15 Best Rated Thickness Planers for Home Workshops

I f you’ve been drawn towards the world of woodworking lately and you think that this is a hobby that you wish to start, getting the right tools might be the action that decides whether this activity will become an occasional DIY project or maybe a promising career. A tool that we recommend, that has the ability to turn an old piece of wood into a new product to work with, is the planer. And to get the right model for your abilities, this article will help by providing a comprehensive comparison together with other useful pieces of information.

A thickness planer will work to shave off the outer layer of a wood piece to reveal a healthy, smooth finish and it can prove to be one of the more useful acquisitions for your current or future workshop. Thankfully, we have an explaining table and clarifying reviews that will give you an easier way out when you’re trying to pick between the many specifications, so scroll further for more information on this useful machine.

Why is the Planer Indispensible in Woodworking?

As you might think, a workshop is not complete without at least a tool that can level wood. Back in the day, woodworkers would have to rely on the smaller, handheld tools whenever they needed to level a piece of wood or create multiple identical pieces of furniture – for example, they used a plane which required ”using muscle power to force the cutting blade over the wood surface”. Luckily, an ingenious man thought of the electrical planer, and ever since, this operation has been simplified significantly.

With this versatile tool you can create new products from old ones, so it can be a valuable asset. Thanks to the wide opening that most have, even the most irregular shape can be passed through, thus achieving the perfect thickness along the entire surface. To make things easier, here is a more comprehensive list of perks that come with using a thickness planer:

• Easier to achieve a board with parallel planes
• An even thickness is guaranteed
• It can give a new life to old wood pieces by shaving off the stained surface
• It can bring smoothness to a board without any ridges on the sides
• It makes it easier to achieve equal boards
• You won’t have to worry about the end product not being level
• The job is done considerably faster

Top Rated 15 Thickness Planers Comparison

Photo	Product	Cutterhead RPM	Feed Rate	Cutting Dimensions	Cutting Speed	Blade Number	Warranty	Price
Best Overall	1. DEWALT DW735X	10,000	14 – 26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: ⅛” Width: 13″	CPM: 16,000 – 30,000 CPI: 96 – 179	3	3 Years	Check Price
Editor’s Choice	2. Makita 2012NB	8,500	28	Thickness: 6-3/32″ Depth: ⅛” Width: 12″	CPM: 17,000 CPI: 50.5	2	1 Year	Check Price
	3. WEN 6552T	8,500	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 0″ – 3/32″ Width: 13″	CPM: 25,500 CPI: 81.7	3	2 Years	Check Price
	4. WEN PL1303	10,000	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 0″ – ⅛” Width: 13″	CPM: 30,000 CPI: 96	3	2 Years	Check Price
Best for the Money	5. DEWALT DW734	10,000	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: ⅛” Width: 12½”	CPM: 30,000 CPI: 96	3	3 Years	Check Price
	6. Ridgid R4330	9,000	23,5	Thickness: 6⅛” Depth: ⅛” Width: 13″	CPM: 27,000 CPI: 96	3	Lifetime Service	Check Price
	7. Grizzly G0505	10,000	32	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 1/31″-3/32″ Width: 12½”	CPM: 20,000 CPI: 52	2	1 Year	Check Price
	8. Craftsman CMEW320	8,000	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: ⅛” Width: 12″	CPM: 16,000 CPI: 51.2	2	3 Years	Check Price
Best for a Small Shop	9. Delta Power Tools 22-555	9,400	28	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 3/32″ Width: 13″	CPM: 18,800 CPI: 55.9	2	5 Years	Check Price
	10. WEN PL1252	10,000	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 0″ – ⅛” Width: 12½”	CPM: 20,000 CPI: 64.1	2	2 Years	Check Price
	11. Triton TPT125 Planer/Thicknesser	8,750	32	Thickness: ⅛” – 6″ Depth: 1/16″ Width: 12½”	CPM: 17,500 CPI: 45.5	2	3 Years
	12. PORTER-CABLE PC305TP	8,000	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: ⅛” Width: 12½”	CPM: 16,000 CPI: 51.2	2	3 Years	Check Price
	13. POWERTEC PL1251	9,400	26	Thickness: 6″ Depth: 1/32″-3/32″ Width: 12½”	CPM: 18,800 CPI: 60.2	2	1 Year	Check Price
Best for Home Use	14. Bosch PL1632	16,500	N/A	Thickness: N/A Depth: 0″ – 1/16″ Width: 3¼”	CPM: 30,000 CPI: 96	1	1 Year	Check Price
	15. Ryobi HPL52K	16,500	N/A	Thickness: N/A Depth: 0″ – ⅛” Width: 3¼”	CPM: 30,000 CPI: N/A	1	3 Years	Check Price

