The Most Reliable Workshop Planers for Flawless Boards
The DeWalt DW735X is our top pick for serious woodworkers, offering a powerful 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead that delivers smooth finishes. Its main limitation is the high price, but for consistent thicknessing in a professional setting, it is worth the investment.
A workshop planer is essential for transforming rough lumber into perfectly flat, uniform boards. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, the right planer saves time and ensures accuracy in every project.
We compared the most popular planers on the market, focusing on performance, durability, and features that matter most in a workshop environment. From benchtop models to heavy duty floor machines, our list covers a range of options to suit different budgets and needs.
Our top picks
DeWalt DW735X Thickness Planer
The DeWalt DW735X is a 13 inch benchtop planer with a 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead. It features a two speed gearbox for either slower fine cuts or faster rough cuts. The included infeed and outfeed tables extend support for long boards, and the built in dust hood connects to a shop vac or dust collector for efficient chip removal. Users report that the planer produces glass smooth surfaces even on hard woods, and the knife changing system is quick and tool free. The main downside is that it is heavier than some competitors, but the build quality justifies the weight.
Pros
- Produces very smooth finish
- Quick and easy blade changes
- Powerful motor handles hard woods
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Expensive compared to others
DEWALT DW734 Thickness Planer
The DEWALT DW734 is a 12.5 inch benchtop planer that offers a 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead. It has a single speed gearbox and a manual depth adjustment with a scale for precise settings. The unit is lighter than the DW735X and easier to store. Owners report that it performs well on most woods, though it may require occasional passes to achieve a perfect finish. The dust hood directs chips effectively, but the lack of a built in fan means you need a strong vacuum. Overall, it is a solid choice for smaller shops.
Pros
- Lighter weight for portability
- Good price for the features
- Reliable performance
Cons
- Single speed limits versatility
- Blade changes require tools
WEN 6552 13 Inch Two Speed Benchtop Thickness Planer
The WEN 6552 is a 13 inch planer with a 15 amp motor and a two speed gearbox. It features a three knife cutterhead and a quick release depth adjustment. The planer includes a dust chute and a handle for easy transport. While it is not as robust as premium models, it delivers good results for the price. Users note that it can produce tear out on figured woods, so a slower feed speed is recommended for fine work. The fence is accurate and the infeed and outfeed tables are reasonably long, making it a practical choice for small projects.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Two speed options
- Compact design
Cons
- Less durable parts
- Can tear out on difficult grain
Porter-Cable PC160PT 13 Inch Thickness Planer
The Porter-Cable PC160PT is a 13 inch planer with a 15 amp motor and a three knife cutterhead. It features a built in handle and wheels for easy mobility, making it ideal for job sites or small shops. The depth adjustment is precise, and the dust hood works well with a vacuum. Users appreciate the smooth feed and the ability to set the cutting depth quickly. However, the planer is not as powerful as some competitors, and it may struggle with very hard woods. It remains a popular choice for those who need a dependable, portable planer.
Pros
- Very portable with handle and wheels
- Accurate depth adjustment
- Good dust collection
Cons
- Not as powerful for hard woods
- Some users report plastic parts
Jet JWP-13BT 13 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer
The Jet JWP-13BT is a 13 inch benchtop planer featuring a spiral cutterhead with indexable carbide inserts. This design reduces tear out and produces a superior finish, making it ideal for high quality woodworking. The 15 amp motor offers plenty of power, and the adjustable depth scale allows for fine tuning. It includes a dust hood and a stand that provides stability. Owners report that the carbide inserts last much longer than traditional knives, which offsets the higher initial cost. The planer is heavier than many benchtop models, but its performance justifies the weight.
Pros
- Excellent finish with minimal tear out
- Long lasting carbide inserts
- Precise depth adjustment
Cons
- Heavy and takes up space
- Higher price point
Delta 22-560 12.5 Inch Variable Speed Planer
The Delta 22-560 is a 12.5 inch planer with a 15 amp motor and a variable speed feed system that ranges from 17 to 26 feet per minute. This allows for fine adjustments when working with different woods. It features a three knife cutterhead and a two column design for stable operation. The planer includes a dust port and a depth stop for repetitive cuts. Users appreciate the smooth feed and the ability to slow down for difficult grain. However, some owners note that the depth adjustment knob is not as precise as they would like, and the machine can be noisy.
