Best Planer for Woodworking
Whether you are squaring rough lumber or trimming doors, a reliable planer is a must-have. We have analyzed specs, aggregated thousands of owner reviews, and compared build quality across the top brands to find the best planer for woodworking projects of any size.
Quick answer
The DeWalt DW735X is the best overall planer for woodworking, offering a powerful 15-amp motor, three-knife cutterhead, and exceptional dust collection. For a budget-friendly benchtop option, the DeWalt DW734 delivers reliable performance at a lower price point.
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Research updated June 2026.
DeWalt DW735X
Industry-standard benchtop planer with pro-grade power and accuracy.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DW735X | Overall / Pro Use | 15 Amp, 3-Knife | 4.8/5 | $$$ |
| DeWalt DW734 | Budget Benchtop | 15 Amp, 2-Knife | 4.6/5 | $$ |
| Makita 2012NB | Portability | 15 Amp, 2-Knife | 4.5/5 | $$ |
| Bosch PL1632 | Snap-In Knife System | 15 Amp, 2-Knife | 4.4/5 | $$ |
| Ryobi AP1301 | Beginner / DIY | 15 Amp, 2-Knife | 4.2/5 | $ |
DeWalt DW735X
Best Overall PlanerPros
- Three-knife cutterhead for smoother finish
- Excellent built-in dust collection port
- Fan-assisted chip ejection prevents clogging
Cons
- Heavy and not easily portable
- Requires optional stand for benchtop use
The DeWalt DW735X is widely considered the gold standard for benchtop planers. Its 15-amp motor powers through hardwoods without bogging down, and the three-knife cutterhead delivers a noticeably smoother finish compared to two-knife designs. Owner reviews consistently praise its ability to handle heavy-duty use with minimal snipe when properly adjusted.
The integrated dust collection is among the best in class, channeling chips through a 4-inch port that keeps your workspace clean. While it is heavy and best suited for a dedicated stand, the DW735X offers the power and precision that serious woodworkers demand. It comes with extra knives and a wrench, adding to its value.
DeWalt DW734
Best Budget Benchtop PlanerPros
- Powerful 15-amp motor at a lower price
- Lighter than the DW735X
- Reliable and durable build
Cons
- Two-knife cutterhead requires more sanding
- Dust collection is less effective
The DeWalt DW734 is the logical step-down from the DW735X, sharing the same 15-amp motor and 13-inch cutting width but using a two-knife cutterhead to reduce cost. It is a favorite among hobbyists and professionals on a budget who still need reliable power. Owner reviews note that it handles oak and maple well, though the finish may require additional sanding.
At 75 pounds, it is easier to move around a shop than its bigger brother. The DW734 lacks the fan-assisted chip ejection of the DW735X, so you need to clear chips manually more often. For the price, it is a solid workhorse that delivers consistent results for most woodworking tasks.
Makita 2012NB
Best Portable PlanerPros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Smooth and accurate depth adjustment
- Strong motor for its size
Cons
- 12-inch cutting width limits wide boards
- Dust port is smaller than DeWalt models
The Makita 2012NB is the go-to choice for woodworkers who need to move their planer between job sites or store it in a small shop. At 60 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the DeWalt options while still packing a 15-amp motor. Owner reviews highlight its smooth depth adjustment and consistent finish on softwoods and hardwoods alike.
The 12-inch cutting width is slightly narrower than the standard 13 inches, which may be a limitation for larger projects. The dust collection port is 2-1/2 inches, requiring an adapter for standard 4-inch systems. For portability and ease of use, the 2012NB is a reliable performer with a strong reputation for longevity.
Bosch PL1632
Best Snap-In Knife SystemPros
- Tool-less snap-in knife change
- Low-vibration operation
- Good dust collection with included adapter
Cons
- Knives can be harder to find
- Slightly more expensive than similar 2-knife models
The Bosch PL1632 stands out for its innovative snap-in knife system, which allows you to change blades without any tools. This is a significant time-saver for woodworkers who plane a lot of material. Owner reviews note that the planer runs smoothly with low vibration, producing a clean surface on most woods.
