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#3 in Best Corded Wood Routers

BOSCH PR20EVS Colt 1.0 HP Variable-Speed Palm Router - 5.6 Amp Motor, Soft Start, Constant ResponsCircuitry, Ergonomic Grip…

Best for

Best compact/palm router

Amazon rating

★★★★★4.7(3,452)

Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score

Verdict scoreGreat
86/ 100

Based on 2 trusted sources

Current price

$119.00

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Updated May 16, 2026 · 1 min read

BOSCH PR20EVS Colt 1.0 HP Variable-Speed Palm Router - 5.6 Amp Motor, Soft Start, Constant ResponsCircuitry, Ergonomic Grip…

Sources behind this verdict

10 reviewers weighted by source trust

Methodology →

The consensus

What reviewers found

Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.

Across the reviewers we read, the Bosch PR20EVS Colt is the most consistently recommended compact router in this pool. The high-trust review at protoolreviews.com calls it a non-disappointment in either bare-tool or kit configuration, and multiple r/woodworking threads describe the 1 HP Colt as 'fantastic' and 'very versatile' for jigs, edge work, and light freehand routing. Verified-purchase commentary at homedepot.com aligns: lightweight, ergonomic, and capable for its class.

What reviewers liked

  • High-trust protoolreviews.com coverage is explicitly positive across configurations
  • r/woodworking threads consistently call out ergonomics and one-handed control
  • Verified-purchase reviewers at homedepot.com cite lightweight design and good power for the class
  • Soft start and constant-response circuitry praised in expert coverage

Where it falls short

  • 1/4-inch collet only — not suitable for large profile bits
  • 1 HP motor limits it to light and medium tasks per r/woodworking commenters
  • One r/Tools post reports an underwhelming first-use experience
  • Not a substitute for a mid-size router in a table

Across the reviews

Synthesis · not our verdict

Across the reviewers we read, the Bosch PR20EVS Colt is the most consistently recommended compact router in this pool. The high-trust review at protoolreviews.com calls it a non-disappointment in either bare-tool or kit configuration, and multiple r/woodworking threads describe the 1 HP Colt as 'fantastic' and 'very versatile' for jigs, edge work, and light freehand routing. Verified-purchase commentary at homedepot.com aligns: lightweight, ergonomic, and capable for its class.

It's important to be clear about what this router isn't. It's a 1 HP, 1/4-inch collet palm router. The same r/woodworking commenters who praise it also caveat that it won't handle large profile bits or heavy hogging—for that, mainstream reviewers point buyers to the Bosch 1617 or DeWalt DW618 combos. Within its lane, though, the trust-weighted signal mix is unusually clean.

One dissenting r/Tools post reports a disappointing first use, which we surface honestly, but it sits against a backdrop of thousands of positive verified-purchase reviews and consistent expert endorsement. For buyers who want a second router dedicated to trim, edge profiles, and template work, the consensus points here.

Key specs

Source: Amazon listing
Highlight 1
PR20EVS Colt Palm Router features a 1.0 Horse Power 5.6 amp variable speed motor with speeds from 16,000 to 35,000 RPM
Convenient
Provides a straight edge guide to lead router along edges of work piece or up to 3-5/8 inch from edge; The wood router also features an angled cord exit to keep the cord out of the way when working
Durable
The rugged aluminum fixed base of the wood router is durable, solid and precise; The PR20EVS features unique finger support pockets for additional stability, especially when trimming edges
Precision
The fast and precise depth adjustment system allows both macro and micro adjustment while the quick clamp system allows motor to be easily adjusted or moved from base to base
Versatile
The PR20EVS provides enhanced bit capacity with a fixed base that accepts bits up to 1 5/16 inch in diameter; Versatile bit changing system allows for fast, easy bit changes using two wrenches or spindle lock and one wrench

What customers say

2 verified voices
The 1HP Colt has served me very well- quite versatile and easy to use. For use with jigs and even smaller freehand stuff, it will likely become ...
Trustedvia r/Woodworking
Hello guys, I got myself a Bosch PR20EVSK-RT Colt Palm Grip 5.7 Amp 1-Horsepower Fixed Base Variable Speed Router for only $79 (renewed).
Trustedvia r/Woodworking

Trust tier reflects our editorial assessment of the source, not the individual quote. Hover for the rationale. See how we tier sources →

Video review

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Bosch 1HP Colt Variable Speed Palm Router Tool Review” · YouTube

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