The Flex Cordless Trim Router Rounds Out Their 24V Power Tool Lineup
When it comes to power tools, trim routers are easily one of the most therapeutic in my mind. They are also extremely versatile tools and allow you to add creative flair to your woodworking projects. The Flex Trim Router is part of their latest 24V tool expansion and we want to know how it stacks up to the competition.
Flex Trim Router Performance
- No-Load Speed: 16,000-31,000 RPM
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Max Horsepower: 1.5 hp
- Collet: 1/4 in.
- Depth Range: 1.97 in.
- Fixed Adjustment: 1/64 in.
Just looking a the specs, it’s pretty clear that Flex designed this router with professionals in mind. The 6-speed brushless motor churns out between 16,000 and 31,000 RPMs which puts it in the company of names like DeWalt and Milwaukee. Not surprisingly, traditional edging bits offer little resistance, and it excels with various size dadoes, rabbets, and other joinery bits as well.
As with any of the cordless routers we’ve tested, it’s important to take your time and really focus on making a quality cut. For added stability and accuracy, Flex decided to include an adjustable fence with their router.
Flex’s adjustment ring is very easy to use—just release the clamp and twist until you reach the desired depth. Macro adjustments are pretty simple too. Simply pinch the two release buttons on either side of the twist ring and manually slide the base. To remove the base completely, just follow the same macro adjustment procedure and slide it off the end to expose the collet.
The center-mounted collet lock allows you to change the bit without removing the base if you like. Like most routers, it’s easier with the base off and DeWalt’s design make it easier to remove that many others we’ve tested.
Flex Trim Router Design Notes
- Model: Flex FX4221
- Power Source: Flex 24V battery
- Weight: 3.5 lbs. (bare), 5.1 lbs. (with 3.5Ah battery)
- Tool Height: 8 in.
- Base Opening: 1-1/2 in.
When it comes to trim routers, weight really isn’t a huge concern since the tool runs across the top of your work surface. As a bare tool, it weighs 3.5 pounds, and adding the kitted 3.5Ah Stacked Lithium battery brings that up to 5.1 pounds.
Ergonomically speaking, the Flex FX4221 features more of a barrel grip as opposed to a contoured grip like we see on some other models. With my medium-sized hands, the larger grip can be a little cumbersome at first but starts to feel natural after a little hands-on time.
Flex designed this router with a large cutout, making visibility one of the star highlights for this model. A pair of LED lights fully illuminate the cutting area. Should you choose to use the dust poot attachment, the clear plastic guard spans across the entire viewing window.
Flex Trim Router Price
The Flex FX4221 Trim Router retails for $199.99 as a bare tool and $349.99 as a kit. Both options include an edge guide, dust extraction hood, centering cone, round subbase, a 17mm wrench, and a 12mm wrench. With the kit, Flex includes a 3.5Ah Stacked Lithium battery, a single-port rapid charger, and a canvas storage bag.
This router is eligible for the Flex Founder’s Warranty program but you need to register the tool within 30 days of purchase to receive a limited lifetime warranty.
The Bottom Line
After getting some hands-on experience, the Flex 24V Trim Router checks off some key boxes in both performance and design, especially for a first-gen tool! It has plenty of strength for use with larger bits and the ergonomics are both approachable and user-friendly, even for a novice. If you’re on the hunt for a well-rounded workhorse to add to your tool arsenal, you won’t want to miss out on the Flec FX4221.
