Best Makita Planer of 2026
Makita planers are known for their precision, smooth finishes, and durable motors. Whether you need a corded benchtop model or a cordless handheld for job site trimming, we have ranked the best Makita planers for 2026 based on specs, battery compatibility, and owner feedback.
Quick answer
The Makita 2012NB is the best overall planer for 2026, offering a powerful 6.8-amp motor, a 3-5/16-inch cutting width, and a lightweight design at just 6.4 pounds. For cordless convenience, the Makita XPK01Z 18V LXT planer delivers excellent portability without sacrificing cutting depth.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Makita 2012NB
Top-rated corded planer for precision and power.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita 2012NB | Overall precision | 6.8A / 3-5/16 in | 4.8/5 | $$ |
| Makita XPK01Z | Cordless portability | 18V LXT / 3-5/16 in | 4.6/5 | $$$ |
| Makita 1806B | Heavy-duty planing | 7.5A / 6-1/4 in | 4.7/5 | $$$ |
| Makita KP0800 | Budget value | 6.0A / 3-1/8 in | 4.5/5 | $ |
| Makita 1911B | Compact benchtop | 6.0A / 3-1/4 in | 4.4/5 | $$ |
Makita 2012NB
Best Overall PlanerPros
- Powerful 6.8-amp motor for smooth cuts
- Lightweight at 6.4 pounds reduces fatigue
- Accurate depth adjustment with lock lever
Cons
- Corded only, limits mobility
- Dust bag is small and fills quickly
The Makita 2012NB is a corded benchtop planer that delivers consistent, smooth results on hardwoods and softwoods alike. Its 6.8-amp motor provides enough torque for heavy-duty passes, while the 3-5/16-inch cutting width handles most door edges and boards in one pass.
Owner reviews highlight the tool's durability and ease of use, with many noting the precise depth adjustment knob. The main drawback is the small dust bag, which requires frequent emptying during longer planing sessions.
Makita XPK01Z
Best Cordless PlanerPros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Compatible with all Makita 18V LXT batteries
- Soft start and electric brake for safety
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Heavier than corded models with battery attached
The Makita XPK01Z is a cordless handheld planer that uses the 18V LXT platform, making it a great choice for job site work where outlets are scarce. Its brushless motor delivers efficient power, and the soft start feature reduces kickback on startup.
Owner feedback praises the tool's balance and ease of use, though some note that with a 5.0Ah battery attached, the weight climbs to around 8 pounds. The planer works well for trimming doors and planing edges on site.
Makita 1806B
Best Heavy-Duty PlanerPros
- Wide 6-1/4 inch cutting capacity
- High torque for deep passes on hardwoods
- Durable cast aluminum base
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for overhead work
- Higher price point
The Makita 1806B is a benchtop planer with a 7.5-amp motor and a 6-1/4-inch cutting width, making it ideal for large boards and heavy stock removal. It features a cast aluminum base for stability and a depth adjustment knob with a lock for consistent results.
Owners report that this planer handles thick hardwoods like oak and maple with ease, though its 13.2-pound weight makes it less suitable for overhead or vertical planing. It is best used on a workbench for stationary tasks.
Makita KP0800
Best Budget PlanerPros
- Affordable price for a Makita planer
- Lightweight at 5.3 pounds
- Easy blade replacement system
Cons
- Less power for heavy stock removal
- Dust port is not standard size
The Makita KP0800 is a compact corded planer with a 6.0-amp motor and a 3-1/8-inch cutting width, making it an affordable entry point into Makita planers. It is lightweight and easy to handle for small trimming tasks and edge work.
Owner reviews mention that it works well for softwoods and light hardwoods, but struggles with deep passes on dense lumber. The blade replacement system is straightforward, though the dust port may require an adapter for standard shop vac hoses.
