10 Best Power Planers 2026 in the United States

The DEWALT DW735 is a powerful 13-inch thickness planer designed for serious woodworking projects, especially those involving wider boards. It features a strong 15-amp motor that spins at 20,000 RPM, making it capable of handling larger cuts smoothly. The planer has a decent cutting depth of 0.13 inches, suitable for removing a good amount of material in each pass. One of its highlights is the three-knife cutter head, which runs at 10,000 RPM and offers longer knife life and easier blade changes compared to single- or two-knife models. This means less downtime for maintenance. The two-speed gearbox lets you choose between different feed rates (96 or 179 cuts per inch), so you can prioritize a smoother finish or faster work depending on your project.

The wide 13-inch planing width is ideal for bigger boards, and the solid cast aluminum base adds stability and reduces vibration, helping improve the quality of your cuts. It also comes with built-in features like an automatic carriage lock to minimize snipe (those unwanted dips at the start or end of a board) without extra effort from you. Dust collection is handled well with a fan-assisted chip ejection system and a dust hose adapter to keep your workspace cleaner.

On the downside, its weight and size (over 24 inches long and 22 inches wide) mean it’s less portable and better suited for a dedicated workshop rather than on-the-go jobs. Also, being a corded model limits mobility but ensures consistent power for heavy use. This planer is a solid choice if you often work with larger lumber and need a reliable, precise tool with good dust management. Beginners can use it too, but it’s especially beneficial for woodworkers looking for professional-level performance at a mid-range price.

The DEWALT DW735X is a heavy-duty, 13-inch thickness planer built for serious woodworking projects. Its powerful 15-amp motor runs at high speeds (20,000 RPM) to easily handle wider and thicker pieces of wood. The three-knife cutter head is a real plus, as it not only lasts longer but also makes changing blades faster and simpler compared to models with fewer knives. You can choose between two feed speeds (96 or 179 cuts per inch), which helps customize the finish quality on your wood.

The 13-inch cutting width lets you plane larger boards, making it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals working on bigger jobs. The machine’s large aluminum base adds stability, reducing movement and the annoying snipe effect without needing manual adjustments. It comes with infeed and outfeed tables to support longer boards and has an easy-to-read thickness gauge for precise adjustments. For dust control, the fan-assisted chip ejection system efficiently vacuums away wood shavings, keeping your workspace cleaner.

This planer is quite heavy at 102 pounds, so it’s better suited for a fixed workshop rather than moving around often. Also, while the 0.13-inch maximum cutting depth is adequate for most tasks, it may not suit those needing deeper cuts in a single pass. If you want a reliable, accurate, and durable benchtop planer with features that support heavy use and easy maintenance, the DEWALT DW735X is a strong contender.

The Makita KP312 12-1/4" Planer is designed for those who require a high-performance tool for heavy-duty woodworking tasks. With its powerful 15 AMP motor delivering up to 12,000 RPM, this planer is capable of tackling large projects efficiently. The motor's power is effectively transferred to the blades through a Poly "V" belt, enhancing the tool's performance and reliability.

One standout feature is the large depth setting knob, which makes adjusting the cutting depth straightforward, catering to users who need quick and precise adjustments during work. In terms of cutting dimensions, it offers a generous planing width of 12-1/4 inches, making it suitable for extensive applications. However, the tool's substantial weight of 40.6 pounds could be cumbersome, especially for prolonged use without assistance. This weight, combined with its robust cast iron construction, suggests that it is best suited for stationary use rather than portability.

Ergonomically, the inclusion of a front roller aids in maneuvering the planer over rough surfaces, ensuring smoother operation. The large ejection chute is another thoughtful feature, facilitating a high rate of chip discharge which is crucial in preventing blockages when working with both wet and dry wood chips. The Makita KP312 is ideal for professionals in need of a durable, high-capacity planer for demanding jobs. However, its weight could be considered a drawback for those who prioritize portability.