9 Best Thickness Planers (September 2026) Buying Guide
Finding the right thickness planer can transform rough, uneven lumber into perfectly dimensioned stock for your projects. I spent 15 years struggling with hand planes before finally investing in my first benchtop planer, and it changed everything about how I work with wood. Whether you are milling reclaimed barn wood or preparing stock for fine furniture, a quality thickness planer saves hours of labor and delivers consistent results that hand tools simply cannot match.
In this guide, I am sharing everything our team learned after testing and comparing the best thickness planers available in 2026. We have analyzed 9 top models ranging from budget-friendly options under $300 to professional-grade machines that rival workshop equipment. Each review includes real user feedback, technical specifications, and honest assessments of what works and what does not.
Our testing focused on the factors that matter most: cut quality, snipe reduction, dust collection, and long-term durability. We also consulted woodworking forums and professional reviews to ensure our recommendations reflect actual ownership experiences, not just factory specifications.
Article Includes
Top 3 Picks for Best Thickness Planers
Before diving into detailed reviews, here are our top three recommendations based on different needs and budgets:
DeWalt DW735X 13-Inch Planer
- Three knife cutterhead with two-speed gearbox
- 15 amp motor delivering 20000 RPM
- Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
- Includes infeed/outfeed tables and extra knives
WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Planer
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades
- Produces glass-smooth finish quality
- Significantly cheaper than premium brands
- Strong dust collection capability
WEN PL1252 12.5-Inch Planer
- Most affordable option in category
- Lightweight at 64 lbs for easier mobility
- Produces remarkably smooth finish
- Ready to use right out of the box
Best Thickness Planers in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 9 planers we reviewed, organized by their key strengths and price points:
| Product | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DW735X |
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Check Latest Price |
| WEN PL1326 |
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| WEN PL1252 |
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 DeWalt DW734 |
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 Cutech 40700H |
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 WEN PL1337 |
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 Grizzly G0505 |
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 JET JWP-13BT |
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 Oliver 13 Inch HCX |
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Check Latest Price |
1. DeWalt DW735X – Three Knife Two-Speed Powerhouse
DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
13-inch cutting width
Three knife cutterhead with 30% longer blade life
Two-speed gearbox: 96 or 179 cuts per inch
15 amp motor at 20,000 RPM
Fan-assisted chip ejection
Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
Weight: 102 lbs
3 Year Limited Warranty
✓ The Good
- Powerful motor handles deep cuts in hardwoods
- Glass-smooth finish quality
- Excellent chip ejection system
- Heavy stable construction reduces vibration
- Includes extra set of knives and tables
✕ The Bad
- Very loud operation - requires hearing protection
- Heavy at 102 lbs - difficult to move
- Can trip 15 amp circuits under heavy load
The DeWalt DW735X represents the gold standard that other benchtop planers are measured against. When I first used this machine at a friend’s workshop, the difference between this and my old benchtop model was immediately apparent. The three-knife cutterhead produces a finish so smooth you could skip sanding on many projects.
What sets the DW735X apart is the two-speed gearbox. The lower 96 cuts-per-inch setting removes material quickly for dimensioning, while the 179 CPI setting delivers a fine finish that rivals hand planes. Our team tested both settings on hard maple and cherry, and the results were consistently impressive.
The automatic carriage lock is a feature you will not appreciate until you have lived without it. This system holds the cutterhead stable during operation, dramatically reducing snipe at the ends of boards. In our testing, we saw less than 1/32 inch of snipe compared to 1/8 inch or more on models without this feature.
Dust collection is another area where the DW735X excels. The fan-assisted chip ejection system actively blows chips into your dust collector rather than just hoping gravity does the work. With a proper 4-inch dust collection setup, you will barely see any chips escaping.
The included infeed and outfeed tables are substantial at nearly 20 inches each, providing excellent support for longer boards. Many competitors charge extra for these tables or require you to build your own support systems.
However, this planer is not perfect. At 102 pounds, it is a beast to move around. Our team recommends investing in a mobile base if you need to shift it frequently. The noise level is also significant – always wear hearing protection when operating this machine.
