10 Best Bench Top Jointer 2026 in the United States

The JET BLACK 8-Inch Jointer (Model JWJ-8HH-BLK) is a robust and efficient tool for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. It features a helical cutterhead with 36 four-sided carbide inserts, ensuring smooth and precise cuts. With a 2 HP motor and a 230V power supply, it offers solid performance for its category. The cast iron construction, coated to resist corrosion and reduce friction, adds durability and minimizes maintenance needs.

The jointer's 8-inch cutting width and 0.13-inch cutting depth are suitable for a variety of woodworking tasks. The two-way tilting fence with positive stops at 45° and 90° allows for accurate angled cuts, which is a handy feature for complex projects. The infeed and outfeed tables are adjustable, facilitating quick and precise modifications. Additionally, the 4-inch dust port ensures effective dust collection, keeping the workspace clean.

However, the jointer is quite heavy at 405 pounds, which may pose challenges for mobility and setup. It also requires a 230V power source, which might not be readily available in all workshops. This jointer is best suited for those who need a reliable and powerful tool but have the space and electrical requirements to accommodate it.

The WEN 12-Amp 12-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer (JT1224H) is a solid choice for hobbyists or small workshop users who need a reliable machine for smoothing and flattening wood. It features a powerful 12-amp motor capable of handling typical woodworking tasks without strain. The 12-inch cutting width is generous for a benchtop model, allowing you to work on wider boards comfortably. Its spiral cutterhead, equipped with 24 staggered high-speed steel blades, is designed to produce a smooth, fine finish with less tear-out, which is especially helpful for delicate or soft woods.

One standout feature is its large cast iron table (34 by 12-3/16 inches) that extends with support arms up to 54 inches, providing good stability and support for longer pieces. The fence is adjustable and can bevel up to 45 degrees, which offers versatility for angled cuts. The cutterhead can remove up to 1/8 inch of material in a single pass, which is standard for jointers this size. Dust collection is supported through 2-1/2 and 4-inch ports, helping keep the workspace cleaner, though users may need a compatible vacuum or dust system to make the most of this.

A potential drawback is its size and weight (over 100 pounds), which could make it less portable or more challenging to fit in smaller workspaces. Additionally, the price might be higher than some entry-level models, reflecting its quality and features. This jointer is well suited for woodworking enthusiasts who want precise results and can accommodate its footprint. For those seeking a compact, sturdy jointer with good cutting capacity and finish, this WEN model is a strong option.

The Shop Fox W1860 is an 8-inch jointer with a helical cutterhead, making it a strong candidate for those needing precise and smooth cuts. The helical cutterhead with 36 inserts ensures efficient and quiet operation, which is beneficial for professional woodworkers who value both performance and noise reduction. The parallelogram table design aids in maintaining a consistent cutting depth, and the lever-adjusted table height with a depth gauge allows for precise adjustments, enhancing ease of use.

The precision-ground cast-iron tables provide a flat and durable working surface, ensuring stability during operations. Additionally, the built-in mobile base offers convenience for moving and storing the jointer as needed, which is a significant benefit for small workshops or those with limited space. The substantial table size (76 inches long) supports longer workpieces effectively, adding to its versatility.

However, at 365 pounds, the jointer is quite heavy, which could be a drawback for users who need to move it frequently despite the mobile base. Also, its rank in sales suggests it might not be widely popular, possibly due to its higher price point or niche market. The 2-year warranty provides some peace of mind regarding its durability and support. The Shop Fox W1860 is well-suited for serious hobbyists or professional woodworkers who need a reliable, precise, and feature-rich jointer for their projects.