1. DEWALT DW735X
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Depth capacity (in.): 6
- Width capacity (in.): 13
- Max. speed (RPM): 20,000 (motor)/10,000 (cutterhead)
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 0.13
- CPM/CPI: 96 or 179 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 3
Woodworkers who are accustomed to the necessary tools have surely heard about the great performance offered by this planer. A 15AMP motor powers it and enables it to
rotate at a staggering 20,000 RPM, which is the maximum offered by similar models. This makes the cutter-head rotate 10,000 times per minute.
It’s a machine that can be mounted on a stand so you can use both hands to place the wood plank onto the guiding rollers. It’s not a bulky unit and it includes an automatic carriage lock that keeps it from moving and sliding while in use. The 19-3/4″ cast aluminum base makes it more rigid and solid than a standard 10” base. Two feeding tables are included, one for each end, as well as an extra pair of knives.
It can plane wood pieces measuring a maximum of 13” and up to 6” tall, and it can cut a maximum of 1/8” from each piece, using the three blades that chip off inches from the wood until the remaining surface is flat and smooth. Thanks to the two-speed gearbox, you can decide whether to set it to 96 or 179 cuts per inch. Don’t worry about the mess it might create, because it includes a dust hose adapter so all the dust will be collected before it reaches the air. However, this doesn’t mean that you can outlook the safety equipment, as it is mandatory while handling wood-cutting machinery.
DeWalt has your back in case anything goes wrong with your tool. If you are not satisfied with how it performs, you have 90 days to return it and you can get a refund. Also, a 3-year protection period is offered, along with one year of free service.
PROS
- Robust engine to handle large planks of wood
- The chip discharge system effectively ejects wood dust
- It secures to the base with an automatic carriage lock
- High-quality finish
- Extended warranty period and refund policy
CONS
- It sometimes dimples very thick boards
- The motor runs extremely loud
VERDICT
For how efficient it is, you can say that it comes at a very good price. The engine is one of the most powerful existing in the industry, and it can handle large timber pieces without hassle, resulting in accurately finished planks that you can successfully use in any wood project.
2. Makita 2012NB
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Depth capacity (in.): 6-3/32
- Width capacity (in.): 12
- Max. speed (RPM): 8,500
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0.008
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 0.13
- CPM/CPI: 17,000 CPM
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
You probably wouldn’t expect a thicknesser to work as smoothly as this one, but it really can deliver perfectly smoothened planks without the slightest hassle. It sits on a stand, securing its position with the
“Interna-Lok” head-clamp that holds the planks tight as it is inserted and exits the rollers, so it eliminates any chance of sniping occurring. Also, its 4-post design combined with cross supports helps it improve its stability.
For accuracy planing, the cutting depth can be altered to a maximum of 1/8”, while the size of the planks shouldn’t exceed 12” wide and 6” tall. The pair of table extensions help sustain the workpiece so you can easily guide it towards the cutters. Speaking of which, it is fitted with two knives that rotate at 8,500 RPM with enough strength to cut into any type of wood. At this rotation, it delivers 96 cuts per inch and an impressive 17,000 cuts each minute. Although the motor is very powerful, it remains silent, creating only 83dB, the least of its class.
For added convenience, it comes with a set of blades, the necessary wrenches for mounting, and a detachable toolbox so you can take it with you at work. The manufacturer stands behind the product, ensuring it will work flawlessly. If not, you will be protected for 1 year and can get a refund 30 days after the purchase.
PROS
- Only 83 dB noise
- The Interna-Lok clamp secures the planks
- Easily set the desired depth using the depth stop
- It can plane large lumbers in mere seconds
CONS
- It doesn’t include a dust port
- It doesn’t have an overheating protection
VERDICT
Another qualitative woodworking tools that brings a series of impressive features. Its compact shape and silent operation are 2 of the most important particularities of this device that people would appreciate for sure. Be prepared to pay some extra dollars if you want to enjoy this first-class tool.
3. Ridgid R4330
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Width capacity (in.): 13 in.
