If you’re looking to achieve flawlessly smooth surfaces in your woodworking projects, you’ll want to know about the top bench planers available in 2025. Each model on our list offers unique features that cater to both hobbyists and professionals alike. From powerful motors to advanced cutterheads, these planers can elevate your craftsmanship. Curious which ones made the cut? Let’s explore the best options for your workshop.
DEWALT 13-inch Thickness Planer (DW735X)
If you’re a serious woodworker looking for a reliable and powerful tool, the DEWALT 13-inch Thickness Planer (DW735X) is an excellent choice. With its 15 amp motor spinning at 20,000 RPM, it handles wider materials effortlessly. The three-knife cutter head extends knife life by 30% and simplifies changes. You can optimize cuts per inch with its two-speed gearbox. Its rigid cast aluminum base and folding tables provide stability for larger pieces. Plus, the fan-assisted chip ejection keeps your workspace clean. With precise controls and included accessories, this planer is a solid investment for achieving perfectly smooth surfaces.
Best For: Serious woodworkers seeking a powerful and reliable thickness planer for larger materials and precise cuts.
Pros:
- Powerful 15 amp motor allows for handling wider materials with ease.
- Three-knife cutter head extends knife life by 30% and simplifies the knife changing process.
- Folding tables enhance stability and support for larger workpieces.
Cons:
- Weight may make it less portable for some users.
- Initial setup can be time-consuming for those unfamiliar with planers.
- Price point may be higher compared to entry-level models.
DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734)
The DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) stands out as an excellent choice for woodworking enthusiasts who demand precision and performance. With its powerful 15-amp motor and 20,000 RPM, you can tackle larger, deeper cuts in hardwoods effortlessly. The three-knife cutter head delivers 96 cuts per inch for a smooth finish, while the disposable, reversible knives offer 30% more life. You’ll appreciate the stability provided by the four-column carriage lock and the extra-long infeed and outfeed tables, ensuring support for your materials. Plus, the material removal gauge and turret depth stop make achieving accurate cuts a breeze.
Best For: Woodworking enthusiasts and professionals seeking a powerful and precise planer for hardwood projects.
Pros:
- Exceptional motor power with 20,000 RPM for handling larger cuts efficiently.
- Quick and easy knife change process with disposable, reversible knives for extended life.
- Stability features, including a four-column carriage lock and extra-long tables, reduce snipe and enhance support.
Cons:
- Being a benchtop model, it may be less portable than smaller planers.
- The initial investment can be higher compared to entry-level models.
- Noise level may be significant during operation due to the powerful motor.
WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
For woodworkers seeking precision and efficiency, the WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer stands out with its spiral cutterhead featuring 26 staggered, rotatable HSS blades. This design guarantees a clean, smooth finish with every pass. You’ll appreciate the onboard material removal gauge, which indicates cutting depth, allowing you to adjust with ease. With the ability to plane boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, it handles various projects effortlessly. Plus, the powerful 15A motor generates 10,000 RPM at a feed rate of 26 feet per minute, making your woodworking tasks quicker and more efficient.
Best For: Woodworkers looking for a reliable and efficient thickness planer that provides a smooth finish and ease of use.
Pros:
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 rotatable HSS blades ensures a clean and smooth finish.
- Onboard material removal gauge allows for precise depth adjustments.
- Capable of handling boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, making it versatile for various projects.
Cons:
- The weight of the planer may make it less portable for some users.
- The initial setup and adjustment might require extra time for beginners.
- Limited to a maximum planing width of 13 inches, which may not suit larger projects.
WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer
Crafted for both hobbyists and professionals, the WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer stands out with its spiral cutterhead system featuring 12 staggered HSS blades. This design guarantees an ultra-fine finish, making your woodworking projects shine. With a spacious table measuring 30 by 6 inches, you’ll have plenty of room for your workpieces. The adjustable fence, which tilts up to 45 degrees, allows for precise angles, while the capability to remove 0 to 1/8 inch of material per pass adds versatility. This jointer makes achieving perfectly smooth surfaces an effortless task in your workshop.