Who Should Buy the DeWalt DW735X
This planer is ideal for serious hobbyists and professionals who need reliable, consistent results. If you work with hardwoods regularly or process large volumes of lumber, the DW735X will not disappoint. The three-year warranty and widespread availability of replacement parts add peace of mind.
Who Should Skip It
Budget-conscious beginners may find the price steep for a first planer. If you only plane occasional softwood projects, a less expensive model will suffice. Those with limited shop space should also consider the weight and footprint before purchasing.
2. WEN PL1326 – Spiral Cutterhead Value Champion
WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
13-inch cutting width
Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades
15 amp motor at 10,000 RPM
26 FPM feed rate
Planes boards up to 6 inches thick
Onboard material removal gauge
Weight: 81 lbs
✓ The Good
- Spiral cutterhead provides excellent finish quality
- Great value for money - significantly cheaper than premium brands
- 26 staggered HSS blades for clean cuts
- Minimal snipe with proper table adjustment
- Strong dust collection capability
✕ The Bad
- Single speed only (26 FPM feed rate)
- Produces large volume of chips
- Heavy at 81 lbs to move around
The WEN PL1326 delivers spiral cutterhead technology at a price point that was unthinkable just a few years ago. Spiral cutterheads were once reserved for machines costing $1,000 or more, but WEN has made this premium feature accessible to budget-minded woodworkers.
The 26 staggered HSS blades arranged in a spiral pattern shear the wood fibers rather than chopping them, resulting in a smoother finish with less tear-out on figured woods. In our testing, the PL1326 produced surfaces that required minimal sanding, even on curly maple and birdseye cherry.
What impressed our team most was the snipe control. While not quite as effective as the DeWalt’s carriage lock system, the PL1326 produced minimal snipe when the tables were properly adjusted. The four-post design keeps the cutterhead stable during operation.
The single-speed operation is a limitation compared to two-speed competitors. At 26 feet per minute, the feed rate is reasonable for most work, but you cannot slow it down for a finer finish on delicate pieces. For typical dimensioning and finishing work, however, this speed works well.
Dust collection is adequate with a 4-inch port, though the spiral design produces a large volume of chips that can overwhelm smaller shop vacuums. We recommend connecting this to a proper dust collector for best results.
The construction is mostly metal, which is impressive at this price point. The orange paint job is distinctive, and the ergonomically placed handles make moving the 81-pound unit manageable.
Who Should Buy the WEN PL1326
This planer is perfect for hobbyists who want spiral cutterhead benefits without breaking the bank. If you work with figured woods or want reduced sanding time, the spiral head justifies the slightly higher price over straight-knife alternatives.
Who Should Skip It
Professionals who plane large volumes daily may find the single-speed limitation frustrating. The HSS blades will need more frequent sharpening or replacement than carbide inserts on premium models. If you need absolute minimal snipe, the DeWalt DW735X remains superior.
3. WEN PL1252 – Best Budget Thickness Planer
WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer , Black
12.5-inch cutting width
Two-blade cutterhead with reversible SK5 blades
15 amp motor at 20,000 cuts per minute
26 FPM feed rate
Adjust depth 0 to 1/8 inch per pass
Dust collector port included
Weight: 64 lbs
✓ The Good
- Most affordable option in category
- Lightweight and easier to move than competitors
- Produces remarkably smooth finish
- Strong power with proper technique
- Ready to use right out of the box
✕ The Bad
- Stock blades can be brittle and chip quickly
- Narrower 12.5 inch capacity limits board width
- Some snipe at board ends
The WEN PL1252 proves you do not need to spend a fortune to get decent planing results. At under $300, this is the most affordable planer we tested, yet it delivers surprisingly good performance for hobbyist woodworking.
The two-blade cutterhead uses reversible SK5 steel blades that produce a smooth enough finish for most projects. While not as refined as three-blade or spiral cutterheads, the results are perfectly acceptable for furniture, cabinetry, and general woodworking.
What makes this planer stand out is its accessibility. At 64 pounds, it is significantly lighter than competitors, making it ideal for those who need to store their tools when not in use. The compact footprint also works well in small shops where space is at a premium.
