Top 5 Benchtop Planers for Every Woodworker
Finding the right benchtop planer can elevate your woodworking projects by ensuring smooth, even surfaces. We've rounded up the best options on the market, taking into account performance, durability, and user reviews to help you make an informed choice.
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Top Pick: VEVOR Power Benchtop Planers, Three-Blade, Two Speed, 13" Width Worktable Thickness Planer with Extended Infeeding Table, Low Noise for both hard & soft wood material removal
- Planes boards up to six inches
- Offers two speeds for versatility
- Connects to vacuum for clean workspace
Quick Picks
VEVOR 13" Power Benchtop Planer
- Planes boards up to 6 inches
- Delivers smooth finishes with precision
- Minimizes dust for cleaner workspace
DEWALT 13-inch Thickness Planer
- Handles larger cuts with ease
- Delivers longer knife life effortlessly
- Ensures accurate cuts with every pass
WEN 15-Amp Spiral Thickness Planer
- Delivers smooth finishes with precision
- Monitors cutting depth for accuracy
- Handles thick boards with ease
WEN 15-Amp 13-Inch Thickness Planer
- Planes thick boards effortlessly
- Generates smooth finishes quickly
- Adjusts cutting depth easily
CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Benchtop Planer
- Removes hard and soft wood effortlessly
- Ensures smooth operation with durable design
- Keeps workspace clean with dust collection
VEVOR 13" Thickness Planer, 15-Amp Motor
- Planes boards up to six inches
- Ensures smooth finishes with precision
- Collects dust for cleaner workspace
WEN 13-Inch Two Speed Thickness Planer
- Achieves smooth finishes effortlessly
- Handles thick boards with ease
- Minimizes dust for cleaner workspace
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Thickness Planer
- Reduces vibration for flawless cuts
- Keeps long boards steady and controlled
- Channels dust away for cleaner workspace
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Planer
- Reduces noise for a quieter experience
- Minimizes snipe for flawless finishes
- Ensures consistent thickness with depth stop
Top Picks
VEVOR Power Benchtop Planers, Three-Blade, Two Speed, 13" Width Worktable Thickness Planer with Extended Infeeding Table, Low Noise for both hard & soft wood material removal
Why it stands out:
- High-quality construction for durability.
- Versatile speed settings for various applications.
- Large worktable supports wider boards.
- Efficient dust collection for a cleaner workspace.
- Precision cutting for professional results.
Overview: The VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer is designed for efficient wood material removal, featuring a three-blade system and a spacious 13-inch worktable. Its two-speed settings allow for versatile cutting speeds, catering to different wood types and finishing needs. With a powerful 2000W motor and low dust operation, this planer ensures a clean and smooth finish on both hard and soft woods.
Key specs:
| worktable_width | 13 inches |
|---|---|
| worktable_thickness_capacity | up to 6 inches |
| motor_power | 2000W |
| cutter_head_type | three-knife |
| speed_options | 15 f/m and 24 f/m |
| vacuum_port | yes |
| weight | not specified |
| dimensions | not specified |
- Woodworkers seeking precision.
- Hobbyists needing a reliable planer.
- Professionals requiring smooth finishes.
- Users of both hard and soft woods.
- Those working with longer stock pieces.
- Beginners unfamiliar with planers.
- Users needing ultra-portable solutions.
- Those with limited workspace.
- Individuals on a tight budget.
- Users requiring extremely lightweight tools.
Why: This product is ideal for those seeking a high-quality, versatile planer for various woodworking tasks.
Why not: It may not suit beginners or those with space constraints.
- Durable three-knife cutter head.
- Flexible speed options for different tasks.
- Large worktable for handling bigger projects.
- Effective dust collection system.
- Powerful motor for high-quality finishes.
- Easy to adjust for various thicknesses.
- May be too heavy for some users.
- Not ideal for very small projects.
- Setup may require some technical knowledge.
- Limited portability compared to smaller models.
- Price may be higher than entry-level options.
- Requires adequate space for operation.
Bottom line: The VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers looking for precision and efficiency. Its robust features make it a reliable tool for achieving professional-quality results.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
Why it stands out:
- Powerful 15 amp motor for handling larger cuts
- Three knife cutter head for extended knife life
- Two-speed gearbox for customizable feed rates
- Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
- Material removal gauge for accurate thickness adjustments
Overview: The DEWALT Thickness Planer DW735X is a robust 13-inch wood planer designed for efficient and precise material removal. Featuring a powerful 15 amp motor and a three knife cutter head, it ensures longer knife life and easier changes. With a two-speed gearbox and fan-assisted chip ejection, it optimizes performance for various wood types and thicknesses.
