The woodworking tool industry experienced significant advancements in 2025, as highlighted by the Pro Tool Innovation Awards. Cordless, battery-powered technology increasingly replaced traditional corded tools, expanding its role both in workshops and on job sites. Meanwhile, other innovative products offered refined designs and substantial improvements to tools previously considered reliable and fully developed.
Notable advancements appeared across various categories, including track saws, routers, miter saws, and more. Battery-powered tools continue gaining traction, moving beyond handheld devices into benchtop applications, a notable shift from their corded predecessors of just ten years ago.
Explore the exceptional winners and finalists of the 2025 Woodworking and Carpentry Awards below!
Winner – Benches
Rockler Handy Bench
What they said:
If you don’t have a dedicated shop or room for a full-sized workbench, our Handy Bench with Moxon-style, twin-screw vise promises to be your versatile workbench substitute! It sets up quickly anywhere you need to work—on sawhorses, a countertop, worktable or our Rock-Steady Work Stand Kit (#BMX77304, sold separately). Its dense, flat 16” x 32” top is made of 1-1/2”-thick pre-finished solid beech that’s durable enough to stand up to the rigors of pounding, chopping and sawing. The vise will clamp workpieces up to 3” thick and about 10” wide between the vise screws. Or use the included deadman-style steel work support post—it threads into Handy Bench’s steel base brackets and provides support beside the vise when you need to clamp long workpieces horizontally. The outer vise face has three 3/4”-diameter bench dog holes that align with the bench’s 4” x 4” dog hole grid pattern, for securing a wide variety of workpiece widths and shapes to the benchtop with four included aluminum bench dogs.
A series of mounting holes along the sides and ends of the benchtop let you install the vise anywhere it suits your needs best, using a pair of heavy-duty cross dowels. The base brackets raise the benchtop 4” from the mounting surface to provide a helpful space for staging smaller tools and for clamping Handy Bench in place. Or simply stand it on its adjustable leveler feet. Holes in the brackets also let you install Handy Bench permanently with screws or bolts or mount it to another workbench that has bench dog holes spaced 4” apart.
What we say:
The Rockler Handy Bench is a great, innovative solution for anyone lacking a dedicated workspace. It transforms any sturdy surface into a versatile workbench. The included Moxon-style twin-screw vise lets you safely grip workpieces up to 3” thick. An integrated 4” x 4” gridded bench dog hole pattern allows for secure clamping of a wide variety of materials. Made with a solid beech top, you get a really durable work surface atop heavy-gauge steel base brackets that offer flexible mounting options. The Handy Bench is portable, adaptable, and affordable for anyone looking for a flexible, compact workbench solution.
Price: $260
For more information, click here.
Winner – Clamps
Rockler Square-It Box-Squaring Clamp
What they said:
Boxes or drawers are square when their diagonal measurements match, but it can be difficult to install a bar or pipe clamp across the longer diagonal to shorten it. Once in place, the clamp often obstructs the corners of the assembly, making measurement difficult. Its pressure can even crush delicate workpiece corners. This innovative clamp solves all these challenges simply and elegantly. It features two pivoting corner brackets with non-marring roller posts that fit down over opposing corners of what you’re squaring. One bracket is fixed to a winding mechanism, and the other is attached to a non-stretch nylon strap. Once the corner brackets are fitted in place, just turn the handle on the ratcheting mechanism to tighten the strap, shortening the diagonal and pulling the assembly into square. The corner brackets don’t cover the corners, ensuring a clear view for easy measuring. A flip-open, blue interior arm on the handle can be extended to provide extra torque when needed. If the handle’s knob interferes with the measuring tape, it can be pulled off and then snapped back on. Rotating the orange release lever under the winding mechanism eases clamping pressure incrementally—helpful for making minor adjustments to the clamp setting.
What we say:
Squaring boxes and drawers properly can be frustrating. Rockler’s Square-It Box-Squaring Clamp manages to create perfectly square corners without obstructing the workpiece or damaging more delicate materials. The clamp uses pivoting corner brackets with non-marring roller posts. A ratcheting mechanism provides controlled and gentle diagonal pressure that lets you get a precise square without crushing the corners. You can even square larger workpieces, as the non-stretch nylon strap extends up to 7 feet. If you do drawers or boxes, this should be in your arsenal of clamps.
