Best Planer Under £150
Finding a reliable electric planer that won't break the bank is tough. We've compared specs, aggregated owner reviews, and checked brand reliability to find the best planer under £150 for DIYers and pros on a budget.
Quick answer
The DeWalt DCP580N is our top pick for its powerful brushless motor and excellent depth adjustment. For the best value, the Bosch PHO 2000 offers reliable performance at a lower price point, making it ideal for occasional use.
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.
DeWalt DCP580N
Brushless power with precise depth control.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCP580N | Overall Power | Brushless motor, 82mm width | 4.7 / 5 | ~£140 |
| Bosch PHO 2000 | Budget Value | 500W motor, 82mm width | 4.5 / 5 | ~£60 |
| Makita KP0800 | Durability | 620W motor, 82mm width | 4.6 / 5 | ~£120 |
| Ryobi RPL18-0 | Cordless Convenience | 18V ONE+ system, 82mm | 4.3 / 5 | ~£90 |
| Einhell TC-PL 750 | Budget Corded | 750W motor, 82mm width | 4.2 / 5 | ~£45 |
DeWalt DCP580N
Best OverallPros
- Powerful brushless motor
- Precise depth adjustment
- Excellent dust extraction
Cons
- Battery not included
- Higher price point
The DeWalt DCP580N is a cordless planer that delivers performance close to corded models. Its brushless motor provides consistent power under load, and the depth adjustment knob allows for fine cuts down to 0.1mm increments. Owner reviews consistently praise its build quality and the effectiveness of the dust port.
This planer is part of the DeWalt XR system, meaning it uses the same 18V batteries as other DeWalt tools. While it is the most expensive option here, the performance and brand reliability make it a strong investment for regular users who want cordless freedom without sacrificing power.
Bosch PHO 2000
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very affordable price
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Reliable Bosch build quality
Cons
- Less power for heavy use
- No dust bag included
The Bosch PHO 2000 is a compact and lightweight corded planer perfect for DIYers. Its 500W motor handles softwoods and occasional hardwood planing with ease. The depth adjustment is straightforward, and the V-groove in the base helps with chamfering edges.
Owner reviews highlight its value for money and ease of use. While it is not designed for heavy-duty professional work, it is more than capable for furniture making, door fitting, and general joinery. The lack of a dust bag is a minor drawback, but it connects to a vacuum easily.
Makita KP0800
Best DurabilityPros
- Powerful 620W motor
- Robust metal construction
- Easy blade replacement
Cons
- No dust bag included
- Heavier than some rivals
The Makita KP0800 is a corded planer built to last. Its 620W motor provides ample power for hardwood planing, and the hardened steel base plate ensures long-term flatness. The depth adjustment is precise, and the planer features a lock-on button for continuous use.
Aggregated reviews from retailers show high satisfaction with its durability and cutting performance. The metal housing and robust design make it a favorite among tradespeople who need a reliable tool. It is heavier than some competitors, but the extra weight contributes to stability during use.
Ryobi RPL18-0
Best Cordless ConveniencePros
- Part of Ryobi ONE+ system
- Good battery life per charge
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Brushed motor less efficient
- Not as powerful as corded
The Ryobi RPL18-0 is a cordless planer that fits into the popular ONE+ battery platform. It offers decent power for trimming doors and planing softwoods. The depth stop is easy to set, and the planer includes a dust bag for cleaner work.
If you already own Ryobi tools, this planer is a logical addition. Owner reviews note that it performs well for light to medium tasks but struggles with heavy hardwood planing. The brushed motor is less efficient than brushless alternatives, but the price and ecosystem benefits outweigh this for many users.
Einhell TC-PL 750
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very low price
- Powerful 750W motor
- Includes dust bag
Cons
- Build quality feels basic
- Less precise depth adjustment
The Einhell TC-PL 750 is the cheapest planer on our list, but it offers surprising power for the price. Its 750W motor can handle most planing tasks, and it includes a dust bag and parallel guide. The depth adjustment is functional but not as fine as more expensive models.
Owner reviews are mixed on long-term durability, with some reporting issues after heavy use. For the price, it is a solid choice for a single project or occasional use. If you need a planer for a specific job and want to spend as little as possible, this is a viable option.
What to check before buying a planer under £150
When choosing a planer, consider the motor type. Brushless motors are more efficient and durable than brushed ones, but they cost more. Corded planers offer unlimited runtime and consistent power, while cordless models offer convenience but require battery investment.
Planer width is standard at 82mm, but some models offer 110mm for wider boards. Depth of cut adjustment should be precise, with finer increments being better for detailed work. Weight and ergonomics also matter for comfort during extended use.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a budget planer
A common mistake is buying a planer that is too underpowered for your intended use. A low-wattage corded planer may struggle with hardwood, leading to poor results. Another mistake is ignoring the battery ecosystem if you buy cordless. Ensure the battery platform matches your existing tools.
Many users overlook the importance of blade quality and availability. Check that replacement blades are easy to find and affordable. Finally, do not neglect dust extraction. A planer without a dust port or bag will create a mess in your workspace.
FAQs
Can I use a planer on hardwood?
Yes, but ensure the planer has sufficient power. A 620W or higher motor is recommended for hardwood.
What is the standard planer width?
The standard planer width is 82mm, which covers most boards. Some models offer 110mm for wider stock.
Is a cordless planer as powerful as a corded one?
Cordless planers are improving but generally less powerful than corded models. Brushless cordless planers come closest.
How do I change the blades on a planer?
Most planers have a blade release mechanism. Consult the manual for your specific model. Some use reversible carbide blades.
What is a rebate cut on a planer?
A rebate cut is a step cut along the edge of a board. Some planers have a depth stop for consistent rebate cuts.
Do I need a dust bag for a planer?
A dust bag helps keep your workspace clean. If the planer does not include one, you can connect it to a shop vacuum.
Can I use a planer for door fitting?
Yes, planers are excellent for trimming doors to size. Use a shallow depth of cut for precise adjustments.
What is the difference between a planer and a thicknesser?
A planer flattens the face of a board, while a thicknesser makes the board uniform in thickness. They are different tools.
How often should I replace planer blades?
Replace blades when they become dull or chipped. Signs include tear-out or burning of the wood.
Are Einhell planers reliable?
Einhell planers offer good value for the price but may not match the durability of premium brands like DeWalt or Makita.
Our verdict
For the best overall planer under £150, choose the DeWalt DCP580N for its brushless power and precision. If you are on a budget, the Bosch PHO 2000 provides excellent value for DIY tasks. For cordless convenience within the Ryobi ecosystem, the RPL18-0 is a solid choice.