Key specs:
| motor | 15 Amp |
|---|---|
| cutterhead_speed | 10,000 RPM |
| feed_speed | 96 or 179 CPI |
| base_material | Cast aluminum |
| base_size | 19-3/4 inches |
| knife_type | Three knife cutter head |
| chip_ejection | Fan-assisted |
| depth_stop | Extra large turret depth-stop |
- Woodworkers needing precision
- Hobbyists looking for durability
- Professionals requiring efficient performance
- Users needing easy knife changes
- Those wanting customizable feed rates
- Beginners without experience
- Users with limited workspace
- Those needing ultra-portable options
- Individuals who prioritize low noise
- Users requiring advanced digital features
Why: This tool is ideal for those who value precision and efficiency in woodworking projects.
Why not: It may not suit users who are new to woodworking or have space constraints.
- Long knife life
- Easy to change knives
- Versatile feed speeds
- Accurate material removal
- Sturdy construction
- Reduced snipe
- May be heavy for some users
- Limited portability
- Not the quietest option
- Requires adequate space
- No digital features
- Initial setup may take time
Bottom line: The DEWALT DW735X is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers looking for a reliable and efficient planer. Its features cater to both professionals and hobbyists aiming for high-quality results.
WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
Why it stands out:
- Spiral cutterhead provides a superior finish.
- Onboard gauge allows for precise depth adjustments.
- Powerful motor handles tough materials easily.
- Compact design fits well in small workshops.
- User-friendly controls enhance overall experience.
Overview: The WEN PL1326 is a powerful benchtop thickness planer designed for precision woodworking. It features a spiral cutterhead with rotatable blades that ensure a smooth finish on various materials. With a robust 15-amp motor, it can handle boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, making it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals alike.
Key specs:
| motor | 15A |
|---|---|
| cutterhead | Spiral with 26 HSS blades |
| maximum_thickness | 6 inches |
| maximum_width | 13 inches |
| RPM | 10,000 |
| feed_rate | 26 feet per minute |
- Woodworkers seeking high-quality finishes.
- Hobbyists needing a compact planer.
- Professionals requiring reliable performance.
- Users who frequently work with thick boards.
- Anyone looking for an easy-to-use tool.
- Beginners unfamiliar with woodworking tools.
- Users with limited workspace.
- Those needing a portable solution.
- Individuals on a tight budget.
- People who only work with thin materials.
Why: This planer excels in delivering professional-grade results.
Why not: It may not suit those with minimal woodworking experience.
- Produces a clean and smooth finish.
- Easy to set up and operate.
- Durable and built to last.
- Versatile for various woodworking projects.
- Compact size saves space.
- May be overkill for casual users.
- Not the most portable option.
- Higher price point compared to basic models.
- Requires some maintenance for optimal performance.
- Limited to specific thickness and width.
Bottom line: The WEN PL1326 is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers looking for precision and durability. Its features make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
WEN PL1303 15-Amp 13-Inch Three-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer , Black
Why it stands out:
- High-speed motor for efficient planing.
- Versatile depth adjustment for different projects.
- Three reversible blades extend tool life.
- Compact design suitable for small workspaces.
- Affordable option for quality performance.
Overview: The WEN PL1303 is a powerful benchtop thickness planer designed for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike. It features a robust 15-amp motor that delivers high-speed cuts, making it ideal for shaping and smoothing lumber. With three reversible blades and adjustable depth settings, it offers versatility and precision for various projects. This planer can handle boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, making it a reliable tool for any workshop.
Key specs:
| motor | 15 Amps |
|---|---|
| cutting_speed | 30,000 cuts per minute |
| feed_rate | 26 feet per minute |
| max_board_thickness | 6 inches |
| max_board_width | 13 inches |
| blade_type | SK5 steel |
| depth_adjustment | 0 to 1/8 inch |
| weight | Approximately 60 lbs |
- Woodworkers needing precision tools.
- Hobbyists with limited space.
- Professionals requiring reliable performance.
- DIY enthusiasts tackling various projects.
