9 Best Benchtop Planers for 2022 | Reviews & Buying Guide
Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
Sure, you could always plane wood by hand and skilled craftsmen have done so for generations, but it’s not exactly efficient. Nowadays, there’s a much easier way of doing things. Benchtop planers are perfect tools for DIYers, handymen, and contractors because they allow greater accuracy and speed, meaning you not only get the job done quicker but the end result is often way better!
A decent benchtop planer is a few hundred bucks and so if you’re in the market for one you’ll need to know more about the choices available before you make a purchasing decision.
Here’s a rundown of what we’ll provide in this best benchtop planer review article:
- First, we compare the 9 brands side by side in a comparison table
- Second, we share the features and benefits of each model that you’ll find useful
- Then, we’ll take a look at any drawbacks we think you should know about
- Lastly, we’ll provide a buying guide packed full of information to give you a better insight into your needs (which makes your product selection easier)
Sound ok to you? Let’s dive in!
See Ratings & Reviews on AmazonComparison Of Our Favorite Benchtop Planer Models
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Price | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top  | DEWALT DW735X | Click Here | 4.9 / 5 |
  | WEN 6552T | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 (Best Value) |
  | Grizzly Industrial G5851Z | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | DEWALT DW734 | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Makita 2012NB | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Morphon Thickness Planner | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | POWERTEC PL1252 | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
  | CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer | Click Here | 4.4 / 5 |
  | Porter-Cable PC305TP | Click Here | 4.4 / 5 |
The 9 Best Benchtop Planers | Reviews
1. DEWALT DW735X (Best Overall)
- This DEWALT thickness planer is one of the best creations of DEWALT. It has been praised for its unique features, and for some, it is an upgrade of the DW735 bench planer. It comes with an infeed table, extra blades, and an outfeed table lacking in its counterpart.
- This DeWALT planer can accommodate materials measuring 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick, making it suitable for DIYers and semi-professionals. It weighs 92 pounds, which is quite heavy, given that it is meant for portable operation.
- This product comes with an automatic carriage lock that reduces sniping. Sniping is further limited with the infeed and outfeed tables, which you won’t need to source differently. Some of the notable features include a 2-speed gearbox that allows you to change feed speed to achieve either 96 or 179 cuts per inch.
- This is a lightweight portable thickness planer which has a cast iron solid base for stability during planing. It has been praised for its impressive dust management system with a fan-assisted wood chip ejector that keeps the cutter head clear of debris, allowing a dustless operation to keep your workshop clean and neat.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. WEN 6552T (Best Value)
- Our second product is this excellent benchtop thickness planer from WEN. WEN has been lauded for producing quality and durable tools, and therefore, this recommendation should not come as a surprise. It is packed with unique features that users appreciate.
- The 13-inch 3-blade cutterhead is perfectly suited for rough and worn wood. It offers exceptionally smooth finishes thanks to the powerful 15A motor, which delivers up to 25,000 cuts per minute at a feed rate of 26 feet per minute.
- It is also quite advanced owing to the onboard planing gauge and depth adjustment, which informs you about the amount of material being removed during each pass. The heavy-duty cast iron base offers maximum stability for continued usage.
- This WEN planer has one of the best dust collection system thanks to the fan-assisted dust port, which removes chips and sawdust blasting them out of your way and allowing you to enjoy dustless operation.
- Users also get both infeed and outfeed tables to help limit snipe, one of the biggest problems woodworkers face regarding wood. You can also easily mount the planer to the worktop bench thanks to the predrilled base holes.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Related review: WEN 6552 Planer Review – Exactly How Good is it?
3. Makita 2012NB
- Our third product is this aesthetically pleasing 12-inch woodworking planer from Makita. It has an internal-lock automated clamp, which positively impacts your planing, reducing snipe and helping you achieve smooth cuts.
- A quick search on the internet reveals hundreds of positive reviews, which are a testament to this particular planers effectiveness. It is compact and lightweight for more comfortable transportation or movement around the workshop.
- This product boasts of the fastest and easiest blade changing system in the market thanks to the disposable double edge blades. You don’t want to take ages to replace your planer’s blades and lag in your projects.