Best For: The WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is best for woodworking hobbyists and professionals seeking precision and a fine finish in their projects.
Pros:
- Ultra-fine finish achieved with the spiral cutterhead and 12 staggered HSS blades.
- Spacious work surface with a 30 by 6-inch table, providing ample space for various workpieces.
- Adjustable fence that can bevel up to 45 degrees for precise angled cuts.
Cons:
- Limited material removal capability of up to 1/8 inch per pass may require multiple passes for thicker materials.
- Benchtop design may not be suitable for larger or heavier projects compared to full-sized jointers.
- Noise level can be significant during operation, potentially affecting the work environment.
VEVOR 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer
VEVOR’s 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer is an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who demand precision in their woodworking projects. With a powerful 2000W motor and a cutter head speed of 8000 RPM, it efficiently handles various materials, delivering smooth finishes. The foldable tables and adjustable features guarantee ideal feeding angles, making operation hassle-free. You’ll appreciate the user-friendly height adjustment and precise thickness control. Plus, safety is prioritized with an electromagnetic switch and dust exhaust interface. Whether you’re working with rough wood or bamboo, this planer meets your needs effortlessly, enhancing both quality and convenience.
Best For: The VEVOR 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer is best for professionals and DIY enthusiasts seeking precision and efficiency in woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Powerful 2000W motor with a high cutter head speed of 8000 RPM for efficient material handling.
- User-friendly design with height adjustment and precise thickness control for hassle-free operation.
- Versatile application, suitable for a variety of materials including wood, bamboo, and nylon.
Cons:
- Limited maximum cutting depth of 0.12 inches may not be sufficient for certain projects.
- The weight of the planer may make it less portable compared to lighter models.
- The dust exhaust interface may require additional setup or maintenance for optimal performance.
CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Planer for Benchtops
The CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Planer is an excellent choice for both amateur woodworkers and seasoned professionals who need a reliable tool for tackling a variety of projects. With its powerful 15 Amp motor, you’ll efficiently remove both hard and soft woods. The two-knife solid steel cutter head guarantees smooth operation, while the high carbon steel, reversible knives extend your cutting life. Plus, the integrated vacuum port helps keep your workspace clean by effectively collecting dust. Designed for durability, it features robust components and easy knife replacement, making maintenance a breeze. You’ll appreciate its blend of power and convenience in your woodworking tasks.
Best For: The CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Planer is best for both amateur woodworkers and seasoned professionals seeking a reliable and efficient tool for various woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Powerful 15 Amp motor efficiently removes hard and soft wood materials.
- Two knife solid steel cutter head ensures smooth operation and longevity.
- Integrated vacuum port promotes a cleaner workspace by effectively collecting dust.
Cons:
- Weight may be cumbersome for some users during transport.
- Noise level might be higher compared to smaller planers.
- Limited cutting width compared to larger, industrial-grade planers.
VEVOR Thickness Planer, 13-Inch Width Power Benchtop Planer
For woodworkers seeking a reliable and efficient tool, the VEVOR Thickness Planer stands out with its impressive 13-inch width worktable, making it ideal for tackling both hard and soft wood materials. Its dual-roller feeding system guarantees your boards advance smoothly, reducing vibration and alignment issues. With two sharp HSS blades, you’ll achieve glass-smooth edges without splinters. The powerful 1800W motor operates at 23,500 RPM, easily handling hardwoods like oak and maple. Plus, the precision depth control allows for 1/8-inch adjustments, and the dust management system keeps your workspace clean, enhancing your overall woodworking experience.
Best For: Woodworkers looking for a reliable and efficient planer to achieve smooth finishes on both hard and soft wood materials.
Pros:
- Dual-roller feeding system minimizes vibration and improves board alignment for precision cutting.
- Powerful 1800W motor with a high RPM ensures effective handling of hardwoods.
- Precision depth control and efficient dust management system enhance the overall woodworking experience.
