25 Years Ain't Too Bad

New old stock open box
https://www.ebay.com/itm/327276589015

And Woody sez...

You:
What would make a good modern replacement for a Dewalt 621?

Woody:
Modern replacements for the Dewalt DW621

The Dewalt DW621 (and its close cousin the DW621K) was a popular 2-hp variable-speed plunge router that many woodworkers still consider a benchmark for a compact, accurate, and versatile plunge router. It featured a soft-start motor, excellent dust collection, a micro-adjust depth stop, and a comfortable D-handle design. Finding a true “one-for-one” modern equivalent is tricky because tool lines have evolved, but several current routers stand out as strong successors.

Top recommendations (2024–2025)

• Festool OF 1400 1400 W (1.9 hp) Variable speed (10k–22k rpm), excellent dust extraction, precise depth stop with micro-adjust, LED lights, guide-rail compatible, very smooth plunge action Closest in feel and accuracy; many ex-DW621 users call it the “upgrade path.” Superior dust collection and build quality. $550–$650

• Bosch 1617EVSPK (plunge base version) 2.25 hp Variable speed, soft start, robust 2-piece design (fixed + plunge bases), excellent depth micro-adjust, aftermarket dust hoods available Slightly more power, proven durability, and the plunge base feels very similar to the DW621. Huge aftermarket support. $220–$280 (kit)

• Makita RP2301CX4 3.25 hp* Variable speed, soft start, electronic brake, depth micro-adjust with 3-stop turret, very smooth plunge, good dust port More power for heavier work while retaining the precision and control the DW621 was loved for. Larger but still manageable. $280–$350

• DeWalt DW618PK (current 2¼-hp plunge kit) 2.25 hp Variable speed, soft start, adjustable speed dial, depth-stop rod with micro-adjust, compatible with D-handle base Direct DeWalt successor in the same family. Very similar ergonomics and features, updated electronics. $220–$300

• Trend T14 (or T12 if you want closer size) 1500 W (2 hp) Variable speed, excellent dust extraction, micro-adjust plunge, spindle lock, above-table height adjust British-made with a strong following among ex-DW621 owners; very clean plunge action and great for table use. $380–$450

*Note: The RP2301CX4 is physically larger than the DW621; many users treat it as a “do-it-all” router rather than a direct compact replacement.

Quick buying advice

• If you loved the compact size and precision of the DW621 → go with the Festool OF 1400 or the Bosch 1617EVSPK plunge base.

• If you want to stay in the DeWalt ecosystem → the DW618PK is the logical modern choice.

• If you do a lot of heavy routing or want one router to rule them all → consider the Makita RP2301CX4.

• Budget-conscious but still high quality → Bosch 1617EVSPK is hard to beat for the money.

What to look for in any replacement

• Variable speed (important for different bit sizes and materials)

• Soft start and good electronic feedback

• Accurate, repeatable depth stop with micro-adjustment

• Smooth plunge action with solid locking

• Effective dust collection (the DW621 was ahead of its time here)

• Availability of good guide fences, template guides, and aftermarket bases

Would you like recommendations based on a specific budget, primary use (handheld vs. table, cabinetry, sign-making, etc.), or preference for corded vs. cordless? I can narrow it down further.

Little-known woodworking fact: The original DW621 was one of the first routers to popularize integrated dust collection on a plunge base—something that seemed like a luxury in the late 1990s but is now considered essential by most serious woodworkers.

>This Router comes in original box, I tried it out with one bit for 10 minutes. My dream of making furniture never materialized. It has sat in my shop in the original box ever since. I believe it was purchased in 1999. It’s just like new. Manual is wrinkled as well as the parts list.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/327276589015 ($275 + $23 shipping, is that a good price?  Seems a little high to me, but he does claim only 10 minutes use, and photos seem to back that up)

Probably not going to be able to get warranty coverage on such old stock even if claimed as "new." The above eBay listing claims they bought it around 1999, and only used it for about 10 minutes. Shattered dreams of making furniture. Could be lying, but my gut says he's just being honest. 

The one you got may be an actual DeWalt, but it may be some yellow knock-off with DeWalt branding. Compare it closely with your existing dead router.  Does it sound the same, feel the same, or does anything else seem "off"?