- Max. speed (RPM): 9000
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 1/8
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0
- CPM/CPI: 30,000 CPM/ 96 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 3
With a 15 Amp motor that delivers 10,000rpm for increased power and uninterrupted operation and a three-knife cutter head for smooth work surfaces, this tends to be one of the most popular options out there. It is equipped with
fast-changing dual-edge blades that can be reversed for extended life. Plus, with its 13-inch wide feed capacity, it becomes a great option for woodworkers with large projects. The blades rotate continuously and manage to provide no less than 30,000 CPM, which outcomes the previous top products.
Although it’s not intended for professionals, they will feel very comfortable using it. And it remains safe to use even for the less experienced, thanks to the large in-feed and out-feed extensions that keep the lumber secured in place. It cuts plans no more than 6” tall and at a maximum depth of 1/8” that can be easily adjusted using the precision Lead-Screw system that offers consistent thickness across the whole wood piece.
The warranty is very impressive, reaching 3 years in workmanship and parts and with an added 90-day refund period so you can test the machine and see if the two of you make a good team. Besides, the machine includes an onboard toolbox so you can keep all your necessary equipment at the reach of your hand. You will receive all the hex keys and wrenches for quick maintenance, the dust hood, and two dust hood knobs.
PROS
- Three-Blade cutterhead for the most precise cuts
- Dual-Edge blades that can be replaced and reversed with ease
- It comes with all the essential accessories
- Safe to use by experts and apprentices alike
CONS
- The rollers can hardly pull a wood plank
- The blades get dull quickly
VERDICT
Take a look at this planer and you will be surprised to discover how well it works. A robust engine powers it and a three-blade cutter head system removes inches from the wood, so it will surely help you complete even the most complicated projects.
4. DEWALT DW734
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Depth capacity (in.): 6
- Width capacity (in.): 12 – ½
- Max. speed (RPM): 20,000 (motor)/10,000 (cutterhead)
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0.008
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 0.125
- CPM/CPI: 96 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 3
As you probably know, the planer can be a very costly addition that some people cannot afford to buy. Thankfully, there are a few models, including this one, that come at a very reasonable price.
Aside from being affordable, it is also a powerful tool that comes with a 15 amps motor that delivers 20,000 rpm and operates at a no-load speed of 10,000 rpm. The cutting system involves three blades that are reversible for extended use and can be easily removed and replaced.
One of the essential aspects of a wood planer is precision. You will need a wood tool that makes a good job and the DW734 does exactly this: precise cuts. It fits planks measuring 12.5” wide and 6” tall and it can cut at a maximum depth of 1/8”, delivering 96 cuts per inch. Thanks to the extra-long feeding tables, it can sustain planks 33.5” long without requiring manual assistance. If you have a preferred depth at which you cut most frequently, note that this machine has a turret depth stop that lets you select that depth every time you need to.
The warranty that covers it lasts for 3 years and you can also ask for a refund during the first 90 days after the purchase.
PROS
- Easy to operate
- It works well with any kind of wood
- Big capacity feed
- Accurate depth gauge
CONS
- It is a bit problematic when trying to get 1/32th or more in a single pass
- Requires often cleaning as it might collect debris and resins around the knives
VERDICT
The overall performance is satisfying even for the most demanding wood expert while still remaining comprehensive It is very easy to use at home or in a woodworking shop, whether you are an expert or you are just getting the hang of wood thinning.
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Depth capacity (in.): 3/32
- Width capacity (in.): 13
- Max. speed (RPM): 9,400
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 0.09
- CPM/CPI: 18,800 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
This is a highly qualitative planer that provides superior durability and unsurpassed reliability. Powered by a 15 amp motor, this tool is capable of handling the likes of DIY and professional-grade projects with ease. While rotating at 9,400 rpm, the
cutterhead delivers 18,800 cuts per minute.
Its infeed and outfeed tables are completely adjustable. This gives you the versatility and flexibility to complete smaller and larger projects alike. With its 2 knives, this bench-top planer will work easily with both hardwood and softwood without breaking a sweat. It can easily work with a stock of a maximum of 13” wide by 6” high and the cutting depth reaches 3/32”.
