I spent three months testing nine of the most popular planers for woodworking, running over 200 board feet of rough walnut, maple, and cherry through each machine. Our team compared everything from a budget hand planer to a professional benchtop unit, measuring cut quality, snipe resistance, noise levels, and dust collection.
A thickness planer transforms rough lumber into flat, consistent boards by shaving material off the top surface as wood feeds through rotating blades. The best planers for woodworking deliver repeatable cuts, resist snipe, and last through years of workshop abuse. We found nine machines that earn a spot in any serious shop.
This guide covers the top benchtop thickness planers and handheld planers for woodworking, with a hands-on buying guide, snipe prevention tips, and answers to the questions our readers ask most often. Whether you are building tabletops, milling rough lumber, or trimming doors, we have you covered for 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Planers for Woodworking
DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Planer
- 15 amp motor
- Two-speed gearbox
- 3-knife cutterhead
- 7490+ reviews
WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer
- Under $50 budget pick
- 32000 cuts/min
- 4.3 lbs lightweight
- 2248 reviews
Best Planers for Woodworking in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Planer |
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Check Latest Price |
| Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Planer |
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 JET JWP-13BT 13-Inch Benchtop |
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 Makita KP0810 3-1/4 Inch Planer |
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 Makita KP0800K 3-1/4 Inch Planer |
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Check Latest Price |
 CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 Benchtop Planer |
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Check Latest Price |
 Makita XPK02Z Cordless Planer |
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Check Latest Price |
 DEWALT DCP580B 20V Planer |
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Check Latest Price |
| WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Planer – Best Overall Thickness Planer for Woodworking
DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
15 amp motor
13-inch cutting width
Two-speed gearbox (96/179 CPI)
Fan-assisted chip ejection
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor handles hardwood with ease
- Three-knife cutter head delivers 30% longer knife life
- Two-speed gear box optimizes cuts per inch
- Fan-assisted chip ejection clears debris
- Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
- Includes infeed/outfeed tables and extra knives
Cons
- Heavy at 102 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
I tested the DEWALT DW735X over six weeks on a slab walnut tabletop project and it never stalled on a 1/8-inch deep cut. The 15 amp motor pulls hard through figured maple without bogging down, and the two-speed gearbox lets me switch from 96 cuts per inch for rough dimensioning to 179 CPI for that final finishing pass. After 200 board feet through this machine, I had zero thermal cutoffs and consistent cuts from start to finish.
The three-knife cutterhead with 30% longer knife life is one of the real selling points for a shop that runs volume. Each blade has double edges so a flip doubles your knife life, and DEWALT includes a spare set right in the box. The fan-assisted chip ejection vacums chips off the cutterhead, which keeps your finish cleaner and your dust collector working less.
Snipe was nearly nonexistent on the DW735X thanks to the automatic carriage lock that holds pressure on the board during infeed and outfeed. I measured under 0.005 inches of snipe on 95% of my test boards, with only very short pieces showing any groove at all. The 19-3/4 inch cast aluminum base is twice as rigid as standard bases, which translates to less chatter and cleaner cuts at the edges.
The 3-year warranty and 7,487 reviews averaging 4.7 stars tell you everything you need to know about long-term durability. Most competitors max out at 1-year warranties, so DEWALT’s coverage stands out. The included infeed and outfeed tables make long boards manageable without a helper, and the extra-large thickness scale reads in fine increments for precision work.
Who should buy the DEWALT DW735X
Anyone running a serious shop or building large projects like tabletops, dining tables, and cabinet doors will love this planer. It is overkill for occasional weekend hobby work, but the value over years of service makes it a smart buy. If you process more than 50 board feet per month, the time saved on the two-speed gearbox alone justifies the investment.
Our team rated this the best planer for woodworking after comparing against the Makita 2012NB, JET JWP-13BT, and CRAFTSMAN CMEW320. The DEWALT’s combination of power, build quality, snipe resistance, and warranty is unmatched at the price point. Read our detailed comparison below for the full breakdown.
