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10 Best Electric Hand Planers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V MAX Planer, 30,000 Cuts Per Minute, 2 mm Cut Depth, Brushless Motor, Bare Tool Only (DCP580B)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,346
Dust Collection

Most important from
4470 reviews

Dust Collection
Works great but you really need the dust collector attachment.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a solid choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile electric hand planer. With a brushless motor, this tool offers a high power output and long runtime, capable of making 30,000 cuts per minute, which ensures a rapid removal rate. The maximum cutting depth of 2 mm allows for efficient material removal, while the calibrated depth adjustment knob provides precision for finer adjustments, down to 0.01 mm increments.

This planer is designed with ergonomics in mind; its handle is comfortable to hold, which helps reduce user fatigue during extended use. The weight of 7.4 pounds is manageable, and the tool includes a kickstand to prevent damage to the work surface when not in use. The front and back aluminum shoes ensure parallel cuts, and the groove in the front shoe is useful for edge chamfering.

However, there are a few points to consider. This is a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger are not included, which could be an additional cost if you don't already own compatible DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. Dust collection capabilities are not highlighted in the provided features, which might be a downside for those needing a cleaner work environment. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a reliable tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,346
Dust Collection

Most important from
4470 reviews

Dust Collection
Works great but you really need the dust collector attachment.
#2

Makita 1806B 6-3/4" Planer

Rating
10.0
Power (Amps)
Weight
Dust Collection

Most important from
58 reviews

Power (Amps)
Perfect for flattening large slabs or timber, this planer delivers plenty of power to get through material effortlessly.
Weight
While heavy, it glides beautifully once you start working on a large piece, providing a stable and controlled operation.
Dust Collection
Lacks chip and dust collection, so be ready to deal with fine shavings during and after use.
Ergonomics
Ideal for demanding tasks, it performs smoothly even on a 30-foot wooden boat, providing a silky finish with just two passes.

The Makita 1806B 6-3/4" Planer is a powerful tool, boasting a 10.9 AMP motor that delivers an impressive 15,000 RPM, making it highly effective for heavy-duty planing tasks. Its substantial cutting width of 6-3/4 inches allows you to cover more area in a single pass, which can save time on larger projects. The planer is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring a comfortable handle and an easy-to-use depth setting. The alignment of the front and back grips also enhances control, making it easier to achieve precise results.

The large, sturdy sole plate adds stability during operation, which is a plus for maintaining consistency over extended use. However, at 9 kilograms (nearly 20 pounds), it is quite heavy, which might be tiring to use for extended periods, especially for users who prefer lighter tools. The product does not specify details about dust collection, which could be a drawback if you need a cleaner workspace.

While the planer includes useful components like a sharpening holder assembly and guide rule, it may not be the most portable option due to its size and weight. Nonetheless, the strong motor and wide cutting capacity make it a solid choice for those needing a robust planer for demanding jobs.

Rating
10.0
Power (Amps)
Weight
Dust Collection

Most important from
58 reviews

Power (Amps)
Perfect for flattening large slabs or timber, this planer delivers plenty of power to get through material effortlessly.
Weight
While heavy, it glides beautifully once you start working on a large piece, providing a stable and controlled operation.
Dust Collection
Lacks chip and dust collection, so be ready to deal with fine shavings during and after use.
Ergonomics
Ideal for demanding tasks, it performs smoothly even on a 30-foot wooden boat, providing a silky finish with just two passes.
#3

Makita XPK02Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3-1/4" Planer, AWS™ Capable, Tool Only

Rating
7.9
Power (Amps)
Weight
Ergonomics

Most important from
294 reviews

Power (Amps)
The quiet yet powerful motor enhances productivity and quality, especially for professional carpentry work.
Weight
Despite its powerful material removal capabilities, the tool remains surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle.
Ergonomics
Features like the reversible chip shoot add practical versatility, improving overall user experience.

