difference between router table and shaper
- Shapers are usually heavier in weight (footprint) than a router table. - Shapers usually have a heavier rated motor. - Some shapers have a tilting spindle. - Modern shapers usually have spindle sizes of 3/4 and 1-1/4 sized spindles. - Shaper cutter blades are comparable in cost to router bits.
Router tables are typically for home shops, whereas shapers are used industrial. That's not to say that you can't have a shaper in your garage though. If you plan to make raised-panel doors, large exterior doors or wood furniture of any type, shapers can help you get it done.
Router Table vs Shaper. So what are the differences and similarities between router tables and shapers? Why wouldn't I buy a shaper rather than a router table. Shapers are far more powerful than router tables ( router tables look like toys in comparison). Both use up about the same amount of workshop space and if I want portability than I can use my portable plunge router.
Shapers are nice for large production runs, but the router is much more versatile. By the way, I have less money in my router table than in my used when purchased shaper(not including my Incra Jig )! The largest advantage to shapers occurs only with multi $1000 units, unless you find a real bargain on a used machine.