Cheap planers disappoint—but DEWALT Thickness Planer delivers precision.
When it comes to achieving a smooth finish, the right thickness planer is essential. The **DEWALT Thickness Planer** stands out with its powerful 20,000 RPM motor, while the **WEN PL1326** excels in versatility with its spiral cutterhead design for superior performance.
For those seeking portability, the compact design of the WEN PL1326 makes it ideal for job sites, ensuring you can take quality woodworking anywhere.
Below, we analyze budget, lifespan, and real-user feedback.
DEWALT 13-Inch Two-Speed Thickness Planer
The DEWALT Thickness Planer (DW735X) stands out with its powerful 15 amp motor that achieves a remarkable 20,000 RPM, allowing it to handle larger cuts in wider materials effortlessly. This model features a three-knife cutter head designed for 30% longer knife life, making knife changes faster and more efficient. The two-speed gearbox enables users to optimize cuts per inch at either 96 or 179 CPI, enhancing versatility for various projects. Additionally, the fan-assisted chip ejection system effectively vacuums chips off the cutter head and expels them from the machine, keeping the workspace clean.
Key Advantages
- The 19-3/4 in. cast aluminum base is twice as rigid as standard bases, providing stability during operation.
- Automatic carriage lock minimizes snipe without manual engagement, ensuring consistent results.
- Material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale facilitate accurate cuts, while the turret depth-stop allows quick returns to frequently used thicknesses.
Limitations
- Not compatible with some older DEWALT models, which may require additional adapters.
This thickness planer is best for woodworkers and outdoor enthusiasts needing precision and efficiency in their projects, especially when working with a variety of materials.
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WEN 15-Amp 13-Inch Thickness Planer
The spiral cutterhead sets the WEN PL1326 apart from other thickness planers, utilizing 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades to deliver a clean, smooth finish. This innovative design not only enhances the quality of the cut but also prolongs blade life. The unit measures 15 x 13 x 15 inches and is powered by a robust 15A motor that operates at 10,000 RPM, allowing it to handle boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide with ease.
Key Advantages
- The onboard material removal gauge provides precise cutting depth information, ensuring accuracy with every pass.
Limitations
- Not compatible with traditional straight blades, which may limit options for users accustomed to that technology.
Best for woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts needing a compact yet powerful thickness planer, the WEN PL1326 excels in delivering high-quality results in a small footprint. Its advanced features make it a valuable addition to any workshop, particularly for those focused on achieving professional-grade finishes on their projects.
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DEWALT 12-1/2-Inch Benchtop Planer
The powerful 15 amp motor sets the DEWALT Benchtop Planer (DW734) apart from its competitors. With a robust 20,000 RPM, it effortlessly handles larger, deeper cuts in hardwoods, making it ideal for serious woodworking projects. The three-knife cutter head operates at a speed of 10,000 RPM, providing an impressive 96 cuts per inch for one of the finest finishes available in a portable planer. Constructed from durable materials, the planer features a sturdy design that ensures longevity in demanding environments.
Key Advantages
- The 316-grade stainless steel components resist corrosion, ensuring durability and reliability over time.
- Disposable, reversible knives extend knife life by 30%, allowing for quick and easy changes.
- The four-column carriage lock significantly reduces movement, minimizing snipe and enhancing cut accuracy.
- Extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide 33-1/2″ of material support, accommodating larger workpieces.
- Material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale ensure precise cuts with every pass.
- Turret depth stop allows users to quickly return to frequently used depths, streamlining the workflow.
Limitations
- Not compatible with certain aftermarket blades, limiting customization options.
Best for woodworking professionals and hobbyists needing a reliable and efficient planer for high-quality finishes in their projects.
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CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Benchtop Planer
The 15 Amp motor sets the CRAFTSMAN Planer (CMEW320) apart, delivering robust power for efficiently removing material from both hard and soft woods. With dimensions of 12.5 x 25.5 x 12 inches, this benchtop planer is compact yet powerful, making it suitable for various workshop setups. The solid steel cutter head features a poly-v drive system, ensuring maximum stock removal with precision.
Key Advantages
- The two knife solid steel cutter head, mounted on ball bearings, guarantees smooth operation and longevity, essential for professional-grade results.
- High carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives extend the cutting life, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance.
- The vacuum port facilitates efficient dust collection, promoting a cleaner workspace and enhancing visibility during operation.
Limitations
- Not compatible with certain aftermarket knife replacements, which may limit customization options.
- Weighing approximately 60 lbs, it may be less portable for some users.
This planer is best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable tool for precise wood shaping and finishing. Its combination of power and durability makes it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals looking to achieve high-quality results in their woodworking projects.
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VEVOR 13″ Benchtop Thickness Planer
The adjustable valve sets the VEVOR Thickness Planer apart, allowing for precise control over material removal. This benchtop planer boasts a robust 15-Amp 1800W motor, delivering a powerful performance at 23,500 RPM. The high-quality worktable measures 13 inches in width and accommodates boards up to 6 inches thick. With a precision machined cast iron bed and steel plate, this tool ensures boards remain flat during the planing process.
Key Advantages
- The use of 316-grade stainless steel in the construction resists corrosion, enhancing durability and longevity.
Limitations
- Not compatible with larger boards exceeding the specified dimensions, limiting its use for certain projects.
Best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable and efficient tool for planing both hard and soft woods, the VEVOR Thickness Planer excels in providing smooth finishes and ease of use. Its low dust planing feature, with a vacuum port for dust collection, makes it an ideal choice for clean work environments. The quick-change two-knife cutter head further assures consistent results, making this planer an indispensable addition to any woodworking setup.
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Faq about best small thickness planer:
1:What is a small thickness planer?
A small thickness planer is a woodworking tool used to smooth and reduce the thickness of lumber. It is ideal for home workshops and small projects.
2:What are the benefits of using a small thickness planer?
Benefits include improved surface finish, precise thickness control, and the ability to work with rough lumber, making it easier to achieve desired dimensions.
3:How do I choose the best small thickness planer?
Consider factors like motor power, cutting width, depth adjustment, portability, and user reviews to find a model that suits your needs.
4:Can a small thickness planer handle hardwood?
Yes, many small thickness planers can handle hardwood, but check the specifications for maximum cutting capacity and motor strength.
5:What maintenance does a small thickness planer require?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the blades, checking for wear, and ensuring the feed rollers are free of debris to maintain performance.
6:Are small thickness planers easy to use?
Yes, most small thickness planers are designed for ease of use, with straightforward controls and safety features for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike.
Conclusion
Both the DEWALT 13-Inch Two-Speed Thickness Planer and the WEN 15-Amp 13-Inch Thickness Planer exemplify excellence in woodworking tools. The DEWALT model is lauded for its robust construction and dual-speed capability, enabling precise adjustments for various wood types, thus elevating craftsmanship.
Conversely, the WEN planer offers remarkable value with its powerful motor and user-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for both novices and seasoned woodworkers. Together, these products represent the pinnacle of performance and reliability in the realm of thickness planers.