Price: $55
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jigs
Trend U*H/JIG/D9 AnyDoor Butt Hinge Template Kit
What they said:
Introducing the patented Modular AnyDoor Butt Hinge Template Kit from Trend: The Ultimate Solution for Quick and Accurate Hinge Installation. Anydoor is highly innovative, building on the success of Trend’s unique existing hinge jig – offering fully adjustable size to fit doors all the way up to 9 feet. Anydoor was designed and developed by Trend Tool Technology in the UK, specifically for the US market, with its large doors and market-specific hinge designs. It is revolutionary for carpenters as it enables accurate installation of hinges by perfectly matching the recesses cut into the door with those on the door frame. It caters to all leaf hinge sizes.
Launched in the US in 2023, Anydoor is game-changing for Tradespeople. It brings unparalleled accuracy and speed – Any door means that there is no guesswork in hinge installation and the task becomes easily repeatable -so carpenters hanging multiple doors on site can set up once and repeat the process time after time.
https://www.trend-usa.com/u-h-jig-d9-9-anydoor-butt-hinge-template-kit
What we say:
We love flexible jigs, and the Modular AnyDoor Butt Hinge comes out of the box ready to tackle doors from 2.5 feet all the way up to 9 feet—including all possible hinge sizes. Unlike competitors, its modular rail construction allows for quick adjustments and unlimited hinge positions, enhancing versatility for both new and repair projects. Lightweight anodized aluminum rails make it both lightweight and accurate. It’s also compatible with square, 1/4”, and 5/8” radius hinges—something that helps streamline the installation process. If you’re a carpenter in need of easy setup and repeatability when routing and setting hinges, the AnyDoor is going to be an invaluable tool.
Price: $599
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Miter Saws
DEWALT DCS785 20V MAX XR 12in Sliding Double Bevel Miter Saw
What they said:
This is DEWALT’s first 20V 12 in. Miter Saw. This saw is the first 20V Miter saw to incorporate regenerative braking technology (CUT.CAPTURE.CHARGE) and a bevel gear transmission to help maximize runtime for the end user. This optimized design allows the saw to deliver up to 371 cuts in 3 1/4 in. MDF baseboard and up to 153 cuts in pressure-treated 4 in. X 4 in. timber. This saw has the largest cut capacity of any cordless miter saw, allowing the user to cut up to 14 in. horizontally, 6.5 in. baseboard vertically against the fence, and 6.5 in. crown nested. The saw works with the widest range of batteries for 12 in. miter saws.
This is DEWALT’s first miter saw to incorporate Wireless Tool Control, which allows the user to automatically turn on a vacuum with the pull of the saw trigger. The saw minimizes cleanup, collecting up to 97% of dust while cutting. This saw is also Tag Ready™ compatible, allowing the user to easily track the tool on the jobsite. The saw includes elevated features such as the CUTLINE blade positioning system, which allows the user to easily align a cut mark to the shadow line of the blade with no calibration needed. It also incorporates an adjustable miter detent plate with 11 positive stops to easily adjust the miter angle as well as bevel pawls and stops to easily adjust the bevel angle to 11 preset angles. All of these preset angles are easily adjustable if the saw requires recalibration. Additionally, it includes a maximum depth of cut setting and a depth adjust to easily make groove cuts.
What we say:
Like an EV, the DeWalt 20V 12 in. Miter Saw incorporates regenerative braking technology to send some charge back to the batteries. It uses a bevel gear transmission and delivers up to 371 cuts in 3-1/4″ MDF base molding or 153 cuts in pressure-treated 4×4 when using an 8Ah battery. The saw has an impressive cut capacity of 14 inches horizontally and 6.5 inches vertically. You also get Wireless Tool Control for automatic vacuum activation and a shadow cutline indicator for precise cuts. This should be a very popular jobsite table saw due to its capacity and cordless portability.
Price: $699
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Routers
Makita GPR01 40V max XGT® 2-1/4 HP Plunge Router
What they said:
The 40V max XGT® 2-1/4 Maximum HP Plunge Router delivers the power of a 2-1/4 HP corded router, with up to 30% less weight when compared to corded (Makita model RP2301FC). It features variable speed control, up to 2-3/8″ plunge capacity, and soft start feature that allows for smoother start-ups and better accuracy. Variable speed ranges from 8,000-25,000 RPMs and a plunge capacity of 2-3/8″.
What we say:
The Makita 40V XGT 2-1/4 HP Plunge Router puts out a lot of performance in a relatively lightweight design—up to 30% lighter than many comparable corded models. It includes variable speed control from 8,000 to 25,000 RPM and a 2-3/8″ plunge capacity. A soft start feature helps you achieve smoother operation and better accuracy. Lastly, the cordless convenience eliminates the hassle of cords, making it ideal for professionals who want performance and flexibility of movement in a single package.
