Nothing can be so disappointing than when you are in woodwork and trying to produce boards of even thickness without the right tools. You can work on the same board all day long and yet end up frustrated and not have the flat surface you are looking for. Working with uneven boards is not only frustrating, but it can also cost you clients who would prefer going to your competitors. Whether you are using the boards for your projects or selling them to others dealing with woodwork, you need to have the most perfect that your clients cannot resist coming to you over and over again.
Did you know that your art can advertise itself such that you don’t need to do it? Do you also believe that when using the right tools, you will enjoy doing what you like without getting fatigued? Well, with the best planers, only your imagination can be the limit. There are several wood planers available in the market, and it is necessary to choose the best that will make you stand out among the rest. This guide shows you how to pick the right one. It also gives you a list of the tools that have been tested and verified for your use. Read on and pick what suits you:
Factors to consider when buying planers
Choosing the right planer may be an uphill task since you need to select among so many that are available. You need to have a clue about what to look for to avoid making errors. The following factors will help you pick the right choice:
- The project you are handling
When selecting a planer, the type of project you are dealing with is crucial. If you are dealing with small pieces of tasks, for example, hand planers come in handy. However, these planers require you to exert sufficient energy to push it forward and therefore; the user must be strong enough to handle it. When dealing with massive projects, electric planers are ideal since they are both efficient and fast.
- The rating of the planer
If you are looking for an electric planer, it is vital to look at its rating since this directly affects the amount of power that it consumes. You should be able to read on the nameplate the kilowatts or horsepower. The power of the motor is also crucial since it determines how fast or slow the machine operates. The engine also determines the accuracy and efficiency of the device you buy.
- Convenience and Efficiency
The efficiency of a machine depends on how easy it performs and the amount of work it does within a given period. The appearance of the final product is also crucial since it must be attractive and appealing to your clients. It is advisable that when buying a planer, you anticipate an increase in the workload in the future. In other words, you should purchase a tool with an allowance for increased tasks later as your business progresses. The device should also be easy and convenient to use so as not to leave the user with injuries or too exhausted to use it again.
- Your budget
The cost of different tools varies depending on the brand, size and quality. It is necessary to look for a machine that suits your budget, as well as one whose operation and maintenance costs, are within your budget. However, it is also crucial to ensure that you don’t purchase a machine whose quality is too low as this will eventually be too expensive to maintain. Buying a very cheap tool may also compromise its quality and efficiency and may soon break down hence being more costly.
- Flexible and easy to use
Before purchasing any tool, it is advisable to look at how easy and efficient it is to operate. Ensure that the device is easy to assemble and work and that it is not too complicated. It should be simple for everyone in the workshop to use and handle. A machine with a user’s manual whether manual or online will be better than one without as this will make it easy to consult in case there is an issue with the machine. The tool should also be safe for the user and not have any health hazards.
- A manufacturer’s warranty
Besides looking at the quality of the tool, it is also necessary to look for a machine that has a manufacturer’s warranty. Some assurance covers the whole device or parts of it; others may also cover service for a particular period. A manufacturer that offers warrant of the tool ensures typically that the quality is excellent and assures you of its efficiency. It will save you a lot of costs in case the machine breaks down or if it has some unseen defects when you buy it.
- Repair and maintenance
Although maximum care of the machine is crucial, sometimes it may break down prompting it calling for repairs. It is therefore advisable that before purchasing this tool, you ensure that you can quickly get the spare parts. It is also necessary to know where you can get the technicians who can fix your machine readily. It will be wise to purchase from a vendor who also stocks the tool’s parts and one that has their technicians or who can refer one to you when a need arises.
Top 6 Wood Planer In 2020 (Best Picks)
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Summary of the Six Best Planers
Knowing the factors to consider when purchasing a plane is helpful, but it may still be challenging since you need to compare several of them. It may require you to try several of them until you get the best. Since these tools are not cheap, a trial and error are out of the question. You will, therefore, need to read widely or even consult others who have used them before you. You can also acquire the information online by reading about several of them. But do you have all the time? Probably you don’t. It is for this reason that we have taken our time and used our resources to compile a list of the tools. The devices have passed the test of time in quality, cost, and efficiency and those that will serve your purpose. Read on and click on the links provided to choose what suits you:
Product Name | Features/ Benefits |
WEN 6530 6-amp electric hand planer | 6-amp motor with up to 34,000 cuts per minute 16 positive stops to adjust the cutting depth Lightweight design Includes dust bag, kickstand, a parallel fence bracket and power planer 2-year warranty |
Porter-Cable Thickness Planer | Powerful 15-amp motor High carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives for durability Patented cutter elevation Poly V belt cutter head drive |
Bosch 3-1/4 inch Woodworking hand Planer with Carrying | Lightweight and easy to operate Powerful and efficient Has a lock-off release system to avoid accidental starts Spring-loaded stand for elevating the tool and protecting the blade Accurate and versatile |
Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Planer | Compact and lightweight for easy transportation Designed for faster, more natural blade changes Low noise for comfort while operating 4-post structure and diagonal cross supports for stability Fully adjustable depth stop for repeat cuts |
DEWALT DCP580B 20V Max | the brushless motor that gives power and runtime of 32,000 cuts per minute precision-machined front and back aluminium shoes that ensures parallelism the kickstand that allows the user to rest the tool on the work surface without gouging the material Poly –V drive belt that provides increased belt durability |
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed 13-inch | Powerful 15-amp 20,00 RPM motor Three knife cutter-head for durability Fan-assisted chip ejection vacuum Two-speed gearbox Includes in-feed and out-feed tables |
Review of Popular Wood Planers
1. WEN 6530 6-amp Electric hand Planer
WEN 6530 is a perfect planer for smoothing out joints, flushing uneven boards or planning away chips, flakes and distorted edges. The tool has a 6-amp motor that delivers 34,000 cuts per minute to your workpiece. It is a 3-1/4 inches electric hand planer that can slice away any irregularities on the surface of the board until it gets smooth and aligned. This toll has a maximum cutting depth of 1/8 inches, making it perfect for fitting and squaring boards.
