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PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table

Porter-Cable

PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table

  • Lightweight machined aluminum top
  • Split fence, front-to-back or lateral
  • 3-5/8-inch pre-drilled mounting hole
  • 3/4-inch miter gauge slot
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On this page

Is the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table ranks #6 in our Best Woodworking Router Table 2026 list (best budget complete). Its biggest strength: complete benchtop package at the lowest price for a full-size router table. The main caveat: table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top.

Overview

What the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table does well

Best budget complete router table. It stands out for complete benchtop package at the lowest price for a full-size router table and lightweight aluminum construction is easy to clamp to any workbench and move between sites. One caveat, table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • Lightweight machined aluminum top
  • Split fence, front-to-back or lateral
  • 3-5/8-inch pre-drilled mounting hole
  • 3/4-inch miter gauge slot
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Complete benchtop package at the lowest price for a full-size router table
  • Lightweight aluminum construction is easy to clamp to any workbench and move between sites
  • Split fence sections adjust for different bit diameters and dust collection
  • The correct first table for woodworkers who want a benchtop router table on a budget

Cons

  • Table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top
  • Pre-drilled mounting hole limits router compatibility compared to an undrilled plate
Fit check

Should you buy the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table?

Think twice if this matters to you

  • Table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top
  • Pre-drilled mounting hole limits router compatibility compared to an undrilled plate
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Woodworking Router Table 2026· Best Budget Complete#6 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Buying advice: woodworking

  1. Clamps, a combination square, a good saw and a drill cover most beginner projects.
  2. You can never have too many. Bar clamps handle wide glue-ups; quick-grip clamps are fast for smaller work.
  3. Standard wood glue suits indoor projects. Water-resistant glue suits outdoor work and cutting boards.
  4. Oils are easy to apply and repair. Polyurethane and varnish protect tabletops and floors better.
  5. Eye and hearing protection and dust collection matter from the first project. Lay oily rags flat to dry to prevent fires.

Read the full guides

Answers

PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table: common questions

Is the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table ranks #6 in our Best Woodworking Router Table 2026 list (best budget complete). Its biggest strength: complete benchtop package at the lowest price for a full-size router table. The main caveat: table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top.

Who is the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table best for?

Based on our research it suits value-focused buyers who want the most for their money. It's ranked #6 of 8 in our Best Woodworking Router Table 2026 list.

What are the downsides of the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: table surface is less flat than a dedicated phenolic top; pre-drilled mounting hole limits router compatibility compared to an undrilled plate.

What are the key features of the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table?

Lightweight machined aluminum top, Split fence, front-to-back or lateral, 3-5/8-inch pre-drilled mounting hole and 3/4-inch miter gauge slot.

What are the best alternatives to the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table?

Worth comparing: Incra WONDERFENCE37 Wonder Fence Router Table Fence, BOSCH RA1171 Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table and Kreg Precision Router Table Insert Plate, Undrilled Phenolic (PRS4038). Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the PORTER-CABLE 698 Bench Top Router Table?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

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