Pros
- Variable speed for better control
- Stable two column design
- Depth stop for consistent cuts
Cons
- Depth adjustment is less precise
- Can be noisy during operation
Cutech 13 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer with Spiral Cutterhead
The Cutech 13 Inch Planer is a standout for its price, offering a spiral cutterhead with carbide inserts at a budget friendly cost. It has a 15 amp motor and a two speed gearbox, allowing for both rough and fine cuts. The planer includes a dust hood and a stand for added stability. Users report that the finish is remarkably smooth with minimal tear out, comparable to more expensive models. The main trade off is that the build quality is not as robust as premium brands, but for the price, it is an excellent value.
Pros
- Carbide inserts for long life
- Smooth finish on most woods
- Great value for a spiral model
Cons
- Less sturdy construction
- Stand may need reinforcement
Before you buy
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Motor | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DeWalt DW735X Thickness Planer | 15 amp, 2 speed | Professional woodworkers who need consistent results and powerful performance | 9.6 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT DW734 Thickness Planer | 15 amp | Hobbyists who want a reliable, budget friendly option without sacrificing quality | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | WEN 6552 13 Inch Two Speed Benchtop Thickness Planer | 15 amp, 2 speed | Budget conscious woodworkers who need a capable planer for occasional use | 8.4 | Check price |
| 4 | Porter-Cable PC160PT 13 Inch Thickness Planer | 15 amp | Woodworkers who need a reliable planer with a convenient carrying handle | 8.2 | Check price |
| 5 | Jet JWP-13BT 13 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer | 15 amp | Serious hobbyists who want a precise, low maintenance planer with a spiral cutterhead | 9.3 | Check price |
| 6 | Delta 22-560 12.5 Inch Variable Speed Planer | 15 amp | Woodworkers who need variable speed control for different materials | 8.1 | Check price |
| 7 | Cutech 13 Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer with Spiral Cutterhead | 15 amp, 2 speed | DIY enthusiasts who want an affordable spiral cutterhead planer | 8.8 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
What is the difference between a planer and a jointer?
A planer thicknesses boards to a uniform size, while a jointer flattens one face and straightens an edge. For square stock, you typically need both tools.
How much power do I need in a workshop planer?
Most benchtop planers have a 15 amp motor, which is sufficient for most hardwoods and softwoods. For very wide or thick boards, a more powerful motor may be necessary.
Can I use a planer to flatten a board?
No, a planer only makes boards the same thickness. To flatten a board, you need a jointer or a planer sled with shims.
What is the maximum width of boards I can plane?
Benchtop planers typically handle boards up to 13 inches wide. Some larger floor models can handle up to 20 inches or more.
How often should I replace the blades on my planer?
It depends on usage and wood type. Straight knives may last for several hundred board feet, while carbide inserts can last much longer. Check for dullness or nicks.
Are spiral cutterheads worth the extra cost?
If you plan to work with figured woods or want a smoother finish, yes. Spiral heads reduce tear out and the carbide inserts can be rotated for extended life.
Can I use a planer to cut thin strips?
Yes, but you need to use a push stick or sled to keep your hands safe. Planers are not designed for thin stock, so caution is necessary.
What safety features should I look for?
Look for a planer with a safety switch, a blade guard, and anti kickback fingers. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
How do I change the knives on a three knife cutterhead?
Most models have a tool free or simple locking mechanism. Remove the dust hood, loosen the screws, and slide out the old knives. Insert new ones and tighten evenly.
What is the best way to clean a planer after use?
Use compressed air or a vacuum to remove sawdust. Wipe down the table and feed rollers with a dry cloth. Do not use lubricants unless specified by the manufacturer.
Our take
For serious woodworkers who demand the best performance, the DeWalt DW735X is the clear winner. It offers exceptional finish quality and powerful motor, making it a long term investment. If your budget is tighter, the WEN 6552 provides solid value for occasional use, but if you want a spiral cutterhead without breaking the bank, the Cutech is the best compromise.
