Best Straight Router Bits 2026: 8 Bits for Dadoes, Grooves, and Slots

Pros

• TiCo carbide is harder and stays sharper longer than standard carbide in straight bit service
• 1/4-inch diameter is the most commonly needed groove width for shelf pins, small dadoes, and slots
• Two-flute design provides clean cut walls and good chip clearance
• Freud 04-100 is the reference recommendation for general straight bit purchases

Pros

• Set covers the most common straight bit diameters (1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, 1-inch) in one purchase
• TiCo carbide on every bit in the set -- no quality downgrade in the smaller sizes
• Mix of 1/4 and 1/2-inch shanks matched to the bit size for appropriate stability
• The most practical first straight bit purchase for a new woodworker

Pros

• Eclipse grind produces a shearing action that leaves smoother groove walls than a standard grind
• 1/2-inch diameter and shank for maximum stability in production dado and groove cutting
• TiCo Hi-Density carbide holds an edge through repeated production cuts
• The professional choice for cabinet dado and groove work

Pros

• Multiple sizes in one purchase at the lowest total cost
• Good starting set for learning router operations and groove cutting
• Yonico carbide is acceptable for softwood and plywood in moderate use
• Covers the most common groove diameters for learning joinery

Pros

• Bosch micro-grain carbide provides harder edges than standard carbide formulations
• 1/2-inch diameter is the correct size for 1/2-inch plywood bottom grooves in drawers
• Bosch quality control produces consistent carbide geometry
• Widely available at home centers for easy replacement

Pros

• 3/4-inch diameter is the correct size for 3/4-inch plywood dado joints and shelf dadoes
• Anti-kickback body reduces the catch risk at large diameters where more material is engaged
• 1/2-inch shank for the stability required at 3/4-inch cutting diameter
• CMT micro-grain carbide maintains sharpness better than standard carbide

Pros

• Spiral flutes produce a shearing cut that dramatically reduces tearout on groove walls
• TiCo Hi-Density carbide for strong edge retention
• The correct upgrade from standard straight bits for fine furniture and cabinetry
• Clean, smooth groove walls that require less sanding than straight-flute bits

Pros

• MLCS is the best-value straight bit set brand -- better quality than Yonico at a small price premium
• Good coverage of common groove diameters
• MLCS bits perform well in softwood and moderate hardwood use
• The step-up choice between Yonico budget and Freud premium