A few days ago we reported that Porter Cable’s new compact routers were identical to Dewalt’s. After taking a closer look at the product photos and specs, I realized that this was not true, there are a few subtle differences.
First, the Porter Cable kits are priced a little cheaper at $129 for the fixed base kit, and $189 for the fixed and plunge base combo kit. The Porter Cable version does include electronic speed control to maintain its speed under load, but does not include a variable speed adjustment.
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It also looks like the Porter Cable version is missing the dual LED lights that the Dewalt boasts. Everything else – the soft start, ergonomic grip, depth-adjustment design, and spindle lock, looks to be identical on both brands’ tools.
The MSRP price difference between the two brands’ offerings is $10, but it is possible that the difference will be greater once the routers hit retail stores.
fred
As an old geezer its sad (but probably unrealistic to think otherwise) that the Porter Cable tool is the lower-end product. I recall when Dewalt was synonomous with big RASs and Porter Cable with premier woodworking portable electric power tools (routers, power planes and sanders). When B&D acquired Dewalt they probably wanted to make it their premium contractor tool line to differentiate it from the then orange B&D tools that were homeowner quality. Tools of the caliber of the B&D supersawcat then got the Dewalt branding. When Rockwell sold off Delta and Porter Cable to B&D – I guess B&D wanted to stay with the plan – so PC now seems to be stuck in the middle. Now that Stanley owns the whole shebang, I guess that we may see some more sorting out. Probably a good thing that Stanley branded power tools (routers, saws etc.) bit the dust a long time ago.
Don Miller
Stuart – Any plans to do a heads-up comparison of the Dewalt, Porter Cable, and the Bosch Colt? I would be very interested to see the 3 put through their paces side by side.
Stuart
Fred, in this case I think it was more about offering some differentiation rather than making the Porter Cable version the “lower-end” product. The other day we talked a bit about Porter Cable’s new premium QUIKJIG pocket hole tool. This is solid indication that Porter Cable is still in the business of offering innovative and top quality woodworking tools.
If you notice, everything else about the router appears to be identical to the Bosch. I think that it’s safe to say the Porter Cable router is meant to be a highly competitive and the Dewalt slightly moreso. Offering some differentiation between the products allows the Porter Cable to be priced more competitively against other brands’ fixed-speed trim routers.
In terms of cordless power tools and general purpose corded tools, I’d say that Porter Cable is being aimed at mid and upper level DIYers. If you look at our >a href=”https://14cyiuhvcgv.com/tag/porter-cable/%E2%80%9D%3EPorter Cable review archive, you’ll see that we’ve covered a few such tools thus far. We’re in the process of editing a new PC circular saw review as well. I’ve got to say, I am surprised. Porter Cable is engineering their general use power tools in a way that the can be priced between entry level Black & Decker and pro-use Dewalt tools, while not sacrificing performance.
Don, currently we have no plans of putting the compact/trim router through a comparative review. If I notice such a review on one of the other tool blogs, I’ll post about it. That’s the best I can offer right now.
fred
@Stuart
I think that you’re absolutely on target – but that’s a bit of my lament. Where’s the PC replacement for my old locomotive sanders and my porta-planes (have to buy Spanish Virutex to replace these). What happened to the innovation that produced the first D-handled router, the first to market RO sander and what was once their best in class bayonet jigsaw. Luckily they still make their 4-1/2 inch trim saw – another best-in-class tool.
Big Mike
For some reason when I think of a rugged and well made tool I think of Dewalt. Probably because I’ve been using them for 25 years! Nuf Said!
John
Speaking only of cordless, go to Lowe’s and compare. Pick up the new PC products. They are very light. No more metal gears. But very affordable. Stanley/B&D are using the Dewalt brand as their step up there. If you look at the traditional contractor tools like the corded circular saw – the PC is the better built product. S/B&D just owns too many brands and it will take them awhile to sort it out. But if you want contractor grade, you have to cross the street and get Milwaukee at HD. Even their 12V mid-sized drivers are built solid and have metals gearboxes.