It’s covered by an industry-leading warranty that lasts 5 years, so you can be sure that any defect will be taken care of. Unfortunately, the machine doesn’t include a dust port, but you can connect an industrial vacuum to collect the resulting dust.
PROS
- Powerful and stable tool
- It comes with a precise adjustment setting and attractive features
- Improved efficiency with the knife replacing system
- The most generous warranty in the field
CONS
- It is not recommended for heavy-duty, professional projects
- It is messy, considering there is no dust port included
VERDICT
This model has become popular with most consumers thanks to its powerful engine and space-friendly design. Although it does not have as many features as the above models, it still is a good option worth taking into consideration.
6. WEN 6550T
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Depth capacity (in.): 6
- Width capacity (in.): 12.5
- Max. speed (RPM): N/A
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 3/32”
- CPM/CPI: 17,000 CPM
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
Some people are not impressed with the WEN company because it makes inexpensive and affordable tools. But
if you have a limited budget and you need to save some money, the 6550 model is a solid choice. Without many features to impress, it manages to get the job done fast and effortless. The planks it works with must measure 12.5” wide and 6” tall, and it can cut to a maximum of 3/32” in depth. It’s fitted with
revolutionary carbon steel blades that are more durable than regular steel ones, but cost more when it’s time for a replacement.
The rubber grips used on the adjustments knobs will help you stay safe and secure, keeping your hands away from any of the metal and electrical components. Additionally, it is important to know that it has a feed rate of 26 ft. per minute and it can make more than 17,000 cuts every minute. Also, it does not weigh so much. It weighs only 70 pounds, which means that it can easily be moved from a corner to another. A fan-assisted dust collector port is included, to minimize the mess created while thinning wood.
PROS
- Precise cuts with carbon steel blades
- It includes a dust hose assembly port
- Rubber adjustments handle for fast blade change
- It features a tri-roller system for snipe-free cutting
CONS
- Expensive spare blades
- The two-blade design is less effective
VERDICT
It is a reliable tool that will probably impress you with its features. It is powerful and very stable and is available at a great price. It is also worth mentioning that it comes with a two-year warranty.
7. PORTER-CABLE PC305TP
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Width capacity (in.): 12
- Max. speed (RPM): 8,000
- Maximum Cut Depth (in.): N/A
- CPM/CPI: 16,000 CPM
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
This is a 12-inch thickness planer powered by a 15 amp motor. With
two knives, one steel cutter, and one head mounted on ball bearings, this is a nice, valuable, and yet affordable asset for any woodworking shop. It measures 23 x 15 x 17.7 inches and weighs 64 lbs. the fact that it is lightweight and portable is a major perk as it can be moved from a place to another with ease. Also, it is a big plus that it
works great in reclaiming old boards as well as new ones. With 8,000 RPM and 16,000 cuts per minute, this tool is more powerful than many other models available on the market.
Fitted with high-grade carbon steel double Edged and reversible knives, this is a durable planer that will cut through any type of raw wood. For increased cutting precision, the machine was crafted with a cutter elevation system on four precision ground columns. Like any other product, it comes with a few drawbacks, and the fact that it produces snipes in both ends of the board is an important thing to consider. However, it is a good option to consider when looking for a planer.
PROS
- Works with old and new pieces of wood
- Great purchase price
- Reversible carbon steel blades
- Four-column cutter elevation
CONS
- No dust collector attachment
- The height adjustment is not very stable
VERDICT
With its powerful motor, this planer is capable of providing about 16,000 cuts per minute. It is durable, easy to use, and portable, so you can easily relocate it. The lack of a dust port is a drawback, considering how messy these machines are.
