Here’s an overview of the Best Benchtop Planer that we’ll explore today:
Benchtop planers are indispensable tools for woodworkers, enabling precision thickness adjustments and smooth finishes on a variety of wood materials. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, choosing the right planer can significantly impact the quality of your projects. In this review, we’ve analyzed five popular benchtop planers, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium models, to help you make an informed purchase decision. Our methodology included evaluating motor power, cutting performance, durability, ease of use, and additional features. The products reviewed include models from WEN, DEWALT, Kayrain, and FindBuyTool, spanning a price range of $298.88 to $699.99.
1. DEWALT Thickness Planer
- Brand: DEWALT
- Manufacturer: DEWALT
The DEWALT DW735X is a top-tier planer designed for serious woodworkers. Its powerful 15-amp motor and two-speed gearbox provide versatility and performance, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. The three-knife cutter head ensures extended blade life and easy replacements, while the fan-assisted chip ejection system efficiently clears debris. With its 13-inch cutting width and automatic carriage lock, this planer offers precision and stability.
In testing, the DW735X delivered exceptional results on both softwoods and hardwoods, producing smooth, tear-free finishes. The two-speed gearbox allowed for fine-tuning cuts, and the extra-large turret depth-stop was particularly useful for repetitive tasks. However, its 102-pound weight makes it less portable, and its higher price may deter budget-conscious buyers. This model is ideal for professionals or advanced users who value precision and durability.
Pros
- Powerful 15-amp motor for heavy-duty tasks
- Two-speed gearbox for optimized cut quality
- Fan-assisted chip ejection for efficient debris removal
- Large turret depth-stop for repeatable settings
- Durable cast aluminum base
Cons
- Heavy and less portable (102 pounds)
- Higher price point compared to other models
2. WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
- Brand: WEN
- Manufacturer: WEN
The WEN PL1252 is a budget-friendly option for hobbyists or occasional users. With a 15-amp motor and a 12.5-inch cutting width, it offers decent performance for its price. The planer includes two reversible SK5 blades and a depth adjustment feature, allowing for passes up to 1/8-inch thick. Its compact design and relatively lightweight build make it easy to transport and store.
While the WEN PL1252 handles softwoods effectively, it struggles with harder woods, and the two-blade system doesn’t deliver as smooth a finish as higher-end models. The lack of advanced features like a spiral cutterhead or dual-speed operation limits its versatility. However, for beginners or those on a tight budget, this planer offers good value for money.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact and lightweight design
- Simple depth adjustment mechanism
- Reversible SK5 blades for extended use
Cons
- Struggles with harder woods
- Lacks advanced features like dual-speed or spiral cutterhead
3. WEN Thickness Planer
- Brand: WEN
- Manufacturer: WEN
The WEN PL1337 is a mid-range planer that combines affordability with advanced features. Its spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades provides smoother finishes compared to traditional straight blades. The two-speed operation allows for adjustments between quick dimensioning and fine finishing. With a 13-inch cutting width and a 15-amp motor, this planer is versatile enough for a variety of woodworking projects.
In practice, the PL1337 impressed with its ability to produce clean cuts on both softwoods and hardwoods. The spiral cutterhead significantly reduced tear-out, and the onboard depth stop improved consistency for batch work. However, at 69 pounds, it’s heavier than some competitors, and the feed rate options may not suit all users. This planer is a great choice for intermediate woodworkers seeking advanced features without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead for smoother finishes
- Two-speed operation for versatility
- Onboard depth stop for consistent cuts
- Reasonable price for its feature set
Cons
- Heavier than other mid-range models
- Feed rate options may not suit all users
4. FindBuyTool 13″ Benchtop Wood Thickness Planer with Helical Cutterhead
- Brand: FIND BUY TOOL
- Manufacturer: FIND BUY TOOL
The FindBuyTool planer is a premium option featuring a helical cutterhead with 40 tungsten carbide inserts for tear-free, smooth cuts. Its 15-amp motor delivers consistent power, while the 4-column design ensures stability and precision. The planer also includes an advanced dust collection system and an 8-position depth stop for repeatable cuts.
This model excelled in delivering professional-grade finishes, particularly on hardwoods. The helical cutterhead produced minimal noise and smaller chips, making cleanup easier. However, its high price and relatively low customer review count may give some buyers pause. This planer is best suited for professionals or serious hobbyists who demand top-tier performance.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead for tear-free finishes
- Stable 4-column design
- Advanced dust collection system
- High precision with 8-position depth stop
Cons
- Expensive compared to other models
- Limited user reviews for reliability assessment
5. 13” Benchtop Planer 15A 2000W – HSS Double-sided Blade
- Brand: Kayrain
- Manufacturer: Kayrain
The Kayrain 13” planer offers a strong 15-amp, 2000W motor, making it suitable for hardwoods and exotic woods. Its HSS double-sided blades are durable and can be sharpened for extended use. The planer features dual dust ports for efficient debris collection and a laser-calibrated lead screw for precision cuts.
During testing, the Kayrain performed admirably on a variety of materials, though its 9200 RPM cutterhead speed was slightly lower than competitors. The dual dust ports were a standout feature, significantly reducing cleanup time. At 52.9 pounds, it’s lightweight and portable, but its lower rotational speed may limit its efficiency on tougher woods. This model is ideal for hobbyists or semi-professionals seeking a balance of performance and affordability.
Pros
- Powerful 2000W motor for hardwoods
- Dual dust ports for efficient cleanup
- Lightweight and portable design
- Sharpenable HSS blades for extended use
Cons
- Lower cutterhead speed compared to competitors
- Not as feature-rich as premium models
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about benchtop planers to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right benchtop planer can truly enhance your game.
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