gauge.