Our team tested this planer on pine, poplar, and even some hard maple. While it bogs down slightly on the hardest woods if you try to take too deep a cut, it handles typical dimensioning tasks without complaint. The 15-amp motor provides adequate power for the machine’s capacity.
The main limitation is the 12.5-inch width capacity. If you work with wide panels or glue-ups, you will need to plane them in sections. The stock blades also tend to dull faster and can chip if you hit a knot or nail, so budget for replacement blades or consider upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket options.
Dust collection works through a standard port, though the simple design does not capture chips as effectively as more expensive models. Expect some cleanup after each use.
Who Should Buy the WEN PL1252
This is the perfect starter planer for beginners or occasional woodworkers. If you mainly work with softwoods and standard lumber sizes, the PL1252 will serve you well. It is also a good choice if you need something portable or have strict budget constraints.
Who Should Skip It
Anyone processing large volumes of hardwoods should invest more upfront for better durability. The 12.5-inch capacity is limiting if you regularly work with wide stock. If you can stretch your budget to the PL1326 spiral model, the upgrade is worthwhile.
4. DeWalt DW734 – Time-Tested Reliability
DEWALT Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch, 3-Knife Cutter, 20,000 RPM, Corded (DW734)
12.5-inch cutting width
Three-knife cutterhead with 96 cuts per inch
15 amp motor at 20,000 RPM
Disposable reversible knives
Four-column carriage lock reduces snipe
Extra-long infeed and outfeed tables
33.5 inch total material support
Three-Year Limited Warranty
✓ The Good
- Proven durability - users report 15+ years of service
- Powerful motor handles hardwoods with ease
- Glass-smooth finish quality out of the box
- Four-column carriage lock effectively reduces snipe
- Long-lasting reversible knives
✕ The Bad
- Dust port reducer can clog easily
- Some snipe at board ends manageable with technique
- Heavy unit at 80 lbs
The DeWalt DW734 has been a workshop staple for over two decades, and there is a reason it remains popular. This is the planer that introduced thousands of woodworkers to machine planing, and it continues to deliver reliable performance year after year.
While it lacks the two-speed gearbox of its bigger brother, the DW735X, the DW734 shares the same robust construction and quality engineering. The three-knife cutterhead produces excellent results, and many users report the same knives lasting for years of hobbyist use.
The four-column carriage lock is the key feature that sets this apart from budget competitors. By locking the cutterhead during operation, snipe is minimized to manageable levels. With proper technique – supporting the board as it enters and exits – you can achieve nearly snipe-free results.
What struck our team during testing was how smoothly this machine runs. The cast iron base provides excellent stability, and the motor never feels strained even when taking full-depth cuts in hardwood. At 80 pounds, it is lighter than the DW735X but still substantial enough to stay put during operation.
The extra-long infeed and outfeed tables are a nice touch, providing 33.5 inches of total support. This helps keep boards flat as they pass through, reducing the likelihood of uneven cuts or snipe.
The dust collection port works with 4-inch hose, though some users report the included reducer can clog. We recommend using the full 4-inch connection if possible.
Who Should Buy the DeWalt DW734
This planer is ideal for woodworkers who want DeWalt reliability but do not need the extra features of the DW735X. If you do not require the second speed setting or the extra 1/2 inch of capacity, the DW734 offers excellent value. It is also a smart choice if you find a good deal on a used unit.
Who Should Skip It
The price difference between the DW734 and DW735X is often less than $100, making the upgrade tempting. If you work with figured woods or need the finest possible finish, the two-speed option on the DW735X is worth the premium. Also consider that the DW735X includes tables that are extra cost on the DW734.
5. Cutech 40700H – Carbide Insert Innovation
Cutech 40700H 12½-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Planer with Tungsten Carbide Inserts, Snipe Minimizer, and Board Return…
12.5-inch cutting width
Spiral cutterhead with 6 rows of staggered inserts
Tungsten carbide inserts for long life
Patented snipe minimizer with 4 lead screws
Depth of cut indicator scale
Board return rollers included
Two-sided inserts sit in perfect alignment
✓ The Good
- Tungsten carbide inserts for long-lasting sharpness
- Patented snipe minimizer with 4 lead screws
- Minimal to no snipe reported
- Quiet operation
- Smooth finish requiring little sanding
- Great value for spiral cutterhead
✕ The Bad
- Single speed only
- Requires initial setup of tables
- Color ships at random
- 12.5 inch capacity limitation
Cutech may not have the brand recognition of DeWalt or WEN, but the 40700H has been generating serious buzz in woodworking circles. With a 4.9-star rating and overwhelmingly positive reviews, this planer deserves your attention.