Makita 1911B
Best Compact Benchtop PlanerPros
- Compact size fits small workshops
- V-groove for chamfering edges
- Durable aluminum housing
Cons
- No depth lock lever
- Motor can bog down on hardwoods
The Makita 1911B is a compact benchtop planer with a 6.0-amp motor and a 3-1/4-inch cutting width, designed for small workshops and light to medium planing tasks. It features a V-groove in the front shoe for chamfering edges and an aluminum housing for durability.
Owner feedback indicates that it is a good choice for hobbyists and DIYers who work mostly with softwoods. The lack of a depth lock lever can allow the setting to drift during heavy use, and the motor may struggle with thick hardwoods.
What to check before buying a Makita planer
Cutting width is the most important spec. A 3-1/4-inch or 3-5/16-inch width handles most door edges and boards in one pass. For larger stock, consider the 6-1/4-inch 1806B. Motor amperage determines power: 6.0 to 6.8 amps is standard for handheld models, while 7.5 amps suits heavy benchtop use.
Weight matters for handheld work. Lighter models like the KP0800 at 5.3 pounds reduce fatigue, while heavier benchtop models like the 1806B stay stable on a workbench. For cordless options, check battery compatibility with your existing Makita 18V LXT system.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing a planer
Do not buy a planer with a cutting width too narrow for your typical projects. A 3-1/8-inch model may require multiple passes on a standard door. Avoid cordless planers if you do not already own Makita batteries, as buying a kit with battery and charger increases the total cost significantly.
Do not overlook dust collection. Some planers have non-standard dust ports that require adapters for shop vacs. Also, check blade availability and ease of replacement. Models with reversible carbide blades offer longer life than standard HSS blades.
FAQs
Are Makita planers good for hardwood?
Yes, Makita planers with 6.8-amp or higher motors handle hardwoods like oak and maple effectively. The 1806B is especially suited for dense lumber.
What is the best Makita planer for doors?
The Makita 2012NB is ideal for doors with its 3-5/16-inch cutting width and lightweight design. The cordless XPK01Z is also good for on-site door trimming.
Do Makita planers come with blades?
Yes, all new Makita planers include a set of blades installed. Replacement blades are available separately for each model.
Can I use a Makita planer for benchtop planing?
Makita handheld planers can be used on a workbench, but they are not benchtop planers. For benchtop use, consider the 1806B which is designed for stationary work.
What is the warranty on Makita planers?
Makita offers a 1-year limited warranty on most planers. Some models may have extended warranties when registered with the manufacturer.
Are Makita planers compatible with 18V batteries?
Only the XPK01Z cordless planer uses Makita 18V LXT batteries. Corded models require a standard power outlet.
How do I set the depth on a Makita planer?
Turn the depth adjustment knob on the front of the planer. Most models have a lock lever to secure the setting during use.
What is the difference between the 2012NB and KP0800?
The 2012NB has a more powerful 6.8-amp motor and a wider 3-5/16-inch cut. The KP0800 is lighter and more affordable with a 6.0-amp motor and 3-1/8-inch cut.
Can I plane with a cordless planer all day?
Cordless planers like the XPK01Z are best for intermittent use. For all-day planing, a corded model provides consistent power without battery swaps.
Do Makita planers have a dust port?
Yes, most Makita planers include a dust port that connects to a dust bag or shop vac. Some models may require an adapter for standard hoses.
What is the cutting depth of a Makita planer?
Most handheld Makita planers have a maximum cutting depth of 1/8 inch. The 1806B benchtop model can cut up to 3/16 inch per pass.
Are Makita planers easy to sharpen?
Blades on Makita planers are replaceable, not sharpened. Many models use double-sided blades that can be flipped for extended life.
Our verdict
The Makita 2012NB is the best overall planer for 2026, offering a powerful 6.8-amp motor and precise depth control at a reasonable weight. For budget-conscious buyers, the Makita KP0800 provides reliable performance at a lower price point, while the cordless XPK01Z is the top choice for job site portability.