Price: $359
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Sanders
Makita GSB01 40V max XGT® Belt Sander
What they said:
The 40V max XGT® GSB01 is a 3″ x 21″ belt sander that offers 20% faster sanding speed than corded, with an adjustable front grip that gives users the ability to sand flush to walls and get in tight spaces. This also allows for full use of the belt (nose and side). The innovative design of the tool has the battery towards the front to optimize the weight of the tool. As a bonus, there is an adjustable light to illuminate the work area and tough-to-see spots, as well as a dust bag attachment for a cleaner work environment. The GSB01 has a lock-on feature on the trigger for more convenient and ergonomic continuous sanding. There is also a clamp attachment available (part no.192694-6) that allows users to clamp the tool in a stationary position for sanding, grinding, and shaping.
What we say:
The Makita 40V max XGT GSB01 belt sander has an unusual and handy adjustable front grip that lets users sand flush against walls and in tight spaces. Makita’s design also positions the battery towards the front, optimizing the tool’s balance. Additionally, an integrated and adjustable LED light gives you flexibility when illuminating the area in front of the saw. Lastly, you get a lock-on trigger and AWS to remotely trigger your dust extractor during use.
Price: $319
For more information, click here.
Winner – Stains & Sealers
Sherwin-Williams Minwax® Food-Grade Wood Oil & Conditioner
What they said:
Minwax® Food-Grade Wood Oil & Conditioner is a first-of-its-kind innovation for the brand, combining the trusted performance of Minwax® with a new, FDA-compliant solution specifically designed for use on wooden kitchenware. From butcher blocks and cutting boards to wooden utensils and serving bowls, this product offers a smarter, faster way to protect and condition the wood surfaces that see daily use in the kitchen.
In a category that traditionally requires two separate products and multiple steps — one for conditioning, one for protection — Minwax® has simplified the process with a premium 2-in-1 formula. With this single solution, consumers can hydrate wood surfaces and seal them with food-contact-safe durability in one easy application. The result: faster, more efficient care, with no compromises on performance or longevity.
Formulated with a blend of natural oils and waxes, Minwax®Food-Grade Wood Oil & Conditioner nurtures wood from within, helping it resist cracking, drying and absorbing unwanted moisture. It’s safe for all new and bare wood kitchen surfaces and leaves behind no odor or taste once dry, making it ideal for food-prep and serving items. Regular use helps maintain wood’s beauty and strength — apply twice a month, or whenever the wood feels or looks dry, for continued protection.
This product is also designed for ease and accessibility. It comes in a convenient 12-ounce bottle and applies with a clean, lint-free cloth in just a few simple steps: shake, apply, let it absorb for 30 minutes, wipe off excess and repeat if desired. Surfaces are ready to use in 2–4 hours, and cleanup is simple with soap and warm water, making it practical for both frequent maintenance and occasional deep care.
What we say:
Minwax Food-Grade Wood Oil & Conditioner uses a 2-in-1 formula to combine conditioning and protection in a single application. It both hydrates and seals wooden kitchenware, using natural oils and waxes to prevent cracking and moisture absorption while remaining safe for food contact. Best of all, it applies easily and dries in just 2–4 hours.
Price: $14
For more information, click here.
Winner – Table Saws, Accessories
SawStop T-Glide Advance
What they said:
Accuracy, versatility, ease of use, and safety await the woodworker who purchases SawStop’s newest premium table saw rip fence: The T-Glide Advance Fence. A roller support at the tail end of the tube rolls smoothly across the tabletop and reduces wear marks in the cast iron. Fits onto existing SawStop T-Glide fence rails with no conversion or modification needed. The dead-flat aluminum fence face won’t warp over time.
You can use the Hi-Low aluminum fence in two positions. The fence in low position lets you reach beneath the blade guard for narrow rip cuts and provides better access for push sticks. A dovetail-shaped slot on the tall face allows you to use feather boards, hold-downs, sacrificial fences, and other accessories for safety and convenience.
The ability to slide the fence face forward and back allows you to position it in front of the blade and use it as a stop block for making repeated crosscuts without the offcuts getting pinched between the blade and fence (and potentially kicked back at the operator). Separate scale indicators for high and low fence positions ensure can’t-miss accuracy.
What we say:
The SawStop T-Glide Advance Fence features a dead-flat aluminum fence face. You can use it in either high or low positions, improving access for narrow rip cuts and push stick access. The dovetail-shaped slot that runs the length of the fence lets you add accessories like featherboards and sacrificial boards. You can also slide the fence forward and back for repeated crosscuts—greatly reducing the risk of kickback. Taken together, these features set the T-Glide Advance Fence apart from competitors and make it a compelling upgrade to your table saw.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.