- It has an easily adjustable cutting depth, which gives room for precision planning, helping you work on projects requiring high accuracy levels. The detachable toolbox is also a plus as it offers space for storing the planer blade set, magnetic holder, socket wrench, a hex wrench, and a key.
- One of the unique features that we have discovered in this power planer is the low noise feature, which allows you to enjoy quiet operation. For maximum stability, the planer has a 4-post design and a diagonal cross that offers full support.
- Other outstanding features include the large infeed & outfeedtable extensions which support the workpiece, LED light indicator for charging, and the large and easy functioning paddle switch.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. POWERTEC PL1252
- This is a cost-friendly wood planer if you are shopping on a budget. It has a premium construction, which makes it highly pleasing. You can use it for household and professional projects to repurpose lumber and give it a smooth finish.
- Thanks to the heavy-duty anti-wobbling base, it is pretty compelling, and therefore ultra-steady, giving you one of the best surfaces for working on boards of up to 12.5 inches wide and 6 inches thick. This planer is also pretty powerful, running on a 15A motor with a futuristic 2-blade cutting system that offers deep cuts into a range of hardwoods.
- Its operation is pretty quick, thanks to the stainless-steel precision cutter head that allows it to deliver more than 18,800 cuts per minute and a total speed of 9,4000 RPM. Even with these fantastic features, you will still enjoy a 1-year limited warranty for quality assurance.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. Grizzly Industrial (Model G0889Z) B with
- The Grizzly Industrial G0889Z is a 13 benchtop planer with spiral cutterhead that features an adjustable cutterhead depth stop for repeat planing operations, as well as a fixed-height table design.
- The cutting head rises and falls to adjust thicknesses over the table, rather than the other way around. Additionally, this product comes equipped with a cut depth indicator, meaning no more guesswork when deciding how deep you need your cuts to be.
- What does it take to make the smoothest boards around? The Grizzly Industrial G0889Z benchtop planer will make even beginners look like they're sculptors creating their work of art. Most planers are too big for the average home shop and their weight makes them a hassle to move. This machine is lightweight, compact, and affordable!
- With a convenient size and powerful heavy-duty motor, the 13/16 wide blade can create board after board with ease. What sets this aside from other options is that it also has a cutterhead speed at 9000 RPM which ensures smoother cuts through anything you put on its tabletop; notching and grooving won't be an issue thanks to its 4-row spiral blades.
- If you're looking for something fast, reliable, sturdy, durable, consistent AND cost-effective then the Grizzly G0889Z is perfect to take on your next project.
6. DEWALT DW734
- This is one of the best planers for those upgrading from manual devices. It packs all the features that an intermediate woodworker may need in a planning machine. Some of the notable features include the three-knife cutter head, which has a remarkable speed of 10,000 RM providing 96 cuts per inch.
- This planer has been loaded for exceptionally smooth cuts, beating most portable planers in the market. It comes with disposable, reversible knives offering 30% more knife life. The blade changing system is also easy and effective, saving you time and energy.
- To reduce movement that causes snipe, this product is fitted with a four-column carriage lock, which is highly effective. The extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide further material support needed for smooth planning.
- The powerful 15A motor has a speed rating of 20,000 RPM, which allows the machine to cut through tough woods easily. For accurate cuts, there is a material removal gauge and extra-long thickness scale monitoring every pass.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer
- This is yet another cost-effective wood planer. It is powered by a 15A motor, allowing users to enjoy impressive stock removal thanks to the 8000 RPM cutter head speed, which offers 16000 cuts per minute.
- Keep in mind that there is a 2-knife, quick-change solid steel cutter head that offers smooth operation and longer knife life. You do not, therefore, have to spend on new knives regularly. It is a perfect choice for those who want to dimension lumber to a desired thickness or plane glued-up material.
- The motor also provided power for both hard and softwood material removal. Users enjoy maximum stock removal thanks to the impressive Poly-V cutter head drive. The knives, made of carbon steel, are double-edged and reversible for extended cutting life.
- This planer is simple to use thanks to the two-knife setup, quick change, and reliable steel cutter, among other features that allow for easy operation. Lastly, it weighs 61 pounds and is lighter than some of the products we have reviewed.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. Porter-Cable PC305TP
- This is the best option if you are looking for a reasonably priced planer with all the necessary features. It comes with a powerful cutter head, which delivers 16,000 cuts per minute thanks to the 8000 RPM speed rating.
