10 Best Portable Wood Planers 2025 in the United States

The Makita 2012NB 12" Portable Planer is designed for users who need a compact and lightweight solution for woodworking jobs on the go. Weighing about 61.8 pounds and with dimensions of 30.35 x 19.02 x 15.79 inches, it is relatively easy to transport compared to other models in its class.

It boasts an 11.86-inch cutting width and a powerful 1650-watt motor, providing ample power for various wood planing tasks. One of the standout features is its low noise level of 83dB, which enhances operator comfort during use. The device also includes large table extensions that help support the workpiece, promoting stability alongside its 4-post design and diagonal cross supports.

The ease of changing blades is another significant advantage, as it uses a fast and straightforward system with disposable double-edged blades. However, it’s worth noting that the dust collection feature is not highlighted, which might be a concern for users who prioritize a clean work environment. Additionally, while it is marketed as portable, some users might find the weight still on the higher side for frequent transport. This planer is a reliable choice for professional woodworkers who need efficiency and portability, albeit with some trade-offs in weight and dust management.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a powerful and efficient portable wood planer with several notable features that make it a strong contender in its category. The brushless motor ensures reliable power and extended runtime, making it suitable for prolonged use. With 30,000 cuts per minute, it offers a fast removal rate, enhancing productivity for woodworking tasks.

The maximum cutting depth of 2 mm allows for precise and controlled planing, and the calibrated depth adjustment knob enables fine-tuning to 0.01 mm, catering to detailed work requirements. The planer comes equipped with precision-machined aluminum shoes that ensure parallelism of cut, contributing to accurate and smooth finishes. The kickstand is a practical addition, preventing damage to the work surface when the tool is not in use.

Additionally, the precision-machined groove in the front shoe is designed for edge chamfering, adding versatility to the tool's functionality. Portability is a strong point, with the tool weighing only 7.4 pounds, making it easy to handle and maneuver. It is important to note that the tool is sold as a bare unit, meaning batteries are not included and must be purchased separately. While the planer does not have integrated dust collection, users may need to consider external solutions for managing debris. For users seeking a powerful, portable, and precise wood planer, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a compelling choice, though additional investment in batteries and dust collection might be necessary.

The Makita XPK02Z is a cordless, portable wood planer designed for users who need a powerful and versatile tool for smooth, precise woodworking. Its brushless motor runs at a high speed of 12,000 RPM, helping to remove wood quickly and efficiently. The automatic speed adjustment feature ensures the planer adapts to different wood densities, providing consistent performance without bogging down.

It has a 3-1/4 inch cutting width, suitable for small to medium-sized tasks. The 2-blade cutter head with double-edged carbide blades delivers a smooth finish and longer-lasting sharpness, reducing the need for frequent blade changes. Portability is a strong point since it’s cordless and relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and carry around. Additionally, it supports Makita’s Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS), which can wirelessly connect to a compatible dust extractor to help keep your workspace cleaner.

The aluminum body adds durability without adding too much weight. This Makita planer suits hobbyists or professionals who want a reliable, cordless planer with strong cutting power and smart features, while noting that some accessories are sold separately.