10 Best Planer Machines 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a versatile tool designed for efficient material removal. It offers a cutting width of 6 cubic inches, which is suitable for various woodworking tasks. The cutting depth reaches up to 2 millimeters, allowing for precise adjustments thanks to its calibrated depth adjustment knob which can fine-tune cuts down to 0.01 millimeters. The brushless motor is a significant advantage, providing powerful performance and longer runtime compared to brushed motors.

With a feed rate of 30,000 cuts per minute, this planer works quickly and efficiently. The precision-machined aluminum shoes ensure smooth and parallel cuts, enhancing accuracy and quality of work. The ergonomically designed handle reduces user fatigue, making extended use more comfortable. Additionally, features like the kickstand and edge chamfering groove add to its convenience and functionality.

On the downside, the planer is sold as a bare tool, meaning the required lithium-ion battery is not included and needs to be purchased separately. Despite this drawback, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer stands out in its category for its powerful performance, precision, and user-friendly design, making it suitable for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.

The WEN Thickness Planer, model PL1337, is a versatile benchtop planer designed for woodworking enthusiasts looking for precision and efficiency. One of its standout features is the two-speed operation, offering a 26 FPM feed rate for quick dimensioning and a 16 FPM feed rate for smoother finishes. This flexibility can be highly beneficial for achieving different types of finishes based on your project needs. The spiral cutterhead, with its 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades, ensures a clean and smooth finish, minimizing the need for additional sanding.

The 15-amp motor is robust, delivering 10,000 cutterhead rotations per minute and up to 1354 cuts per inch, which is impressive for a machine in this category. This power allows it to handle boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide effectively. Additional features like the depth stop, onboard material removal gauge, and dual dust port options (2-1/2-inch and 4-inch) enhance ease of use and help maintain a clean workspace. With onboard wrench storage and workpiece return rollers, this planer also focuses on user convenience.

Weighing 69 pounds, it is relatively portable for a benchtop planer, though some users might find it a bit heavy for frequent movement. It also includes a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding durability. On the downside, the product's bulkiness might be a challenge for those with limited workspace, and although the motor is powerful, it relies on a corded electric power source, which might limit mobility. This planer is best suited for serious DIYers and hobbyist woodworkers who need a dependable and versatile tool for various projects.

The JET 20-Inch Planer (Model JWP-208HH) stands out with its substantial 20-inch cutting width, making it suitable for large wood pieces and efficient in professional woodworking environments. Its cutting depth of 0.09 inches allows for precise, fine cuts, ideal for detailed projects. The powerful 5 HP induction motor ensures robust performance, and the V-belt transmission contributes to its reliability and longevity, crucial for heavy-duty usage. The helical cutterhead is notable for delivering smoother finishes and reducing noise compared to straight blades, enhancing the user experience and the quality of the output.

The two-speed feed rate (24/31 fpm) offers flexibility, enabling you to adjust the speed according to the material and specific needs of the project, providing a balance between speed and precision. The planer includes cast iron infeed and outfeed tables, adding to its stability during operation. Additionally, the one-piece welded steel base provides solid support and reduces vibrations. However, the machine’s weight (753 pounds) and size could be a challenge for smaller workshops, requiring ample space and possibly more than one person for setup. Dust collection isn't explicitly detailed, which might necessitate an external solution to maintain a clean workspace.

The handwheel with positive gear drive simplifies table adjustments, and magnetic controls promise reliability, adding to the machine's lifespan. The 5-year warranty (or 2 years for commercial use) provides some peace of mind regarding its durability. In summary, this planer is highly suitable for professional woodworkers requiring high precision, power, and reliability, though its size and weight may be limiting factors for some users.