10 Best Handheld Planers 2026 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a powerful and efficient tool designed for handheld use. It is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery (not included), making it highly portable and convenient for various woodworking projects. The brushless motor is a standout feature, providing excellent power and runtime, ensuring the planer can handle demanding tasks with ease. With a cutting speed of 30,000 cuts per minute, it offers a fast removal rate, which is ideal for quick and efficient planing jobs.

The maximum cutting depth of 2 mm allows for precise material removal, and the calibrated depth adjustment knob ensures fine adjustments down to 1/256 in. for enhanced accuracy. The precision-machined aluminum shoes help maintain parallelism of the cuts, while the ergonomic handle design provides comfort and reduces user fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the kickstand feature is useful for resting the planer without damaging the work surface.

One area where this planer could improve is the dust collection system, as it does not seem to have a dedicated feature for managing dust and debris, which could be a drawback for users working in cleaner environments. Another point to note is that the planer is sold as a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger need to be purchased separately. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a highly performing and durable tool, making it an excellent choice for both professional and DIY enthusiasts.

The Makita XPK01Z cordless handheld planer is a compact and lightweight tool, weighing just 7.4 lbs, making it easy to handle for extended periods. Its 18V lithium-ion battery (sold separately) provides the freedom to work without cords. The motor spins at 14,000 RPM, allowing it to quickly remove wood with a cutting width of 3-1/4 inches and a maximum cutting depth of 5/64 inch per pass. It uses a 2-blade cutter head with double-edged carbide blades, which helps deliver a smooth finish and long-lasting sharpness. The depth adjustment is precise and straightforward thanks to the click knob with clear markings.

The planer's cutting width is on the smaller side, which might mean more passes on wider boards. Since it is a bare tool, you’ll need to buy the battery separately, which could add to the cost. For dust management, using an external vacuum or working in a well-ventilated area is recommended to control debris effectively.

This model suits DIY enthusiasts and light to medium woodworking tasks where portability and ease of use are priorities. For larger or heavy-duty projects, a model with a wider cutting width or a more powerful motor may be more appropriate.

The Bosch PL1632 handheld planer is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable tool to smooth and shape wood surfaces. It has a powerful 6.5-amp motor that spins the blade at a high 16,500 RPM, helping you remove wood quickly while still achieving a smooth finish. Its cutting width is about 3.25 inches, which is typical for handheld planers and works well for most small to medium woodworking projects. The planer features a single, reversible micrograin carbide blade that lasts longer than standard blades, reducing how often you need to replace it.

The tool is designed for accuracy and ease of use, with aluminum front and rear shoes machined together to keep your cuts consistent. The ratcheting depth knob lets you adjust cutting depth in very fine increments, making it easier to get just the right thickness without guesswork. Safety is also considered, with a lock-off button to prevent accidental starts and a lock-on for extended use. The ambidextrous design suits both right- and left-handed users.

At 6.3 pounds, it’s reasonably lightweight, and features like the ball-joint cord swivel and spring-loaded stand improve handling and protect the blade when resting. Dust collection is supported by the included protective shield and overshoe, though this system is fairly basic compared to some larger or more advanced models. The 3.25 inches dimension refers to the cutting width rather than the depth of cut, which is typically much less per pass in handheld planers. The Bosch PL1632 is well suited for general planing tasks and is highly rated by users, offering a great balance of power, precision, and comfort for most DIYers and woodworkers, though professionals requiring heavy-duty material removal might consider more specialized tools.