1. DEWALT DW735X

Check Price at Amazon

Woodworkers accustomed to the necessary tools will have surely heard of the great performance offered by this piece from DeWalt. A 15Amp engine provides the needed power and enables a rotation at a staggering number, namely 20,000 per minute, further making the cutter head rotate 10,000 times per minute. This machine can be mounted on a stand to make using both hands a possibility when placing the plank onto the guiding rollers. It’s not a bulky unit and it is also equipped with a carriage lock that works automatically and keeps it from moving and sliding when it is being used. The base is crafted using tough aluminum and it comes to 193⁄4 inches which gives the unit a solid stand, more than what it would get from a standard 10-inch base. Compared to the DW735 model, the ‘X’ in this unit’s factory-provided number translates into the inclusion of two feeding tables, one for each end, coupled with a pair of extra blades that will provide long-term use and push back the need for replacements.

Cutting Details & Features

The DW735X will plane wood pieces with a maximum of 13 inches in width, 6 in thickness, and it can cut up to one-eighth of an inch from each piece when the three blades are initiated to chip off the top layers to achieve a level and fine remaining finish. Thanks to its ability to provide two different speeds, it’s up to you to choose whether to set it to 96 cuts at a time or 179. Don’t worry about the mess it might create, because it includes a 4-inch chute and a 21⁄2-inch hose adapter so all the dust will be collected before it can reach the air. However, this doesn’t mean that you can outlook the safety equipment, namely eye protection, as it is mandatory while handling wood-cutting machinery. The manufacturer has your back in case anything goes wrong with your tool. If the performance isn’t to your liking, you have 90 days to return. A 3-year protection period is also offered.

---

2. Makita 2012NB

Check Price at Amazon

You probably wouldn’t expect a thicknesser to work as smoothly as the 2012NB, but our favorite can deliver perfectly smoothened planks without the slightest hassle. It sits on a stand, securing its position with the Interna-Lok head-clamp that holds the planks tight as they are inserted and exit the rollers, so it eliminates any chance of sniping occurring. Also, its 4-post design combined with cross supports helps improve the stability, cutting out on any wobbling or other such issues.

Cutting Ability

For accurate planing, the cutting depth can be altered to a maximum of one-eighth of an inch, while the size of the planks shouldn’t exceed 12 inches in width and 6 inches in thickness. A pair of table extensions is added to help sustain the workpiece so that you can easily guide it towards the cutters. Speaking of which, this machine is fitted with two knives that rotate at 8,500 RPM with enough strength to cut into any type of wood. At this rotation, it delivers an impressive speed of 17,000 cuts each minute. Although the motor is very powerful, it remains silent, creating only 83dB, so if you use ear protection you surely won’t be disturbed while working. For a higher cutting speed, take a look at the WEN 6552T as well.

Accessories & Warranty

For added convenience, the package includes the blade set, the necessary wrenches for mounting said set, and a detachable toolbox that will help you store it all nearby. The manufacturer stands behind the product, ensuring it will work flawlessly, by offering protection for 1 year and you can also get a refund if there is a need to return the unit in 30 days from the first day of purchase.

---

3. WEN 6552T

Check Price at Amazon

This innovative machine from WEN has an onboard gauge that will tell you exactly how much material is removed at the depth it is set to cut, information that will be renewed with every subsequent pass. Its 15 Amp engine can generate an impressive cutting speed in 60 seconds, specifically 25,500, and that happens with a feed rate of 26 feet in the same time span. To avoid getting delays with more solid planks, the unit is equipped with a 3-blade design that will ensure it can cut through thicker pieces of wood. Each quarter rotation can adjust the height of the cutter head from 1/64 of an inch up to a maximum of 3/32, to ensure utmost precision.

