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Benchtop planers help woodworkers achieve smooth, even surfaces quickly and easily. Choosing the right model makes a big difference in your work quality.
Benchtop planers come in different sizes and power levels. Some have two blades, while others use three for faster cutting. Features like speed settings and noise reduction matter. Brands such as WEN, VEVOR, CRAFTSMAN, and DEWALT offer reliable options. These planers suit both hard and soft wood types.
Whether you need a wide worktable or an extended infeed, there is a model for you. This guide covers top benchtop planers to help you pick one that fits your woodworking needs and budget. Simple to use and built to last, these tools improve your woodworking results every time.
Wen Pl1326 Thickness Planer
The WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable, compact, and efficient tool for smoothing and resizing lumber. If you frequently work on small to medium-sized projects and require precision in your wood thicknessing, this planer is a perfect fit for your workshop.
Pros:
- Powerful 15-amp motor delivers consistent performance for smooth planing.
- 13-inch width capacity accommodates a variety of lumber sizes.
- Spiral cutter head ensures a cleaner, quieter cut with reduced tear-out.
- Compact benchtop design saves space while maintaining stability.
- Durable build with a bright orange finish for easy visibility in the workshop.
Cons:
- Weighs approximately 81 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move frequently.
- Limited to 13-inch width, which may not suit very large lumber pieces.
The WEN PL1326 features a robust 15-amp motor that powers the spiral cutter head to provide smooth and efficient thickness planing. This design reduces tear-out and noise compared to traditional straight-knife models, making it ideal for achieving a professional finish on your woodworking projects. Additionally, the 13-inch capacity allows users to work on a wide range of lumber sizes, providing versatility for various tasks.
Its benchtop form factor makes it a space-saving addition to any workshop without sacrificing stability or performance. The bright orange color not only adds an aesthetic appeal but also enhances visibility to ensure safe operation. Overall, the WEN PL1326 is a dependable and practical planer designed to meet the needs of both hobbyists and professionals looking for precision and efficiency in their woodworking endeavors.
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Vevor Power Benchtop Planer
The VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who require a reliable and efficient tool for smoothing and shaping both hard and soft wood materials. This planer is perfect for those working in small workshops or home garages who value precision, versatility, and low noise operation in their woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Compact and portable with a 13″ width worktable, suitable for limited workspace.
- Three-blade design ensures smooth and even wood removal.
- Two-speed settings provide flexibility for different wood types and finishing needs.
- Extended infeeding table enhances stability and accuracy when feeding wood through the planer.
- Low noise operation ideal for indoor use without disturbing the environment.
- Robust construction with a manageable weight of 62 pounds for stability during use.
Cons:
- May require frequent blade maintenance for heavy-duty or extended use.
- Limited to benchtop size, which may not accommodate very large wood pieces.
- No built-in dust collection system, so external arrangements might be necessary.
The VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer stands out with its powerful three-blade cutter head designed to deliver smooth and consistent results on a variety of wood types. The two-speed options allow users to adjust the feed rate, optimizing performance for both softwoods and hardwoods. This versatility ensures that woodworkers can achieve precise thickness and finish quality without compromising on speed or control.
Additionally, the extended infeeding table provides enhanced support for longer wood pieces, reducing the risk of uneven cuts and improving overall accuracy. Its compact design, combined with quiet operation, makes it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals working in noise-sensitive environments. Durable construction and thoughtful engineering make this planer a valuable addition for anyone looking to elevate their woodworking projects with efficient material removal and fine-tuned results.
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Craftsman Planer
The CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320) is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who require a reliable and powerful tool for precise wood smoothing and thicknessing. This planer is perfect for those who work on benchtop projects and need a durable, easy-to-use machine that delivers consistent results. Whether you are a hobbyist or a contractor, this planer is designed to enhance your craftsmanship with its solid construction and efficient performance.
Pros:
- Powerful 15 Amp motor for efficient and smooth planing
- Durable two knife solid steel cutter head ensures sharp and precise cuts
- Compact benchtop design suitable for small to medium workspaces
- Robust build quality with reliable CRAFTSMAN brand reputation
- Multiple color options including black, grey, red, and brown
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at approximately 61 pounds, which may limit portability
- Size dimensions (15.4″ H x 17.5″ W x 23.5″ L) may require adequate bench space
- May have a steeper learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with planer operation
The CRAFTSMAN Planer CMEW320 features a strong 15 Amp motor that delivers consistent power for smooth, even cuts on a variety of wood types. The two knife solid steel cutter head ensures longevity and sharpness, reducing the need for frequent blade changes and maintenance. This allows users to achieve professional-quality finishes with minimal effort, making it ideal for both detailed woodworking and larger surface planing tasks.
Its compact benchtop design makes it accessible for users with limited workspace, while still providing enough size and weight to maintain stability during operation. The sturdy construction and trusted CRAFTSMAN branding provide confidence in durability and performance, ensuring this planer will be a dependable addition to any workshop. Overall, it offers a balance of power, precision, and convenience for those serious about woodworking projects.
