A saggy router table insert is the enemy of precise joinery. If the plate is not perfectly flush with the surrounding table surface, your workpieces will catch, causing minor dips in your cuts that ruin joints. Today, we review the three best router table inserts on the market.
What to Look For: Material and Adjustability
Router plates are typically made of phenolic plastic or machined aluminum. Phenolic is cheaper, but aluminum is stiffer and will never sag under the weight of a heavy 3-1/4 HP plunge router. Additionally, look for plate leveling screws that allow you to adjust the plate flush with the table at multiple points.
The Contenders: JessEm vs Kreg vs Woodpeckers
We tested plates from three leading manufacturers in our shop over a two-month period, routing heavy mortises in white oak:
- JessEm Rout-R-Plate: Solid machined aluminum, extremely stiff, features snap-in insert rings.
- Woodpeckers Precision Plate: Solid aluminum, high tolerance, but expensive.
- Kreg Precision Plate: Durable phenolic, includes leveler pads, budget-friendly.
| Product | Material | Deflection (under 15 lbs) | Price Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| JessEm Rout-R-Plate | Aluminum | 0.001 inches (Excellent) | Mid-range |
| Woodpeckers Plate | Aluminum | 0.001 inches | High-end |
| Kreg Phenolic Plate | Phenolic | 0.007 inches (Marginal) | Budget |
Our Recommendation
The JessEm Rout-R-Plate is our shop pick. It offers the deflection resistance of aluminum at a price close to phenolic plates, making it the best value for heavy duty use.
Derek’s Verdict: JessEm Rout-R-Plate (Top Value Pick)
Video Guide: Router Table Insert Plate Install Guide
For information on how we test plates, check How We Test and Review Woodworking Tools at M3Tools. To learn about router bits, read Router Bits: A Working Woodworker’s Guide.
Find the JessEm plate at our partner Rockler Woodworking and Hardware.
Have questions or feedback about this guide? Get in touch with our editorial team on our Contact Us page.