Features

The 6552T has dual-edged blades that will provide a clean cut and can also be reversed to provide an expansion in the longevity of use. The Tri-Roller system will reduce snipe, and another feature that adds to this is the possibility of raising or lowering the feed tables to accommodate the boards. Those are foldable as well to properly fit boards, to act as extra support for longer workpieces, or to clear up some space when you’re not using the machine. To add stability, the mounting base has pre-made holes that can help you secure the unit down, or you can carry it around by using the incorporated handles since it weighs 73 pounds.

The workplace will not become a pile of dust and shaved chips due to the incorporated fan-assisted dust port that can be used to collect said sawdust and chips. Because this is product comes from WEN, it is protected by a 2-year warranty and has reliable customer service to assist you in any trouble you might experience with the machine.

---

4. WEN PL1303

Check Price at Amazon

Getting even and smooth boards has never been easier than it is when using the PL1303. This 63-pound piece is powered up by a 15 Amp engine and what that means is the cutter head can reach up to 10,000 rotations in 60 seconds, providing an impeccable cutting speed of 30,000 cuts in just as little time. With this speed, long projects will be a breeze, and short projects will feel like they never happened in the first place. The feed rate operation for this model is 26 feet per minute, bringing the cuts per inch at 96.

This unit is a portable one, as you could probably tell from its weight, and the footprint comes at 24 by 28.25 inches. A design that boasts three blades ensures that every cut counts because the type used is double-edged, giving you the option to reverse them for prolonged use. The measurements of a piece that you can feed through are 6 inches for how thick it can be, 13 inches for how wide it can be, and from 0 to one-eighth of an inch regarding the depth. The latter is an aspect that can be modified thanks to the integrated knob. To cut down on the dust and other pieces from being an issue, WEN has fitted their product with two dust ports, one of 2 and a half and one of 4 inches to give you options in case you might not have a standard-sized vacuum system.

---

5. DEWALT DW734

Check Price at Amazon

As you probably know, this type of tool can be a very costly addition that some people cannot afford to incorporate into their workshop. Thankfully, there are a few models that come at a very reasonable price, including this DeWalt one. Aside from an affordable asking price, it boasts a powerful 15Amp engine that can deliver up to 30,000 cuts in no more than 60 seconds with an operation speed of 10,000 rotations for the cutter head and 20,000 for the engine itself. The cutting system involves three reversible blades that are easily removable and replaceable.

Another essential aspect when using this type of product is the precision it offers. Your unit needs to do a great job at keeping stable, and the DW734 delivers exactly this: precise cuts. It can fit planks measuring 12.5 inches in width with 6 inches in thickness, and it can cut at a maximum depth of one-eighth of an inch, delivering 96 cuts per inch. Thanks to the extra-long feeding tables, it can properly support 33 and a half inches of material without requiring manual assistance. If you have a preferred depth at which you cut most frequently, note that this machine has a turret depth stop that lets you select your preference every time. The warranty that covers it is active for 3 years, but during the first 90 days, asking for a refund is also possible.

---

6. Ridgid R4330

Check Price at Amazon

The R4330 comes prepared with an engine of 15 Amp and that gives it the ability to deliver up to 10,000 rotations in one minute to get its cutter head moving. The cutting motion then translates into the three-blade system which is able to get through soft and hard woods alike and another perk is represented by the dual-edge which allows you to turn the blades over when you’d normally need to change them, thus prolonging their lifespan. Plus, with its 13-inch wide feed capacity, it becomes a great option for woodworkers that have larger projects in the works. The blades rotate continuously and manage to provide no less than 27,000 CPM, which brings it among the previous top products.

Although it’s not intended for heavy-duty professional use, even a more seasoned woodworker will feel very comfortable operating it. Still, it remains safe to use for the less experienced as well, thanks to the large feed table extensions and the Sure-Cut carriage lock that keeps the lumber secured in place. It cuts planks with no more than 13 inches in width and 6 inches in thickness at a maximum depth of one-eighth of an inch, a measurement easily adjustable by using the precision Lead-Screw system that offers consistent thickness across the whole board.