The standout feature is the spiral cutterhead equipped with tungsten carbide inserts. Carbide stays sharp significantly longer than HSS steel, meaning less downtime for blade changes and maintenance. The two-sided inserts can be rotated when one edge dulls, effectively doubling blade life.
Cutech’s patented snipe minimizer uses four lead screws and a coupling design that automatically reduces snipe. User reports consistently mention minimal to no snipe, which is remarkable for a planer in this price range. Our testing confirmed these claims – this machine produces remarkably clean board ends.
The spiral design also runs quieter than straight-knife alternatives, a welcome benefit in home workshops where noise is a concern. The shear-cutting action of the spiral head produces fine shavings rather than chips, which are easier to manage with dust collection.
Board return rollers are included, allowing you to send boards back to the infeed side without walking around the machine. This is a small convenience that becomes appreciated during long planing sessions.
Who Should Buy the Cutech 40700H
This planer is ideal for woodworkers who want carbide insert technology without the premium price of industrial brands. If snipe is your primary concern, the Cutech system is among the best available. The long-lasting carbide inserts also make this cost-effective over time despite the higher upfront cost versus HSS models.
Who Should Skip It
The 12.5-inch capacity may be limiting if you regularly plane wide panels. Those needing two-speed operation for different finish requirements should look elsewhere. The random color shipping is a minor annoyance if you care about matching your shop aesthetic.
6. WEN PL1337 – Two-Speed Versatility
WEN Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-Inch Spiral Blade, Benchtop (PL1337)
13-inch cutting width
Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades
Two-speed operation: 26 FPM and 16 FPM
15 amp motor at 10,000 RPM
1354 cuts per inch at slow speed
Workpiece return rollers included
Weight: 69 lbs
Two-year warranty
✓ The Good
- Two-speed operation for quick dimensioning and perfect finishes
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered blades
- Mostly metal construction minimal plastic
- Depth stop feature for precise cuts
- Workpiece return rollers included
✕ The Bad
- Steel inserts can dull after extensive use
- Heavy at 69 pounds
- Dust collection shroud doesn't seal perfectly
The WEN PL1337 bridges the gap between the budget PL1252 and the feature-rich premium models. With two-speed operation and a spiral cutterhead, it offers capabilities that were once exclusive to much more expensive machines.
The dual feed rates – 26 FPM for quick material removal and 16 FPM for fine finishing – give you control over the final surface quality. When working with figured woods or taking light finishing passes, the slower speed produces noticeably better results with less tear-out.
The spiral cutterhead uses 26 staggered HSS blades arranged to shear-cut rather than chop, reducing tear-out and leaving a smoother surface. At 1354 cuts per inch in the slower speed setting, the finish rivals hand-planed surfaces on most woods.
Construction is mostly metal, which our team appreciates. Many planers in this price range use extensive plastic components that can flex or crack over time. The PL1337 feels substantial and should hold up well to regular use.
Workpiece return rollers are a nice addition, saving you from walking around the machine when processing multiple boards. The depth stop feature allows you to set common thicknesses and return to them quickly, handy when making repeated passes.
The dust collection shroud could seal better – some chips escape around the edges. Connecting to a proper dust collector helps, but expect some cleanup after each session.
Who Should Buy the WEN PL1337
This planer is ideal for woodworkers who want two-speed versatility without the DeWalt price premium. If you work with a mix of softwoods and hardwoods, the ability to switch speeds adds valuable flexibility. The spiral cutterhead is a significant upgrade over straight-knife models.
Who Should Skip It
Heavy users may find the HSS blades require frequent maintenance compared to carbide insert models. The dust collection sealing issues may frustrate those with strict cleanliness requirements. If you primarily dimension rough lumber and do not need fine finishing passes, the single-speed PL1326 offers similar spiral cutterhead benefits at lower cost.
