1. Technical Feature

Motor Power/Soft Start:

The DeWalt DWP611PK does not contain the most powerful motor out there. The motor has a 1.25 HP maximum torque, rated at 7 Amps 120V. This is adequate for general purpose routing in wood and works well for tasks like making mortises, dados, trim edges and cuts when fitted with the appropriate router bit.

However, it will not work as well on tougher material like cutting sheets of metal or metal edge trimmings. When removed from the base, the motor is compact and has a solid feel to it. There are no squiggling or weird sounds, which gives us an indication that it has an excellent build quality too, both inside and outside. We like how DeWalt covered the power on/off switch with a transparent plastic. It helps protect the switch from debris helping it keep its tactile feedback longer.

The soft start system in this motor starts with a low torque and gradually increase to your desired speed setting. This provides more maneuverability and protects your material, especially when the device is used handheld.

Furthermore, the top is covered by a thick ABS plastic that is tough and will not break easily, even if the motor blocks falls on a solid floor (don’t try it!).

Bottom line, the motor is adequate for casual and general purpose routing. Ideal for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts rather than heavy-duty professionals. If you need a beefier motor, its bigger brother - the DeWalt DW618PK is a more sensible option.

Variable Speed:

As with all quality routers, you expect a variable speed control for greater versatility. DeWalt DWP611PK sports a 16,000 - 27,000 RPM no-load speed that allows you to work with a wide variety of material for different results. The 16,000 RPM lowest setting is a bit too high to our liking and would have preferred it to go a little lower. It will cut through material fairly fast, and deliver a smooth and polished result - even at the lowest setting. 16,000 RPM also shows that this router is only suited for working with wood (soft or hard), not metal work.

On the plus side, the variable speed has an electronic speed feedback which means that it will always run at the speed it is set at. This will deliver a consistent finish throughout.

Base Plunge vs Fixed Base:

Router Bits:

This model only works with 1/4” collet size. This is a perfectly reasonable collet size considering the smaller 1.25 HP of this unit. It’s a good match. It will not have the stability and can produce some vibrations on the highest 27,000 RPM speed setting. The collet can easily be removed with one hand using the single-wrench that DeWalt provides.

On the bright side, it is an 8-slot collet which means that it will have more bite on the router bit shank - boosting stability and reducing vibrations on the router bit. The stability is not on-par with a 1/2” collet, but the 8-slot grip is superior to a 4-slot or no-slot 1/4” collet found in other router models.

Ease of Adjustment:

Ease of use and making various adjustments is very easy with this model. For starters, the motor pack snaps in position in either the fixed and plunge base. It can be tightened or removed by simply using a latch.

The spindle lock at the collet has a 12-lock setting, which means that it is easier to find a lock position to remove and replace router bits.

The variable speed setting is easy to adjust with only one finger by simply turning the speed dial at the top of the motor pack. The fixed based has a very accurate 1/64” bit depth adjustment ring and the plunge base bit depth is equally easy to adjust with the depth stop.

Other Features:

• Dual LED Lights: When most models use a single LED light (or no lights), this one has 2 light sources that illuminate the router bit providing superior clarity.
• Clear Base: The clear Plexiglass base of the fixed plunge allows you to see your routing process from atop.
• Spring-loaded Release: The release tab allows you to quickly remove the fixed base.
• Fixed Base Dimples: The fixed base has dimples at the side to offer a better grip.

Accessories:

Out of the box, the DeWalt DWP611PK combo kit comes with a DeWalt carry bag, the motor, a fixed base, a plunge base and 1x collet wrench. It is a pretty basic combo kit that does not come with many accessories and spare parts, and you will need to already own router bits to use this router right away. It also does not come with a user’s manual. Instead, the manual is printed on the packaging box and has a nice diagrammatic representation of the power tool.

2. Price of DeWalt DWP611PK

This product is not the cheapest, but also not the most expensive wood router. Considering its fairly steep price, and taking into account its features we think that there are better deals at the price. The DeWalt DW618PK, for example, is much more powerful and versatile and is offered at almost the same price point of the DWP611PK, give or take.

If you’re getting this model at a greatly discounted price, or find a used model on the cheap, go for it. Brand new, we think it’s just too pricey especially considering there are better alternatives from Dewalt.

3. Expert Reviews

Professional woodworker Gord Graff made an excellent review of the DWP611PK on his YouTube channel. His video is detailed and easy to follow.

He covers various functions of this router, including the motor pack, speed settings as well as the fixed and plunge base in his review. He also touches base with the collet. Finally, he finishes by giving the unit a spin and ends up recommending this router - calling it “a great router in a small platform”.

Watch the video below:

4. Pros/Cons of DeWalt DWP611PK

Pros:

• Aluminim Motor Housing: The motor is encapsulated in an aluminum housing that easily helps dissipate the heat.
• ABS Plastic Cover: The motor can withstand shock and the ABS plastic does a good job protecting it.
• Ergonomic: Both the fixed and plunge base are ergonomically designed and comfortable in the hand. The motor pack itself is slim and compact.
• Speed: There is a variable speed control of 16,000 - 27,000 RPM in this model.
• Combo Kit: You get both a fixed and plunge base.
• Dual LED Lights: It is well illuminated and can be used in dim workshops.

Cons:

• Motor is only 1.25 HP. Great for working with wood but not shaving or cutting metal.
• 1/4” collet only. You cannot use a 1/2” collet with it.
• Pricey. It competes with superior models at almost the same price point.

5. Who Should Buy?

The DeWalt DWP611PK is an “okay” wood router. It is compact, delivered with both a fixed/plunge base and does the job. The only problem we have with it is the steep price. Other than this, it should perform well for general purpose and casual routing tasks on wood only. It is not a heavy-duty router, so professionals looking for a heavy-duty router need to steer clear - The DeWalt DW618PK is a much better option.

Bottom line, If you are a beginner learning the trade, DIY enthusiast or homeowner looking to renovate, this is a very good entry-level wood router to get.