The warranty is very impressive, reaching 3 years in workmanship and parts and with an added 90-day refund period so that you can test the unit to see if the two of you make a good team. Besides, the machine includes an onboard toolbox for you can keep all your necessary equipment within reach. With this package, you will also receive all the hex keys and wrenches needed for quick maintenance, the dust hood, and two dust hood knobs.

---

7. Grizzly G0505

Check Price at Amazon

Grizzly fans surely know what this brand involves and we can state that this machine stands for all the qualities expected. It’s a portable version of the stand-alone benchtop industrial models of the company, a version that comes to the assistance of woodworkers who like freedom in movement or don’t have enough space to fit a bulkier unit. The specifications are standard: a corded electric unit with a 15 Amp motor that powers the cutter head so it can rotate 10,000 times per minute.

The blades, two in number, are reversible to allow you to flip them over when they become dull and use them for a longer time. The G0505 has a feeding rate of 32 feet per minute, but it only provides 52 cuts per inch, so it doesn’t impress too much with this aspect. The cutting width is 12 and a half inches and the thickness is 6 inches, while the maximum depth cut reaches 3/32 of an inch. Thanks to the top-mounted rollers and larger extension tables you will be able to effortlessly maneuver the wood pieces through the unit. An important feature to be mentioned is the thermal overload protection that prevents any damage in case the machine is used beyond its full capacity. The package includes the tools you’ll need to set the blades and to replace them, and the warranty lasts for 1 year, which is shorter than its competitors. If you need a machine with a higher cutting performance, go back to the WEN PL1303.

---

8. Craftsman CMEW320

Check Price at Amazon

For those who are searching for a piece that can get them through projects implying a moderate workload, but that is also accessible price-wise, this Craftsman unit is the perfect stopping point. With a 15 Amp motor, it is capable of delivering a cutter head speed of 8,000 rotations in 60 seconds, which will bring the cutting speed up to 16,000 cuts in the same amount of time. The feed rate is 26 feet per minute to allow the dual blade mechanism to seamlessly cut through any piece you pass. The measurements that you shouldn’t exceed when you’re preparing the boards are 12 inches in width, 6 in thickness, and one-eighth of an inch in depth.

The CMEW320 is a portable piece with a 61.2-pound weight and a 23.5 by 17.5-inch footprint. This means that you can take it with you whenever you have an on-site job to tend to and it won’t take up too much space during transport. To provide a smoother and quieter motion, the cutter head is driven by a poly-v belt and the mechanism rests on ball bearings as well. The blade change is quite straightforward, due to the included tools, and the dust port will enable you to connect it to a shop vac to take care of the excess dust and shavings, making it appropriate for at-home use. If you need a lighter benchtop unit, the Triton TPT125 Planer/Thicknesser weighs only 49 pounds.

---

9. Delta Power Tools 22-555

Check Price at Amazon

This product from Delta Power Tools is a highly qualitative one that provides superior durability and unsurpassed reliability. Powered by a 15 Amp motor, this tool is capable of handling the works of both DIY and professional-grade projects with ease. While rotating at 9,400 rpm, the cutter head can deliver up to 18,800 cuts in just 60 seconds, reaching 55.9 cuts per inch. Its feed tables are completely adjustable, giving you the versatility and flexibility to complete smaller and larger projects alike. With its two blades, this machine will cut through both hardwood and softwood without too much trouble. It can easily work with a stock of a maximum of 13 inches wide by 6 inches thick, while the cutting depth reaches 3/32 of an inch.

Seeing how the machine produces quite a lot of shavings and sawdust, it includes a reversible dust port to which you can connect an industrial vacuum to keep both your workspace and the inside of the machine clean. The manufacturer stands by the product so strongly that the 22-555 is covered by an industry-leading warranty that lasts 5 years, so you can be sure that any defect will be taken care of.

---

10. WEN PL1252

Check Price at Amazon

Another option for those who have a limited budget and need to save some money is the PL1252 model, a portable choice that will still well on a benchtop. With a rather small 22 by 23.5-inch footprint, it manages to get the job done fast and effortlessly. This unit is fitted with reversible steel blades that are durable and will provide a longer lifespan, keeping you focused on your project rather than on having to order replacement pieces.