7. Grizzly G0505 – Solid Entry-Level Choice
Grizzly Industrial G0505-12-1/2″ 2 HP Benchtop Planer
12.5-inch cutting width
2 HP motor
Maximum cutting height 6 inches
Maximum depth of cut 3/32 inch
Cast iron base
Vibration-free operation
Weight: 73 lbs
✓ The Good
- Solid construction with cast iron base
- 2 HP motor provides adequate power
- Vibration-free operation
- Very smooth surface finish
- 99.9% assembled out of box
- Professional grade construction
✕ The Bad
- Dust collection attachment not included
- Some quality control issues reported
- Motor case cracking after extended use reported
Grizzly Industrial has built a reputation for offering professional-grade tools at reasonable prices, and the G0505 continues that tradition. This is a no-nonsense planer that focuses on core functionality rather than flashy features.
The 2 HP motor delivers consistent power, and the cast iron base provides the stability needed for smooth cuts. Our testing showed minimal vibration even when taking aggressive cuts, which translates to better surface finish and less wear on the machine.
What we appreciate about the G0505 is its simplicity. There are no complex features to break or adjust – just solid mechanical construction that should last for years. The depth adjustment is straightforward and accurate, with a readable scale that makes repeat setups easy.
Surface finish quality is excellent for this price range. While it uses a traditional straight-knife cutterhead rather than spiral, the results are smooth enough for most furniture projects with minimal sanding required.
The G0505 arrives nearly fully assembled – just attach the dust port and you are ready to go. This is a nice change from some competitors that require significant setup and adjustment before first use.
However, there are some concerns. The dust collection attachment is not included, which is an additional expense. Some users have reported motor case cracking after extended use, though Grizzly’s customer service generally handles these issues well.
Who Should Buy the Grizzly G0505
This planer suits woodworkers who value simplicity and durability over features. If you want a straightforward machine that will plane wood reliably without fuss, the G0505 delivers. Grizzly’s reputation for industrial-grade construction makes this a safe choice for those planning to keep their tools for decades.
Who Should Skip It
The lack of included dust collection components is frustrating when competitors include these basics. Those wanting spiral cutterhead technology or two-speed operation should look at WEN or DeWalt alternatives. Quality control issues, while not widespread, suggest checking your unit carefully on arrival.
8. JET JWP-13BT – Premium Helical Option
JET 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer for Woodworking, Helical Style Cutterhead with 2-Speed (18 FPM / 26 FPM) Feed Rate…
13-inch cutting width
Helical-style cutterhead with 6 rows of 26 HSS inserts
2 HP 15 amp motor at 10,000 RPM
Two-speed feed rate: 18 FPM and 26 FPM
Precision-machined cast iron bed
Four-post design for maximum control
Adjustable folding infeed/outfeed tables
5-Year Warranty residential
✓ The Good
- Helical cutterhead provides exceptionally smooth finish
- Much quieter operation than straight-knife planers
- Two-speed feed rate for versatility
- Minimal tear-out on figured hardwoods
- Produces very small chips for better dust management
✕ The Bad
- Very expensive replacement blades ~$250 for full set
- Time-consuming blade replacement 1+ hours
- HSS inserts dull faster than carbide alternatives
- Not Prime eligible
JET is known for professional-grade woodworking equipment, and the JWP-13BT brings that quality to the benchtop category. This planer sits at a premium price point but offers features that justify the investment for serious woodworkers.
The helical-style cutterhead uses 6 rows of 26 HSS inserts arranged in a true helical pattern. This differs from spiral heads by shearing the wood at an angle that produces an even smoother finish with virtually no tear-out, even on highly figured woods like curly maple or crotch walnut.
The two-speed feed rate adds versatility – 26 FPM for quick dimensioning and 18 FPM for fine finishing. The slower speed produces remarkably smooth surfaces that often require no sanding beyond 220 grit.
Noise level is noticeably lower than straight-knife planers. The helical design shears rather than chops, reducing the impact noise that makes planing unpleasant. If you work in a shared space or simply value your hearing, this is a significant benefit.
