Benchtop Planers That Deliver Smooth Boards
The WEN 6552 leads our list for most DIYers. It combines a 15 amp motor with a two knife cutter head at a budget friendly price. Its main limitation is the lack of a spiral cutter head, which can produce more tear out on figured wood.
A benchtop planer is a game changer for any woodworker. It turns rough lumber into flat, smooth boards ready for joinery or finishing. But with many models on the market, finding the right one takes research.
We compared specifications and owner reports across popular benchtop planers. Our goal is to help you choose a machine that matches your projects and budget. From compact units to heavy duty models, there is a planer here for every shop.
The shortlist, ranked
WEN 6552 13 Inch Two Speed Benchtop Thickness Planer
The WEN 6552 is a popular choice for hobbyists. It features a 15 amp motor that powers through hardwoods. The two speed gearbox lets you choose between a slower finish cut and a faster rough cut. Owners appreciate its reliability and the included extra set of blades.
Pros
- Two speed gearbox for versatility
- Includes extra blades and wrenches
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Some tear out on figured wood
- Dust chute could be larger
DEWALT DW735X 13 Inch Three Knife Cutterhead Planer
The DEWALT DW735X is a workhorse in many professional shops. It has a 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead that delivers a smooth finish. The X version includes a mobile stand and extra knives. Its powerful fan makes chip ejection efficient, but it is loud and heavy.
Pros
- Excellent finish quality
- Built in chip ejection fan
- Includes stand and extra knives
Cons
- Very loud operation
- Heavy and requires space
DEWALT DW734 12-1/2 Inch Benchtop Planer
The DEWALT DW734 is a lighter alternative to the DW735. It weighs around 60 pounds and is easier to move around. It still offers a 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead. Owners report it handles most tasks well, though it lacks the DW735’s fan assisted ejection.
Pros
- Lighter and more portable
- Same motor power as larger model
- Adjustable carriage lock
Cons
- No chip ejection fan
- Blade changes require a hex wrench
CRAFTSMAN CMEPW13 13 Amp 13 Inch Benchtop Planer
The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW13 is an affordable planer for beginners. It has a 13 amp motor that is less powerful than others but sufficient for softwoods and light hardwoods. The two knife cutterhead is simple to maintain. It comes with a foldable infeed and outfeed table for support.
Pros
- Low cost entry point
- Foldable tables save space
- Easy to change knives
Cons
- Struggles with thick hardwoods
- Less precise depth adjustment
PORTER-CABLE PCB430 13 Amp 13 Inch Benchtop Planer
The PORTER-CABLE PCB430 offers a good balance of price and features. It has a 13 amp motor and a two knife cutterhead that produces clean cuts on most woods. The built in dust hood directs chips to a vacuum. Users like its compact footprint and easy knife changes.
Pros
- Good price for features
- Dust hood included
- Compact and stable
Cons
- Not for heavy production
- Knives may dull quickly on abrasive wood
WEN 6550 12-1/2 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer
The WEN 6550 is a smaller and lighter planer, ideal for limited spaces. It has a 15 amp motor and a two knife cutterhead. Despite its compact size, it can handle boards up to 12.5 inches wide. It is often praised for its quiet operation compared to other models.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Powerful motor for its size
- Relatively quiet
Cons
- Not as wide as 13 inch models
- Lower maximum depth per pass
Grizzly G0823 13 Inch Benchtop Planer
The Grizzly G0823 is a step up with its spiral cutterhead. It has 15 amp motor and a helical head with multiple inserts that rotate for longer life. This design reduces tear out and produces a superior finish. It is more expensive but a favorite among serious woodworkers.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead minimizes tear out
- Replaceable inserts save money long term
- Smooth finish on figured wood
Cons
- Higher price
- Heavier and bulkier
What matters most
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Motor | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WEN 6552 13 Inch Two Speed Benchtop Thickness Planer | 15 Amp | Best Overall for DIYers | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT DW735X 13 Inch Three Knife Cutterhead Planer | 15 Amp | Best for Professionals | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | DEWALT DW734 12-1/2 Inch Benchtop Planer | 15 Amp | Best for Mobility | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | CRAFTSMAN CMEPW13 13 Amp 13 Inch Benchtop Planer | 13 Amp | Best Budget Option | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | PORTER-CABLE PCB430 13 Amp 13 Inch Benchtop Planer | 13 Amp | Best for Value Features | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | WEN 6550 12-1/2 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer | 15 Amp | Best for Small Shops | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Grizzly G0823 13 Inch Benchtop Planer | 15 Amp | Best for Spiral Cutterhead | 8.8 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a benchtop planer and a jointer?
A jointer flattens one face and squares one edge of a board. A planer thicknesses the board to a uniform thickness, but it cannot make a warped board flat. They are often used together for preparing rough lumber.
Can I use a benchtop planer on plywood?
It is not recommended. Plywood has glue layers that can dull blades quickly. Also, planing plywood can cause it to chip or delaminate. Use a saw for sizing plywood.
How do I prevent tear out when planing?
Use a spiral cutterhead or take very light passes. Feeding the board with the grain direction helps. Avoid planing both faces with the same orientation, as that can cause snipe at the ends.
What is snipe and how do I minimize it?
Snipe is a slight depression on the ends of a board caused by the rollers tilting the board. To minimize snipe, use a planer with a longer infeed and outfeed table. Some models have a lock mechanism to reduce snipe. Always plane boards longer than needed and trim the ends.
How often should I replace the knives on my benchtop planer?
It depends on usage and wood type. If you notice a rough finish or increased tear out, it is time to replace or rotate knives. Regularly inspect them for dullness. Some users replace them every few months, but heavy use may require more frequent changes.
Can I plane boards that are wider than the planer capacity?
No, the planer can only cut boards that fit within its cutting width. Attempting to plane a wider board will result in an uneven cut or damage to the machine. Check the board width before feeding.
What safety gear should I wear when using a benchtop planer?
Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. A dust mask is also recommended, especially if you do not have a dust collection system. Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair.
How do I store my benchtop planer?
Keep it in a dry area to prevent rust. If space is limited, some models have folding tables that allow for compact storage. Cover it with a tarp or a dedicated cover to keep dust off.
Our take
For most home woodworkers, the WEN 6552 offers the best combination of power, features, and price. It handles a wide range of tasks and leaves enough money for other tools. If you are a professional or require the best possible finish, invest in the Grizzly G0823 with its spiral cutterhead. That model will reduce tear out and save you time on sanding.