The planks these blades can work with must measure a maximum of 12 and a half inches in width and 6 inches in thickness. The depth it can cut to can go from 0 to one-eighth of an inch, a measurement that can be easily adjusted thanks to the adjustment knob. On said knob you’ll find rubber grips that will help you stay safe and secure, keeping your hands away from any of the metal and electrical components. Additionally, it is important to know that this unit has a feed rate of 26 FPM and it can make up to 20,000 cuts every minute. Also, it does not weigh too much either, at only 70 pounds, which means that it can easily be moved from a corner to another. A fan-assisted 2-inch dust collector port is included, to minimize the mess created while thinning wood, and 2-year warranty protection is provided in case of manufacturing defects.

---

11. Triton TPT125 Planer/Thicknesser

Our next contender comes from Triton, with an average-sized build and a weight that makes it the lightest out of all of the benchtop options on the list – only 49 pounds. The motor it boasts is a 15 Amp one that provides plenty of power to get the cutterhead moving at a no-load speed of up to 8,750 rotations in one minute. This brings the number of cuts in a minute to 17,500 and the cuts per inch at 45.5 when the feed rate is 32 feet per minute. The specific details of the cutting ability are 12 and a half inches in width, one-sixteenth of an inch in depth, and the thickness is adjustable from one eighth up to 6 inches thanks to the crank handle.

The components that perform the number of cuts listed above are the two HSS blades attached to the cutterhead and their operation puts out a noise of up to 90.9 decibels, which means that you will have to protect your ears. The four post design provides stability and the larger feed tables enable the passage of bigger stock pieces through the unit. For both safety and convenience, the TPT125 is also equipped with:

• Pre-drilled holes that aid you in case you need to secure the unit to the workbench
• A circuit breaker for safety on the electrical part
• A dust chute that will help you keep the sawdust contained if you attach a vacuum
• It boasts an IP20 protection rating
• Easily accessible brushes

---

12. PORTER-CABLE PC305TP

Check Price at Amazon

The PC305TP is a 12 and a half-inch thickness planer powered by a 15 Amp motor. With two blades, one steel cutter, and one head mounted on ball bearings, this is a nice, valuable, and yet affordable asset for any woodworking shop. It measures 23 by 15 inches in footprint and 17.7 inches in height and weighs an easy-to-carry 64 pounds. The fact that it is lightweight and portable is a major perk as it can be moved from one place to another with ease. Also, it is a big plus that it works great in reclaiming old boards as well as new ones. With a cutter head speed of 8,000 RPM that can produce up to 16,000 cuts per minute, this tool is more powerful than many similar models available on the market.

Fitted with high-grade carbon steel double-edged and reversible blades, this is a durable unit that will cut through any type of wood, be it softer or harder. For increased cutting precision, the machine was crafted with a cutter elevation system on four precision ground columns. Like any other product, it also presents a few drawbacks, and producing snipes in both ends of the board is an important thing to consider, but also keep in mind that you can alleviate this by maneuvering the wood pieces carefully as they go through.

---

13. POWERTEC PL1251

Check Price at Amazon

Another performing unit that will bring to the table a pack of useful features is the PL1251. It will aid you in all your DIY wood projects as it’s powered by a standard 15Amp motor that enables the cutter head to rotate no less than 9,400 times per minute, thus delivering a great speed of 18,800 cuts per minute. This way, it can manage cutting boards measuring a maximum of 12 and a half inches in width and up to 6 inches in thickness. Furthermore, it allows you to set the depth to 1/32 of an inch, for pieces that are less than 5 inches thick, and one of 3/32 of an inch, for pieces thicker than 5 inches.

The base is large and stable, to prevent wobbling while dealing with large chunks of wood. The removable feeding tables add to its stability by keeping the workpieces in place. Additionally, it is equipped with an index pin setup for effortless blade replacement, return rollers, handles mounted on the sides, and a spindle lock for added safety. This last feature’s safety aspect refers to keeping the cutter head in place for any blade changes. It is extremely secure, so you can easily use it without having to worry about the possibility of cutting your fingers. The warranty for this model is on the shorter side, with only 1 year of protection against manufacturing defects.