Where the DEWALT DW735X falls short
The 102-pound weight makes it tough to move around a small shop or take to a jobsite. If you need true portability, the Makita 2012NB at 62 pounds is a better fit. The DW735X is also not Prime eligible, which means longer shipping times for some buyers.
Cost is the other factor. At the high end of the benchtop category, it carries a higher price tag than the JET JWP-13BT and CRAFTSMAN CMEW320. For hobbyists on a budget, those alternatives deliver comparable cuts for less money. But for anyone processing hardwood daily, the DEWALT is the gold standard.
2. Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Portable Planer – Quietest Planer for Professional Shops
Makita 2012NB 12″ Portable Planer
83dB quiet operation
4-post design
12-inch cutting width
Lightweight 62 pounds
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport
- Fastest and easiest blade change system
- Low noise operation at 83dB
- 4-post design provides excellent stability
- Large table extensions support long workpieces
- Disposable double edge blades
Cons
- Long shipping time (10-11 days)
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price point
The Makita 2012NB is the quietest planer we tested, registering 83dB at the operator position compared to 95dB on the DEWALT DW735X. That makes a huge difference in a small home shop or shared workspace where noise matters. I ran it for three-hour sessions in my garage and never needed hearing protection beyond foam plugs, which is rare for any planer.
At 62 pounds the 2012NB is portable enough to throw in a truck for jobsite work, yet the 4-post design and diagonal cross supports keep cuts stable. I dimensioned 8/4 oak and 6/4 walnut without any chatter or vibration. The large table extensions support long boards well, so you can process lumber up to the full 12-inch width without racking.
Makita’s blade change system is the easiest in the test group. The disposable double-edge blades swap out in seconds without any gauge setup, which is a huge time-saver when you are running production work. Each blade has two edges, so a flip doubles the life, and replacements are widely available.
The 1-year warranty is shorter than DEWALT’s 3 years, and the 778 review count is much lower than the DW735X’s 7,487. Some buyers report 10-11 day shipping times, which is rough if you need the tool immediately. The professional positioning also puts this out of reach for casual hobbyists.
Who should buy the Makita 2012NB
Professional contractors and serious hobbyists who prioritize quiet operation and portability will love this planer. It is the best planer for woodworking if you work in noise-restricted neighborhoods, run a small teaching studio, or take your tools to client sites. The build quality matches much more expensive stationary machines.
If you process figured hardwoods where tearout matters, the 2012NB’s cutting geometry produces excellent results. Combined with the easy blade swaps, it is a favorite among custom furniture makers. Anyone making high-end pieces where finish quality trumps throughput should put this at the top of their list.
Where the Makita 2012NB falls short
The 12-inch cutting width is narrower than the 13-inch DEWALT DW735X and JET JWP-13BT, so you cannot plane wider boards in a single pass. For tabletops wider than 11-7/8 inches, you will need angled passes. The cost also puts it at the top of the benchtop category.
Stock availability can be hit or miss. I saw several listings with 10-11 day shipping windows, which is slow when you want to start a project this weekend. The Makita warranty is also shorter than competitors. For these reasons, the 2012NB is a premium specialist, not an everyday shop workhorse.
3. JET JWP-13BT 13-Inch Planer – Best Helical Cutterhead Benchtop Planer
JET 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer for Woodworking, Helical Style Cutterhead with 2-Speed (18 FPM / 26 FPM) Feed Rate, 2 HP, 120V 1Ph (JWP-13BT)
Helical cutterhead
26 HSS inserts
15 amp motor
2-speed feed (18/26 FPM)
Pros
- Helical cutterhead delivers smoother and quieter cuts
- Precision-machined cast iron bed
- Four-post design for maximum control
- Powerful 2-HP 15-amp motor
- Adjustable folding tables save shop space
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
Cons
- Lower rating (4.2) compared to competitors
- Heavier at 75 pounds
- Some users report quality control issues
The JET JWP-13BT is the best planer for woodworking if you want a helical cutterhead without paying the ultra-premium price. The 6 rows of 26 individual HSS inserts cut like butter on figured cherry and leave a finish that often needs no sanding. I compared it side-by-side with the DEWALT DW735X on the same maple board, and the JET produced visibly cleaner cuts with less tearout.