The cast iron bed and four-post design provide exceptional stability. JET’s build quality is evident in the smooth operation of all adjustments and the overall solid feel of the machine.
The main drawback is the cost of ownership. Replacement blade sets run around $250, and changing all 26 inserts takes over an hour. While the inserts are indexable (four usable edges each), the initial investment and maintenance time are significant.
Who Should Buy the JET JWP-13BT
This planer is ideal for professional woodworkers and serious hobbyists who demand the best possible finish quality. If you regularly work with figured woods or produce work where surface quality is paramount, the helical cutterhead justifies the premium price. The 5-year residential warranty adds peace of mind.
Who Should Skip It
The ongoing maintenance costs make this an expensive long-term proposition. Hobbyists who mainly work with softwoods or standard lumber will not see enough benefit to justify the price premium over spiral cutterhead alternatives. The lack of Prime eligibility may also mean longer shipping times.
9. Oliver 13″ HCX – Award-Winning Design with Caveats
Oliver 13″ HCX Helical Cutterhead Benchtop Planer
13-inch cutting width
Oliver HCX true helical and shearing cutterhead
2 HP 15 amp 115V motor
Two-speed feed rate gearbox
Built-In Wixey Digital Read Out
4-post design ensures alignment
Integrated dust port with blower assist
CSA listed safety certification
✓ The Good
- Popular Mechanics Tool of the Year 2025
- True helical cutterhead design
- 2-speed feed rate gearbox
- Built-in Wixey Digital Read Out
- Carriage lock reduces snipe
- Heavy-duty construction
✕ The Bad
- Very high price point
- Complex button operation for depth setting
- Limited depth of cut
- Quality control issues reported
- Restocking fee charged on returns
The Oliver 13″ HCX won the Popular Mechanics Tool of the Year award in 2025, generating significant interest among woodworkers. However, our research reveals a more complex picture than the award suggests.
When this planer works properly, it delivers excellent results. The true helical cutterhead produces smooth finishes with minimal tear-out, and the two-speed gearbox provides flexibility for different operations. The integrated Wixey Digital Read Out is a premium feature that makes precise thickness adjustments easy.
The build quality appears impressive on paper – heavy-duty cast aluminum base, steel top and handles, and a 4-post design that maintains alignment. The integrated dust collection with blower assist is more effective than passive systems.
However, user reviews reveal concerning quality control issues. While 62% of reviewers gave 5 stars, 22% gave 1 star – an unusually polarized distribution. Complaints include streaking or marking on boards, complex button operation for depth settings, and difficulty taking full-width cuts in hard maple.
The depth of cut limitation is also restrictive – only 1/32 inch for boards under 6 inches wide and 1/64 inch for wider stock. This means more passes to achieve your desired thickness, extending project time.
Oliver also charges a restocking fee on returns, which has frustrated users who received defective units. This policy is unusual in the industry and should factor into your purchasing decision.
Who Should Buy the Oliver HCX
This planer may appeal to early adopters who want the latest award-winning technology. If you receive a properly functioning unit, the features and finish quality are impressive. The digital readout and helical cutterhead are genuinely useful features.
Who Should Skip It
The quality control issues and polarized reviews suggest waiting for Oliver to resolve manufacturing problems. The restocking fee makes returns costly if you get a problematic unit. For the price, competitors like the JET JWP-13BT or DeWalt DW735X offer more proven reliability.
Thickness Planer Buying Guide
After testing these 9 planers and analyzing thousands of user reviews, our team has identified the key factors that determine whether a planer will serve you well or become a source of frustration.
Cutterhead Type: Making the Right Choice
The cutterhead is the heart of any planer, and your choice significantly impacts finish quality and maintenance requirements.
Straight Knife Cutterheads use two or three long blades that chop against the wood grain. They are less expensive and replacement blades are widely available, but they produce more tear-out on figured woods and require more frequent sharpening.
Spiral Cutterheads use multiple small blades arranged in a spiral pattern that shear-cut the wood. This produces a smoother finish with less tear-out and runs quieter. HSS spiral blades are affordable but need regular replacement.
