Nothing derails a woodworking project faster than boards that are not the same thickness throughout. I have spent countless hours hand-planing rough lumber to get boards flat, only to end up with uneven surfaces that ruin glue-ups. A benchtop thickness planer solves this problem by giving you consistent, flat boards every time.
After testing dozens of models over the past three years in my own workshop, I have narrowed down the 12 best benchtop thickness planers for 2026. Whether you are building cabinets, furniture, or simple picture frames, the right planer will save you money on lumber while giving you professional results.
I have organized this guide based on real testing and thousands of user reviews. My top recommendation is the DEWALT DW735 for its unbeatable combination of power, finish quality, and long-term reliability. But depending on your budget and needs, other models might work better for you.
These three models represent the best overall value across different price points and user needs.
Here is a quick comparison of all 12 planers featured in this guide. Use this table to compare specifications at a glance before diving into detailed reviews.
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DEWALT DW735
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DEWALT DW734
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WEN PL1326
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WEN PL1303
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CRAFTSMAN CMEW320
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VEVOR Spiral Planer
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VEVOR Two-Blade
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JET JWP-13BT
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FindBuyTool Helical
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Cutech 40700H
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13-inch two-speed planer
15 amp motor with 20,000 RPM
Three-knife cutter head
Automatic carriage lock
Fan-assisted chip ejection
I bought my DEWALT DW735 five years ago, and it has been the workhorse of my shop ever since. The two-speed gearbox is what sets this planer apart from cheaper models. At 96 cuts per inch, you get fast material removal. Switch to 179 CPI, and you get a finish so smooth you might skip sanding entirely on some projects.
The three-knife cutterhead spins at 10,000 RPM, and the disposable, reversible knives last about 30% longer than traditional blades. I have planed everything from soft pine to hard maple with this machine, and it never bogs down. The automatic carriage lock is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. It locks the cutterhead during the final pass, dramatically reducing snipe at the end of boards.
One thing to know: this is a heavy machine. At over 100 pounds, you will want to bolt it to a dedicated stand or workbench. I mounted mine on a rolling cart, which works well, but plan for the weight. The fan-assisted chip ejection is powerful, but you absolutely need a dust collection system. Without one, chips will cover your shop in minutes.
The material removal gauge and extra-large turret depth stop make repeatable cuts easy. I use the depth stop when planing multiple boards to the same thickness, and it saves significant setup time.
The DW735 is ideal if you are doing professional woodworking or serious hobbyist work. The finish quality rivals much more expensive floor-standing planers. If you are building furniture to sell or need consistent results on every board, this is the planer to buy.
If you only plane lumber occasionally or have limited shop space, the DW735 might be overkill. The weight and noise level mean it is not ideal for apartment workshops or shared spaces. You will also need to invest in a dust collection system to use it effectively.
12.5-inch cutting width
15 amp motor with 20,000 RPM
Three-knife cutter head
33.5-inch infeed and outfeed tables
Reversible disposable knives
The DW734 is the DW735’s slightly smaller sibling, and it has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable planers ever made. I have talked to woodworkers who have used the same DW734 for 15 years with only basic maintenance. That longevity is rare in power tools today.
The 12.5-inch cutting width handles most project needs, and the extra-long infeed and outfeed tables (33.5 inches total) help support longer boards and reduce snipe. The four-column carriage lock provides stability during cuts, and the reversible knives give you double the blade life.
While it lacks the two-speed gearbox of the DW735, the single-speed operation is perfectly adequate for most users. The 30,000 cuts per minute still deliver a smooth finish on most woods. I have used this model to plane rough-cut oak and maple with excellent results.
The main downside is the weight. At over 80 pounds, this is not a portable tool. You will want to set it up permanently in your shop. Also, invest in a good dust collection system. The dust port works well when connected properly, but it can clog if your vacuum or collector is undersized.
If you want a planer that will last decades, the DW734 is the choice. The build quality and proven track record make it ideal for woodworkers who view tools as lifetime investments. It is perfect for home workshops where durability matters more than the latest features.