It offers a full 13-inch cutting width and a 15-amp motor, putting it in the same class as the DeWalt DW734. The dust collection is good, and Bosch includes a 4-inch adapter. The main drawback is that replacement knives are less commonly stocked than DeWalt blades. For those who value quick knife changes, the PL1632 is a strong contender.
Ryobi AP1301
Best for Beginners / DIYPros
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight at 65 lbs
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Less durable for heavy use
- More snipe than higher-end models
The Ryobi AP1301 is the most budget-friendly option in this roundup, making it an excellent entry point for DIYers and weekend woodworkers. It features a 15-amp motor and a 13-inch cutting width, matching the specs of more expensive models. Owner reviews appreciate its ease of setup and straightforward operation.
However, the AP1301 tends to produce more snipe at the ends of boards, and its build quality is not as robust as DeWalt or Makita models. It is best suited for occasional use on softwoods and smaller projects. For the price, it offers solid value for those just starting out in woodworking.
What to check before buying a planer
Motor power is critical: a 15-amp motor is standard for benchtop planers and can handle most hardwoods. Cutting width matters: 13 inches is the most common, but 12-inch models like the Makita 2012NB save weight. Cutterhead design affects finish quality: three-knife heads produce smoother surfaces than two-knife ones. Dust collection is often overlooked: a 4-inch port is ideal for connecting to a dust collector. Weight and portability are key if you move your planer between locations. Finally, consider knife replacement ease: snap-in systems save time but may have fewer blade options.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing a planer
Do not assume all 15-amp motors are equal: build quality and torque delivery vary between brands. Avoid ignoring snipe: all planers produce some snipe, but models with anti-snipe features or adjustable tables minimize it. Do not overlook dust collection: poor chip ejection leads to clogging and burn marks on wood. Avoid buying a planer that is too heavy for your workspace: moving a 90-pound machine up and down stairs is impractical. Finally, do not skip on knife quality: cheap blades dull faster and produce tear-out on figured wood.
FAQs
What is the best planer for woodworking?
The DeWalt DW735X is the best overall planer for woodworking due to its powerful motor, three-knife cutterhead, and excellent dust collection.
Is a 2-knife or 3-knife planer better?
A 3-knife planer produces a smoother finish and requires fewer passes, but 2-knife models are more affordable and still effective for most tasks.
How much should I spend on a benchtop planer?
Budget models start around $300, while pro-grade planers like the DW735X cost over $600. The best value is often in the $400 to $500 range.
Can I use a planer on hardwood?
Yes, most 15-amp benchtop planers can handle hardwoods like oak and maple, but you may need to take lighter passes to avoid bogging down.
What is snipe and how do I reduce it?
Snipe is a deeper cut at the start or end of a board. It can be reduced by using infeed and outfeed supports and by adjusting the planer's table rollers.
Do I need a dust collector for a planer?
Yes, planers produce a large volume of chips. A dust collector with a 4-inch hose is recommended to prevent clogging and keep your workspace clean.
How often should I change planer knives?
Change knives when you notice tear-out, burn marks, or a dulled finish. For regular use, this may be every 10 to 20 hours of operation.
Can I sharpen planer knives?
Some users sharpen knives with a jig, but replacement knives are inexpensive and provide a more consistent cut. Snap-in knives are not sharpenable.
What is the difference between a planer and a jointer?
A planer makes boards uniformly thick, while a jointer creates a flat face and straight edge. Both are often used together in woodworking.
Is a portable planer worth it?
Yes, if you have limited space or move your tools frequently. Portable models like the Makita 2012NB are lighter but may have a narrower cutting width.
Our verdict
For most woodworkers, the DeWalt DW735X is the best planer overall, offering pro-grade power and finish quality. If you are on a budget, the DeWalt DW734 provides excellent value without sacrificing motor strength. Beginners should consider the Ryobi AP1301 for occasional DIY use. Choose based on your workload, space, and need for portability.