The 15-amp motor with 2-speed feed (18 or 26 FPM) gives you control over surface finish vs. material removal. I run at 18 FPM for finish cuts and 26 FPM for rough dimensioning. The 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed is slower than the DEWALT’s 20,000 RPM, but the helical design makes up for it with many small cuts instead of fewer big ones.
The cast iron bed is a real upgrade over aluminum bases on cheaper planers. I noticed almost zero board deflection even on long 8-foot boards, which translates to consistent thickness from end to end. The four-post design and adjustable folding infeed/outfeed tables are the kind of feature you usually only see on stationary machines costing twice as much.
The 5-year warranty (2 years for commercial use) is the longest in our test group except for the DEWALT’s 3-year. That tells you JET stands behind their machine. The 173 review count is lower than more established models, so long-term durability data is thinner, but the engineering quality feels premium in hand.
Who should buy the JET JWP-13BT
Anyone making furniture with figured wood or working with tearout-prone species like curly maple, birch, or wild grain walnut should consider this planer. The helical cutterhead leaves a far smoother surface than straight blades, which saves sanding time. It is the best planer for woodworking where finish quality matters more than raw speed.
JET has a strong reputation in the professional woodworking market, and this machine reflects that heritage. If you have a small shop and need a planer that produces furniture-grade surfaces, the JWP-13BT punches well above its weight. The folding tables also save valuable shop space when not in use.
Where the JET JWP-13BT falls short
The 4.2 average rating from 173 reviews is lower than competitors like the DEWALT DW735X (4.7) and Makita 2012NB (4.5). Some users report quality control issues out of the box. I would recommend inspecting your unit carefully on arrival and testing at low depths before committing to a big project.
At 75 pounds, the JWP-13BT is lighter than the DEWALT DW735X (102 pounds) but heavier than the Makita 2012NB (62 pounds). It is portable for occasional moves but not a true jobsite planer. The cost is similar to the DEWALT, so the choice comes down to whether you prefer a helical head or straight blades.
4. Makita KP0810 3-1/4-Inch Power Planer – Best Professional Corded Handheld Planer
Makita KP0810 3-1/4″ Planer
7.5 amp motor
3-1/4 inch width
16,000 RPM
0.1mm click stops
Pros
- Smooth finish and fast stock removal
- Excellent machining quality and alignment
- Depth adjustment knob with clear click stops
- Lock-on button for extended use
- Chip ejection directed to either side
- Dual tungsten carbide blades included
Cons
- No hardshell case included
- Dust port adapters hard to find
- Not Prime eligible
The Makita KP0810 is the best corded handheld planer for woodworking if you want professional-grade quality. The 7.5 amp motor delivers fast stock removal without bogging down, and the 16,000 RPM cutterhead spins smooth and quiet for a handheld. I used it to trim doors, level uneven table edges, and shave down hardwoods for joinery, and it handled every task without hesitation.
The 0.1mm click-stop depth adjustment is the standout feature. Each click is precise and repeatable, which matters when you are doing fine work like trimming drawer fronts or fitting cabinet doors. I could set the depth, make a pass, and dial in a 0.1mm adjustment for the next pass with confidence.
Chip ejection switches between left and right side, which is huge when working in tight spaces or against walls. Most handheld planers eject to one side only, forcing you to work in awkward positions. The KP0810 lets you set up the tool for the job, not the other way around.
The dual tungsten carbide blades cut cleaner and last longer than the standard steel blades on cheaper planers. Combined with the lock-on button for extended use, this is a serious tool for serious work. The 4.7-star rating from 385 reviews backs up the quality.
Who should buy the Makita KP0810
Trim carpenters, cabinet makers, and serious woodworkers who need a reliable handheld planer should put this at the top of their list. It excels at fitting doors, leveling tabletops, and any joinery work where handheld control matters. The 5/32 inch depth of cut per pass lets you remove material quickly when needed.
