Whiteside 3244 vs 3252: Choosing Your Edge Beading Bit
By Premium CNC & Router Bits for Precision Cutting | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Comparaisons
The Whiteside 3244 cuts a 1/4-inch bead in one pass, while the 3252 builds a larger 3/8-inch bead in two passes. Compare profiles, dimensions, and RPM to choose.
Quick answer
Choose the Whiteside 3244 if you want a 1/4-inch bead in a single pass on trim or small accents. Choose the Whiteside 3252 if your design calls for a 3/8-inch bead and you can make two passes to build it.
Bead size and number of passes
The 3244 produces a 1/4-inch bead directly, so it suits one-step edge softening on narrow trim and column accents. The 3252 is designed to leave a half-rounded edge on the first pass and then complete a 3/8-inch bead on the second pass, which gives you a larger profile but adds a step. If your project schedule favors speed on small edges, the 3244 is the simpler choice; if the larger bead is the priority, plan for the extra pass with the 3252.
Physical dimensions and cut length
The 3244 has a 1/4-inch bead, 9/16-inch cut length, and 7/8-inch large diameter. The 3252 has a 3/8-inch bead, 3/4-inch cut length, and 1-1/16-inch large diameter, plus a 2-1/4-inch overall length. The longer cut length and larger diameter of the 3252 mean it removes more material and may require more attention to feed direction and stock support, especially on thin workpieces. The 3244's smaller diameter keeps it easier to control on delicate edges.
Shank size and RPM
Both bits use a 1/4-inch shank, so they fit the same routers and trim machines. The 3252 carries a recommended RPM of 14,000, which is lower than the typical no-load speed of many compact routers. Check your router's speed range and use the recommended RPM as a starting point for the 3252; the 3244's RPM recommendation is not supplied, so follow your router and bit manufacturer's general guidance for 1/4-inch shank bits.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Bead size: The 3244 cuts a 1/4-inch bead in one pass; the 3252 cuts a 3/8-inch bead in two passes. If you need the larger bead, accept the extra pass.
- Cut length and diameter: The 3252 has a 3/4-inch cut length and 1-1/16-inch large diameter, while the 3244 has 9/16-inch cut length and 7/8-inch large diameter. The 3252 removes more material per pass, so use extra stock support.
- RPM: The 3252 lists a recommended 14,000 RPM; the 3244 does not list an RPM recommendation in the supplied facts. Match your router's speed to the bit's recommendation when available.
Product facts
- 1/4″ Edge Beading Router Bit – Whiteside 3244 (AstraHP Coated): 1/4-inch bead, 1/4-inch shank, 9/16-inch cut length, 7/8-inch large diameter. This compact size makes the 3244 a good match for narrow trim and one-pass edge softening.
1/4″ Edge Beading Router Bit – Whiteside 3244 (AstraHP Coated) - 3/8″ Edge Beading Router Bit – Whiteside 3252 (AstraHP Coated): 3/8-inch bead, 1/4-inch shank, 3/4-inch cut length, 1-1/16-inch large diameter, recommended 14,000 RPM. The larger profile and lower RPM recommendation mean you should confirm your router can run at that speed before committing to the 3252.
3/8″ Edge Beading Router Bit – Whiteside 3252 (AstraHP Coated)
Which bit fits your project?
Best for
- Woodworkers who want a 1/4-inch bead in a single pass on trim and small accents
- Projects that need a compact bit for delicate edges and column accents
Not for
- Projects that require a 3/8-inch bead profile
- Routers that cannot be set to the 3252's recommended 14,000 RPM