- Users seeking cost-effective solutions.
- Beginners without experience.
- Users needing heavy-duty industrial tools.
- Those requiring extensive portability.
- Individuals working with very large boards.
- Users preferring advanced digital features.
Why: The tool's efficient motor and adjustable features make it a standout choice for various woodworking tasks.
Why not: It may not suit those who need a more portable or industrial-grade solution.
- Powerful motor for fast cutting.
- Easy to adjust depth settings.
- Durable and long-lasting blades.
- Compact design for easy storage.
- Great value for the price.
- Heavier than some portable options.
- Limited to 13-inch width.
- Noise level may be high during operation.
- Requires some setup before use.
- Not ideal for very large projects.
Bottom line: The WEN PL1303 is a reliable and efficient thickness planer perfect for woodworkers looking for quality without breaking the bank. It balances power and versatility, making it a great addition to any workshop.
CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320)
Why it stands out:
- Powerful 15 Amp motor for efficient wood removal
- Durable solid steel cutter head for longevity
- Quick-change knives for easy maintenance
- Dust collection port for a cleaner workspace
- Versatile for both hard and soft woods
Overview: The CRAFTSMAN Planer (CMEW320) is designed for benchtop use, featuring a powerful 15 Amp motor that effectively handles both hard and soft woods. Its two-knife solid steel cutter head ensures smooth operation and longevity, making it a reliable choice for various woodworking projects. With a vacuum port for dust collection, it helps maintain a cleaner workspace, enhancing the overall user experience.
Key specs:
| motor | 15 Amp |
|---|---|
| cutter_head | Two knife solid steel |
| drive | Poly-v cutterhead drive |
| knife_material | High carbon steel |
| dust_collection | Vacuum port |
| weight | Not specified |
| dimensions | Not specified |
| warranty | Not specified |
- Hobbyist woodworkers
- Professional carpenters
- DIY enthusiasts
- Users needing a reliable benchtop tool
- Those working with various wood types
- Beginners without woodworking experience
- Users needing a highly portable option
- Those with limited workspace
- Individuals focused on small-scale projects
- Users looking for advanced digital features
Why: This tool is ideal for those seeking a robust and reliable planer for various woodworking tasks.
Why not: It may not suit beginners or those with very specific project needs.
- Powerful and efficient operation
- Smooth cutting performance
- Easy knife replacement
- Durable construction
- Effective dust management
- May be heavy for some users
- Limited portability
- No advanced digital settings
- Not ideal for small projects
- Requires some setup and adjustment
Bottom line: The CRAFTSMAN Planer is a solid choice for serious woodworkers looking for power and durability. It excels in performance but may not be the best fit for everyone.
VEVOR Thickness Planer, Two-Blade, 13" Width Worktable Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp 2000W Powerful Motor, 12" Extended Infeeding Table, Low Noise for both hard & soft wood material removal
Why it stands out:
- High-quality construction for durability
- Powerful motor for efficient planing
- Precision cutter for smooth finishes
- User-friendly features for easy operation
- Safety mechanisms for added protection
Overview: The VEVOR Thickness Planer is a powerful benchtop tool designed for both hard and soft wood materials. With a 13" width worktable and a robust 2000W motor, it efficiently planes boards up to 6" thick. Its precision two-knife cutter head ensures smooth finishes, while built-in safety features enhance user protection. This planer is ideal for woodworkers seeking quality and performance in their projects.
Key specs:
| motor_power | 2000W |
|---|---|
| worktable_width | 13 inches |
| max_board_thickness | 6 inches |
| max_board_length | 35 inches |
| cutter_head_type | Two-knife cutter |
| overload_protection | 20A |
| rpm | 23500 |
| dust_collection | Vacuum port available |
- Hobbyist woodworkers
- Professionals needing precision
- Small workshops with limited space
- DIY enthusiasts
- Users requiring smooth finishes
- Beginners without experience
- Users needing heavy-duty industrial tools
- Those with limited workspace
- Individuals requiring extensive dust control
- Users looking for lightweight options
Why: This tool excels in delivering precision and efficiency for woodworking tasks.
Why not: It may not be ideal for those who are just starting out or need more portability.
