Makita Expands Cordless Woodworking Line with a Highly Anticipated Plunge Router
The Makita GPR01 40V max XGT Cordless Plunge Router joins an elite group of mid-range routing options that rely on a battery for power. Offering a significant step up in power to supplement the GTR01 trim router, it fills a gap in Makita’s expanding cordless woodworking lineup.
Makita 40V max XGT Cordless 2 1/4 HP Plunge Router Performance
Makita’s 40V max XGT battery powers a brushless motor that delivers 8,000 – 25,000 RPM to the bit. Electronic speed controls help keep those RPMs steady under load with power equivalent to a 2 1/4 horsepower router.
A built-in soft start ensures those horses accelerate with confident control while a soft stop helps prevent damage to your workpiece.
A 1/2-inch collet secures router bits, and the plunge base has a range up to 2 3/8 inches. As we expect, there’s also a 1/4-inch adapter for use with smaller bits.
For runtime, you can expect up to 260 linear feet of routing using a 4.0Ah battery.
Even though Makita’s power level matches that of its main competitors, look past that for a moment. The GPR01 uses its power to offer a wider speed range. Take a look:
| Max HP | Speed Range | Plunge Capacity | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt 20V Max DCW620 | 2 1/4 HP | 11,000 – 23,000 RPM | 2 3/4 |
| Makita 40V max XGT GPR01 | 2 1/4 HP | 8,000 – 25,000 RPM | 2 3/8 in |
| Metabo HPT 36V M3612DA | 2 HP | 11,000 – 25,000 RPM | 1 31/32 in |
| Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2838 | 2 1/4 HP | 12,000 – 25,000 RPM | 2 1/2 in |
The 18V LXT system hasn’t seen this level of router (and we haven’t heard any rumors that it will). With tools like the GPR01 plunge router, the 40V max XGT system is rounding out as the go-to platform for woodworkers who want a fully cordless shop.
With tools like the GPR01 plunge router, the 40V max XGT system is rounding out as the go-to platform for woodworkers who want a fully cordless shop.
Kenny Koehler, PTR Editor-in-Chief
Makita 40V max XGT Cordless 2 1/4 HP Plunge Router Design Notes
One feature I’m excited to see is that the power switch is on the plunge handle (the safety lock button is also on the handle). If you haven’t used a router with this design before, it keeps the power button in thumb’s reach while you’re using the tool. You have the control that comes with keeping both hands on the tool at start up and shutdown, making for safer and more convenient operation.
Another noteworthy feature is that the Makita GPR01 is AWS-ready. By adding the AWS chip and connecting it to an AWS-enabled vacuum, the system automatically turns the vac on and off, reducing shop noise and extending the cordless vac’s runtime.
Additional Highlights
- Quick release cam lock system for depth adjustments and base installation
- Dual LED lights
- Aluminum base
Makita 40V max XGT Cordless 2 1/4 HP Plunge Router Price
You can get the Makita GPR01 plunge router as a bare tool for $359—a price that’s in the same range as DeWalt and Milwaukee. As usual, it comes with a 3-year warranty.
For accessories, there are some specifically for this model, plus it’s compatible with the same accessories as the RP2301FC corded unit and the AWS chip.
Key Specifications
- Model: Makita GPR01
- System: Makita 40V max XGT
- Speed: 8,000 – 25,000 RPM
- Plunge Capacity: 2 3/8 inches
- Collet: 1/2-inch
- Weight with Battery: 9.5 lbs
- Warranty: 3 years
