The trim router has several advantages over the regular router: the trim router's bit rotates faster, the tool can be used to make one-handed cuts, and it can do smaller jobs with greater precision.

Several types of bits can be used with a trim router to make various kinds of cuts. A round-over bit will cut a rounded curve on the edge of a work piece. A cutting bit used with an angled base on the router will make bevels, dados and other angled cuts.