The Makita XPK02Z 18V cordless hand planer is designed for users who want a powerful and portable tool. Its brushless motor spins at 12,000 RPM, allowing for faster and smoother wood removal, which helps speed up your work. The planer features a 3-1/4 inch wide cutter head with two double-edged carbide blades, known for lasting longer and giving a clean finish. One handy feature is the Automatic Speed Change technology that adjusts the blade speed depending on the thickness and resistance of the wood, making cuts smoother and more consistent.

This model is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to handle for extended periods—good news if you’re working on detailed projects or overhead tasks. It also supports Makita’s Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS), which can wirelessly turn on a compatible dust extractor when you start planing, helping to keep your workspace cleaner. The dust collection device and AWS transmitter are sold separately, allowing users to customize their dust management setup according to their needs.

The planer suits DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a cordless, efficient tool for light to medium planing jobs with the flexibility of Bluetooth dust control integration.

Rating
7.9
Power (Amps)
Weight
Ergonomics

Most important from
294 reviews

Power (Amps)
The quiet yet powerful motor enhances productivity and quality, especially for professional carpentry work.
Weight
Despite its powerful material removal capabilities, the tool remains surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle.
Ergonomics
Features like the reversible chip shoot add practical versatility, improving overall user experience.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Hand Planers

Electric hand planers are essential tools for woodworkers, carpenters, and DIY enthusiasts. They help in smoothing and leveling wood surfaces, removing excess material, and creating precise cuts. Choosing the right electric hand planer involves understanding various specifications that affect its performance and suitability for your specific needs. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting an electric hand planer.
Power (Amps)The power of an electric hand planer is measured in amps. This spec indicates the electrical current the motor can handle, which directly affects the tool's performance. Higher amp ratings generally mean more powerful motors that can handle tougher materials and larger projects. For light-duty tasks, a planer with 5-7 amps may suffice. For more demanding jobs, look for planers with 8-10 amps or higher. Consider the type of work you'll be doing to determine the appropriate power level.
Cutting DepthCutting depth refers to the maximum amount of material the planer can remove in a single pass. This is important for efficiency and precision in your work. Planers typically offer adjustable cutting depths, ranging from 1/64 inch to 1/8 inch or more. For fine, detailed work, a smaller cutting depth is ideal. For larger, rougher projects, a deeper cutting depth will save time and effort. Assess the nature of your projects to choose a planer with the right cutting depth range.
Blade TypeElectric hand planers use different types of blades, such as high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. HSS blades are sharp and affordable, suitable for softwoods and general use. Carbide blades are more durable and stay sharp longer, making them ideal for hardwoods and heavy-duty tasks. Consider the type of wood you'll be working with and the frequency of use to decide which blade type is best for you.
Planing WidthPlaning width is the maximum width of material the planer can handle in one pass. Common widths range from 3 inches to 6 inches. Wider planers can cover more surface area quickly, which is beneficial for larger projects. However, they may be heavier and harder to maneuver. For smaller, detailed work, a narrower width may be more practical. Think about the size of the materials you'll be working with to choose the appropriate planing width.
WeightThe weight of an electric hand planer affects its ease of use and maneuverability. Lighter planers are easier to handle and control, especially for extended periods of use. Heavier planers may offer more stability and power but can be tiring to use. Consider your physical strength and the duration of your projects to find a planer with a comfortable weight for you.
Dust CollectionDust collection systems help keep your workspace clean by collecting wood shavings and dust produced during planing. Some planers come with built-in dust bags or ports for attaching external vacuum systems. Effective dust collection is important for maintaining a clean work environment and reducing health risks associated with inhaling wood dust. If you prioritize cleanliness and health, look for planers with efficient dust collection features.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to the design and comfort of the planer, including handle placement, grip, and overall balance. A well-designed planer reduces strain and fatigue, making it easier to use for extended periods. Look for planers with comfortable, non-slip handles and balanced weight distribution. If you plan to use the planer frequently or for long sessions, prioritize ergonomic features to enhance your comfort and productivity.

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