Top Best Benchtop Planers 2025
Elevate your woodworking game with the best benchtop planers of 2025, designed to deliver smooth, professional-grade results without breaking the bank. These planers combine powerful motors, precision cutting, and robust designs, making them ideal for hobbyists, DIYers, and pros tackling hardwoods or intricate projects.
Our expertly curated list highlights the top benchtop planers, evaluated for performance, durability, and value. From the DeWalt DW735X’s powerhouse cutting to the WEN 6530’s versatile sanding capabilities, these machines cater to diverse woodworking needs. Dive into our guide to find the perfect planer for your workshop.
Table of Contents
At a Glance: Best Benchtop Planers
| Product Name | Key Features | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DW735X | 15-amp motor, three-knife cutterhead, two-speed gearbox | Heavy-duty planing, hardwoods |
| Craftsman CMEW320 | Poly-v drive, reversible blades, vacuum port | Budget-friendly projects, DIY |
| DeWalt DW734 | Three-knife cutterhead, compact design, chip ejection | Job site reliability, hobbyists |
| VEVOR 13-Inch Planer | Dual-speed feed, hardened steel blades, cast iron bed | Wide boards, budget pros |
| WEN 6530 | Planer-sander combo, 4.3-amp motor, cordless option | Small workshops, versatile tasks |
Best Benchtop Planers 2025
🥇 1. DeWalt DW735X
Use Case / Strength: The DeWalt DW735X is a powerhouse for heavy-duty planing, ideal for professionals and hobbyists tackling hardwoods with precision and speed.
- Powerful Motor: 15-amp, 20,000 RPM motor handles tough hardwoods effortlessly.
- Three-Knife Cutterhead: 10,000 RPM for 30% longer blade life, smooth finishes.
- Two-Speed Gearbox: 96 or 179 cuts per inch for fast stock removal or fine finishes.
- Chip Ejection: Fan-assisted system keeps workspace clean via vacuum.
- Stable Design: Cast aluminum base and folding tables for 20-foot boards.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional power for hardwoods | Higher price point |
| Long-lasting blades | Heavy at 92 pounds |
| Clean chip ejection | Loud operation |
| Rock-solid stability | |
| Versatile two-speed settings |
🥈 2. Craftsman CMEW320
Use Case / Strength: The Craftsman CMEW320 is a budget-friendly gem, perfect for DIYers and weekend warriors seeking reliable planing for small to medium projects.
- Reliable Motor: 15-amp motor tackles hardwoods and softwoods with ease.
- Poly-V Drive: Ensures strong grip for consistent board feeding.
- Reversible Blades: Double-edged for twice the cutting life.
- Dust Collection: Vacuum port efficiently clears chips for a clean workspace.
- Affordable Design: Budget-friendly without sacrificing performance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | No two-speed gearbox |
| Reliable performance | Basic feature set |
| Effective dust collection | Less robust base |
| Long-lasting blades | |
| Easy to use |
🥉 3. DeWalt DW734
Use Case / Strength: The DeWalt DW734 is a compact, reliable choice for job site pros and hobbyists needing consistent performance and smooth finishes.
- Strong Motor: 15-amp motor with three-knife cutterhead for smooth cuts.
- Two-Speed Gearbox: Choose between fast stock removal or fine finishes.
- Chip Ejection: Fan-powered system prevents sawdust buildup.
- Stable Base: 19.75-inch cast aluminum base minimizes vibrations.
- Folding Tables: Supports long boards for versatile projects.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact yet powerful | Noisy operation |
| Smooth finishes | Heavier than some rivals |
| Reliable chip ejection | Less advanced than DW735X |
| Stable construction | |
| Automatic carriage lock |
🏅 4. VEVOR 13-Inch Planer
Use Case / Strength: The VEVOR 13-Inch Planer is a budget-friendly powerhouse, ideal for DIYers and small shops needing professional results for wide boards.
- Wide Capacity: Handles 13-inch wide, 6-inch thick boards for large projects.
- Dual-Speed Feed: 24 FPM for speed, 15 FPM for precision finishes.
- Hardened Blades: HRC55-60 steel blades for clean, durable cuts.
- Cast Iron Bed: Ensures flatness and stability during operation.
- Over-Current Protector: 20A protection prevents motor burnout.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly price | Less established brand |
| Wide board capacity | Dust collection less efficient |
| Durable blades | Heavier build |
| Dual-speed versatility | |
| Stable cast iron bed |
🏅 5. WEN 6530
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Use Case / Strength: The WEN 6530 is a versatile planer-sander combo, perfect for small workshops and crafters needing multi-functional tools for light projects.
- Planer-Sander Combo: 4×36-inch belt and 6×6-inch disc sander for versatility.
- Adjustable Belt: Tilts up to 90 degrees for precise bevel sanding.
- Compact Motor: 4.3-amp, 3600 RPM for light planing and finish work.
- Cordless Option: Compatible with WEN’s 20V Max Battery System.
- Space-Saving Design: Ideal for cramped workshops or small projects.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Planer-sander versatility | Limited to light tasks |
| Compact design | Lower power output |
| Cordless option | Smaller board capacity |
| Adjustable belt | |
| Affordable price |
Final Verdict: Which Benchtop Planer is Your Best Workshop Companion?
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| DeWalt DW735X | Heavy-duty planing, professional use |
| Craftsman CMEW320 | Budget-friendly DIY projects |
| DeWalt DW734 | Job site reliability, hobbyists |
| VEVOR 13-Inch Planer | Wide boards, small shop pros |
| WEN 6530 | Small workshops, versatile crafting |
Note: Choose based on your project needs—powerful for hardwoods, compact for small shops. Regularly clean dust collection systems and replace blades for optimal performance. Use proper safety gear, like goggles and ear protection, during operation. Check linked retailers for the latest deals and ensure compatibility with your workshop setup.
Last update on 2025-08-07/Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