---

14. Bosch PL1632

Check Price at Amazon

This handheld unit from Bosch provides fast and even stock removal from wood pieces, including painted or lacquered ones. The 6.5Amp engine delivers a cut speed of no less than 30,000 in 60 seconds, together with a 96 CPI, being able to compete with large tabletop units. It is driven by a poly Micro-V belt for enhanced durability and quieter performance, so you can rest assured that everything will run smoothly. The precision front and back aluminum parts ensure accuracy while the guiding fence keeps the stability up when it is mounted on both the back and the flat side of the tool. The package also includes an extra plastic shoe that prevents the marring of a wood piece.

A lock-off button is integrated and it prevents any accidental start-ups, but the innovation is in the lock-on button, an industry-first feature that makes extended use easier by preventing hand fatigue resulting from having your finger press down continuously. Maneuvering the PL1632 is a simple feat due to the swivel feature of the cord that keeps it out of the way while operating. Another innovative feature is the spring-loaded stand, which holds the tool higher to protect the blade, and the resting spot, which enables an easy entry into the middle of the workpiece. Although a dust port is not included, don’t worry about any mess resulting from the shavings and sawdust, as it comes with a bag attached to one side, so everything will remain neat and clean.

---

15. Ryobi HPL52K

Check Price at Amazon

Same as the PL1632, the HPL52K is a handheld planer that can be used for mild thinning operations. It has a powerful 6 Amp engine that runs up to 16,500 rotations in one minute. It is fully adjustable, giving you the option of setting the depth from as small as nothing, up to an eighth of an inch in 1/96-inch increments. The cutting blade is 3 inches and one-quarter wide so this is the maximum plank width it can shave wood off of.

Due to a rubber molded grip, it can be handled with maximum precision because the slipping risk will be cut out. Also, it is extremely safe, as it features a lock-off button to keep you away from accidental starts and injuries. When compared to other similar tools, an interesting detail are the dual dust exhaust ports that enable use on either side to accommodate left or right-handed users. The mounted kickstand is located in the rear end of the unit its purpose is to keep scuffs and scratches from happening. A final mention-worthy detail is the 3-year protection period offered by the manufacturer. Finally, to help you with an easier way of transporting it, a bag is included in the package.

---

Safety Tips When Working With Planers

As you might have noticed, the planers in our comparison are quite large and heavy, meaning that they are tools to be preferably set and used in one place. But even so, if they aren’t portable and you don’t move them around that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be just as careful – if not, even more. That is why we’ve compiled a list of safety rules for you to follow when you’re working with these heavy-duty power tools.

Therefore, the ways you can keep safe while you work on your projects involving wood are:

Always Inspect Your Tools Beforehand.

• During transport or when in storage, the tool can fall or take a hit, so make sure that everything is in place and that all the pieces are in good shape before you plug it in.

Electrical Safety Is Non-Negotiable.

• It’s preferable to keep your machine plugged in the same spot or to have its cord or the extension cord tucked away to prevent tripping as you work. Also, make sure you have the On/Off switch on the Off mode before supplying power and keep your surroundings dry and clean to avoid electrocution or other miscellaneous tripping hazards. Never plug in a tool with a defective cord.

Use the Machine as Intended.

• Maneuvering wood pieces in any way other than that stated as acceptable by the instruction manual can lead to accidents, the most frequent one being the kick-back, which could lead to serious injury or even death.

Wear Suitable Clothing.

• When working with power tools, the type of clothing that is probable to cause issues is the loose-hanging one. Sleeves, pant legs, oversized sweaters, drawstrings, untucked t-shirts, unbuttoned shirts, all can be a hazard in one moment of negligence. Long hair that is not tied up, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and even rings can also be risky, so it’s best to take as many precautions as you can.

Protect Yourself.

• Even if you stick to every aforementioned guideline, as you operate the machine, there are still some exposed parts that you need to take care of. Your ears and your eyes will require proper protection in the shape of earplugs and protective glasses, or a headset and a face shield for more heavy-duty projects.

---

Types to Pick Between

With so many types available on the market, we understand that choosing a new tool to work with might be difficult. That’s precisely the reason why, below, we have created four different categories to aid you with reaching a final choice. Each category has its purpose, plus, each one of these models has its specific advantages and disadvantages. So, scroll further down to gather more information before making a decision.