- High-performance motor
- Smooth and consistent planing
- Built-in safety features
- Easy to adjust worktable
- Effective dust collection
- May be too heavy for some users
- Limited to specific board sizes
- Noise level may be higher than some prefer
- Requires some assembly
- Not suitable for very large projects
Bottom line: The VEVOR Thickness Planer is a solid choice for woodworkers seeking a reliable and efficient benchtop planer. Its combination of power, precision, and safety features makes it a valuable addition to any workshop.
WEN Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-Inch Spiral Blade, Benchtop (PL1337)
Why it stands out:
- Two-speed operation for flexibility in feed rates
- Spiral cutterhead for superior finish quality
- Handles boards up to 6 inches thick
- Powerful 15-amp motor for efficient cutting
- Includes useful features like depth stop and dust port
Overview: The WEN Thickness Planer is a versatile benchtop tool designed for precision woodworking. With its two-speed operation, it efficiently handles various tasks, from quick dimensioning to achieving smooth finishes. The spiral cutterhead with rotatable blades ensures a clean cut, making it suitable for both amateur and professional woodworkers. Its compact design and powerful motor make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
Key specs:
| feed_rate_fast | 26 FPM |
|---|---|
| feed_rate_slow | 16 FPM |
| max_board_thickness | 6 inches |
| max_board_width | 13 inches |
| motor_power | 15 amps |
| cutterhead_rotations | 10,000 RPM |
| cuts_per_inch | 1354 |
| warranty | 2 years |
- Hobbyist woodworkers
- Professional carpenters
- DIY enthusiasts
- Small workshop owners
- Users needing precise thickness adjustments
- Beginners without woodworking experience
- Users needing a portable planer
- Those who require large capacity planers
- Individuals with limited workspace
- Users looking for budget options
Why: This planer is designed for those who need precision and versatility in their woodworking tasks.
Why not: It may not suit those who are just starting out or need a more portable solution.
- High-quality spiral cutterhead
- Versatile two-speed operation
- Compact and easy to store
- Onboard storage for tools
- Effective dust collection system
- Heavier than some portable models
- Limited to 13-inch width
- May require more maintenance than simpler models
- Not ideal for very large projects
- Can be noisy during operation
Bottom line: The WEN Thickness Planer is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers seeking quality and efficiency. Its features support both detailed work and quick processing, making it a reliable tool for various projects.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Thickness Planer, Woodworking Power Benchtop Planer, with 2000W 23500 RPM Powerful Motor, Single Speed, for Hard & Soft Wood Material
Why it stands out:
- Powerful motor handles tough hardwoods effortlessly.
- Large worktable supports longer boards for better stability.
- Precision depth control allows for consistent results.
- Dual-roller system minimizes vibration and improves cut quality.
- Dust hose compatibility keeps the workspace clean.
Overview: The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Thickness Planer is designed for both hard and soft woods, offering a powerful 2000W motor that ensures smooth operation. Its dual-roller feeding system and large worktable enhance precision and control, making it suitable for professional woodworking projects. With adjustable depth control and dust hose compatibility, it provides a clean and efficient workspace for users.
Key specs:
| motor_power | 2000W |
|---|---|
| RPM | 23500 |
| worktable_size | 13-inch width, 6-inch height, 28.2-inch length |
| cutting_depth | 1/8 inch increments |
| dust_hose_compatibility | 2 inch and 4 inch |
- Professional woodworkers
- Hobbyists working on detailed projects
- Users needing consistent thickness in boards
- Those working with various wood types
- Individuals who require a clean workspace
- Beginners without woodworking experience
- Users with limited workspace
- Those needing a portable planer
- Individuals focused on small-scale projects
- Users seeking a budget-friendly option
Why: The features cater to serious woodworking needs and enhance overall project quality.
Why not: This planer may not suit those looking for a lightweight or entry-level option.
- High power for efficient cutting
- Smooth finish on all wood types
- Stable and spacious worktable
- Easy depth adjustments
- Effective dust management
- Heavy and not easily portable
- Single speed may limit versatility
- Requires space for setup
- Initial learning curve for new users
- Higher price point compared to basic models
Bottom line: The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Thickness Planer is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers seeking precision and power. Its robust features make it ideal for demanding projects, but it may be overkill for casual users.
Cutech 40800H 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Planer with 26 Tungsten Carbide Inserts, 2-Speed Feed Rate, Snipe Minimizer, and Board Return Rollers (13-Inch 2-Speed (Rifle Green))
Why it stands out:
- Spiral cutterhead provides a quieter operation and finer finish.