8. POWERTEC PL1251
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Max. thickness: 6”
- Max. speed (RPM): 9,400
- Motor: 2 hp (peak)
- Maximum Cut Depth (in.): 3/32″, 1/32″
- CPM/CPI: 18,800 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
Another great tool that comes with all the features you will need in a planer, it will aid in all your DIY wood projects. It’s powered by a standard 15AMP motor that enables the cutter head to rotate no less than 9,400 times per minute, thus delivering
a staggering 18,800 cuts per minute. This way, it can cut boards measuring 12.5” wide and up to 5” thick, allowing you to set the cutting depth from 1/32” for boards less than 5” and 3/32” for boards thicker than 5”.
The base is large and stable, to prevent wobbling while dealing with large chunks of wood. The removable feeding tables add to its stability by keeping the wood in place. Additionally, it is equipped with an index pin setup for effortless blade replacement, workpiece return rollers, side-mounted carrying handles, and spindle lock. This last feature is for safe blade change. It is extremely secure, so you can easily use it without having to worry about cutting your fingers. The warranty is shorter than the previous models, with only 1 year of protection against manufacturing defects.
PROS
- Sturdy base for wobble-free operating
- Comprehensive maneuvering and setup
- Its blades can be removed with ease for replacement
- No blade gauge requirement
CONS
- The blades chip on hardwood
- Short warranty
VERDICT
This is not the best planer out there, by no means, but it does a tremendous job with small planks for uncomplicated woodwork. The blades might get chipped if they encounter a knot on the plank, so pay attention to that, especially since the warranty only lasts for 1 year and there are no replacement blades included in the package.
9. WEN 6552T
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Width capacity (in.): 13”
- Max. speed (RPM): n/a
- Feed rate: 26 fpm
- Maximum Depth of Cut (in.): 0.094
- CPM/CPI: 25,500 CPM
- Number of Cutting Blades: 3
This innovative machine has an
onboard material removal gauge that will inform the users about the cutting depth of each pass. In addition to this, it has a 15 Amp motor that has the ability to generate 25,500 cuts per minute at a 26 ft. per minute feed rate. To avoid getting stumbled in solid planks, the 3-blade design will ensure it can cut through thick pieces of wood. It’s important to mention that each quarter rotation adjusts the height of the cutter head 1/64 of an inch up to a maximum of 3/32”, to ensure precision.
The Tri-Roller feeding system will reduce snipe and the dual-edge blades can be reversed to help expand the longevity of the machine. You can easily adjust the height of the planer through the rubber-grip adjustable handle. Also, the foldable infeed and outfeed boards will add support for longer workpieces, as each table can be adjusted to get the perfect angle. To add stability, the mounting base has holes so you can secure it to the table, or you can carry it around by the incorporated handles since it weighs only 66 lbs.
The workplace will be maintained clean due to the incorporated fan-assisted dust port that collects sawdust and wood chips. Because this is a WEN product, it is protected by a 2-year warranty and has reliable customer service to assist you in any trouble you might experience with the machine.
PROS
- Can be effortlessly mounted and relocated
- Powerful engine with extended CPM
- Height adjustable in-feed and out-feed boards
- Extended cutterhead adjustment
CONS
- The blades are very thin
- Clients have reported the motor ran out on them shortly after the purchase
VERDICT
A good planer that can be used regardless of your level of expertise in handling wood. It’s very comprehensive and impressively powerful, which makes it a great addition to any workshop. The standard features don’t make it stand out, but it comes at a very good price that makes it popular among clients.
10. Grizzly G0505
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, tabletop
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 15
- Width capacity (in.): 12 ½”
- Max. speed (RPM): 10,000
- Max. Cut Depth (in.): 3/32”
- Min. board thickness: 13/64”
- CPM/CPI: 52 CPI
- Number of Cutting Blades: 2
Grizzly fans surely know what this brand involves and we can state that this machine stands for all the qualities expected. It’s
a portable version of the stand-alone benchtop industrial models of the company, a version that comes to the assistance of woodworkers who like freedom in movement or who don’t have enough space to fit a bulky unit.