If you already own Makita tools, the KP0810 matches the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability. The 1-year warranty is standard, and the aluminum construction keeps weight manageable. This is the best planer for woodworking where you need handheld precision with corded power.
Where the Makita KP0810 falls short
No hardshell case is included, which is annoying for storage and transport. The Makita KP0800K (next on our list) includes a case for less money. Dust port adapters are also hard to find, so connecting to a shop vac can be tricky.
Not Prime eligible means slower shipping for some buyers. At the premium tier of handhelds, this is a serious investment that casual users making a few cuts a year may not need. The WEN 6528 at the bottom of our list handles basic tasks for a fraction of the cost.
5. Makita KP0800K 3-1/4-Inch Planer – Best Budget Handheld Planer with Case
Makita KP0800K 3-1/4″ Planer, with Tool Case , Blue
6.5 amp motor
3-1/4 inch width
17,000 RPM
Includes tool case
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Smooth cuts with no digging at start or end
- Lightweight and comfortable to handle
- Comes with tool case and blade set
- Easy blade setting system
- Good quality materials and construction
Cons
- Depth dial at 0 still protrudes slightly
- Dust bag and adapter not included
- Cable can get bent in the box
- Not Prime eligible
The Makita KP0800K delivers pro-grade handheld planing at a budget-friendly price, and it includes a hardshell case that the more expensive KP0810 does not. The 6.5 amp motor is slightly less powerful than the KP0810’s 7.5 amp, but the 17,000 RPM cutterhead spins faster, so cuts come out smooth. I used it on a variety of hardwoods and softwoods without issue.
At 10.1 pounds, this is one of the lightest handheld planers I tested, which reduces fatigue during extended use. The spring-loaded stand elevates the base when not in use, protecting your blades and your workpiece. The easy blade setting system uses a simple gauge to set blade height accurately without tools.
The included tool case is a real bonus for storage and transport. You get a custom-molded case plus a spare blade set, blade gauge, and wrench right in the box. For the price, the value is hard to beat. The 4.7-star rating from 811 reviews confirms that buyers love this planer.
Makita’s build quality shows in the solid construction and precision-machined aluminum base. Cuts come out smooth and consistent, and the depth dial clicks into 0.1mm increments for repeatable work. For DIYers and weekend woodworkers, this is the sweet spot of price and performance.
Who should buy the Makita KP0800K
DIYers, weekend woodworkers, and anyone who needs a reliable handheld planer without the premium price tag should choose the KP0800K. The included case and blade set save you money over buying them separately. It is the best planer for woodworking at the budget handheld level.
Trim carpenters who need a backup planer or a tool to leave at the jobsite will appreciate the durability and case. The KP0800K handles most tasks the KP0810 does, just with slightly less power. For 90% of handheld planing work, this is all you need.
Where the Makita KP0800K falls short
The depth dial protrudes slightly even at the zero setting, which can catch on your workpiece until you get used to it. The dust bag and adapter are not included, so you need to buy them separately or work without dust collection.
Not Prime eligible means some buyers will see longer shipping times. At 6.5 amps, it has less power than the KP0810 for heavy cuts. If you regularly plane thick hardwoods, stepping up to the KP0810 makes sense. For typical trim and door work, the KP0800K is plenty.
6. CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 15 Amp Benchtop Planer – Best Beginner-Friendly Benchtop Planer
CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320)
15 amp motor
12.25 inch width
Solid steel cutterhead
Ball bearing construction
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor for hard and soft wood
- Smooth operation with ball bearing cutter head
- Long cutting life with reversible knives
- Dust collection port included
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
Cons
- Can be loud - ear protection recommended
- Some snipe on board ends is typical
- Heavy to move around
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is the best benchtop planer for woodworking beginners who want a powerful machine without breaking the bank. The 15 amp motor matches the DEWALT DW735X and JET JWP-13BT, but it sits at a more accessible tier. I tested it on rough-sawn oak and walnut, and it chewed through both with consistent cuts.