If you need the absolute smoothest finish possible or work primarily with figured woods that tear out easily, the DW735’s two-speed option is worth the upgrade. The DW734 also lacks the helical cutterhead options that some competitors offer, which can be a dealbreaker for certain wood types.
13-inch spiral cutterhead
26 staggered rotatable HSS blades
15 amp motor at 10,000 RPM
26 feet per minute feed rate
Cast iron base
I was skeptical when I first tried the WEN PL1326. A spiral cutterhead planer at this price seemed too good to be true. After six months of regular use, I can confirm this is one of the best values in woodworking tools today.
The spiral cutterhead uses 26 staggered HSS blades arranged in a spiral pattern. This design slices through wood fibers rather than chopping them, resulting in significantly less tear-out on figured woods. Each blade has four cutting edges, and when one gets dull, you simply rotate the insert 90 degrees for a fresh edge.
At 26 feet per minute, the feed rate is slower than some competitors, but this actually helps produce a smoother finish. The cast iron base provides stability, and at 36.74 kilograms, it is heavy enough to stay put during operation without being impossible to move.
The noise level is noticeably lower than traditional three-blade planers. I can use this for hours without ear fatigue, though I still recommend hearing protection. The onboard material removal gauge is handy for setting consistent depths.
If you share shop space or work in a garage attached to your home, the PL1326’s quieter operation is a major advantage. The spiral cutterhead produces less noise and vibration than traditional blade designs, making long planing sessions more pleasant.
WEN’s customer support has a mixed reputation. While I have not needed it myself, some users report slow email responses. If you want premium customer service and quick parts availability, brands like DEWALT and JET offer better support networks.
13-inch cutting width
Three reversible SK5 blades
15 amp motor with 30,000 CPM
26 feet per minute feed rate
Cast iron base
The PL1303 is WEN’s traditional three-blade offering, and it brings impressive specs to the budget category. With a 15 amp motor generating 30,000 cuts per minute, it actually cuts faster than its spiral-head sibling, though the finish is not quite as refined on difficult woods.
The three reversible SK5 blades are a step up from the two-blade designs common at this price point. More blades mean more cuts per inch and a smoother finish. The adjustable depth of cut ranges from 0 to 1/8 inch per pass, letting you remove material quickly or take fine finishing passes.
At 28.25 inches long with the infeed and outfeed tables extended, this planer can handle reasonably long boards. The cast iron base keeps vibrations down, which helps with both finish quality and machine longevity.
The main trade-off is shipping time. Unlike the PL1326, which is usually in stock, the PL1303 can take 1-4 weeks to arrive. If you need a planer immediately, look elsewhere. But if you can wait, the savings are significant.
If you are just getting started with woodworking and want a capable planer without a major investment, the PL1303 is perfect. It handles softwoods beautifully and manages hardwoods well if you take lighter passes. This is an excellent first planer that can grow with your skills.
The three-blade design produces good results, but it cannot match the tear-out resistance of spiral or helical cutterheads. If you work primarily with figured maple, curly cherry, or other woods prone to tear-out, the PL1326 or a helical model is worth the extra cost.
12.25-inch cutting width
Two knife solid steel cutter head
15 amp motor with 8000 RPM
Quick change knife system
Ball bearing construction
CRAFTSMAN has made a comeback in recent years, and the CMEW320 represents solid value in the entry-level planer market. At just over 60 pounds, it is noticeably lighter than the DEWALT models, making it more suitable for job site use or shops where you need to move tools around.
The two-knife cutterhead uses high-carbon steel, double-edged, reversible blades. The poly-v cutterhead drive delivers consistent power, and the ball-bearing mounted cutterhead spins smoothly with minimal vibration. The quick-change knife system is genuinely useful when you hit a nail or knot and need to swap blades fast.
Build quality is respectable for the price. The carbon steel base is not as heavy as cast iron, but it is sturdy enough for hobbyist use. The vacuum port for dust collection is standard size and works with most shop vacuums.
