Porter Cable 556 and 557 are two different models of plate joiners with minor differences in design, motor power, and blade configuration. Porter Cable is a brand known for its quality woodworking tools, and their plate joiners have been widely used for years.
The two most common models are the Porter Cable 556 and 557, both designed to make precise cuts on wooden boards by joining them together with plates. While they share similar features, there are some slight differences between the two models.
The 556 is a single speed model with a 6-amp motor, while the 557 is a dual-speed model with a 7-amp motor. The 557 also has a more durable blade and a fence that adjusts at both 45 and 90-degree angles. We will explore the similarities and differences between these two models to help you choose which one will suit your specific needs.
Contents
Porter Cable 556 Vs Porter Cable 557
Design
Porter Cable 556 and 557 are two high-quality routers. While the 556 is a single-speed router, the 557 comes with several features such as variable speed controls, precision cutting, and much more for efficient and precise woodworking.
When it comes to power tools, having a tool that is both well-designed and ergonomic can not only make your work easier and more comfortable, but it can also make your work more efficient.
The Porter Cable 556 and Porter Cable 557 are two of the most popular routers available on the market today. Both routers offer excellent power and performance, but what sets them apart from each other is their design.
Porter Cable 556 Design
The Porter Cable 556 router has a compact and tough design that is perfect for both novice and professional woodworkers. The body of this router is made of high-quality aluminum, which makes it strong and durable.
The motor of the Porter Cable 556 is designed to deliver a maximum horsepower of 1.5, which enables it to handle even the most challenging woodworking projects with ease. The router also features a dust-sealed switch that helps to prevent dust and debris from getting into the motor and causing any damage.
Porter Cable 557 Design
The Porter Cable 557, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced and refined design than the 556. It has a more extended base that provides increased stability and balance, making it easier to control during more prolonged cuts.
The router’s body is made of high-quality aluminum just like the 556, but in the Porter Cable 557, the motor is designed to provide a maximum horsepower of 2.5, which means that it can handle even more challenging woodworking tasks.
The router also features a unique depth adjustment mechanism that allows the user to adjust the bit height with ease and precision.
In conclusion, both the Porter Cable 556 and Porter Cable 557 are excellent routers that offer exceptional performance and quality. While the Porter Cable 556 is compact and straightforward, the Porter Cable 557 is more refined and advanced, making it a better choice for professionals who need more powerful and precise tools.
The design of these two routers is critical in ensuring that they can handle any woodworking project and provide maximum efficiency and comfort to the user.
Performance
Porter Cable 556 and 557 are two similar performing routers with a few key differences that set them apart. While the 556 comes with a single-speed motor and limited grip, the 557 provides a softer start and a more comfortable handle, making it easier to use for precise cuts and extended periods.
If you’re looking for a high-performance router, both the Porter Cable 556 and 557 models are excellent choices. Let’s take a closer look at their features to see which one would be a better fit for your needs.
Speed And Precision Of The Porter Cable 556
The Porter Cable 556 is a fixed-base router with a 1 ¾ horsepower motor that delivers speeds up to 27,500 RPM.
Its ergonomic grip provides a comfortable hold and its depth adjustment system allows for precise cutting at different depths. The 556’s speed and precision make it an excellent choice for hobbyists or professionals who require accuracy and control.
Power And Accuracy Of The Porter Cable 557
If you’re on the lookout for a router that can handle large and demanding routing tasks, the Porter Cable 557 is a good option. This router boasts a powerhouse 2 ¼ horsepower motor that delivers speeds up to 10,000 to 21,000 RPM.
Its adjustable speed settings allow for consistent results, while its depth adjustment system allows for easy and accurate cuts. Its ability to handle more extensive workloads makes the Porter Cable 557 a router that professional woodworkers would appreciate.
Both the Porter Cable 556 and 557 offer excellent performance features, but the choice between them ultimately depends on your needs.
If you’re looking for precision and speed, go for the Porter Cable 556. But if raw power and accuracy suit you better, the Porter Cable 557 is the one to pick.
Versatility
The Porter Cable 556 and 557 are both versatile routers that offer exceptional performance for a range of projects. With various features to choose from, users can select the tool that best suits their needs, making it an excellent investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a dependable and versatile tool.
Porter Cable is a renowned brand in the woodworking industry, known for producing versatile tools that can create a variety of cuts and designs. The Porter Cable 556 and 557 are two popular models that are lauded for their versatility.
In this post, we will focus on the subheading ‘versatility,’ exploring the different types of cuts that can be made with Porter Cable 556 and the wide range of bit options available on Porter Cable 557.
Different Types Of Cuts That Can Be Made With Porter Cable 556
Porter Cable 556 is a plunge router that can create a variety of cuts effortlessly. The tool is capable of making through-cuts, stopped cuts, and grooves. Through-cuts are the most common and can be made by moving the bit all the way through the wood.
Stopped cuts are the ones that do not go all the way through the wood, but instead stop at a certain point. Grooves, on the other hand, are cuts made along the length or width of the wood.
Wide Range Of Bit Options Available On Porter Cable 557
Porter Cable 557 is a fixed base router that comes with a wide range of bits. The tool is versatile and efficient, making it an excellent choice for professionals and hobbyists alike. The bits available for the tool include straight bits, flush-trim bits, chamfer bits, rabbeting bits, and many more.
