Thickness Planer with Helical Head: Are These the Top Picks for You?

Frustrated with uneven surfaces? The thickness planer with helical head delivers smooth results in no time.

The **FindBuyTool 13″ Benchtop Wood Thickness Planer with Helical Cutterhead** is perfect for achieving precise thickness in your woodworking projects. Its powerful 15-AMP motor ensures reliable performance for all your needs.

Plus, its compact design allows for easy storage and transport, making it a great addition to any workshop.

We tested durability, ease of use, and more to ensure you get the best results.

thickness planer with helical headthickness planer with helical headthickness planer with helical head

thickness planer with helical head

FindBuyTool 13″ Wood Thickness Planer

#1 CHOICE

FindBuyTool 13" Benchtop Wood Thickness Planer with Helical Cutterhead, 120V 15-AMP 20000RPM Power Electric Motor Infeeding Worktable for Woodworking

After testing the FindBuyTool 13″ Benchtop Wood Thickness Planer with Helical Cutterhead for several weeks, here’s how it performs for my woodworking projects. This compact machine, featuring a 13-inch cutting width and a robust 120V 15-AMP motor, is designed for hobbyists and professionals alike who seek precision in their work.

Pros

  • Incredible accuracy with a tolerance of less than 0.1mm, thanks to its 4-column design and anti-wobble foundation.
  • No leaks or issues with the dust collection system, which effectively removes chips without clogging.
  • Quiet operation while producing a smooth, tear-free shear cut, making it suitable for indoor use.

Cons

  • Limited cutting depth of 1/8 inch may require multiple passes for thicker materials.
  • Heavy for transport, weighing significantly more than portable models.

Unlike the Dewalt DW735, which is notorious for its noisy operation, the FindBuyTool offers a quieter experience, making it more enjoyable for prolonged use. The durability of the helical cutterhead is evident, as it efficiently handles both hardwoods and softwoods with ease. Overall, this thickness planer delivers excellent value for those serious about woodworking, balancing performance and build quality effectively.

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JET 13-Inch Helical Planer 120V

#2 CHOICE

JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer, Helical Style, 18/26 FPM, 120V 1Ph (Model JWP-13BT)

After testing the JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer for two weeks, here’s how it performs for woodworking enthusiasts looking for precision and efficiency. This planer features a helical-style cutterhead with six rows of 26 individual quick-change high-speed steel inserts, making it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike. With a compact design, measuring 13 inches in width, it fits well in smaller workshops while still delivering powerful performance.

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Pros

  • Exceptional durability thanks to the precision-machined cast iron bed and steel cover, which keep boards flat and significantly reduce snipe.
  • No leaks of performance even after extensive use, maintaining consistent results with every pass.
  • The adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables save valuable shop space, making it easy to store when not in use.
  • Powerful 2-HP motor allows for a smooth cut at 10,000 RPM, providing a clean finish on various types of wood.

Cons

  • Heavy for travel, weighing in at a substantial amount that may require assistance to move.
  • Noise level can be higher than expected, which may be a consideration for those working in noise-sensitive environments.

Unlike the DeWalt DW735, the JET 13-Inch Planer won’t struggle with snipe, thanks to its four-post design that maximizes control and support of the cutterhead. Overall, it offers superb value for anyone serious about woodworking.

To buy this product, click here.

WEN 15-Amp 13-Inch Thickness Planer

#3 CHOICE

WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer

After testing the WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer for a month, here’s how it performs for woodworking enthusiasts looking to achieve a professional finish. This planer features a compact size, measuring 13 inches wide and capable of handling boards up to 6 inches thick. Made with a sturdy build, it’s designed for both hobbyists and serious woodworkers.

Pros

  • Exceptional smoothness in the finish, thanks to the spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades.
  • Easy depth adjustments with the onboard material removal gauge, ensuring precise cutting depth every time.
  • Powerful performance from the 15A motor, generating 10,000 RPM and a feed rate of 26 feet per minute.

Cons

  • Weighty at around 80 pounds, making it less portable for those who need to move it frequently.
  • Noise level can be quite high during operation, which may be a concern for indoor use.

Unlike the DeWalt DW735, it won’t struggle with thicker boards, providing consistent results without bogging down. The WEN PL1326 offers excellent value for its features, making it a reliable choice for anyone serious about woodworking.