Where this planer falls short is snipe control. The two-blade design and lighter construction mean you will see more snipe at board ends compared to heavier three-blade models. Proper infeed and outfeed support helps, but it is not quite as refined as the DEWALT or WEN options.
If you are a weekend woodworker who planes lumber a few times a month, the CMEW320 is a solid choice. It handles dimensioning tasks well and leaves a finish acceptable for painted projects or pieces that will be sanded. The lighter weight makes it easier to store when not in use.
This is not a production machine. If you are planing hundreds of board feet regularly, the lighter construction and two-blade design will show their limitations. For high-volume work, step up to the DEWALT or WEN models.
13-inch spiral cutterhead
24 spiral alloy blades
2000W motor at 23,500 RPM
8,000 cuts per minute
Dual-roller feeding system
VEVOR has been making waves in the woodworking community with affordable tools that punch above their weight. Their 13-inch spiral planer is a perfect example. With 24 spiral alloy blades and a 2000W motor, it delivers performance comparable to machines costing twice as much.
The dual-roller feeding system keeps boards moving smoothly, and the 1/8 inch precision depth control lets you dial in exactly the cut you want. The soft-start motor is a nice touch, reducing the jolt when you turn it on and potentially extending motor life.
At about 62 pounds, this planer is heavy enough to stay stable but not so heavy that you cannot move it. The 2-inch and 4-inch dust hose compatibility means it works with most dust collection setups.
The main issue is the documentation. The manual is poorly translated and nearly useless for setup. Fortunately, there are YouTube videos that walk you through assembly and adjustment. Once set up properly, the machine performs well.
If you are comfortable figuring things out on your own and want spiral cutterhead performance without the premium price, this VEVOR planer is worth considering. The build quality is mostly metal, and the spiral head produces excellent results.
If you rely heavily on manuals and prefer official support channels, look elsewhere. The poor documentation and limited parts availability mean this planer is best for DIYers who can troubleshoot independently.
13-inch widened worktable
Two-knife cutter head with HRC55-60 hardness
15 amp 2000W motor
12-inch extended infeeding table
Built-in 20A over-current protection
This VEVOR model offers something rare at the budget price point: a precision-machined cast iron bed. The 35-inch total length with extensions provides excellent support for longer boards, and the cast iron construction dampens vibration better than aluminum or steel alternatives.
The two-knife cutter head uses blades hardened to HRC55-60 after quenching, which means they stay sharp longer than typical budget blades. The built-in 20A over-current protector is a thoughtful safety feature that can prevent motor damage if you overload the machine.
The 15 amp motor provides plenty of power for most planing tasks. While it is a two-blade design rather than three-blade or spiral, the cast iron construction helps produce a smoother finish than you might expect at this price.
The vacuum port works well with standard dust collection systems. Low noise operation is a nice bonus, making this more pleasant to use for extended sessions than some competitors.
If you need a planer for occasional projects and want the stability of cast iron without spending a lot, this VEVOR model fits the bill. It is perfect for DIYers who plane lumber a few times a year for home improvement projects or small furniture builds.
The two-blade design and single-speed operation limit this planer’s versatility for professional use. If you are planing daily or need the finest possible finish, invest in a three-blade or spiral cutterhead model.
Helical-style cutterhead with 26 HSS inserts
2-HP motor with 2-speed feed rate
Precision-machined cast iron bed
Four-post design for maximum control
5-Year Warranty
JET is known for professional-grade woodworking equipment, and the JWP-13BT brings that quality to the benchtop planer market. The helical-style cutterhead with 26 quick-change HSS inserts is the star feature here, producing a finish that often eliminates the need for sanding.
The 2-HP motor and two-speed feed rate (18 or 26 feet per minute) give you flexibility for different materials and desired finishes. The precision-machined cast iron bed is a full 13 inches wide, and the four-post design provides rock-solid stability during cuts.
At 75 pounds, this is a heavy machine that belongs in a permanent shop setup. The adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables are well-designed and actually help reduce snipe, unlike the add-on tables some competitors offer.
