10 Best Portable Planers 2026 in the United States

The JET JWP-13BT is a solid benchtop planer designed for woodworking enthusiasts who need clean, precise cuts. It offers a 13-inch cutting width, which is suitable for most small to medium-sized boards. Its powerful 2-HP motor runs at 10,000 RPM, delivering strong performance to handle various wood types efficiently. The helical-style cutter head with multiple easy-to-change blades is a real plus, providing smooth, clean cuts while reducing noise and tear-out compared to straight blades.

The precision-machined cast iron bed and steel cover help keep the wood flat and reduce snipe, which is common in planers. A thoughtful addition is the flip top benchtop machine table, which expands the work surface and makes it easier to switch between tools, saving space in a workshop. This model is relatively heavy due to its cast iron and alloy steel build, so it’s less ideal if you need a highly portable planer for frequent transport.

The JWP-13BT is well suited for hobbyists and serious DIYers looking for a reliable, sturdy planer with quality cutting performance, although those prioritizing portability and lightweight design might consider other options.

The WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer is designed to offer powerful and efficient performance. Its 15-amp motor delivers a high cutterhead speed of 10,000 RPM, making it capable of handling tough materials with ease. The spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades ensures a smooth and clean finish, which is a significant advantage for users seeking precision in their woodworking projects.

Additionally, the planer can accommodate boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, providing a decent cutting width and depth that should be satisfactory for most home and small workshop tasks. The onboard material removal gauge is a helpful feature as it allows users to monitor the cutting depth of each pass, adding to its user-friendliness.

The WEN PL1326 is relatively heavy, weighing 36.74 kilograms, which may impact its portability and make it less convenient to move around. While it excels in power and performance, the dust collection system might require additional accessories to be efficient, as dust management is crucial in maintaining a clean workspace. This planer is well-suited for users who need a robust tool for precise and smooth finishes but might find it challenging to move around due to its weight.

The JET JWP-13BT is a solid choice if you need a benchtop planer that delivers smooth, clean cuts thanks to its helical-style cutter head with easy-to-change blades. It offers a good cutting width of 13 inches, which suits a variety of woodworking projects. Powered by a strong 2-HP motor running at 10,000 RPM, this planer handles wood efficiently and helps reduce tear-out for a nicer finish.

The precision-machined cast iron bed and steel cover work together to keep boards flat and minimize snipe, which is the unwanted gouging at the start or end of a cut. The included universal benchtop machine table adds a spacious 20-inch by 30-inch work surface, improving stability and support during planing operations.

This combination of powerful motor, quality cutter head, and sturdy construction makes the JET JWP-13BT a reliable tool for woodworkers looking for precision and ease of use in their benchtop planer.