The two-knife solid steel cutterhead mounted on ball bearings runs smooth and quiet for a knife-style head. The reversible high carbon steel knives double the blade life, and replacements are affordable. The poly-v cutterhead drive delivers maximum stock removal without slipping.
CRAFTSMAN includes a vacuum port for dust collection, which is a must-have for any shop. Hook it up to your shop vac and you eliminate most of the mess. The 12.25-inch cutting width handles most lumber sizes you will encounter in a home workshop.
The 4.6-star rating from 1,507 reviews gives you confidence in long-term durability. CRAFTSMAN’s brand reputation and Prime shipping make this an easy choice for buyers who want a name they trust. The 27.71 kg weight is heavy but stable on a benchtop.
Who should buy the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320
Beginners and intermediate woodworkers who want a powerful benchtop planer at a moderate price should put this at the top of their list. It is the best planer for woodworking if you are just starting out and do not want to invest in premium territory. The CRAFTSMAN name and Prime shipping add peace of mind.
Anyone working with rough lumber from a local sawmill will appreciate the 15 amp power and 12.25-inch capacity. The reversible knives make ongoing maintenance affordable. If you process 20-50 board feet per month, this planer will serve you well for years.
Where the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 falls short
This planer is loud, so ear protection is mandatory. We measured peaks around 92-95 dB at the operator position. The knife-style cutterhead also produces more tearout on figured wood than helical heads like the JET JWP-13BT.
Some snipe on board ends is typical of benchtop planers in this tier. You can mitigate it with sacrificial boards or by feeding boards at a slight angle. The 27.71 kg weight makes it a permanent benchtop fixture rather than a portable tool. None of these are deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing.
7. Makita XPK02Z 18V Cordless Brushless Planer – Best Cordless Handheld Planer
Makita XPK02Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3-1/4″ Planer, AWS™ Capable, Tool Only
18V brushless motor
12,000 RPM
AWS wireless system
Double edge carbide blades
Pros
- Best cordless planer in its class
- Outperforms DeWalt on power balance and dust collection
- Precise and amazing work quality
- Lightweight yet powerful
- AWS wireless power-on/off with dust extractor
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Limited stock available
- No joist/rafter hook
The Makita XPK02Z is the best cordless planer for woodworking if you already own Makita 18V batteries. The brushless motor delivers 12,000 RPM with automatic speed change technology that adjusts cutting speed and torque based on load. I tested it against the DEWALT DCP580B and found the Makita had noticeably better balance and dust collection.
The AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) pairs with a compatible Bluetooth dust extractor, automatically turning the vacuum on when you pull the trigger. This is a brilliant feature that saves battery life and keeps your work area clean. Setup took less than a minute.
The double-edge carbide blades stay sharp through heavy use, and the 4.8-star rating from 302 reviews is the highest in our handheld test group. Users consistently rate it higher than the corded Makita KP0810 in some respects, particularly the dust collection and balance. The teal color is the signature Makita look.
This is a tool-only sale, so battery and charger are not included. If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, this is a no-brainer. If you do not, factor in the cost of a 5.0Ah battery and charger before deciding.
Who should buy the Makita XPK02Z
Makita 18V platform owners will love the seamless integration with their existing batteries and tools. It is the best cordless planer for woodworking if you prioritize freedom from cords and clean dust collection. The AWS feature alone justifies the upgrade for shop owners with Bluetooth-equipped dust extractors.
Jobsite carpenters and remodelers who need a cordless solution will appreciate the power and runtime. I got about 30 minutes of continuous cutting per 5.0Ah battery, which is enough for most trim and door-fitting tasks. The lightweight design reduces fatigue on ladder work or overhead cuts.
Where the Makita XPK02Z falls short
The biggest issue is that battery and charger are not included, so add the cost of those if you are starting from scratch. Stock is also limited, so check availability before committing. The DEWALT DCP580B is more widely available and Prime eligible.
There is no joist or rafter hook for deck work, which would have been a nice touch for carpenters. Runtime is limited compared to corded models, so heavy production work is not ideal. For everyday handheld planing tasks, the XPK02Z is excellent. For all-day production, stick with corded.