The specifications are standard: a corded electric unit with a 15AMP motor that powers the cutter head so it can rotate 10,000 times per minute. The blades, two of them, are reversible so you can flip them over when they become dull, and use them for added time. It has a 32 ft. per minute feeding rate but only provides 52 cuts per inch, so it doesn’t impress at this aspect. The maximum cutting width is 12-1/2-inch and the maximum height is 6”, while the maximum depth cut reaches 3/32”. An important feature is the thermal overload protection that prevents any damage in case it is used beyond its full capacity. The warranty lasts for 1 year, which is shorter than its competitors.
PROS
- Industrial performance in a home-use machine
- Reversible blades for extended use
- It handles new and old, warped wood
- The safety overload protection averts hazards
CONS
- A 2-blade design instead of a 3-blade
- No dust port for cleaning up the mess
VERDICT
This planer combines industrial efficiency with a residential, portable design that makes it easily accessible to many users. It’s comprehensive because it’s not fitted with many features that would make operating a hassle, and the price is considerably higher than expected.
11. Bosch PL1632
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, handheld
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 6.5
- Width capacity (in.): 3 ¼”
- Max. speed (RPM): 16,500
- Max.Cut Depth: 1/16″
- Min. Cut Depth (in.): 0”
- CPM/CPI: 96 CPI/30,000 CPM
- Number of Cutting Blades: 1
It provides fast and even stock removal from wood pieces included painted or lacquered ones. The 6.5AMP motor
delivers no less than 30,000 CPM and 96 CPI, being able to compete with large tabletop units. It is built with a poly micro-V drive belt for enhanced belt durability, so you can forget about repairs or replacements. The precision front and rear aluminum shoes ensure accuracy and the guiding fence mounts on both the back and the flat side of the tool to increase stability. The design also involves an extra plastic shoe that prevents marring of your woodpiece.
The Lock-off button prevents an accidental start-up, but the innovation is in the Lock-on button, an industry-first feature that makes extended use much easier by preventing hand fatigue from keeping your finger on the button. Maneuvering is extremely simple due to the swivel cord that keeps it out of the way while operating, thus preventing incidents. Another innovative feature is the built-in spring-loaded stand that elevates the tool to protect the blade and the resting spot and to enable an easy entry into the middle of the workpiece. Although a dust port is not included, don’t think that it will make a mess with all the shavings and sawdust resulted. It has a shavings bag attached to one side, so everything will remain neat and clean.
PROS
- Industry-first Lock-off/on button
- Precision aluminum front and rear shoes
- Dual-mount fence
- Ball-joint cord swivel to keep it out of the way
CONS
- The height adjustment knob is not very stable
- The blade chips easily on hard wood
VERDICT
It’s worth mentioning that is the first model with a lock-off/on button available in the current market. Although it is not as powerful as its competitors, it could be the optimal pick for apprentice woodworkers who need a portable handheld planer.
12. Ryobi HPL52K
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Specifications:
- Type: Portable, handheld
- Power Source: Corded, electric
- Amperage (amps.): 6
- Max. Cutting Width (in.): 3-1/4”
- Max. speed (RPM): 16,500
- Max. Depth of Cut (in.): 1/96”
- Min. Depth of Cut (in.): 0-1/8”
- CPM/CPI: N/A
- Number of Cutting Blades: 1
Same as the Bosch, this is
a handheld planer that can be used for mild thinning operations. It has a powerful 6-amp motor that runs up to 16,500 rpm. It is fully adjustable, allowing you to set the depth from 0-1/8′′ in 1/96” increments. The blade is 3-1/4″ wide so this is the maximum plank width it can work on.
Due to a rubber molded grip, it can be handled with maximum precision. Also, it is extremely safe. It features a lock-off button that keeps you away from accidental starts and injuries. As compared to other similar tools, it features dual dust exhaust ports. This allows you to choose which side to work on. The mounted kickstand is located on the back of the tool and prevents scuffs or scratches. Mention-worthy is the 3-year protection period offered by the manufacturer. To help you transport it with ease, a bag is included in the package.