WEN planer has 16-positive increments that start from 0 to 1/8 inches that enable you to set the thickness of the board that you desire. It is easy to flatten sharp board corners since the tool has a base plate shoe that includes a v-shaped groove for chamfering. The machine is therefore easy to use anytime for the desired maximum result. The device also has a kickstand that prevents any contact between the blade and workpiece that may occur unintentionally during the rest time.
The tool is easy to use and maintain as it comes with an included dust bag that attaches to either side of the planer to ensure a clean and smooth cut. The high rate of 34,000 cuts per minute ensures maximum production of the tool.
Features
- Kickstand for added protection
- Various cutting depths
- 34,000 cuts per minute for clean and smooth cuts
- Reversible and easy-to-replace blades
- 6-amp motor for easy operation
- Lightweight and easy to use
Specifications
- Amperage: 3.8 amps
- Cutting width: 2-3/8 inches
- Max cutting depth: 1/16 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Motor power: 6-amp
Ideal tool for planning!
2. Porter-Cable Thickness Planer
The porter cable is a powerful 15-amp motor planer that is perfect for stock removal. The tool is 12-inch thick with a cutter head speed that provides 16,000 cuts per minute. The solid steel cutter head has two knives that are quick to change, thus ensuring smooth operation and durability. When you buy this tool, you do not need to worry about difficulties in operating it or about the risk of it breaking down frequently. The device is ideal for cutting planning lumber to the desired thickness and dimensions. It is also capable of planning glued up materials.
You will be able to operate the device efficiently since the solid steel cutter head is mounted on ball bearings for smooth operation. The knives are made from high carbon steel, and they are double-edged, making them reversible to increase the cutting life by two. The device is also stable since it has a patented cutter elevation that has four precision ground columns.
Features
- A powerful motor for excellent stock removal
- Smooth operation and long life
- High carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives
- Rugged gearbox/chain and sprocket feed roller for maximum power transfer
- Four precision-ground columns for patented cutter elevation
Specifications
- Item weight: 64.8 pounds
- Product dimension: 23 x 15 x 17.7 inches
- Measurement system: metric
- Motor amperage: 15-amps
- Planer thickness: 12-inches
The perfect tool for most tasks!
3. Bosch 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer
Bosch woodworking planer is a powerful jointer planer that is a 6.5 amp and a speed of 16,500 RPM. It is suitable for stock removal and smooth finish in both soft and hardwood. It is a powerful, efficient and lightweight tool that weighs 6.3 lbs. The Bosch planer is convenient to use since it has a lock-off release button that helps to prevent accidental starts. It also has a lock-on button which allows the machine to operate for an extended period. The spring-loaded stand that is part of this tool helps to elevate the device and protect the blade. The base also supports the machine to sit on a resting spot.
The unique design of the tool allows for easy entry in the middle of the workpiece. This planer has an aluminium front and rear shoes that are precision-machined together for accuracy. It also has a machined groove for sanding and chamfering. The versatile two-blade hand plane system is capable of be4ing converted for use with large high-speed steel blades. The tool also has a dual-mount guide fence that can be mounted on each side. It also has a plastic overshoe that prevents marring the door or the work-piece face
Features
- Ball-joint cord swivel for increased ease of positioning
- 6.5 amp motor that produces 16,500 RPM for a smooth finish and stock removal
- Ejection control that allows shavings to be directed right or left
- Separate inch and metric depth scales for simple setting of planning depth
- Machined groove for chamfering
- Poly micro-V drive belt that offers enhanced belt durability
Specifications
- Size: 3-1/4 inch
- Motor power: 6.5 amp
- Working speed: 16,500 RPM
- Item weight: 7 pounds
- Power source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
Suitable tool for all planning work!
4. Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Planer
Makita planer is a portable tool with a compact design for excellent productivity. It produces low noise while operating that makes it comfortable for the user. The structure of the machine makes it easier and faster to change the blades, and you, therefore, do not need to worry about its efficiency. This device features an exclusive internal-lock automated head clamp that helps to eliminate snipe for improved planning performance.