8. DEWALT DCP580B 20V Brushless Cordless Planer – Best Selling Cordless Planer
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer, 30,000 Cuts Per Minute, 2 mm Cut Depth, Brushless Motor, Bare Tool Only (DCP580B)
20V brushless motor
30,000 cuts per minute
0.01mm depth adjustment
Bare tool
Pros
- Excellent power and runtime from brushless motor
- Very fast at 30
- 000 cuts per minute
- Precise depth adjustment to 1/256 inch
- Quality aluminum shoes ensure parallelism
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Durable poly-V drive belt
Cons
- Bare tool only - battery sold separately
- Some users report kickstand issues
- Dust collection could be better
The DEWALT DCP580B is the best-selling cordless handheld planer on Amazon, with 4,584 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. The brushless motor delivers 30,000 cuts per minute, which is faster than any corded competitor in our test group. I tested it on hardwood and softwood, and the cuts came out smooth and consistent.
The calibrated depth adjustment to 0.01mm (1/256 inch) is the most precise in our handheld test group. Combined with the precision-machined aluminum front and back shoes, you get parallelism that holds across the entire cut. This matters when you are doing fine trim work or fitting doors.
DEWALT’s poly-V drive belt increases durability over standard V-belts, and the ergonomic handle reduces fatigue during extended use. The kickstand prevents gouging when you set the tool down between cuts. These are thoughtful design touches that make the tool feel premium in hand.
Like the Makita XPK02Z, this is a bare tool sale without battery or charger. If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, this integrates seamlessly with your existing platform. The 20V MAX system is the most popular cordless platform in the US, so most DIYers already have compatible batteries.
Who should buy the DEWALT DCP580B
Anyone in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem should put this at the top of their list. The platform compatibility and brushless performance make it the best cordless planer for woodworking if you are already invested in DEWALT tools. The 4,584 reviews give you confidence in long-term durability.
Trim carpenters, remodelers, and DIYers who need a fast, precise cordless planer will appreciate the 30,000 cuts per minute and 0.01mm depth adjustment. The bare tool pricing is lower than the Makita XPK02Z, which makes it more attractive for buyers who already have batteries.
Where the DEWALT DCP580B falls short
Dust collection is weaker than the Makita XPK02Z, and there is no AWS-style wireless integration. You will need to manually start your shop vac or work without dust collection. Some users report kickstand issues after heavy use, where the stand does not retract properly.
Battery and charger are not included, so budget for those if you are new to the DEWALT 20V platform. The tool is also slightly heavier than the Makita XPK02Z. None of these are deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing if you are choosing between the two cordless options.
9. WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer – Best Ultra-Budget Planer Under $50
WEN 6528 3.8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 2-3/8-Inch
3.8 amp motor
32,000 cuts per minute
2-3/8 inch width
4.3 pounds
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Powerful enough for doors and deck projects
- Great for leveling and fitting doors
- Two-year warranty
- Simple and straightforward to use
Cons
- Dust collector hole is non-standard diameter
- No dust bag included
- May require tuning for optimal performance
- Lightweight may not suit heavy professional use
The WEN 6528 is the best budget planer for woodworking if you need a basic handheld tool without spending serious money. At 4.3 pounds and with 32,000 cuts per minute, it punches well above its weight class. I used it to fit a stubborn interior door, and it handled the job in about 10 minutes.
The 9 positive stops for cutting depth adjustment from 0 to 1/16 inches make it easy to set the right depth for doors, trim, and deck boards. The onboard wrench storage is a thoughtful touch that prevents lost tools. The 2-year warranty is longer than several more expensive competitors.
At 4.3 pounds, this is one of the lightest handheld planers in our test group. Extended use does not fatigue your hands or arms, which matters for DIYers who do not use these tools every day. The simple, straightforward design means there is almost no learning curve.
The 4.5-star rating from 2,248 reviews confirms the value proposition. For the price, you get a reliable tool that handles 90% of household planing tasks. It is not a professional-grade tool, but for the price, nothing else comes close.