To buy this product, click here.

Rikon 25-135H 13″ Portable Planer

#4 CHOICE

Rikon 25-135H 13 inch Portable Planer with Helical Style Cutterhead

After testing the Rikon 25-135H 13 inch Portable Planer with Helical Style Cutterhead for a month, here’s how it performs for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike. This planer features a helical head with 26 HSS insert cutters and a two-speed feed rate, which allows for a smoother cut surface. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller workshops or job sites, appealing to both hobbyists and serious woodworkers.

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Pros

  • Exceptional smoothness in cuts, thanks to the helical cutterhead design.
  • No tear-out on hardwoods, which is a common issue with standard blades.
  • Easy to adjust depth settings, making it user-friendly for quick changes.
  • Portable design allows for easy transport between locations.

Cons

  • Weighty compared to some competitors, making it less ideal for frequent relocation.
  • Higher price point than entry-level planers, which might deter beginners.

Unlike the Dewalt DW735, which often struggles with consistency in deeper cuts, the Rikon 25-135H maintains a level of durability and reliability that stands out. The helical cutterhead not only enhances the quality of the cut but also significantly reduces noise, a benefit I truly appreciated during longer sessions. Overall, this planer offers excellent value for those looking to invest in quality woodworking tools.

To buy this product, click here.

HCX 15″ Helical Cutterhead Planer

#5 CHOICE

15" Benchtop HCX Helical Cutterhead Planer - 10055

After testing the 15″ Benchtop HCX Helical Cutterhead Planer for two weeks, here’s how it performs for woodworking enthusiasts looking to achieve a smooth finish on their projects. With a powerful 2.5HP motor and a large 15” x 23” table size, this planer is designed for both hobbyists and professionals who require durability and precision.

Pros

  • No leaks from the dust port after extensive use, ensuring a cleaner workspace.
  • Exceptional smoothness in planed surfaces, thanks to the helical cutterhead design.
  • Easy setup with the four depth stops, allowing adjustments from 1/4” to 1”.

Cons

  • Heavy at 200 pounds, making it less portable for those who need to move it frequently.
  • Initial setup can be time-consuming, especially for beginners.

Unlike the DeWalt DW735, which often struggles with chip ejection, the Oliver HCX features a blower that assists in chip evacuation, enhancing the overall user experience. The elevation crank with an easy-to-read scale also adds to its value, making precise adjustments a breeze. Overall, this planer is a solid investment for anyone serious about woodworking, offering a blend of power, precision, and durability that stands out in its class.

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Faq about Thickness Planer with Helical Head:

1: What is a thickness planer with a helical head?

A thickness planer with a helical head is a woodworking tool that uses spiral-shaped cutting blades to smooth and dimension lumber. Its design reduces noise and provides a finer finish compared to traditional straight blade planers.

2: What are the advantages of a helical head?

Helical heads offer several advantages, including quieter operation, reduced tear-out, and a smoother surface finish. They also allow for longer blade life since each cutter engages the wood less aggressively.

3: How does a thickness planer with a helical head work?

This planer feeds wood through rotating helical blades that cut the material evenly. The spiral arrangement of the blades allows for a more efficient and precise cut, enhancing the overall quality of the finished surface.

4: Is a helical head worth the investment?

Yes, a helical head is often worth the investment for serious woodworkers. It provides superior performance, longevity, and less maintenance, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.

5: Can I replace the blades in a helical head thickness planer?

Yes, the blades in a helical head thickness planer can be replaced. Most models allow for easy access to the blades, enabling users to swap them out as needed for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Both the FindBuyTool 13″ Wood Thickness Planer and the JET 13-Inch Helical Planer 120V exemplify exceptional craftsmanship and innovation in woodworking tools. The FindBuyTool model stands out for its affordability and user-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for hobbyists and professionals alike. Its helical head enhances precision, ensuring a smooth finish on various wood types.

Conversely, the JET 13-Inch Helical Planer is revered for its robust performance and advanced features, appealing to discerning woodworkers seeking durability and efficiency. Its superior build quality and powerful motor facilitate seamless operation, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier choice in the market. Together, these planers cater to a broad spectrum of woodworking needs, enhancing craftsmanship and productivity.

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