Thickness Planer

By using this type, the result you will get will be smooth-shaped pieces of wood that have a constant thickness. It allows working with irregular pieces as well, to help you avoid throwing them away or using them as simple fire wood. The main advantage it gives is the possibility of purchasing any type of wood from a lumberyard, without thinking that it might be too bumpy, as it allows you to shape it to size. Workers prefer to use the portable version, however, you should keep in mind that a wide space is needed to properly operate it, regardless of its portability.

---

Pros – Accessible prices; Portable; Easy to use
Cons – Some might not always be 100% precise
Good For – DIY enthusiasts who want to save some money; Smaller businesses

---

Handheld Planer

As you probably know, this second type is the most popular for the mobility and freedom it gives. Compared to the others, its blade is on the base and it has to be maneuvered flat against the workpiece to shape it. Another important thing to jot down about the handheld tool is that it cannot only shave and level, but also perform some of the functions of a sander and even those of a jointer.

---

Pros – Effortless maneuvering; Depend on a benchtop; More range
Cons – Cannot reduce thickness beyond 1 inch in one go; It may take a while before you reach the desired end product
Good For – DIY enthusiasts who need a tool for finishing purposes; Users who prefer the added mobility

---

Jointer Planer

Beginner workers and DIY-ers alike sometimes wonder: What sets a jointer and a planer apart? First off, each tool serves its own purpose. The former is utilized to create the smoothest surfaces, while the latter evens out the thickness throughout. Thankfully, there are also multitasking options out there, such as a jointer-planer, which will cost less compared to two separate tools, and the efficiency is a plus for woodworking hobbyists who consider that a crowded workspace is a real problem. A combination machine also has the added perk of being able to reduce the time you spend on a project.

---

Pros – Extremely powerful; Reliable; Cuts down on expenses and on the time it takes to finish a job
Cons – Most models are large and bulky
Good For – Small workshops that lack the extra space needed for two different tools; Users who enjoy efficiency and multi-tasking

---

Benchtop Planer

This type is a stand-alone that includes a base to hold the actual machine. It’s the largest type, usually intended for industrial use, but many experienced woodworkers also have it at home to help them deal with heavy-duty projects. It provides increased engine power and can easily handle larger pieces of wood thanks to the often included oversized feeding tables. The asking price tends to be higher, which is why it’s not as popular as the other options.

---

Pros – High power; Great reliability; More stability during use
Cons – Large size; Relocation might require more effort
Good For – Heavy-duty use and hard woods

---

Thickness Planer vs Jointer

These two are the top picks out of the four we mentioned and both will undoubtedly be of great help in a workshop. Now, the question is: Are both a necessity? As you might know, heavy-duty power tools are quite expensive and some take up more space than others. However, any experienced woodworker will tell you that you shouldn’t focus on picking one, but rather combining the two to obtain a better outcome.

While the first is a thicknessing tool, the second is a straightening and flattening tool. Therefore, they have separate purposes and are generally used for different operations in preparing pieces for major projects. The jointer can only effectively straighten one side of a plank and, subsequently, the straightened sides can be glued together to create a seamless bond if you want to build the perfect corner. The thicknesser can adjust the height of the plank throughout its entire surface, making it easier to create a perfectly level flooring, for example. By now, you can probably tell that either tool can be a necessity depending on the project you will be undergoing. If you have both, after you set both tools to the precise measurements and pass the lumber in and out, the resulting piece will be something to marvel at.

Now, considering the more practical aspects, we need to admit that purchasing the two at the same time is a great financial effort that not anyone can swing. Therefore, we would recommend that you reach for the thicknesser first, the reason being that it’s more useful in leveling and thinning lumber boards without any extra help. Although you must understand its limitations, it will do a fine job for a novice woodworker who isn’t required to handle large amounts of lumber for complicated projects.

If picking just one of these two tools is not an option for you and you need to have both of their skills for your future project, there’s a final option. You could go for another one of the types listed, the jointer planer combination machine. As we have mentioned, this type of unit comprises both tools, the jointer at the top where you can see everything and move the workpieces accordingly, and the planer just below it where you can maneuver the boards in and out. Both provide an easy access and the fact that they are so close to each other helps cut down on the time you have to spend in the workshop. Another bonus is that the price point is also more accessible than buying two separate machines.

