The 1st is a Craftsman 9.5 Amp 1-3/4 HP Plunge Base Router $80
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00917540000P?mv=rr

Pros: Soft Start, LED Worklight, Good Price
Cons: No Variable Speed, Not Digital

The 2nd is a Craftsman 2 hp 10 amp Digital Router $100
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00917517000P?mv=rr

Pros: Digital Display, Variable Speed
Cons: No LED Worklights, A different base is needed to use [Porter Cable] bushings.

Yes,I understand that cpo porter cable makes them , but someone else like one of those major brands like De Walt,Makita,Craftsman,Milwakee,etc.

I am going to soon be building up my own toolbox and am not too familiar with the different brands’ quality and dependability. Do you prefer Craftsman, Husky, Ryobi, Makita, Stanley, Workforce etc. or something else. A combination? Hand tools of one, power tools of another? I think you get the idea. Thank you for your consideration.

I used to stick with Craftsman, but Sears has ticked me off too much. I’d like to switch brands. Any recommendations?