Best Electric Planer Under £100
Finding a reliable electric planer that doesn't break the bank is tough. We've compared specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best electric planer under £100 for smoothing, rebating, and trimming doors.
Quick answer
The Bosch PHO 2000 is the best electric planer under £100 for most users, offering consistent power, a durable aluminium base, and excellent dust extraction at a fair price. For a cheaper option with similar performance, the Einhell TC-PH 1200 is a strong budget pick.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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- Build quality & warranty checked
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch PHO 2000
Reliable 620W motor, precise depth adjustment, and great dust port.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch PHO 2000 | Overall | 620W, 82mm width | 4.7/5 | Check |
| Einhell TC-PH 1200 | Budget | 1200W, 82mm width | 4.4/5 | Check |
| Stanley STHP 205 | Durability | 650W, 82mm width | 4.3/5 | Check |
| Draper Storm Force 850W | Lightweight | 850W, 82mm width | 4.2/5 | Check |
| Sealey SM18 | Value | 650W, 82mm width | 4.1/5 | Check |
Bosch PHO 2000
Best OverallPros
- Very consistent depth adjustment
- Aluminium base stays flat
- Good dust extraction via included bag
Cons
- Blades can dull faster on hardwood
- No carry case included
The Bosch PHO 2000 is the most balanced planer in this price range. Its 620W motor provides enough power for smoothing softwood and trimming doors, and the aluminium base plate ensures a flat cut every time. Owner reviews consistently praise the precise depth adjustment knob, which allows for fine cuts down to 0.1 mm.
Dust extraction is better than most budget planers, with a port that connects to a vacuum or the included bag. The main compromise is the blade quality; they work well for general DIY but may need sharpening sooner if used on oak or hardwood regularly.
Einhell TC-PH 1200
Best BudgetPros
- High power for the price
- Includes a rebating guide
- Good value for money
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Dust bag is small and fills quickly
The Einhell TC-PH 1200 is a powerhouse for the budget class. Its 1200W motor can handle thicker cuts and harder woods than many pricier models, making it a great choice for heavy DIY use. The included parallel guide is helpful for rebating tasks.
The trade-off is weight and dust management. At 3.1 kg, it is noticeably heavier than the Bosch, which can cause fatigue during longer sessions. The dust bag is also on the smaller side, so connecting a vacuum is recommended for extended work.
Stanley STHP 205
Best DurabilityPros
- Robust build with metal base
- Comfortable rubber grip
- Blades are reversible
Cons
- Depth adjustment is less precise
- No dust bag included
The Stanley STHP 205 is built to last. The metal base and rubber overmold handle give it a tough feel that inspires confidence on site. Its 650W motor is adequate for trimming doors and planing softwood, and the reversible blades extend the tool's life.
The main downsides are the coarse depth adjustment and the lack of a dust bag. Users report that dialing in a very fine cut can be tricky compared to the Bosch. You will need to use a shop vac for dust control, as no bag is provided.
Draper Storm Force 850W
Best LightweightPros
- Very light at 2.3 kg
- Good power-to-weight ratio
- Includes dust bag and guide
Cons
- Plastic base can warp over time
- Motor bogs down on deep cuts
The Draper Storm Force 850W is the lightest planer on this list, making it ideal for overhead work or long sessions. At 2.3 kg, it is easy to control, and the 850W motor provides decent power for general planing tasks. It comes with a dust bag and a parallel guide for rebating.
The main concern is the plastic base plate. While it keeps the weight down, it is less durable than aluminium and can warp if the tool is stored in a hot garage. Owner reviews also note that it struggles with deep cuts in hardwood, so take lighter passes.
Sealey SM18
Best ValuePros
- Very affordable price
- Simple and easy to use
- Decent cutting performance
Cons
- Basic dust port design
- No depth stop for rebating
The Sealey SM18 is a no-frills planer that offers solid performance for the lowest price. Its 650W motor is sufficient for trimming doors and smoothing rough lumber. It is straightforward to operate, making it a good entry-level tool for beginners.
The compromises are in the details. The dust port is basic and the included bag does not seal well, leading to some mess. There is also no depth stop for consistent rebating, so you have to measure manually. It is best for simple, occasional planing jobs.
What to Check Before Buying an Electric Planer
Power output is the first spec to look at. A higher wattage motor can handle deeper cuts and harder woods without stalling. For DIY use under £100, 600W to 1200W is the typical range. Planer width is also important; 82 mm is the standard and matches most door widths for trimming.
Depth adjustment precision matters for fine work. Look for a tool with a knob that allows increments of 0.1 mm. The base plate material is another factor; aluminium is preferred for flatness and durability, while plastic is lighter but can warp. Finally, check if the blades are reversible or replaceable, as this affects long-term cost.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is buying a planer with too little power for the intended use. A 500W planer will struggle on hardwood and may overheat. Another error is ignoring the dust port; a poor dust system will cover your workshop in shavings. Always check if the port fits a standard vacuum hose.
Many users also forget to check blade availability. Some budget planers use proprietary blades that are hard to find. Stick to brands like Bosch, Einhell, or Stanley, where replacement blades are widely stocked. Lastly, do not assume a higher wattage always means better performance; build quality and base flatness are equally important.
FAQs
Can an electric planer be used on hardwood?
Yes, but you need a planer with at least 650W and you should take shallow passes to avoid bogging down the motor.
What is the standard planer width for trimming doors?
The standard width is 82 mm, which matches the thickness of most interior doors.
How do I change the blades on a budget planer?
Most budget planers have reversible blades that can be flipped or replaced by loosening the screws on the drum.
Is a higher wattage planer always better?
Not always. Build quality and base flatness matter more. A well-built 600W planer can outperform a poorly built 1000W model.
Can I use a planer for rebating?
Yes, most planers under £100 come with a parallel guide for rebating, but the depth stop may be basic.
How deep can a planer cut in one pass?
Most models under £100 can cut up to 2.0 mm to 2.6 mm in one pass, but lighter passes are recommended for a smoother finish.
Do I need a dust bag for a planer?
A dust bag helps, but connecting a shop vac to the dust port is much more effective for keeping the area clean.
What is the best brand for a cheap planer?
Bosch and Einhell are the most reliable brands in this price range, offering good performance and available spare parts.
Can I sharpen planer blades myself?
Yes, but it is easier to buy replacement blades. Sharpening requires a jig to maintain the correct angle.
Are cordless planers better than corded under £100?
No, cordless planers under £100 usually lack power and battery life. A corded model is more reliable for this budget.
Our verdict
The best electric planer under £100 is the Bosch PHO 2000 for its precise depth adjustment, flat aluminium base, and reliable 620W motor. For budget buyers, the Einhell TC-PH 1200 offers more power but is heavier and less refined. Choose the Bosch for accuracy and the Einhell for raw cutting force.