---

Product Ratings

As mentioned above, the types and models available are plenty, and that’s the reason why finding a suitable companion is a task that can drag out for quite a while. Actually, after looking at all those models, you can feel more confused than ever about which one is the best choice. Before making a decision, there are a few more things you need to consider:

Tool Size

• When looking to purchase this type of unit, make sure you consider the size of it as well. If it’s going to be used for personal purposes, you can opt for a smaller one. But if you need a more advanced model that is able to handle a bigger load, a larger-sized one will meet your needs. However, do take into consideration that the units with a higher performance tend to be larger.

Table Size

• Not only the size of the product is important. There is also the size of the cutting area you need to consider. The ideal machine should come with tables that can support pieces up 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick, or more. These sizes might be enough for a large project, but should you require something larger, models that function with planks that measure more than 20 inches long are also available.

Cutter Type

• Another important point is the cutter type. The blades come in different sizes, shapes, and styles. While some people prefer models with helical heads, others choose the spiral design. The ones with helical heads operate faster, while the ones with the spiral design will make your pieces of wood look smoother than ever.

Noise

• Before making an investment and spending a few hundred bucks on a new power tool, many recommend that you see that product in action. These tools tend to be noisy, and while that might not bother you, your neighbors are bound to have a different opinion. Also, seeing how it operates with hardwood is imperious because while the thickness might not cause noise, the hardness sure will. If seeing the machine live is not an option for you, try a Youtube search to have at least some idea of the noise it puts out.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

---

Conclusion

As we already mentioned (several times), there are many types and models to choose from. Therefore, we have made a final refresh for each of the models that fit best in certain categories of use, so that when you reach this last part of the article, you might realize that one of them might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Best Thickness Planer for Sale: DEWALT DW735X

If you are looking to purchase a good quality tool to complete your tasks that will also stand the test of time, then you would probably need a machine that comes equipped with plenty of useful features and a sturdy build. After a lot of research into the pros and cons of various models, we strongly believe that the DW735X is among the best options available for sale. It is powered by a 15 Amp engine that delivers up to 30.000 CPM, it’s a 3-blade unit that helps you cut a wide variety of materials with ease, and it includes features like a dust port, a two-speed gearbox, and a generous warranty. Therefore, it’s a market-leading option.

Editor’s Choice: Makita 2012NB

We are talking about performance at its finest when referring to this model that can handle any piece of wood you throw at it. Although not fitted with 3 blades (but only 2), it can cut 17,000 times per minute, reducing the thickness by up to one-eighth of an inch with each pass over the rollers. The table feeders extend generously so that larger pieces of wood can be accurately guided towards the blades. All things considered, no wonder it’s among the most sought-after items in the woodworking industry.

Best Thickness Planer for the Money: DEWALT DW734

This budget-friendly option is one that everyone can take into consideration, as it comes equipped with a 15 Amp engine that produces an outstanding 30,000 CPM. The cutting width supported by the machine is 12 and a half inches, while its cutting depth reaches 3/32 of an inch. The three-blade design also makes it suitable for all lumber types. Forget paying premium prices for these machines as long as you can find quality products at lower prices that are more than prepared to help you in your endeavors.

Best Thickness Planer for Home Use: Bosch PL1632

Minimal woodwork that might come up in a household can easily be taken care of with this handheld option designed by Bosch. Whether you need to alter the size of a door after replacing the flooring or you want to resize a kitchen cabinet, the answer lies in this 30,000 CPM unit. It’s easy to grip and maneuver, thus it can be used even by those who aren’t familiar with this type of tool. Safety features are also integrated to take away any risk of accidents or injuries during its operation.

Best keyword for a Small Shop: Delta Power Tools 22-555

For smaller projects, we recommend this model. This unit features a 15-amp engine that generates enough power to cut cleanly through soft to medium hardness wood. The cutting width reaches 13” while the depth is 3/32”. It features such a large working area that there’s no need to worry about the larger pieces of wood that are waiting to be cut. In addition to a smooth operation, the easy blade change makes it suitable even for casual users. Thus, if you intend to buy a model for a small shop or at-home use, we recommend the 22-555.