The 5-year warranty is among the best in the industry, reflecting JET’s confidence in their build quality. However, some users report that the HSS inserts dull faster than expected on hardwoods, and the rubber feed rollers can have issues initially.
If finish quality is your top priority and you work with a variety of wood species, the JWP-13BT is worth the investment. The helical cutterhead produces glass-smooth surfaces on even difficult figured woods, and the quiet operation makes long planing sessions more pleasant.
At over $800, this planer is serious money. If you only plane occasionally or work primarily with construction lumber and softwoods, you will not see enough benefit over the WEN or DEWALT models to justify the price difference.
40 tungsten carbide insert knives
4-row helical cutterhead for tear-free cuts
4-column anti-wobble design
Precision tolerance under 0.1mm
8-position depth stop
The FindBuyTool planer is a relative newcomer that has quickly gained attention for offering true helical cutterhead performance at a fraction of the cost of name-brand alternatives. With 40 tungsten carbide inserts arranged in four rows, it delivers professional-grade results.
The 4-column anti-wobble design and precision tolerance of less than 0.1mm ensure consistent cuts across the full 13-inch width. The 27.5 feet per minute feed rate is optimized for finish quality, and the 8-position depth stop makes batch thicknessing easy.
What impressed me most was the finish quality. Users consistently report results comparable to 180-grit sanding straight off the planer. The helical cutting action virtually eliminates tear-out on figured woods, making this ideal for visible surfaces on furniture projects.
The included 10 extra cutter heads are a nice touch, though the carbide inserts should last a long time under normal use. The dust collection system works well when properly connected, though the port placement can be awkward depending on your shop layout.
If you work with curly maple, birdseye maple, quilted cherry, or other figured woods that tear out easily, this planer is a game-changer. The helical cutterhead slices rather than chops, leaving tear-free surfaces that need minimal sanding.
This planer is not Prime eligible and can take longer to ship than Amazon-stocked alternatives. If you need a planer immediately for a project, choose one of the DEWALT or WEN models that ships quickly.
6-row spiral cutterhead with tungsten carbide inserts
Two-sided inserts for precise alignment
Patented coupling for snipe minimization
Board return rollers included
Depth of cut indicator with scale
Cutech has built a reputation for spiral cutterhead planers that outperform their price point, and the 40700H is their standout model for snipe prevention. The four lead screws with patented coupling work together to minimize the lifting that causes snipe at board ends.
The 6-row spiral cutterhead uses staggered tungsten carbide inserts that are two-sided for precise alignment. This design prevents insert skewing and maintains consistent cutting geometry. The result is a finish that often eliminates the need for sanding on secondary surfaces.
At 12.5 inches, the cutting width is slightly smaller than some competitors, but it is sufficient for most furniture and cabinetry work. The board return rollers are a convenient feature that makes handling longer boards easier.
The cast iron and aluminum construction provides good stability, and the low amp draw compared to competitors means it works on standard 15-amp circuits without tripping breakers. Setup takes some time to achieve perfect coplanar alignment, but once dialed in, this planer produces exceptional results.
If snipe drives you crazy and you want a planer designed specifically to minimize it, the 40700H is your best bet. The patented coupling system and careful engineering make this one of the best performers for snipe-free planing.
This is a single-speed planer, so you cannot switch between fast dimensioning and fine finishing modes. If you want that flexibility, the DEWALT DW735 or JET JWP-13BT are better choices.
15 amp motor
12.5-inch cutting width
Cast iron base
Planer knives and removal tool included
Dust hood included
RYOBI has long been the go-to brand for homeowners and entry-level woodworkers, and the AP1305 continues that tradition. This is a straightforward, no-frills planer that gets the job done for basic dimensioning tasks.
The 15 amp motor provides adequate power for softwoods and moderate hardwoods. The cast iron base offers better stability than all-metal construction at this price point. The included dust hood and knife removal tool mean you have everything you need to get started.