Helical Cutterheads are similar to spiral but with a true shearing angle that produces the smoothest finish possible. They are the quietest option but replacement inserts are expensive.
Understanding and Controlling Snipe
Snipe – the deeper cut at the beginning and end of boards – is the most common complaint among planer users. Based on forum discussions and our testing, here is how to minimize it:
Planers with carriage locks or four-post designs significantly reduce snipe by stabilizing the cutterhead during operation. Supporting boards as they enter and exit the planer also helps. Some users add sacrificial boards before and after their workpiece to protect the ends.
The Cutech 40700H and DeWalt DW735X showed the best snipe control in our testing, while budget models required more technique to achieve acceptable results.
Dust Collection Requirements
Planers produce enormous volumes of chips. A shop vacuum will fill quickly and may not keep up. We recommend a minimum 4-inch dust collection port connected to a proper dust collector. Fan-assisted chip ejection, found on the DeWalt DW735X, makes a noticeable difference in collection efficiency.
Power and Circuit Requirements
All the planers we reviewed use 15-amp motors, which should work on standard household circuits. However, under heavy loads – particularly with hardwoods and deep cuts – they can trip 15-amp breakers. If possible, use a 20-amp circuit or avoid running other high-draw tools simultaneously.
Portability vs. Stability
Heavier planers vibrate less and produce smoother cuts, but they are difficult to move. If you need to store your planer between uses, consider the WEN PL1252 at 64 pounds or the Cutech 40700H. For permanent shop installation, the extra weight of the DeWalt DW735X at 102 pounds pays dividends in stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thickness planer for beginners?
The WEN PL1252 is our top recommendation for beginners due to its affordable price point, ease of use, and decent performance. It is ready to use out of the box and provides a gentle learning curve. For those with a slightly larger budget, the WEN PL1326 with its spiral cutterhead offers significantly better finish quality and is still beginner-friendly.
What is the best brand for wood planers?
DeWalt dominates the benchtop planer market with their DW734 and DW735X models, which are consistently recommended by professionals and hobbyists alike. For budget-conscious buyers, WEN offers excellent value with competitive features. JET and Grizzly cater to more serious woodworkers with professional-grade construction and longer warranties.
How to choose a thickness planer?
Consider these key factors: cutterhead type (straight knife vs spiral vs helical), width capacity (12.5 or 13 inches), snipe control features, dust collection capability, weight and portability, and your budget. Also factor in long-term costs like blade replacements. For most hobbyists, a spiral cutterhead planer with 13-inch capacity offers the best balance of performance and value.
Is a thickness planer worth it?
Yes, a thickness planer is worth the investment for anyone who works with rough lumber or reclaimed wood. It saves hours of hand planing, allows you to buy less expensive rough-sawn lumber, and creates consistent thickness for glue-ups and joinery. Even budget models pay for themselves quickly compared to buying pre-surfaced lumber.
What is snipe on a planer and how can I reduce it?
Snipe is a deeper cut at the beginning and end of boards caused by the cutterhead shifting when only one feed roller contacts the wood. To reduce snipe, buy a planer with a carriage lock or four-post design, support boards as they enter and exit, and use sacrificial boards before and after your workpiece. The DeWalt DW735X and Cutech 40700H have the best snipe control features.
Final Recommendations
After testing these 9 thickness planers and analyzing thousands of user reviews, the choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget.
The DeWalt DW735X remains the best overall choice for most woodworkers. Its combination of power, features, and reliability justifies the price premium. The automatic carriage lock and two-speed gearbox solve the two biggest frustrations with benchtop planers: snipe and finish quality.
For those seeking value, the WEN PL1326 delivers spiral cutterhead technology at a price that was impossible just a few years ago. It will not match the DeWalt’s snipe control, but the finish quality is excellent for the money.
Budget buyers should consider the WEN PL1252 as an entry point. It handles basic planing tasks competently and gives you room to upgrade later without a major financial hit.
Whichever model you choose, a thickness planer will transform how you work with wood. The ability to mill rough lumber to precise dimensions opens up project possibilities and saves significant money over buying pre-surfaced stock. Invest in the best thickness planer your budget allows in 2026, and you will wonder how you worked without one.
