Many CNC machines ship with a trim router such as a Makita or DeWalt. These work well for entry-level use and light-duty cutting.
As projects become more demanding, many users begin considering a spindle upgrade.
This article explains the practical differences.
Power Output
Most trim routers are approximately 600–800 watts.
PwnCNC spindles are available in:
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1.5kW
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2.2kW
Even the smallest 1.5kW spindle produces roughly double the power of a typical trim router.
More power does not automatically mean you must cut aggressively. It means:
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The motor does not strain under load
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RPM stays stable during heavier cuts
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The system runs cooler and more efficiently
Speed Control
Trim routers typically operate between:
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12,000 – 30,000 RPM
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Controlled by a dial on the router body
Spindles operate between:
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6000 – 24,000 RPM
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Controlled by a VFD
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Can be manually adjusted or automatically controlled by your CNC controller
This allows:
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G-code-controlled RPM changes
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More repeatable speeds
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Lower RPM capability for larger tooling
Collet Capacity
Router collets are usually limited to 1/4” shank tooling.
Spindle options:
| Model | Collet Type | Max Tool Shank |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5kW 65mm | ER11 | 1/4" |
| 1.5kW 80mm | ER20 | 1/2" |
| 2.2kW 80mm | ER20 | 1/2" |
ER20 systems allow significantly larger tooling and improved rigidity.
Noise
Measured at max speed, no load:
| Model | Water-Cooled | Air-Cooled |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5kW 65mm | ~80 dB | ~87 dB |
| 1.5kW 80mm | ~90 dB | ~93 dB |
| 2.2kW 80mm | ~92 dB | ~93 dB |
For reference in our testing:
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DeWalt router: ~91 dB
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Makita router: ~94 dB
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Carbide router: ~98 dB
Water-cooled spindles are typically the quietest option.
Weight
| Model | Water-Cooled | Air-Cooled |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5kW 65mm | ~111 oz | ~106 oz |
| 1.5kW 80mm | ~194 oz | ~185 oz |
| 2.2kW 80mm | ~194 oz | ~185 oz |
Larger spindles add weight to the Z-axis, which should be considered for smaller machines.
Cooling Options
Spindles are available in:
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Air-cooled
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Water-cooled
Water-cooled systems are quieter and thermally stable.
Air-cooled systems are simpler and require no coolant loop.
What Changes When You Upgrade?
Moving from a trim router to a spindle typically gives you:
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More consistent torque
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Controller-based RPM control
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Lower overall noise (especially water-cooled)
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Access to larger tooling (ER20)
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Improved surface finish under load
What does not change:
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The fundamentals of feeds and speeds
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The need for proper grounding and power quality
Should You Upgrade?
If your router works and you are happy with it, there is no requirement to upgrade.
Many customers move to a spindle when they:
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Want quieter operation
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Want automatic RPM control
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Cut aluminum more regularly
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Want ER20 tooling
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Want long-term reliability under load
Both solutions can produce excellent work. A spindle simply expands your machine’s capability.
If you're considering an upgrade, continue to:
