10 Best Benchtop Wood Planers 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a versatile tool designed for efficient wood planing. It features a brushless motor that provides significant power and longer runtime, achieving a high removal rate with 30,000 cuts per minute. This planer offers a maximum cutting depth of 2 mm, which is adequate for most planing tasks, though it may not be sufficient for deeper cuts required by some projects. The 20-volt battery power source adds to its portability, making it convenient for on-site jobs, though users should be aware that the battery is not included with the bare tool and needs to be purchased separately.

Weighing in at 7.4 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, further enhancing its portability. The planer includes useful features like a calibrated depth adjustment knob for precise control, precision-machined aluminum shoes for consistent cuts, and a kickstand to prevent gouging the work material when not in use. However, it lacks an integrated dust collection system, which could mean a messier work environment and additional cleanup time.

The Poly-V drive belt contributes to the tool's durability, and the ergonomic handle design helps reduce user fatigue during extended use. The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a solid choice for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts, offering plenty of power and precision in a compact, portable package. Users should be prepared for the additional cost of the battery and manage dust collection separately.

The DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) is a powerful and reliable tool designed for both amateur and professional woodworkers. With a 15-amp motor running at 20,000 RPM, it handles larger and deeper cuts in hardwoods efficiently. The three-knife cutter head, operating at 10,000 RPM, provides 96 cuts per inch, ensuring a smooth and fine finish, making it ideal for those requiring high-quality surface finish on their projects. The reversible and disposable knives enhance convenience by extending knife life and simplifying the knife change process. Additionally, the four-column carriage lock minimizes movement that causes snipe, improving the accuracy of the planer.

The extra-long infeed and outfeed tables offer substantial material support, enhancing stability during planing operations. A material removal gauge and an extra-large thickness scale ensure precise cuts, and the turret depth stop allows users to easily return to frequently used depths, adding to its user-friendly features. However, the planer weighs nearly 80 pounds, which may affect its portability and make it less convenient to move around compared to lighter models. Also, while it includes a dust hood, dust collection efficiency might require additional attachments or a dedicated dust collection system for optimal performance.

The planer is corded, which might limit its placement based on power outlet availability. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DEWALT DW734 is highly ranked in its category and backed by a three-year limited warranty, making it a robust and dependable choice for serious woodworkers seeking precision and durability in their benchtop planer.