10 Best Wood Planers 2026 in the United States

The JET BLACK 20-Inch Planer is a heavy-duty machine designed for serious woodworking tasks. Its wide 20-inch cutting width is ideal for larger boards, making it suitable for professional woodworkers or hobbyists working on bigger projects. Powered by a strong 5-horsepower motor and running at up to 5000 RPM, it offers plenty of power for smooth, consistent cuts. The helical cutterhead with multiple blade inserts is a standout feature, providing quieter operation and longer-lasting sharpness compared to traditional blades.

Adjustments to the cutting depth are precise, thanks to the handwheel with a positive gear drive and a fine height scale that allows for increments as small as 1/16 inch—perfect for achieving exact thickness. Its cast iron tables with a special coating resist corrosion and reduce the need for maintenance like waxing. Dust collection is supported with an included dust hood, helping keep the workspace cleaner, though this setup might benefit from a well-matched external vacuum system for best results.

This planer is very heavy at 765 pounds, making it essentially a stationary tool rather than portable. Its size and weight mean it’s best suited for a dedicated workshop space rather than casual or mobile use. Also, it requires a 230V power supply, which is common in professional shops but may need special wiring in home settings. The JET BLACK 20-Inch Planer excels in power, precision, and durability, fitting well for users who need a stable, high-capacity planer for frequent or heavy use. Those looking for a more portable or lightweight option might need to consider smaller benchtop models.

The JET 12-Inch Planer/Jointer is a robust tool designed for serious woodworkers and professionals. With a powerful 3 HP motor and a cutterhead speed of 5300 RPM, it provides rapid cutting and a superior finish, thanks to its 42 four-sided carbide insert blades. This feature not only allows for efficient material removal but also enhances longevity and reduces the frequency of blade changes. The cutting width of 12 inches and a cutting depth of 0.13 inches make it versatile for various wood sizes and projects.

One of the standout features is the quick changeover between jointing and planing functions, which can save time and improve workflow in the shop. The heavy-duty cast iron tables ensure stability and accuracy, crucial for precision woodworking. Additionally, the parallelogram design keeps the table close to the cutterhead, allowing for fine adjustments to the cut depth, which is user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned woodworkers.

This planer is quite heavy at 453 pounds, making it less portable compared to smaller models. If you're working in a small shop or need to transport your tools frequently, this could be a consideration. Also, its price point may be on the higher side, which might not be ideal for casual hobbyists.

The WEN Thickness Planer (PL1337) is a benchtop model with a 13-inch cutting width and the ability to handle boards up to 6 inches thick. Its two-speed operation allows for quick dimensioning at 26 feet per minute (FPM) and finer finishing at 16 FPM, making it versatile for different woodworking tasks. The planer features a spiral cutterhead with 26 high-speed steel (HSS) blades, which can be rotated and staggered for a smoother finish, a significant advantage for achieving quality results. Powered by a 15-amp motor, it delivers 10,000 rotations per minute and up to 1354 cuts per inch, ensuring efficient and precise planing.

Additional practical features include a depth stop and material removal gauge, which help in maintaining consistent thickness and monitoring material removal. The combination dust port (2-1/2-inch and 4-inch) aids in dust collection, enhancing cleanliness and safety in the workspace. Portability is moderate due to its weight of 69 pounds, making it relatively stable but less convenient to move frequently. The onboard wrench storage and workpiece return rollers add to its user-friendliness. The two-year warranty offers some peace of mind regarding durability and support.

However, its size and weight might not be ideal for those needing a highly portable solution. Additionally, while the dust collection port is useful, it may require a compatible dust extraction system for optimal performance. This planer is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and small workshops looking for a reliable, precise, and user-friendly benchtop planer.