- It is powered by a potent single-phase 120V, 15 Amp motor, which offers superior stock removal. This product boats of two knives, quick blade change, concrete steel cutter, and head-mounted on ball bearings for smooth operation.
- A notable feature is the patented cutter elevation on four precision ground columns offering the machine the level of stability one needs for smooth cutting. The high carbon steel, double-edged reversible knives offer an extended cutting life, saving you from regular purchases.
- This product spots a Poly V Bel cutter head drive with a rugged gearbox and sprocket feed roller drive for maximum power transfer. This product weighs 64 pounds, which is relatively lighter than most of the products that we have reviewed.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. Morphon Thickness Planer
- Our last recommendation is this affordable 12.5- inch planer from Morphon. It boasts of premium quality thanks to its array of features. This 15000W high-power wood planer comes with a set of double cutter blades, an all-metal workbench, and steel floor stands.
- It can accommodate 12.5 inches wide planes with a cutting thickness of up to 6 inches. Its blade speed rating stands at 9000RPm, enabling it to cut through some of the toughest woods at a feeding speed of 8m/min.
- It is also packed with features that ensure convenient operation. These include a crank handle for easy adjustment of the cutter head height, a scale ruler for precise machining, grooves for easy mobility, and an automatic feeding design to auto feed the materials.
- It has a considerable design thanks to the dust exhaust interface that connects to dust collectors, taking care of the flying wood chips, giving you a clean working environment. You will also notice a detachable, heavy-duty stand that offers stable and sturdy operation.
- This product is highly versatile and can be used for planning wood, bamboo, or even lining nylon. It is reliable and safe thanks to the power-off protection electromagnetic switch and an overcurrent protector.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Related: 10 Best Electric Hand Planers of 2021 | Honest Reviews & Buying Guide
Video: How to Operate a Wood Planer
Benchtop Planer Buying Guide
The number of wood planers available in the market may shock you and return you to the drawing board. There are several brands offering this woodworking device due to the high demand brought about by the increasing numbers of DIYers.
It would be best if you considered not only the price range but also the different types of tasks and projects that you do in your workshop or around your home. Here are some of the considerations that we advise you to make before settling on a wood planer.
Table size
Even though this may not cross your mind at the time of purchase, it is still one of the most critical considerations that woodworkers should make. The table size dictates the size of the boards that the planer accommodates.
Most benchtop models only allow 12-13-inch-wide boards, which can be limiting at times. Depending on your projects, you may need planers that can accommodate up to even 20-inch long. If you are not planning to work on such projects, the benchtop wood planer will serve you well.
All in all, make sure that you do not limit yourself. Get something that will work for you for the best results.
Buy on AmazonNoise
One of the biggest problems that we have observed with most workshop tools is the level of noise they omit. We advise that you try and see a tool in action before committing your money to it.
Commercial and professional woodworking shops have soundproofing features and earmuffs and are therefore not affected by the level of noise that DIYers experience. Well, even though the noise may not be a problem for you, you need to be mindful of others who may even go ahead and sue for disturbance.
Therefore, before you buy a wood planer, make sure that it either produces minimum noise or has features to deal with the noise delivered. You do not want to be served with an eviction notice because neighbors cannot stand the noise from your workshop.
Motor
The motor provides the driving force for the operation of your wood planer. You need to consider the type of motor and its dimensions to be safe. Most cheaper models have universal motors, which are often light, convenient, and effective but do not perform well when used with hardwood.
There are also induction motors, which are heavier than the rest but work more efficiently on all wood types. Induction motors are best used in planers that are permanently installed in workshops or used for industrial purposes.
Also, ensure that the motor meets your cutting needs. It should be powerful enough to deliver the cuts you want, which is dictated by the voltage.
Buy on AmazonSize of your workshop
It would be best to have the right measurement of your workshop or the area housing the planer. Ensure that the planer you get gives you adequate room for safe movement around the workshop. Do not only think about the size of the machine, but also the average size of your room.
While doing this, make sure that you also think about the length of the workpieces you will handle. Do not end up getting a bulky planer that will not fit your working place, but instead, go for something that will also leave you some space.
