10 Best Benchtop Planers 2025 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer (CMEW320) is designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking to work with hardwood and softwood materials. With a powerful 15 Amp motor, it efficiently handles tough jobs and ensures effective material removal. The two-knife solid steel cutter head is a strong point, offering smooth operation and durability, making it suitable for users who prioritize a clean finish in their woodworking projects.

One of the standout features is its high carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives, which extend the cutting life and reduce the need for frequent replacements. The poly-v cutterhead drive further enhances its capability to maximize stock removal, appealing to those who require precision in their cuts.

The weight of 27.71 kg may be a drawback for some users, as it could limit portability and ease of handling. Additionally, while the vacuum port for dust collection keeps the workspace cleaner, users should ensure they have compatible dust collection systems for optimal performance. The foot print of 23.5"L x 17.5"W means it will take up a reasonable amount of bench space, which needs to be considered in smaller workshops.

The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer (Model JWP-13BT) stands out with its helical-style cutterhead, featuring 26 individual quick-change high-speed steel inserts that ensure a smoother and quieter cut compared to traditional straight knives. This design is beneficial for creating a finer finish on your wood projects. The 2-HP, 15-amp motor is powerful, turning the cutterhead at a high speed of 10,000 RPM, which enhances its efficiency in planing tasks. The planer can handle a 13-inch cutting width and a maximum depth of cut of 1/8 inch, which is ample for most benchtop planning needs.

Additionally, the planer has an adjustable depth stop for consistent, repetitive cuts, making it easier to achieve uniform results on multiple boards. The precision-machined cast iron bed and steel cover help keep boards flat and reduce snipe, improving the quality of your work. The four-post design provides solid support for the cutterhead, ensuring stability during operation. The adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables are a practical feature, as they help level the workpiece to the bed and can be conveniently stored to save space.

However, at 75 pounds, this planer is relatively heavy, which could make it less portable if you need to move it around frequently. Additionally, the sound level of 97 dB indicates it can be quite noisy, so ear protection is advisable. The dust collection capabilities aren’t detailed, but the inclusion of a dust hood suggests it can connect to a dust collection system, which is important for maintaining a clean workspace. In summary, the JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer offers solid performance with its sturdy build, efficient cutting mechanism, and adjustable features, although its weight and noise level might be considerations depending on your workshop setup.

The JET BLACK 20-Inch Planer (Model JWP-208HH-BLK) is a robust and powerful tool suitable for serious woodworking projects. With a cutting width of 20 inches and a cutting depth of 0.09 inches, it can handle large and precise cuts. Its 5-HP TEFC induction motor ensures strong performance, and the helical cutterhead provides smoother and quieter operation compared to traditional straight knives, reducing tear-out on the wood surface.

The planer includes extension tables, a dust hood, and a positive gear drive for rapid adjustments, which suggests efficient operation and good dust management. It is built with durability in mind, featuring a one-piece welded steel base and coated cast iron tables that resist corrosion and reduce friction. Users will appreciate the large handwheel and magnetic controls for precise and reliable performance.

However, the machine is quite heavy at 765 pounds, which could limit portability and require a stable, dedicated workspace. Additionally, the price point might be higher due to its advanced features and build quality. This planer is well-suited for professional woodworkers or serious hobbyists who need a reliable and efficient tool for their workshop.