10 Best Wood Planers 2026 in the United States

The DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) is a powerful and efficient tool designed for woodworking enthusiasts. With a 15-amp motor running at 20,000 rpm, it can handle larger, deeper cuts, even in hardwoods. The three-knife cutter head also operates at a speed of 10,000 rpm, offering a smooth finish with 96 cuts per inch, making it ideal for precise and clean planing tasks. The knives are disposable and reversible, providing longer life and easy replacements, which is convenient for maintaining the tool's performance over time.

Additionally, the four-column carriage lock helps minimize movement and reduces snipe, ensuring more accurate results. Its extra-long infeed and outfeed tables support materials up to 33-1/2 inches, aiding in stability during use. The material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale further enhance accuracy, allowing you to achieve your desired thickness effortlessly. The turret depth stop is a handy feature that lets you return to frequently used depths quickly and without hassle.

One potential drawback is its weight, coming in at nearly 80 pounds, which may make it less portable for some users. However, its robust build and corded power source mean it is more suited for a stationary setup in a workshop. Another minor downside is the cutting depth of 0.13 inches, which may not be sufficient for very deep cuts in one pass, requiring multiple passes for significant material removal. The dust collection system is included but may require additional setup to connect to a dust extractor for optimal performance. In summary, the DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) is a reliable and high-quality planer suited for woodworking projects, offering excellent cut quality and a range of features that enhance ease of use and precision, especially for those who can accommodate its size and weight within a stationary workshop setting.

The JET BLACK 20-Inch Planer is a heavy-duty machine designed for serious woodworking tasks. Its wide 20-inch cutting width is ideal for larger boards, making it suitable for professional woodworkers or hobbyists working on bigger projects. Powered by a strong 5-horsepower motor and running at up to 5000 RPM, it offers plenty of power for smooth, consistent cuts. The helical cutterhead with multiple blade inserts is a standout feature, providing quieter operation and longer-lasting sharpness compared to traditional blades.

Adjustments to the cutting depth are precise, thanks to the handwheel with a positive gear drive and a fine height scale that allows for increments as small as 1/16 inch—perfect for achieving exact thickness. Its cast iron tables with a special coating resist corrosion and reduce the need for maintenance like waxing. Dust collection is supported with an included dust hood, helping keep the workspace cleaner, though this setup might benefit from a well-matched external vacuum system for best results.

This planer is very heavy at 765 pounds, making it essentially a stationary tool rather than portable. Its size and weight mean it’s best suited for a dedicated workshop space rather than casual or mobile use. Also, it requires a 230V power supply, which is common in professional shops but may need special wiring in home settings. The JET BLACK 20-Inch Planer excels in power, precision, and durability, fitting well for users who need a stable, high-capacity planer for frequent or heavy use. Those looking for a more portable or lightweight option might need to consider smaller benchtop models.

The WEN Thickness Planer (PL1337) is a benchtop model with a 13-inch cutting width and the ability to handle boards up to 6 inches thick. Its two-speed operation allows for quick dimensioning at 26 feet per minute (FPM) and finer finishing at 16 FPM, making it versatile for different woodworking tasks. The planer features a spiral cutterhead with 26 high-speed steel (HSS) blades, which can be rotated and staggered for a smoother finish, a significant advantage for achieving quality results. Powered by a 15-amp motor, it delivers 10,000 rotations per minute and up to 1354 cuts per inch, ensuring efficient and precise planing.

Additional practical features include a depth stop and material removal gauge, which help in maintaining consistent thickness and monitoring material removal. The combination dust port (2-1/2-inch and 4-inch) aids in dust collection, enhancing cleanliness and safety in the workspace. Portability is moderate due to its weight of 69 pounds, making it relatively stable but less convenient to move frequently. The onboard wrench storage and workpiece return rollers add to its user-friendliness. The two-year warranty offers some peace of mind regarding durability and support.

However, its size and weight might not be ideal for those needing a highly portable solution. Additionally, while the dust collection port is useful, it may require a compatible dust extraction system for optimal performance. This planer is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and small workshops looking for a reliable, precise, and user-friendly benchtop planer.