Many require two hands to operate them, they're heavy, noisy, and it can be difficult to see what the router bit (cutter) is doing. That can be worrying when the tool is running at 20,000 rpm or more.

Tune Up Carbide Router Bits With a Diamond Paddle Chipped or severely dulled carbide router bits require professional sharpening, but you can restore a slightly dulled edge with a diamond paddle.

Cutter head The other main difference is the quality of the cutter head. The least expensive router bit sets are made from high speed steel (HSS), the same material many drill bits are made of.

For as little as $5,000—compared to $100,000 or more for a pro-level CNC router—the ShopBot is within reach for enthusiasts and maker spaces around the world.