The Best Wood Planers of 2025
A comprehensive guide to the best wood planers of 2025, featuring top-rated models based on expert reviews, user feedback, and Amazon ratings. Each listing includes detailed specifications, pros and cons, cost breakdowns (including consumables), estimated machine lifespan, and customer service insights. Please note that prices are subject to change.
🥇 1. DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Two-Speed Thickness Planer
Overview: Widely regarded as the gold standard for benchtop planers, the DEWALT DW735X offers professional-grade performance with its powerful motor and dual-speed gearbox.(Pro Wood Planer)
Price: $599 (25% off on Amazon)
Amazon Link: (Amazon)(FindBuyTool)
Specifications:
Motor: 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM
Cutter Head: Three-knife, 10,000 RPM
Feed Speed: Two-speed gearbox (96 and 179 CPI)
Cutting Capacity: 13-inch width, 6-inch depth
Weight: 92 lbs(Pro Wood Planer, Amazon, FindBuyTool)
Pros:
Exceptional finish quality with minimal snipe
Fan-assisted chip ejection system
Durable build with a 19¾-inch cast aluminum base
Includes infeed and outfeed tables for better material support(FindBuyTool, Pro Wood Planer)
Cons:
Heavier than other benchtop models, making portability a challenge
Higher initial cost compared to some competitors(Family Handyman, Mighty Deals)
Consumables & Maintenance:
Replacement Blades: Approximately $60 per set; blades last about 30 hours of use
Dust Collection: Efficient with built-in fan-assisted ejection(Pro Wood Planer)
Estimated Lifespan: 10+ years with proper maintenance
Customer Service & Ratings:
Amazon Rating: 4.8/5 (over 2,000 reviews)
DEWALT is known for responsive customer service and a robust warranty program.
🥈 2. WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
Overview: The WEN PL1326 offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance, featuring a spiral cutter head for smooth finishes.(FindBuyTool)
Price: $408.51 (13% off on Amazon)
Amazon Link: (FindBuyTool)(FindBuyTool)
Specifications:
Motor: 15 Amp, 10,000 RPM
Cutter Head: Spiral with 26 staggered HSS blades
Feed Speed: 26 feet per minute
Cutting Capacity: 13-inch width, 6-inch depth
Weight: 77 lbs(Pro Wood Planer, FindBuyTool)
Pros:
Spiral cutter head reduces tear-out and noise
Adjustable depth stop for consistent planning
Affordable price point(Reddit)
Cons:
Blades may require more frequent replacement under heavy use
Dust collection could be more efficient(FindBuyTool, Family Handyman)
Consumables & Maintenance:
Replacement Blades: Approximately $40 per set; blades last about 20 hours of use
Dust Collection: Standard; may benefit from an external dust collection system
Estimated Lifespan: 7-10 years with regular maintenance
Customer Service & Ratings:
Amazon Rating: 4.6/5 (over 1,000 reviews)
WEN provides reliable customer support and a two-year warranty.
🥉 3. Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Portable Planer
Overview: Known for its portability and quiet operation, the Makita 2012NB is ideal for job sites and small workshops.
Price: $792.79 on Amazon
Amazon Link: (FindBuyTool)(FindBuyTool)
Specifications:
Motor: 15 Amp, 8,500 RPM
Cutter Head: Two-blade system
Feed Speed: 28 feet per minute
Cutting Capacity: 12-inch width, 6⅛-inch depth
Weight: 61.9 lbs(Amazon, FindBuyTool, Pro Wood Planer)
Pros:
Lightweight and compact design for easy transport
Low noise level during operation
Interna-Lok automated head clamp minimizes snipe(FindBuyTool)
Cons:
Higher price point for a 12-inch planer
Two-blade system may not be as smooth as spiral cutter heads
Consumables & Maintenance:
Replacement Blades: Approximately $50 per set; blades last about 25 hours of use
Dust Collection: Requires an external dust collection system for optimal performance
Estimated Lifespan: 10+ years with proper care(FindBuyTool)
Customer Service & Ratings:
Amazon Rating: 4.7/5 (over 1,500 reviews)
Makita is renowned for excellent customer service and offers a one-year warranty with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
🏅 4. FB131H 13-Inch Planer with Helical Cutterhead
Overview: The FB131H stands out with its helical cutterhead featuring 40 tungsten carbide inserts, delivering smooth finishes on various wood types.(FindBuyTool)
Price: $699.99 (12% off on FindBuyTool)
Product Link: (FindBuyTool)(FindBuyTool)
Specifications:
Motor: 15 Amp, 10,000 RPM
Cutter Head: Helical with 40 carbide inserts
Feed Speed: 27.5 feet per minute
Cutting Capacity: 13-inch width, 6-inch depth
Weight: 77 lbs(Pro Wood Planer, FindBuyTool, FineWoodworking)
Pros:
Helical cutterhead provides tear-free cuts and reduced noise
Visible thickness scale for precise adjustments
Stable construction ensures accurate planning(FindBuyTool)
Cons:
Handle operation could be smoother
Chip removal system may require improvement(Pro Wood Planer)
Consumables & Maintenance:
Replacement Inserts: Approximately $2 per insert; inserts last about 50 hours of use
Dust Collection: Standard; may benefit from an external dust collection system
Estimated Lifespan: 10+ years with regular maintenance
Customer Service & Ratings:
Amazon Rating: 4.5/5 (based on available reviews)
FindBuyTool offers customer support via email and a comprehensive support hub.(FindBuyTool)
🏅 5. CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 12-Inch Benchtop Planer
Overview: The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is a budget-friendly option suitable for hobbyists and light-duty tasks.(FindBuyTool)
Price: $349 on Amazon
Amazon Link: (FindBuyTool)
Specifications:
Motor: 15 Amp, 8,000 RPM
Cutter Head: Two-knife solid steel
Feed Speed: 16,000 cuts per minute
Cutting Capacity: 12-inch width
Weight: Approximately 60 lbs(Top Firearm Reviews, FindBuyTool)
Pros:
Affordable price point
Solid four-column design for stability
Lightweight and portable(Top Firearm Reviews)
Cons:
Motor may struggle with harder woods
Quality control issues reported by some users
Dust collection system can be overwhelmed(Top Firearm Reviews)
Consumables & Maintenance:
Replacement Blades: Approximately $30 per set; blades last about 15 hours of use
Dust Collection: Standard; may require frequent cleaning
Estimated Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper maintenance
Customer Service & Ratings:
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5 (over 800 reviews)
CRAFTSMAN provides a one-year limited warranty and responsive customer support.
Published: May 6, 2025
