DeWalt vs Makita Electric Planer

DeWalt vs Makita Electric Planer: Which Brand is Better?

DeWalt and Makita are two of the most trusted names in power tools, and their electric planers reflect their reputations. Makita is known for producing lightweight, precise handheld planers that deliver a smooth finish straight out of the box. DeWalt, on the other hand, excels in benchtop planers with raw power and advanced features like two-speed gearboxes and built-in dust collection.

Owner reviews on Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe's consistently praise Makita for its ease of use and low vibration, while DeWalt benchtop models are favored by professionals for their ability to handle large volumes of stock quickly. Both brands offer reliable tools, but the right choice depends on whether you need a portable planer for trimming or a stationary machine for heavy-duty work.

Key Differences Between DeWalt and Makita Planers

The main difference lies in the tool type. Makita specializes in handheld electric planers, such as the 2012NB, which are ideal for smoothing edges, trimming doors, and removing small amounts of material. DeWalt's flagship planer, the DW735X, is a benchtop thickness planer designed for dimensioning lumber and producing consistent thickness across wide boards.

Motor power is another major distinction. Makita handheld planers typically use 6.0 to 7.5 amp motors, while DeWalt benchtop models use 15 amp motors (3 HP) for heavy cuts. Makita planers are lightweight (around 5-6 lbs) and easy to maneuver, whereas DeWalt benchtop planers weigh over 90 lbs and require a stand or bench.

Depth adjustment also differs. Makita uses a dial-based system for precise cuts, while DeWalt offers a two-speed gearbox (10,000 or 20,000 RPM) and a four-post carriage system for stability. Dust collection is better on DeWalt benchtop models, which include a built-in blower and a 4-inch dust port, while Makita handheld planers use a basic chip bag.

What to Check Before Buying an Electric Planer

Before choosing between DeWalt and Makita, consider these factors:

• Tool Type: Decide if you need a handheld planer for trimming and smoothing or a benchtop planer for thicknessing lumber.
• Motor Power: For heavy-duty work, choose a higher amp or HP motor. For light tasks, a 6 amp motor is sufficient.
• Planing Width: Handheld planers typically plane up to 6-1/4 inches wide. Benchtop planers can handle up to 13 inches or more.
• Depth of Cut: Look for a maximum depth of cut that matches your projects. Benchtop planers offer deeper cuts (1/8 inch) than handheld models (1/16 inch).
• Weight & Portability: Handheld planers are lightweight and easy to carry. Benchtop planers are heavy and stationary.
• Dust Collection: If working indoors, choose a planer with a dust port or built-in blower for cleaner operation.

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Planer

• Ignoring the type of planer: Buying a benchtop planer for door trimming is overkill, while a handheld planer cannot thickness wide boards.
• Overlooking blade quality: Dull or cheap blades cause tear-out. Look for reversible carbide blades or easy replacement systems.
• Forgetting about dust collection: Planers produce a lot of chips. Without a dust port, your workspace will be messy.
• Choosing based on price alone: A cheap planer may have poor build quality and inaccurate depth adjustment, leading to frustration.

DeWalt vs Makita: Handheld Planer Comparison

For handheld planers, Makita is the clear leader. The Makita 2012NB is widely regarded as the best handheld planer for its smooth finish, low vibration, and precise depth adjustment. DeWalt does not currently offer a direct competitor in the handheld planer category that matches the 2012NB's reputation. The DeWalt DW660 is a rotary tool, not a planer, and other DeWalt planers are benchtop models.

Owner reviews on Amazon give the Makita 2012NB a 4.7 out of 5 stars, with users praising its "buttery smooth" cuts and easy setup. The only common complaint is the chip bag, which fills quickly. For a handheld planer, Makita is the superior choice.

DeWalt vs Makita: Benchtop Planer Comparison

In the benchtop category, DeWalt dominates with the DW735X. This planer features a 15 amp motor, two-speed gearbox (10,000 or 20,000 RPM), and a four-post carriage system for stability. It can plane boards up to 13 inches wide and remove up to 1/8 inch of material per pass. The built-in blower and 4-inch dust port make it one of the cleanest benchtop planers available.

Makita's benchtop planer, the 2012NB, is actually a handheld model. Makita does not produce a benchtop thickness planer that competes directly with the DeWalt DW735X. For benchtop use, DeWalt is the clear winner, with owner reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Users note its power, accuracy, and excellent dust collection, though some find it heavy at 92 lbs.

Build Quality and Durability

Both brands are known for robust construction. Makita handheld planers use aluminum housings that withstand drops and daily use. The 2012NB has a durable base plate and a well-designed depth adjustment mechanism that holds settings accurately. DeWalt benchtop planers feature cast-iron tables and steel bases that resist vibration and warping over time.

Warranty terms differ: Makita offers a 1-year warranty on handheld planers, while DeWalt provides a 3-year warranty on benchtop models. Both brands have good customer service and readily available replacement parts. Owner reviews indicate that both brands' planers last for years with proper maintenance, such as blade sharpening and cleaning.

Performance and Finish Quality

Makita handheld planers are praised for their finish quality. The 2012NB produces a smooth surface that often requires minimal sanding. Its 16,000 RPM motor and two-blade cutter head deliver clean cuts on hardwoods and softwoods. DeWalt benchtop planers, like the DW735X, also produce excellent finishes, especially at the higher speed setting (20,000 RPM). The two-speed gearbox allows users to choose between faster material removal (10,000 RPM) or a finer finish (20,000 RPM).

Both brands handle snipe (a deeper cut at the start or end of a board) well. Makita's handheld design naturally minimizes snipe, while DeWalt's four-post carriage system reduces it significantly. For the best finish, users recommend taking light passes and using sharp blades.

Price and Value

Makita handheld planers are generally more affordable than DeWalt benchtop models. The Makita 2012NB typically costs less than $200, making it a great value for DIYers and professionals who need a portable planer. The DeWalt DW735X is priced higher, often over $600, but includes features like a two-speed gearbox, built-in blower, and a stand in some packages.

For the price, Makita offers excellent value in the handheld category, while DeWalt justifies its cost with heavy-duty performance and advanced features. If you need both types, buying a Makita handheld and a DeWalt benchtop planer covers all your planing needs.