Cons:
- Limited worktable size may not accommodate larger boards.
- Requires consistent maintenance to keep blades sharp for optimal performance.
- Noise levels may be higher during operation compared to other planers.
VEVOR Thickness Planer, 13″ Benchtop Planer
Ideal for both hobbyists and professionals, the VEVOR Thickness Planer delivers outstanding performance with its powerful 15-Amp motor and high-precision two-knife cutter head. It features a 13″ widened worktable that can handle boards up to 6″ thick, supported by adjustable tables and extensions for added stability. The precision machined cast iron bed guarantees flatness, while the 1800W motor operates at 23,500 RPM for smooth finishes. Safety’s a priority with a built-in 20A over-current protector, and the efficient dust management system connects to your vacuum cleaner, making cleanup a breeze. Experience superior woodworking results with this reliable benchtop planer.
Best For: The VEVOR Thickness Planer is best for both hobbyists and professionals seeking a reliable and efficient tool for woodworking projects.
Pros:
- High-precision two-knife cutter head delivers smooth finishes.
- Built-in safety features, including a 20A over-current protector.
- Efficient dust management system connects to vacuum cleaners for easy cleanup.
Cons:
- Limited to a maximum board thickness of 6 inches.
- May be heavier and less portable compared to smaller planers.
- Requires regular maintenance to keep blades sharp for optimal performance.
Cutech 40800H 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Planer
Crafting smooth, precise cuts is essential for any woodworker, and the Cutech 40800H 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Planer excels in delivering just that. With its 26 tungsten carbide inserts and a spiral cutterhead design, you’ll achieve an exceptional finish with minimal noise. The 2-speed feed rate allows you to adapt to different wood types, while the snipe minimizer reduces unwanted cutting errors. Board return rollers make handling effortless, and the flip dust hood enhances dust management. With a solid customer rating of 4.6 stars, this planer is a reliable choice for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Woodworkers seeking a high-quality, user-friendly benchtop planer that delivers smooth finishes and minimizes errors.
Pros:
- Exceptional Finish: The spiral cutterhead with 26 tungsten carbide inserts provides a smooth cut with reduced noise levels.
- User-Friendly Features: The snipe minimizer and board return rollers enhance ease of use and efficiency during operation.
- Versatile Speed Options: The 2-speed feed rate allows adaptability for different wood types, minimizing tearout.
Cons:
- Weight: At 75.8 pounds, it may be less portable for those needing to move it frequently.
- Price Point: Higher initial investment compared to some basic planers on the market.
- Dust Management: While the flip dust hood is versatile, some users may find it less effective in certain setups.
JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer, Helical Style, 18/26 FPM, 120V 1Ph (JWP-13BT)
The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer (JWP-13BT) stands out with its helical-style cutterhead, making it an exceptional choice for woodworkers seeking precision and quality in their projects. With a powerful 2-HP motor and a cutterhead speed of 10,000 RPM, you’ll enjoy smoother, quieter cuts thanks to its six rows of quick-change steel inserts. The precision-machined cast iron bed and four-post design guarantee maximum control and support. Plus, the adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables save space and enhance efficiency. With a maximum depth of cut of 1/8 inch, this planer delivers consistent, professional results every time.
Best For: The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer is best for woodworkers looking for a compact, high-performance tool that delivers precision and quality in their projects.
Pros:
- Smoother and quieter cuts due to the helical-style cutterhead with quick-change inserts.
- Precision-machined cast iron bed and four-post design provide excellent control and support.
- Adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables enhance storage efficiency and workspace usability.
Cons:
- Maximum depth of cut is limited to 1/8 inch, which may not be sufficient for all applications.
- The 2-HP motor may not handle extremely dense hardwoods as effectively as larger planers.
- Requires some assembly and setup, which can be time-consuming for users.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Woodworking Bench Planer
When choosing a woodworking bench planer, you’ll want to take into account several key factors that can impact your project’s success. Look at the motor power and performance, as well as the cutting mechanism types to guarantee they meet your needs. Don’t forget to assess the material thickness capacity, table stability features, and dust management systems for a smooth and efficient workflow.