You will not have to worry if you intend to get a portable planer since they are compact to fit the smallest spaces possible. You will just have to worry whether it will be light enough for proper usage and heavy-duty at the same time so that you get the perfect results.
Type of planer
This should be the first consideration. Do you know what you want, or are you just settling on anything? You have to take some time and think about whether you only need a thicknesser or only or a jointer too.
If you do not need a jointer, think about whether you want something that can easily be carried from place to place or a stand-alone unit. Remember, all these depend on what you want, and we cannot give you a fixed answer or recommendation.
All in all, make sure that you settle on an item that fits your woodworking needs and not just any type of planer.
Buy on AmazonDimensions (Thickness and width)
Thickness capacity means the most astounding thickness that your planer can comfortably take in. You need to think about the stock needed for your projects and their maximum capacity so that you do not mess up in the future.
Large volumes of extremely rough wood call an industrial planer, and therefore, you cannot settle on something lightweight and expect the same results. In case you are worki9ng on smaller projects, portable planers will offer you just the right thickness capacity.
You must also look at the depth stops in the respective planers, which allow you to set your device to the requisite width without having to measure it all the time.
Stroke count
You must have noted that your planer’s blades have knives that rotate at a high velocity chipping off wood from board surfaces. Well, your machine will have a streaker stroke count if it has more knives and a higher blade speed.
You do not have to consider the speed only since you have to be slow when working on some materials. Therefore, you need a planer with variable speed to allow you to work on different surfaces and wood.
Buy on AmazonDust collection
It would be best to have a dust-free operation for the best results and experience. It also keeps you healthy and safe from possible respiratory complications. You must have noticed many chips forming as you go about your plane calling for a dust collector or shop vac.
Your planer should have integrated fans to such the chips away from the cutter head, blowing them to the dust port, which comes in handy if your dust collector is far away. All in all, make sure that your wood planer has a proper dust management system.
Knives
Most cutters have between two and five knives. Like we mentioned earlier, a more significant number of blades and a higher speed means a higher stroke count, giving you a smoother cut. When it comes to the best material for this, we highly vouch for carbide steel.
Keep in mind that your knife’s quality makes or breaks your planer, greatly influencing your woodworking results.
Buy on AmazonDo you require a jointer?
If you strongly feel that you will need a jointer, you should settle for a 2-in-1 jointer planer combo. Well, you can also decide to get one separately, but you will end up spending more on the two. Having two tools in one body also gives you a multipurpose tool that is easy to use. Take some time and look at the applications that you intend for your planer before settling on one.
Conclusion
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you’re in the market for a solidly made, yet affordable benchtop planer, then you have come to the right place. Of the 9 we reviewed the DEWALT DW735X won our Best Overall prize. DEWALT is a world-leading manufacturer of high-quality tools and this upgraded X version is simply the best for the money. A vast amount of people from different walks of life have praised its features, durability, and speed – and I have to agree with them!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If your budget can’t quite stretch that far the Best Value benchtop planer is the WEN 6552T. It has great features and is ideal for the DIYer. This actually performs much better than some other planers that are way more expensive!
Here are some other articles you may like:
DEWALT DW735 Vs. DW735X – How to Quickly Spot The Difference
DEWALT DW735 Planer Review – Affordable Excellence?
Here are our favorite electric hand planers:
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
Image Model Buy Walts Rating Top 
DEWALT DCP580B Click Here 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) 
WEN 6530 Click Here 4.7 / 5 9Best Value) 
WEN 6534 Click Here 4.6 / 5 
TACKLIFE EPN01A Click Here 4.5 / 5 
PORTER-CABLE PC60THP Click Here 4.5 / 5 
Bosch PL1632 Click Here 4.7 / 5 
Makita KP0800K Click Here 4.8 / 5 
CRAFTSMAN CMEW300 Click Here 4.4 / 5 
Ryobi HPL52K Click Here 4.5 / 5 
Milwaukee 2623-20 Click Here 4.6 / 5
Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
- How to Select the Best Drill Bit For Your Project - November 29, 2021
- The Benefits of Leaf Blowers for Yard and Garden Maintenance - November 15, 2021
- The Best Paint Stripper for Concrete | Reviews and Buying Guide - November 12, 2021