- Two-sided inserts enhance precision and longevity.
- Snipe minimizer reduces the risk of defects in your workpiece.
- Two-speed feed rate accommodates various wood types.
- Depth stop feature allows for consistent thickness across multiple boards.
Overview: The Cutech 40800H is a 13-inch benchtop planer featuring a spiral cutterhead with tungsten carbide inserts for a smooth finish. It offers a two-speed feed rate and a patented snipe minimizer to enhance usability, especially for beginners. With board return rollers and a depth of cut indicator, it simplifies the planing process and ensures consistent results. This planer is designed for efficiency and ease, making it a solid choice for woodworking enthusiasts.
Key specs:
| cutterhead_type | Spiral |
|---|---|
| insert_material | Tungsten carbide |
| feed_rate | 2-speed (16-fpm and 20-fpm) |
| depth_stop_positions | 8 |
| dust_hood | Versatile flip design |
| board_return | Rollers included |
| weight | Approximately 60 lbs |
| power | Low amp draw |
- Beginners seeking professional results
- Woodworkers needing a quiet operation
- Users looking for consistent thickness in boards
- Hobbyists working with various wood types
- DIY enthusiasts wanting to minimize snipe
- Professionals needing heavy-duty performance
- Users with limited workspace
- Those who require a larger cutting width
- Woodworkers focused on high-volume production
- Individuals preferring traditional cutterheads
Why: The features cater well to both beginners and hobbyists.
Why not: This model may not satisfy the needs of professional woodworkers requiring more robust capabilities.
- Produces a smooth finish
- Minimizes noise during operation
- Easy to set up and use
- Versatile for different wood types
- Compact design for limited spaces
- Efficient chip removal with dust collector option
- Limited cutting width at 13 inches
- May not meet the demands of heavy-duty users
- Requires maintenance of inserts
- Not ideal for high-volume production
- Weight may be cumbersome for some users
- Initial learning curve for depth adjustments
Bottom line: The Cutech 40800H is an excellent benchtop planer for those looking to achieve high-quality results with ease. Its thoughtful features make it a great investment for hobbyists and beginners alike.
How to Choose the Best Benchtop Planers
Selecting the best benchtop planer involves several key considerations to ensure you find a model that meets your specific needs:
- Motor Power: Look for a powerful motor (ideally 15 amps or more) that can handle various wood types without stalling.
- Cutter Head Type: Choose between straight or spiral cutter heads. Spiral heads often provide a smoother finish and require less maintenance.
- Thickness Capacity: Ensure the planer can accommodate the thickness of the wood you typically work with, usually up to 6 inches for most models.
- Speed Settings: Models with adjustable feed speeds allow you to optimize cuts for different wood types and finishes.
- Dust Collection: A good dust collection system helps maintain a clean workspace and improves visibility while you work.
Our Testing Methodology for Benchtop Planers
To identify the best benchtop planers for 2026, we evaluated various models based on performance, features, user reviews, and expert recommendations. Each model was tested for ease of use, quality of finish, and durability. We considered factors like motor power, cutter head design, feed rates, and additional features like dust collection systems.
FAQs About Top 5 Benchtop Planers for Every Woodworker
What is the maximum thickness a benchtop planer can handle?
Most benchtop planers can handle boards up to 6 inches thick.
How important is motor power in a benchtop planer?
Motor power is crucial as it affects the planer’s ability to cut through various wood types without stalling.
What are the benefits of a spiral cutter head?
Spiral cutter heads provide a smoother finish and require less maintenance compared to straight cutter heads.
Can I adjust the feed speed on a benchtop planer?
Yes, many models offer adjustable feed speeds to optimize cuts for different materials.
How does dust collection work in benchtop planers?
Most benchtop planers come with a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum to collect wood chips and maintain a clean workspace.
Final Verdict: Best Benchtop Planers for You
After thorough evaluation, the VEVOR Power Benchtop Planers stands out as the top choice for its combination of power, precision, and user-friendly features. With its three-blade cutter head and two-speed settings, it delivers excellent results for both hard and soft woods. For those seeking a reliable and efficient planer, consider the VEVOR Power Benchtop Planers, Three-Blade, Two Speed, 13″ Width Worktable Thickness Planer with Extended Infeeding Table, Low Noise for both hard & soft wood material removal.
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