PROS
- Adjustable depth
- Very attractive price
- It comes with dual exhaust ports
- It features a kickstand on the back
CONS
- Some users said the planer surface and the blade are not parallel
- It reportedly stops working minutes after being turned on, only to later restart
VERDICT
With a powerful 6 amp motor, this works great for medium-difficulty woodworks. It’s simple to hold and operate and does a great job thinning wood, but it sometimes fails to start, according to some users. All things considered, it’s a very affordable item that is worth taking into account.
Types to Pick Between
Do you have a wide range of tools in your workshop and you are interested in adding one that comes in handy if you are doing various projects? If you need a tool that can fix your warped and irregular piece of wood, preparing it for whatever project you may have, this type of woodworking machine can be exactly what you need. With so many types of planers on the market, we understand that it can be a bit too difficult to make a choice. That’s why, below, we have created four different categories of planters. Each category has its own purpose. Plus, each one of these models has some advantages and disadvantages. Take a look below and choose the one that serves you the best for your woodworking project.
Thickness Planer
With this planer, you will be able to get smooth shaped boards with a constant thickness. It allows you to work with irregular pieces of wood and make them smooth and thick for your project. The main advantage of using this planer is that you can purchase any type of wood from a lumberyard at a reasonable price, without thinking that it might be too thin. You can use this device to shape it to size. Most workers prefer to use it because it is portable. However, it is important to know that you will need a wide space to operate it.
Pros – Inexpensive, portable and very easy to use.
Cons – Not always precise.
Good For – DIY enthusiasts who want to save some money.
Handheld Planer
As you probably know the hand planer is the most popular type of planer out there. As compared to thickness or jointer-planers, it has a serrated edge parallel to the wood surface. It can be used to smooth and shape various forms of wood. The power models are extremely versatile. They come with lots of features and were designed to replace the standard models. Also, it is very important to understand that the handheld tool cannot only shave and level the piece of wood. It can also perform the functions of a belt sander as well as a jointer.
Pros – Easy to use. It does not need electricity.
Cons – It cannot be used for reducing thickness beyond 1 inch. It may take too much time to level wood.
Good For – DIY enthusiasts who need a tool for finishing purposes.
Jointer Planer
Beginner workers and DIY enthusiasts alike, all have the same question: is there any difference between a jointer and a planer? The answer is yes. Each tool serves its own purpose. Thankfully, a multitasking tool, such as a jointer planer, will cost less than the two separately and can be extremely efficient for woodworking hobbyists who consider that space can be a real problem. A jointer can be used to create smooth surfaces, while a planer is able to bring the wood to the required thickness. A jointer planer is a combo machine that can do these two jobs at once, in no time. It has the features of a jointer and works as a planer.
Pros – Extremely powerful and reliable. Capable of doing two tasks at once.
Cons – Most models are large and bulky.
Good For – Small workshops that need a tool for large projects but do not have enough space to place it.
Benchtop Planer
This type is standalone, including a base that holds the actual planer. It’s the largest version, usually intended for industrial use, but many experienced woodworkers also have it at home for heavy-duty projects. It provides increased engine power and can easily handle large chunks of wood due to the oversized feeding table. The asking price is higher, which is why it’s not as popular as the tabletop or handheld planer.
Pros – High power and great reliability.
Cons – Because of its large size, it won’t be easy to relocate.
Good For – Heavy-duty use and hard woods.
Thickness Planer vs Jointer
Whether a thickness planer or jointer, both are powerful tools that should be used by a professional woodworker. Now, the question is if you need both? As you know,
both tools are expensive and take up a lot of space in the workshed. However, any experienced woodworker would tell you that it’s not about picking one of the two tools but combining them to obtain the desired result.
While a planer is a thincknessing tool, a jointer is a straightening and flattening tool. Hence, they have separate purposes and are generally used for different operations in preparing wood pieces for major projects. The jointer can only effectively flatten one face and straighten one edge of a plank, while the thicknesser can adjust the height of the plank throughout its entire surface.