Motor Power and Performance
Motor power and performance are essential factors that can make or break your woodworking projects. When choosing a bench planer, look for motors ranging from 15 amps to 2 HP, which can handle various wood types and thicknesses. A higher RPM, ideally around 20,000, guarantees faster cutting speeds and smoother finishes, making your work more efficient. Pay attention to cutterhead speed; for example, 10,000 RPM produces finer cuts and minimizes tear-out on hardwoods. Additionally, adjustable gearboxes that optimize cuts per inch (CPI) can enhance your performance, whether you need speed or precision. Finally, consider motors with higher feed rates, like 26 feet per minute, to boost productivity without sacrificing quality. Your projects deserve the best!
Cutting Mechanism Types
Choosing the right cutting mechanism for your woodworking bench planer can greatly impact your project’s quality and efficiency. You’ll typically encounter knife and spiral cutterhead mechanisms. Knife cutterheads feature multiple disposable knives that are easy to replace, enhancing their cutting life. On the other hand, spiral cutterheads have staggered, rotatable blades that provide a smoother finish and quieter operation, reducing tearouts. If you’re aiming for a finer finish, consider a three-knife system, which offers more cuts per inch than a two-knife system. Helical cutterheads come with individual quick-change inserts, making maintenance a breeze and extending the lifespan of your tools. Keep in mind that your choice affects the depth of cut and overall performance as well.
Material Thickness Capacity
Selecting a woodworking bench planer with the right material thickness capacity is essential for tackling a variety of projects. You’ll want to check the maximum thickness capacity, which usually ranges from 6 to 12 inches, giving you the flexibility to work with different wood sizes. Aim for a planer that offers a cutting depth of up to 1/8 inch per pass for smoother finishes on thicker materials. Width capacity is also important; common options accommodate widths of 12 to 13 inches, perfect for standard lumber. If you’re planning larger projects, look for models that handle boards up to 6 inches thick. Finally, consider the feed rate and motor power, as higher RPMs can improve efficiency when planing thicker materials.
Table Stability Features
When it comes to woodworking bench planers, the stability of the table is essential for achieving smooth, precise results. A precision-machined cast iron bed enhances rigidity and minimizes vibrations, which leads to smoother finishes. Look for extra-long infeed and outfeed tables, as they provide better material support and reduce the risk of snipe. Foldable tables can be a great option for portability while still offering stability for larger pieces when extended. Adjustable tables allow you to optimize feeding angles, making operations easier and more accurate. Additionally, a four-column carriage lock system can greatly minimize movement that causes snipe, ensuring more precise cuts and improved surface quality. Prioritize these features for the best results in your woodworking projects.
Dust Management Systems
A strong dust management system can make a world of difference in your woodworking projects. When choosing a planer, look for models with integrated vacuum ports that effectively collect wood chips and dust, keeping your workspace clean. Fan-assisted chip ejection systems are also a plus, as they actively remove debris from the cutter head, preventing clogging and ensuring smooth operation. A well-designed dust collection system reduces airborne particles, creating a healthier environment and minimizing cleanup time. Additionally, consider planers with compatible dust hose connections for easy attachment to external dust collection systems. Advanced features like these not only enhance efficiency but also improve visibility during operation by reducing debris accumulation around your work area.
Safety Features and Controls
Safety features and controls are crucial to guarantee not only effective performance but also your well-being while using a woodworking bench planer. Look for models with an electromagnetic switch to prevent accidental starts, enhancing your safety during operation. A built-in over-current protector is essential, as it cuts power automatically if the current exceeds a limit, reducing electrical hazards. Don’t overlook dust management features like integrated vacuum ports, which help maintain a cleaner workspace and minimize harmful wood dust inhalation. Automatic carriage locks are another great feature, reducing movement that causes snipe for safer, accurate cuts. Finally, verify the design includes safety guards or covers around the cutterhead to prevent accidental contact with moving parts.