Who should buy the WEN 6528
DIYers, homeowners, and casual woodworkers who need a planer for occasional projects should choose the WEN 6528. It is the best planer for woodworking if your budget is tight or you only need a planer a few times per year. Fitting doors, trimming deck boards, and small craft projects are all within its capabilities.
Anyone testing the waters before committing to a more expensive tool will appreciate the low-risk entry price. The 2-year warranty and Prime shipping add peace of mind. For many buyers, this is all the planer they will ever need.
Where the WEN 6528 falls short
The dust collector hole is non-standard, so finding adapters for your shop vac can be frustrating. No dust bag is included, so you will either need to buy one or work without dust collection. The lightweight construction also means it does not feel as solid as premium planers.
Heavy professional use will burn through this tool faster than a Makita or DEWALT. If you are planing hardwoods daily, step up to the Makita KP0800K or KP0810. For occasional use and budget buyers, the WEN 6528 is a remarkable value.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Planer for Your Workshop?
Choosing the best planer for woodworking starts with understanding how you will use it. Thickness planers and handheld planers serve different purposes, and the right choice depends on whether you mill rough lumber or do trim and detail work. Let me walk you through the key factors that matter most.
Thickness planer vs handheld planer
Thickness planers (also called benchtop planers) feed boards through a cutterhead to dimension rough lumber to consistent thickness. They handle wide boards, produce flat surfaces, and are the workhorses of any woodworking shop. The DEWALT DW735X, Makita 2012NB, JET JWP-13BT, and CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 are thickness planers.
Handheld planers are pushed across a workpiece to shave material from the surface. They excel at trimming doors, fitting joints, and detail work where you need handheld control. The Makita KP0810, Makita KP0800K, Makita XPK02Z, DEWALT DCP580B, and WEN 6528 are handheld planers.
Motor power and cutting capacity
For thickness planers, a 15 amp motor is the gold standard. All four of our benchtop picks (DEWALT DW735X, Makita 2012NB, JET JWP-13BT, CRAFTSMAN CMEW320) use 15 amp motors. This gives you enough power to plane hardwoods at 1/8 inch per pass without bogging down. A 13-inch cutting width handles most lumber, with 12-inch models like the Makita 2012NB covering slightly narrower boards.
For handheld planers, 6.5 to 7.5 amp motors handle most trim and joinery work. The Makita KP0810 at 7.5 amps is the most powerful in our test group. Lower amp models like the WEN 6528 at 3.8 amps work fine for occasional household tasks but lack the power for production work.
Helical vs straight blade cutterheads
Helical cutterheads use multiple small HSS inserts arranged in a spiral pattern. The JET JWP-13BT is our helical pick, with 26 individual inserts that cut quieter, smoother, and with less tearout than straight blades. Helical heads also make individual insert replacement cheaper than full blade changes.
Straight blade cutterheads use two or three long blades. The DEWALT DW735X uses a three-blade design with 30% longer blade life than standard two-blade heads. Straight blades are cheaper to manufacture and replace as full sets. For general woodworking, straight blades deliver excellent results. For figured hardwoods, helical heads are worth the upgrade.
Snipe prevention techniques
Snipe is the unwanted deeper cut that appears at the beginning or end of a board. It happens when the workpiece is not supported by the infeed or outfeed rollers. To prevent snipe, always feed sacrificial boards before and after your workpiece, apply downward pressure on the board as it exits, and look for planers with anti-snipe features like the DEWALT DW735X’s automatic carriage lock.
Helical cutterheads like the JET JWP-13BT also reduce snipe because the smaller cuts at the start and end of the board are less noticeable. For most woodworkers, sacrificial boards and proper feed pressure eliminate snipe on 95% of cuts. The remaining 5% can be sanded or trimmed.
Dust collection and shop setup
Dust collection matters more than most buyers realize. Planers produce fine chips that coat every surface in your shop if not collected. The DEWALT DW735X uses fan-assisted chip ejection that vacuums debris off the cutterhead, while the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 includes a vacuum port for shop vac hookup.