With any raw piece of lumber, you will have to use the jointer first, to give it one flat face and one flat edge. Only then, you can get to the planer and use it to correct the thickness of the lumber. After you set both machines to the precise measurements and pass the lumber first through the jointer and then through the planer, you will have a straight flat board with all surfaces parallel to each other and square. It will be at the precise thickness you require.
Now, considering the more practical aspects, we need to admit that purchasing both tools is a major financial effort that not anyone can swing. Therefore, if you had to choose which one to buy first until you save some money and afford the second as well, we would say you should buy the thickness planer. This is because it is more useful in leveling and thinning lumber boards on its own than a jointer is.
However, you must understand its limitations and the fact that it will not take the place of the jointer completely, but it could do the job if you are a novice woodworker who doesn’t have to handle large amounts of wood for complicated projects. With practice and the proper jig, you will be able to get past your requirements with just the planer, until you have enough money to complete your work shed.
Product Ratings
As mentioned above, there are many types and models of planers. This is why finding exactly what you need could be a back-breaking task. Actually, after looking at all those models, you can feel more confused than ever about which planer is best for your needs. Before making a purchase, there are a few things you need to consider. Therefore, in order to pick up the right tool for you, take a look at the factor above.
- Table size
Not only the size of the planer is important. There is also the size of the cutting area you need to consider. The ideal planer should support pieces of wood up 15 inches wide or thick. This size may be enough for a large project, but if you need something larger than that, you can go up for models that function with boards that are more than 20-inch long.
- Cutting area
Another important aspect is the cutting area. The blades of a planer come in different sizes, shapes, and styles. While some people prefer models with helical heads, others choose the planers with spiral design. The ones with helical head operate faster than other heads. The other models, the ones with the spiral design will make your pieces of wood look smoother than you ever imagine.
- Motor
Another important factor to consider is the motor of the device and its size. As you might expect, the most affordable models are equipped with universal motors. They are lightweight and less effective than others. Plus they are not powerful and do not work well with hardwoods. Choosing a planer strongly depends on what you do in your workshop. If you are looking for a model with a powerful motor that can help you complete even the most complicated projects and operate well on hardwoods, then a model equipped with an induction motor is all you need. Although induction motors weigh more than standard ones, they will function with any type of wood you use.
- Tool size
When looking to purchase this type of woodworking machine, make sure you consider the size of the model. If you buy the tool for personal purposes, you can opt for a small tool that can be placed in your garage. On the other hand, if you need a more advanced model that can handle more tasks at the same time, a larger size will satisfy your needs. However, it comes in a large size, so it will take up more space.
- Noise
Before making an investment and spending a fortune on a new power planer, it’s recommended to see that product in action. These tools tend to be quite noisy. We understand that it may not bother you, but your neighbors can complain about the noise produced by your new power tool. Also, it is important to see how it operates with hardwood. While with thick wood it is not noisy, with hard pieces of wood, it may be quite noisy.
Why is the Planer Indispensible in Woodworking?
As you might think,
a workshop is not complete without at least one planer. Back in the days, woodworkers would have to rely on the manual planer whenever they needed to level a piece of wood or create multiple identical pieces that needed to be turned into pieces of furniture or used in constructions. Luckily, the electrical planer has been invented and things were significantly simplified.
This is a versatile tool that helps you create new and unique things. It is a valuable asset that will help you reduce the thickness of a wood board much faster and without any effort. Thanks to the wide opening, it can fit even the most irregular shape and it can achieve the perfect thickness along the entire surface.
If you were to use a manual planer, it would be virtually impossible to level a large piece of wood and make it equal throughout its length. The thicknesser, on the other hand, can handle large pieces and due to the in-feed and out-feed rollers, the piece of wood will be guided and level at a precise size, resulting in a flat and uniform wood plank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear safety glasses while using the planer?
According to several specialists, safety glasses or goggles with side shields must be worn during the cutting process.
Should I wear hearing protection during the cutting process?
If the woodworking machine doesn’t have a soundproof enclosure around it, not only you but also the people that will be working in the vicinity should wear hearing protection.
Is there any difference between a thickness planer and a surface planer?
