10 Best Benchtop Planers 2025 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer (CMEW320) is designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking to work with hardwood and softwood materials. With a powerful 15 Amp motor, it efficiently handles tough jobs and ensures effective material removal. The two-knife solid steel cutter head is a strong point, offering smooth operation and durability, making it suitable for users who prioritize a clean finish in their woodworking projects.

One of the standout features is its high carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives, which extend the cutting life and reduce the need for frequent replacements. The poly-v cutterhead drive further enhances its capability to maximize stock removal, appealing to those who require precision in their cuts.

The weight of 27.71 kg may be a drawback for some users, as it could limit portability and ease of handling. Additionally, while the vacuum port for dust collection keeps the workspace cleaner, users should ensure they have compatible dust collection systems for optimal performance. The foot print of 23.5"L x 17.5"W means it will take up a reasonable amount of bench space, which needs to be considered in smaller workshops.

The WEN Thickness Planer, model PL1337, is a versatile and efficient tool for woodworking enthusiasts. With a 13-inch cutting width and the capability to plane boards up to 6 inches thick, it offers a good range for various projects. The two-speed operation stands out, offering a 26 feet per minute (FPM) feed rate for quick dimensioning and a slower 16 FPM rate for achieving a finer finish. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for both rough and fine woodworking tasks.

The spiral cutterhead, equipped with 26 staggered and rotatable high-speed steel (HSS) blades, ensures a smooth and clean finish, which is a significant advantage for achieving professional results. The powerful 15-amp motor generates up to 10,000 rotations per minute, providing sufficient power for most wood types and maintaining up to 1354 cuts per inch. Additional features like the depth stop, onboard material removal gauge, and dual port dust collection system (compatible with 2-1/2-inch and 4-inch ports) add to its practicality and ease of use. The onboard wrench storage and workpiece return rollers enhance convenience during operation.

However, at 69 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users to move around frequently. The product has received favorable customer reviews, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 677 ratings, indicating a high level of user satisfaction. Given its capabilities and features, this planer is well-suited for both professional woodworkers and serious hobbyists looking for a reliable and versatile addition to their workshop.

The DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) is a robust option for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. It features a powerful 15-amp motor that can handle larger, deeper cuts in hardwoods, delivering a high performance with its 20,000 RPM speed. The 12-1/2-inch cutting width and three-knife cutter head, which operates at 10,000 RPM, ensures a fine finish with 96 cuts per inch. This results in smooth surfaces with minimal effort. The disposable, reversible knives increase the lifespan by 30% and facilitate quick changes, reducing downtime during projects.

The four-column carriage lock is a valuable addition, minimizing movement that causes snipe, while the extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide ample material support, making the planing process more stable and efficient. Additional features like the material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale help achieve precise cuts easily. The turret depth stop allows users to quickly return to their most-used depth settings, improving workflow efficiency.

However, one potential drawback is its weight, standing at 36.29 kilograms, which may make it less portable for some users. Additionally, while it offers great power and precision, it lacks an integrated dust collection system, which might necessitate additional equipment to manage wood chips and dust. To sum up, the DEWALT DW734 is an excellent choice for those seeking precision, durability, and ease of use in a benchtop planer, provided the weight and dust collection limitations are manageable.