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Dewalt Thickness Planer
The DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-inch, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X) is ideal for professional woodworkers and serious DIY enthusiasts who require precision and power for their woodworking projects. If you need a reliable planer that can handle large volumes of wood with smooth, accurate cuts, this model is designed to meet those demands. It’s perfect for those looking to enhance their workshop capabilities with a robust and versatile tool.
Pros:
- Powerful 15 Amp motor delivering up to 20,000 RPM for efficient and smooth planing.
- Two-speed settings allowing users to adjust feed rates for different wood types and finishes.
- Generous 13-inch width capacity accommodating larger boards and wider materials.
- Durable construction with black and yellow DEWALT branding ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Compact dimensions (20.6 inches height, 1.0 inch width, 24.25 inches length) for easier workshop integration despite its weight.
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 102 pounds, which may reduce portability.
- Higher price point might be a consideration for casual or occasional users.
The DW735X Thickness Planer boasts a robust 15 Amp motor that spins at a high speed of 20,000 RPM, ensuring rapid material removal and a superior finish. Its two-speed feed system allows users to select between a faster or slower pass, optimizing the finish quality based on wood hardness and project requirements. This flexibility enhances overall productivity and precision, making it suitable for both rough and fine planing tasks.
In addition, the 13-inch width capacity accommodates a wide range of lumber sizes, increasing the versatility of this planer. The sturdy build and reliable DEWALT manufacturing guarantee durability and consistent performance, even in demanding workshop environments. Though it is somewhat heavy, its solid construction contributes to stable operation and reduced vibration, resulting in smoother cuts and improved user control. Overall, the DW735X is a powerful, efficient, and dependable thickness planer for serious woodworking professionals.
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Wen Pl1252 Benchtop Thickness Planer
The WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who require precise and efficient thickness planing. If you are someone who works on furniture making, cabinetry, or general wood projects and needs a reliable tool to achieve smooth, uniform boards, this planer is a great choice. Its compact size and powerful motor make it suitable for both small workshops and on-site projects.
Pros:
- Powerful 15-amp motor for smooth and efficient planing
- 12.5-inch width capacity accommodates a variety of board sizes
- Two-blade cutter head ensures clean cuts and fine finishes
- Compact benchtop design saves workspace and allows for easy portability
- Sturdy construction with a black finish that resists wear and tear
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 64 pounds, which might affect portability for some users
- No built-in dust collection bag, requiring external dust management solutions
- Limited thickness capacity compared to some larger planers
The WEN PL1252 features a robust 15-amp motor that delivers consistent power, making it easy to plane hardwoods and softer woods alike. Its 12.5-inch width capacity allows users to work on wider boards without multiple passes, saving time and effort. The two-blade cutter head design enhances the smoothness of the finish, reducing the need for additional sanding and ensuring professional-grade results.
Designed with a compact benchtop form factor, this planer fits comfortably in smaller workshops or garages while still offering the performance needed for serious woodworking projects. The durable construction and sleek black color give it a professional look and longevity. While it lacks an integrated dust collection system, its design supports the attachment of external dust extractors to maintain a clean workspace. Overall, the WEN PL1252 is a powerful, reliable tool that balances performance and convenience for woodworkers seeking precise thickness planing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Benchtop Planer For Hardwood?
The DEWALT DW735X is ideal for hardwood. It offers a powerful 15 Amp motor and two speeds for smooth, precise cuts. Its 13-inch width supports larger boards, making it perfect for tough wood types.
How Do Spiral Blades Compare To Straight Blades?
Spiral blades provide smoother finishes and quieter operation. They last longer and reduce tear-out on wood surfaces. Straight blades are easier to sharpen but may leave rougher cuts.
Which Planer Offers The Best Noise Reduction?
The VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer features low noise design. It uses advanced blade technology for quieter operation, ideal for indoor use without disturbing others.
Are Two-speed Planers Better Than Single-speed Ones?
Two-speed planers like the DEWALT DW735X offer versatility. They handle softwoods at high speed and hardwoods at low speed. This feature improves finish quality and extends blade life.
What Size Benchtop Planer Is Suitable For Home Use?
A 12. 5 to 13-inch width, like the WEN PL1326 or PL1252, suits home workshops. These sizes balance capacity and portability, fitting most DIY projects and small woodworking tasks.
How Important Is The Infeed Table Extension?
Extended infeed tables improve stability for long boards. The VEVOR planer’s extended table supports smooth feeding and accurate thickness control, reducing snipe and enhancing precision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right benchtop planer can make your woodworking projects smoother and faster. Each model offers unique features like power, speed, and cutting precision. The WEN PL1326 and DEWALT DW735X stand out for strong motors and wide cutting capacity. The VEVOR and CRAFTSMAN planers bring useful options for both hard and soft woods.
The WEN PL1252 is a solid choice for smaller tasks and easy handling. Think about the size of your projects and how often you will use the planer. Also, consider noise levels and ease of adjustments. With the right benchtop planer, you can achieve clean, even surfaces every time.
Take your time to pick the one that fits your needs and budget well. This way, you get the best value and excellent results in your woodworking work.