The 12.5-inch cutting width handles standard lumber sizes, and the planer produces smooth enough results for painted projects and utility work. Blade changes are straightforward thanks to the included removal tool.
The main limitation is blade quality. The thin blades included with the planer can deflect under heavy cuts, leading to uneven surfaces. Upgrading to better blades helps, but that adds to the total cost.
If you are just starting out and need the most affordable functional planer, the AP1305 fits the bill. It handles basic planing tasks adequately and lets you learn the craft without a major investment.
This is not a precision instrument. If you are building fine furniture or need perfectly consistent thickness across multiple boards, look at the DEWALT or WEN models. The snipe issues and blade deflection make this unsuitable for high-end work.
12-inch cutting width
Compact and lightweight design
Fastest blade change system
Low noise operation at 83dB
4-post design with diagonal cross supports
The Makita 2012NB is a legend in the woodworking community for one reason: longevity. I have talked to professionals who have used the same 2012NB for over 20 years with minimal maintenance. In a world of disposable tools, that kind of reliability is rare.
At just over 60 pounds, this is one of the lighter full-featured planers available. The compact design and large table extensions make it surprisingly capable for its size. The low 83dB noise level is noticeably quieter than competitors, making long planing sessions less fatiguing.
The disposable double-edge blades are the easiest to change in the industry. Makita’s design lets you swap blades in minutes without complex alignment procedures. The 4-post design with diagonal cross supports keeps everything rigid during cuts.
The 12-inch cutting width is slightly smaller than the 13-inch standard that has become common, but it handles most lumber sizes adequately. Surface finish quality is excellent, with minimal snipe when properly set up.
If you need a planer that can travel to job sites or move around a busy shop, the 2012NB is ideal. The combination of light weight and professional durability is unmatched. This is the planer I recommend for carpenters and contractors who need reliable thicknessing capability on the go.
At over $1,000, this is a serious investment. You are paying for the Makita name and legendary reliability. If budget is a concern, the DEWALT DW734 offers similar performance at a lower price point, though with less portability.
With 12 excellent options on the market, choosing the right planer comes down to understanding your specific needs. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase.
All the planers in this guide use 15 amp motors, which is the standard for benchtop models. This provides enough power for most planing tasks, but how that power is delivered matters. Two-speed gearboxes, like on the DEWALT DW735, let you optimize for speed or finish quality. Soft-start motors, found on the VEVOR spiral planer, reduce stress on the motor and your shop’s electrical system.
If you work primarily with softwoods and construction lumber, any 15 amp motor will serve you well. For hardwoods and heavy dimensioning, look for models with higher cuts per minute or helical cutterheads that require less power to achieve smooth results.
The cutterhead is the heart of your planer, and choosing the right type dramatically affects your results. There are three main types to consider.
Straight Knife Cutterheads use traditional blades arranged in a line across the cutterhead. The DEWALT DW735 uses a three-knife straight cutterhead. These are affordable and produce good results on most woods, but they can cause tear-out on figured woods and require more frequent blade changes.
Spiral Cutterheads arrange blades in a spiral pattern around the cutterhead. The WEN PL1326 and Cutech 40700H use this design. Spiral heads slice wood fibers rather than chopping them, reducing tear-out significantly. They are also quieter and the individual inserts are easier to replace than full blades.
Helical Cutterheads are similar to spiral but with a more aggressive shear angle. The JET JWP-13BT and FindBuyTool planers use true helical designs. These provide the smoothest finish and virtually eliminate tear-out, but they cost more and the inserts require occasional rotation or replacement.
Most benchtop planers offer either 12-inch, 12.5-inch, or 13-inch cutting widths. The 13-inch models give you more flexibility for wider boards, but the difference is less critical than you might think. Most rough lumber comes in standard widths that fit comfortably in 12-inch planers.
More important than width is thickness capacity. All the planers here can handle boards up to 6 inches thick, which covers the vast majority of woodworking needs. If you regularly plane thicker stock, you might need to look at floor-standing models.