The variety of bit options allows the user to create various cuts and designs with ease. Additionally, the bits can be adjusted to different depths, making the tool even more versatile. Overall, both Porter Cable 556 and 557 are versatile tools that can create a variety of cuts and designs.
Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, either of these tools can help you achieve your desired outcome. With the different types of cuts that can be made with Porter Cable 556 and the wide range of bit options available on Porter Cable 557, you’re sure to find a tool that suits your needs perfectly.
Ease Of Use
The Porter Cable 556 and 557 are both easy to use and efficient woodworking tools. Despite their similarities, the 557 has more advanced features that make it a preferred choice for precision cutting tasks.
Porter Cable is a well-known manufacturer of power tools and has an excellent reputation in the market for producing high-quality products.
Their routers, namely the 556 and 557 models, are no exception to this. Both routers are jam-packed with features to make routing tasks easier, but which one is easier to use? Let’s dive into this topic and compare the ease of use between the two models.
Porter Cable 556 Ease Of Use
The Porter Cable 556 router comes with a 1.75 horsepower motor, which provides enough power for most routing tasks. When it comes to ease of use, this router has a few standout features that make a difference.
The router comes with a soft-start feature that ensures a smooth start to the routing process, reducing the possibility of any sudden jerks. The machine is also fitted with a variable speed dial, which enables you to adjust the speed of the router according to your needs.
Furthermore, the 556 has a depth adjustment system that allows you to make micro-adjustments with an easy-to-use twist ring, providing excellent precision and control.
Porter Cable 557 Ease Of Use
In comparison, the Porter Cable 557 comes with a powerful 2.25 horsepower motor, making it more capable of handling heavier cutting tasks. As for ease of use, this router also has fantastic features that set it apart.
The router is fitted with an auto-release collet system that allows for easy bit removal by a simple switch of a button, eliminating the need for any additional tools.
Another great feature of the 557 is its dual-position switch, which provides easy access and control during cutting tasks. Additionally, the multi-function wrench storage enables easy access and prevents the loss of the wrench.
Which Router Is Easier To Use?
After comparing the Porter Cable 556 Vs 557 ease of use, both routers possess distinct features which make them unique, but it all boils down to what you want in a router.
The Porter Cable 556 is simpler, lightweight, and cheaper, great for beginners, while the Porter Cable 557 is for professionals or those who handle large and heavy-duty tasks.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider personal preferences, work requirements, and the task at hand to determine which option is best for you.
Price
The Porter-Cable 556 and 557 are both plunge router models, but the 557 offers more advanced features for a higher price point. The 557 includes a five-speed motor and a dust collection system, while the 556 has a fixed speed motor without the additional features.
Price of Porter Cable 556 Vs 557 Porter Cable is a reputable brand of power tools, and the Porter Cable 556 and Porter Cable 557 are both premium-quality plate joiners.
Along with functionality and performance, cost is a crucial factor for purchasing any power tool. So, let’s explore the prices of both products in detail.
Porter Cable 556 Cost
The Porter Cable 556 plate joiner delivers accurate and efficient performance for specialized woodworking requirements. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the Porter Cable 556 should be on your radar. The current market price for the Porter Cable 556 ranges between $144 – $175.
Porter Cable 557 Cost
The Porter Cable 557 plate joiner is an advanced model of the Porter Cable 556, with additional features such as a powerful motor and adjustable fence for more precise cuts.
If you need a dependable and durable machine for heavy-duty woodworking projects, the Porter Cable 557 is a great option to consider.
However, the Porter Cable 557 comes at a higher price compared to the Porter Cable 556. The current market price for the Porter Cable 557 ranges between $428 – $507.
In conclusion, both the Porter Cable 556 and Porter Cable 557 plate joiners are excellent machines with slightly different features and price ranges. Depending on your specific woodworking requirements and budget, you can purchase either one.
Frequently Asked Questions On Porter Cable 556 Vs 557
What Is The Difference Between Porter Cable 556 And 557?
The main difference between Porter Cable 556 and 557 is their power rating. While the 556 model is rated at 1. 75 horsepower, the 557 model has a more powerful motor rated at 2. 25 horsepower.
Additionally, the 557 model comes with a plunge base, while the 556 model does not.
Which Model Is Better For Heavy-duty Use, Porter Cable 556 Or 557?
The Porter Cable 557 is the better option for heavy-duty use due to its more powerful motor, which can handle tougher materials and larger bits with ease.
Additionally, the plunge base allows for more precise and controlled cutting, making it ideal for professional work.
Can The Porter Cable 556 And 557 Models Be Used For Both Handheld And Table Use?
Yes, both models are versatile and can be used for handheld use or mounted on a table.
However, it is recommended to use the plunge base on the 557 model for table use to ensure precision and accuracy during operation.
Are The Porter Cable 556 And 557 Models Easy To Use For Beginners?
Both the Porter Cable 556 and 557 models are straightforward to operate, making them suitable for beginners.
The user-friendly design and intuitive controls make it easy to adjust and customize the tools’ settings to match any project’s needs.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the Porter Cable 556 and 557 models are both excellent choices for woodworking enthusiasts looking for precision and flexibility in their projects.
While the 556 excels in durability and affordability, the 557 offers advanced features like a micro-adjustment system and a 1-3/4 horsepower motor.
Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on the specific needs and preferences of each user. Regardless of their choice, users can be confident that both the Porter Cable 556 and 557 will deliver reliable and accurate results in their woodworking endeavors.