10 Best Planer Thicknesser 2025 in the United States

The JET 20-Inch Planer (Model JWP-208HH) is packed with features that make it a strong performer in the planer-thicknesser category. Its 20-inch cutting width and 0.09-inch cutting depth accommodate larger pieces of wood, making it suitable for significant woodworking projects. The 5 HP motor delivers ample power, ensuring smooth operation even for hardwoods, while the helical cutterhead provides a superior finish and quieter operation compared to straight blades.

The two-speed feed rate (24/31 fpm) allows for flexibility depending on the type of wood and desired finish, and the integrated automatic chain tensioner adds to the convenience and reliability of the machine. The large handwheel with positive gear drive and the 1/16-inch increment height scale facilitate precise adjustments, enhancing the accuracy of the planer. The one-piece welded steel base and cast iron infeed/outfeed tables contribute to the machine's stability and durability.

However, the planer is quite heavy, weighing in at 753 pounds, which may pose challenges for mobility within the workshop. Additionally, while it includes a dust hood, effective dust collection might require an external dust collection system, as dust management is crucial for maintaining a clean workspace. The product's 5-year warranty for residential use (2 years for commercial use) indicates reliability and user satisfaction. This planer would be an excellent choice for serious hobbyists and professional woodworkers who need a robust, precise machine for their projects.

The Powermatic 22-Inch Planer (Model 201HH) is a heavy-duty machine designed for serious woodworking. It features a robust 7.5 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 125 four-sided carbide knife inserts, ensuring smooth and quiet cuts. This planer has a generous cutting width of 22 inches and a cutting depth of 0.19 inches, making it suitable for large and thick workpieces.

The adjustable bed rollers facilitate easy feeding of both rough and finished pieces, and the roller bearing-mounted feed rollers ensure smooth operation and durability. The segmented infeed roller with a sectional chip breaker is an added advantage for handling multiple height stock efficiently. Additionally, the planer includes a dust chute with a 5-inch port, which is excellent for dust collection and maintaining a clean workspace. The all-cast iron construction, complete with a heavy cast iron table that travels on two large lead screws, adds to its stability and precision.

However, the machine's substantial weight (1430 pounds) means it is not easily portable and may require a dedicated space in your workshop. It's also quite large, with dimensions of 49 inches in length, 42 inches in width, and 59 inches in height, which might not be ideal for smaller workshops. This planer is best suited for professionals or serious woodworking enthusiasts who need a reliable and powerful machine capable of handling large projects. It also includes a 5-year warranty, which provides added peace of mind.

The JET 12-Inch Planer/Jointer (Model JPJ-12BHH) is a versatile woodworking tool designed to handle both planing and jointing tasks with ease. Its standout feature is the helical cutterhead with 42 four-sided carbide inserts, which ensures smooth, rapid cutting and a superior finish on your workpieces. The 12-inch cutting width is ample for most projects, while the 0.13-inch cutting depth may require multiple passes for deeper cuts. Powered by a robust 3 HP motor and running on 230V, this machine delivers consistent performance, though it may demand a dedicated power source in your workshop due to its high power requirements.

The feed rate is generally adequate for professional use, considering the powerful motor and cutterhead design. The heavy-duty cast iron tables and a steel closed stand provide stability and accuracy, crucial for precise woodworking. The large handwheel allows for quick and easy adjustments to the planer table, making it user-friendly. The parallelogram design is another plus, as it helps maintain the table's position relative to the cutterhead for accurate depth adjustments.

The table size and extensions are generous, supporting larger pieces of wood. However, the machine's considerable weight (453 pounds) means it might require a permanent spot in your workshop and could be difficult to move. This planer/jointer is ideal for serious woodworkers who need a reliable, powerful, and precise machine, but it may not be suitable for smaller workshops or occasional hobbyists due to its size and power demands.