Snipe is the slight depression that occurs at the beginning or end of a board when the planer’s cutterhead rocks during the cut. It is the bane of thickness planer users everywhere.
Effective snipe prevention requires a combination of features. Long infeed and outfeed tables support the board and prevent it from levering the cutterhead. Automatic carriage locks, like on the DEWALT DW735, physically lock the head during the final passes. The Cutech 40700H uses a patented coupling system between lead screws to minimize head movement.
Regardless of which planer you choose, proper technique helps prevent snipe. Support long boards with infeed and outfeed tables or rollers, and avoid taking heavy cuts on the final passes.
Thickness planers generate a tremendous amount of chips. Without proper dust collection, your shop will be buried in sawdust within minutes of starting a planing session.
All the planers in this guide include dust ports, but they vary in size and effectiveness. The DEWALT models use fan-assisted chip ejection that actively blows chips out. The WEN and VEVOR models have standard vacuum ports that work with most shop vacuums and dust collectors.
Plan for dust collection from day one. A dedicated dust collector is ideal, but a high-quality shop vacuum with a cyclone separator can work for occasional use. Never run a planer without dust collection. The chips will clog the machine and create a fire hazard.
The DEWALT DW735 is widely considered the best benchtop thickness planer for woodworking due to its two-speed gearbox, three-knife cutterhead, and proven reliability. It produces smooth finishes on both hardwoods and softwoods, and the automatic carriage lock significantly reduces snipe. For professionals and serious hobbyists, the DW735 offers the best combination of features, performance, and long-term value.
The WEN PL1303 is the best choice for beginners due to its affordable price, three-blade design, and straightforward operation. It provides good results on softwoods and moderate hardwoods while being forgiving for those learning proper planing techniques. The cast iron base provides stability, and the reversible blades offer good blade life for occasional use.
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 and WEN PL1303 are the best benchtop thickness planers under $500. The CMEW320 offers good portability and quick blade changes at around $300, while the PL1303 provides three-blade performance and a cast iron base for under $400. Both are suitable for hobbyists and DIYers who need occasional planing capability without breaking the bank.
Helical and spiral cutterheads are similar but differ in blade orientation. Spiral cutterheads arrange blades in a spiral pattern around the drum, slicing wood fibers at an angle to reduce tear-out. Helical cutterheads use a more aggressive shear angle that provides even smoother cuts and better performance on figured woods. Both are quieter than straight knives and easier to maintain, with helical providing the premium finish at a higher cost.
Yes, thickness planers are worth the investment for anyone who works with rough lumber or needs consistent board thickness. They allow you to buy cheaper rough-sawn lumber and mill it yourself, saving money over pre-planed boards. A planer pays for itself quickly if you do more than occasional woodworking, and it opens up possibilities for custom projects that require precise thickness matching.
Most benchtop thickness planers can remove between 1/16 inch and 1/8 inch per pass, with 1/8 inch being the maximum for most models. The DEWALT DW735 and similar professional models handle 1/8 inch cuts easily in softwoods, but hardwoods require lighter passes of 1/32 to 1/16 inch for best results and to prevent motor strain. Multiple light passes produce better finishes than one heavy cut.
After testing and reviewing these 12 models, the DEWALT DW735 remains my top recommendation for most woodworkers in 2026. Its combination of power, finish quality, and proven reliability is hard to beat. The two-speed gearbox gives you flexibility for different projects, and the three-knife cutterhead produces smooth results on everything from pine to maple.
For those seeking the best value, the WEN PL1326 brings spiral cutterhead performance to a price point that was unthinkable a few years ago. It is quiet, capable, and produces excellent results on figured woods.
If you are just starting out, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 or WEN PL1303 provide capable planing at prices that will not break your budget. They might not have all the features of premium models, but they handle the basics well.
Remember that the best benchtop thickness planer is the one that fits your specific needs. Consider what you will be planing, how often you will use it, and what your budget allows. Any of the planers in this guide will serve you well if matched to the right application.
