7 Best Wen Planers 2026 in the United States

The WEN Thickness Planer (PL1337) stands out as a solid choice for woodworkers looking for an efficient benchtop planer. It offers a 13-inch cutting width and can handle boards up to 6 inches thick, making it versatile for various projects. With a powerful 15-amp motor and a cutterhead speed of 10,000 RPM, this planer provides impressive performance, allowing for quick dimensioning at a feed rate of up to 26 feet per minute. The two-speed operation is particularly useful for achieving perfect finishes at a slower feed rate of 16 feet per minute.

One of the key strengths of this planer is its spiral cutterhead, which features 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades. This design helps produce a clean and smooth finish on the wood while reducing the chance of tear-out, making it ideal for fine woodworking tasks. Additionally, the onboard dust collection system with a combination dust port is a fantastic feature for minimizing mess and keeping your workspace tidy.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. Weighing 69 pounds, it might not be the most portable option for those who need to move their equipment frequently. While it has a two-year warranty, some users may prefer a more lightweight model if portability is a priority.

The WEN PL1326 is a robust benchtop thickness planer that offers a solid solution for woodworkers looking to achieve smooth, even finishes on their projects. With a cutting width of 13 inches and a maximum cutting depth of 6 inches, it caters well to a variety of woodworking needs. Its spiral cutterhead, equipped with 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades, ensures that the finish is clean and professional, making it ideal for those who value precision in their work. The powerful 15 amp motor produces a cutterhead speed of 10,000 RPM, allowing for efficient material removal at a feed rate of 26 feet per minute, which enhances productivity during larger tasks.

A notable feature is the onboard material removal gauge that helps users track cutting depth, promoting accuracy throughout the planing process. Additionally, it includes a handy adjustable dust port, which is essential for maintaining a clean workspace.

However, there are some aspects to consider. The WEN PL1326 weighs about 80 pounds, which may affect its portability, making it a more suitable choice for users with a designated workspace rather than those needing to move it frequently. Additionally, while the dust collection system is included, some users might find it less efficient compared to other models on the market, potentially requiring additional dust management solutions.

For users who need a dependable and efficient thickness planer, the WEN PL1326 strikes a balance between power and performance. It's particularly well-suited for hobbyists and professionals who prioritize quality finishes in their woodworking projects, although its weight and dust collection could be drawbacks for some.

The Makita 2012NB 12" Portable Planer is a reliable choice for those who need to transport their planer between job sites due to its relatively lightweight design (28.07 kg). It offers a cutting width of 12 inches, which is suitable for most woodworking tasks. The planer is appreciated for its quiet operation at 83 decibels, making it one of the quieter models on the market, which is beneficial for prolonged use.

Its 1650-watt motor provides ample power for effective planing, and the machine is designed to ensure stability with a 4-post design and diagonal cross supports. Users also find the large table extensions useful in supporting larger workpieces effectively. Additionally, the planer features a fast and easy blade change system that uses disposable double-edge blades, simplifying maintenance.

The product does have some limitations. It weighs over 60 pounds, which, although lighter compared to some other models, may still be cumbersome for some users to carry frequently. Additionally, it lacks an integrated dust collection system, which means users will need to manage dust separately to keep the workspace clean. The Makita 2012NB offers a good blend of portability, power, and ease of use for professional and serious hobbyist woodworkers who require a dependable and relatively quiet planer for various tasks.