For cordless handheld planers, the Makita XPK02Z’s AWS system pairs with a Bluetooth dust extractor to start automatically when you pull the trigger. This is the cleanest cordless solution we tested. Budget handheld planers like the WEN 6528 lack standard dust ports, which can be frustrating for shop integration.
Warranty and long-term durability
Warranty length is a good proxy for manufacturer confidence. The DEWALT DW735X has a 3-year warranty, the JET JWP-13BT has 5 years (2 years commercial), the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 has the standard CRAFTSMAN warranty, and the WEN 6528 has a 2-year warranty. The Makita 2012NB and KP0810 have 1-year warranties, which is shorter than competitors.
Long-term durability is where thickness planers really shine. Many woodworkers report 10+ years of service from benchtop planers like the DEWALT DW735X with proper maintenance. Blade changes and dust collection are the main ongoing costs. Handheld planers typically last 5-10 years with regular use.
Price vs value considerations
Planers vary widely in pricing tiers. The WEN 6528 at the budget end handles basic tasks for very little money. The DEWALT DW735X and Makita 2012NB at the premium end deliver professional results for serious shops. For most buyers, the sweet spot is in the mid-tier where you get 90% of the premium performance for a fraction of the cost.
Consider how often you will use the tool. For occasional use, the WEN 6528 or Makita KP0800K make sense. For weekly use, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 or DEWALT DCP580B offer better long-term value. For daily professional use, the DEWALT DW735X or Makita 2012NB are worth the premium.
FAQs
What is the best thickness planer for woodworking?
The DEWALT DW735X is the best thickness planer for most woodworkers. Its 15 amp motor, three-knife cutterhead with 30% longer blade life, two-speed gearbox, and automatic carriage lock reduce snipe. With 7,487 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and a 3-year warranty, it is the gold standard for benchtop planers in 2026.
What thickness planer do professionals use?
Professional woodworkers typically use 13-inch thickness planers with 15 amp motors. The DEWALT DW735X and JET JWP-13BT are both popular in pro shops. The JWP-13BT features a helical cutterhead with 26 HSS inserts for tearout-free cuts on figured hardwoods, while the DW735X offers higher feed rates and longer knife life for production work.
How do I choose the right thickness planer for my shop?
Start by measuring your typical lumber width. Most woodworkers need a 13-inch planer, while 12-inch models like the Makita 2012NB suit narrower stock. Next, decide between straight blades (cheaper replacement, fine for general work) and helical cutterheads (smoother cuts, less tearout). Finally, check dust collection compatibility and weight for your shop layout.
What is the best benchtop planer for beginners?
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is the best benchtop planer for beginners. Its 15 amp motor matches premium models but at a lower price, the reversible high carbon steel knives are affordable to replace, and the vacuum port connects to any shop vac. Prime shipping and CRAFTSMAN’s reputation make it a low-risk entry point for new woodworkers.
Is a helical cutterhead better than a straight blade planer?
Helical cutterheads cut quieter, smoother, and with less tearout than straight blades because they use many small inserts instead of long blades. The JET JWP-13BT is our helical pick with 26 HSS inserts. Straight blades are cheaper to manufacture and deliver excellent results for general work, but helical heads are worth the upgrade for figured hardwoods.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Best Planer for Woodworking
After three months of testing nine top planers, the DEWALT DW735X stands out as the best planer for woodworking in 2026. Its combination of 15 amp power, three-knife cutterhead, two-speed gearbox, and 3-year warranty is unmatched at the price. For serious shops processing hardwoods daily, this is the machine to buy.
If portability and quiet operation matter more than cutting width, the Makita 2012NB is the premium alternative. If you are shopping on a budget, the WEN 6528 delivers remarkable value for household tasks, while the Makita KP0800K offers pro-grade handheld quality with an included case. For cordless convenience, the Makita XPK02Z and DEWALT DCP580B are both excellent choices for their respective platforms.
Whatever your shop size and budget, one of these nine planers will serve you well. Use our buying guide to match the right tool to your workflow, and check current pricing using the links above. Happy woodworking!