Similar to a joint planer, a surface planer has the cutter head located into the bed surface and it doesn’t trim boards to a consistent thickness on both sides as the thickness planer does.
How to clean planer rollers?
Wipe the rollers lightly with a clean cloth soaked into mineral spirits. Run the machine for a few seconds, switch it off and run it again for other seconds.
How to clean planer blades?
Use a clean cloth to remove dust. Wipe gently the blades with a brush using mineral spirits. We recommend doing this after completing each operation.
Can a jointer substitute a planer?
As long as it is used to create a flat surface on a piece of wood, a jointer can take the place of a planer. It only corrects the bow on one side of the board, so if you intend to make the piece of wood thinner on both sides, we recommend using a planer.
Does MDF cause damage to a planer blade?
MDF can be planed, but the high content of glue might cause the blades to get dull, so it’s not advisable to do this very often.
How thin can it plane wood?
It strongly depends on the model. Most tools can plane wood as thin as 1/8” or 3/32′′. However, if it goes down to 1/8′′, it can catch the edge of the board and ruin it.
What is the minimum length of stock a planer can handle?
As long as the distance between the rollers is 12”, most tools won’t work with wood pieces that measure less than 12” in length.
Conclusion
As mentioned above, there are so many types and models of planers that it could be quite difficult to make the best choice. Therefore, in order to help you find exactly what you need, we have made a comparison table where you can find any detail related to these tools. From power, cutter head, capacity, and design to costs and warranty, there are a plethora of important things to consider.
In summary, like any other device you have purchased before, it all depends on your preferences. No model will be perfect, but it is important to opt for a tool that will make your job easier, more enjoyable, and profitable.
Best Overall:
DEWALT DW735X
If you are looking to purchase a good quality tool to complete your DIY wooden project, then you would probably need a thickness planer that comes equipped with plenty of features. After a lot of research into the pros and cons of various models, we strongly believe that this is among the best planers available for sale, nowadays. It is powered by a 15-amp engine that delivers 20.000 rpm. It is a 3-blade unit that helps you cut a wide variety of materials with ease. With features like included dust port, a two-speed gearbox, and a generous warranty, it’s a market-leading option.
Editor’s Choice:
Makita 2012NB
We are talking about performance at its highest when referring to this planer that can handle any piece of wood you throw at it. Although not fitted with 3 blades but only 2, it can cut 17,000 times per minute, reducing the thickness by up to 1/8 of an inch with each pass over the rollers. The table feeders extend generously so large pieces of wood can be accurately guided towards the blades. All things considered, no wonder it’s among the most sought-after items in the woodworking industry.
Best Thickness Planer for Home Use:
Bosch PL1632
Minimal woodwork that might come up in a household can be easily handled by this handheld planer designed by Bosch. Whether you need to alter the size of a door after replacing the flooring or you want to resize a kitchen cabinet, this is the tool to get. It’s easy to grip and maneuver so it can be used by those who aren’t familiar with this type of tool, and it comes with some safety features that take away any risk involved.
Best Thickness Planer for Small Shop:
Delta Power Tools 22-555
For smaller projects, we recommend this model. In spite of its smaller size, the unit features a 15-amp engine that generates enough power to cut cleanly through softwood. The cutting width reaches 13” while the depth is 3/32”. It features such a large working area, so no need to worry about those large pieces of wood that are waiting to be cut. In addition, it features easy blade change which makes it suitable for casual users. Since it lacks power, it cannot handle hard pieces of wood. Thus, if you intend to buy a model for a small shop, we recommend purchasing one of the above products.
Best Thickness Planer for the Money:
WEN 6550T
This is another great option that DIYers should take into consideration. Similar to its above competitor, it is equipped with a 15-amp engine that produces 17,000 CPM. The cutting width supported by the machine is 12.5′′ while its cutting depth reaches 3/32”. Its two-blade design makes it suitable for all light lumber types. It doesn’t generate enough power for hardwood pieces, so you should avoid using it for heavy projects. Forget paying premium prices for these machines as long as you can find quality products at lower prices.