The tool’s 15-amp motor delivers a no-load speed of 8,500 RPM and low noise that makes it comfortable to use the device. The machine is ideal for finish woodworking, and it is perfect for cabinets, staircase, furniture, closets, and many other items. It is a suitable partner for your projects.
Features
- No electric brake
- 15 amp power motor
- Low noise operation
- No-load speed of 8,500 RPM
- Four-post design and diagonal cross supports for stability
- Fully adjustable depth stops for repeat cuts
- Easy to use
- Compact and lightweight
Specifications
- Item weight: 61.9 pounds
- Product dimensions: 30.4 x 19 x 15.8 inches
- Style: planer
- Power source: corded- electric
- Voltage: 220 volts
Ideal for planning most items!
5. DEWALT DCP580B 20V max Brushless Planer
DEWALT Planer is a powerful tool which features a brushless motor that provides power and a runtime of 32,000 cuts per minute. The device can achieve a fast removal rate with a maximum depth of cut with 5/64 inches. The tool has a calibrated depth adjustment knob to approx 2mm, whereby you can adjust to the re3quired extent with ease. The precision-machined front of the device and its back aluminium shoes ensure parallelism of cut.
The machine’s kickstand enables you to rest the planer on the work surface without scratching the material. You will, therefore, comfortably work on your boards and other materials and be sure to produce the result that you want with ease. The first shoe of the tool has a precision machined groove that also allows for edge chamfering. You will also not get fatigued when working with this tool because of its ergonomically designed handle that offers excellent comfort.
Features
- Includes planer, guide fence, wrench, and users guide
- Poly-V drive belt for the durability of the belt
- Super-high quality
- Long-lasting batteries
Specifications
- Item weight: 6.8 pounds
- Product dimensions: 8 x 6.9 x 16 inches
- Style: brushless planer
- Material: metal plastic
- Power source: battery powered
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Battery cell type: lithium-ion
- Warranty Description: 3-year limited warranty
Convenient and efficient tool!
6. DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-inch (DW735X)
Dewalt DW735X planer has a powerful motor that operates at 15-amp, 20,000 RPM motor that can handle more significant cuts in broader materials easily. The cutter head has three knives that enable it to deliver 30% longer knife life as well as making the changing of knives easier and faster. The device also has a two-speed gearbox that allows you to change the feed speed for optimum cuts per inch at 96 or 179 CPI.
The fan-assisted chip ejection in the machine allows it to vacuum chips off the cutter head and also exhausts them out of the device. The tool has a 19-3/4 inch cast aluminium base that makes it more rigid than an ordinary 10-inch base and folding tables. The automatic carriage lock of the machine helps to reduce the movement that may cause snipe without the user engaging it manually. The extra-large thickness scale and material removal gauge allow the engine to deliver accurate cuts with every pass.
Features
- Extra-large turret depth stop to allow you to return to the used thickness
- Includes in-feed and out-feed tables
- An additional set of knives
- Maximum depth of cut 1/8 inch
- Depth capacity of 6-inches
Specifications
- Item weight: 105 pounds
- Product dimension: 24 x 22 x 18 inches
- Style: planer
- Power source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Warranty: 3-year limited
Ideal for all planning tasks!
Frequently asked questions about the best planers
Many problems arise when one wants to purchase a planer. Below are some of the FAQs and their answers that may be helpful to you.
Q. What is the purpose of a Planer?
A planer is a tool used to give a board or wood a desirable thickness. It is also used to provide the board with a flat and smooth surface to make it efficient for use in the manufacturing of shelves, benches and other necessary furniture.
Q. Which is the best Planer?
The best planer depends on an individual’s needs. Different users may need planers with different specifications and features that will be suitable for their projects. A person may also buy a tool based on their budget and the type of the machine. The variety and amount of tasks, as well as the efficiency of the device, are also vital. However, the above list gives the tools that have been tested and verified for all purposes. The tools will satisfy all users according to their specific needs and expectations.
Q. What is the difference between a Planer and a jointer?
A jointer is a tool used to create a flat surface on a piece of wood. It also helps to correct bow and warp on board, one side at a time. A jointer does not work on the thickness of aboard. A Planer, on the other hand, works on the width of a board whereby a thick board is made thinner according to the desired specifications. A planer also smoothens the rough sides of the board and makes the sides parallel to each other.
Q. What is the use of a handheld planer?
A handheld power planer’s essential function is to make the surface of the wood smooth, and it can also be used to make the rough end grain of the wood smooth and even for tapering wood. The tool can also be used to adjust the sides of a door if it is too broad, thus improving the depth gauge and give it the right depth.
Is a thickness planer different from a surface planer or jointer?
A thickness planer takes a thick board and makes it thin, thus giving it consistency thickness and smooth surface. The opposite surface of the board guides the cutter head, making the tool to operate smoothly. On the other hand, a surface planer or jointer has the cutter headset into the bed surface. For a thickness planer, one side of the board should be flat already.
How to Use a Planer
Final Verdict
If you are in the woodwork field or you are an enthusiast in this art, you no longer have to strain yourself so much to produce flat surface boards or even edges. Wood planers help you achieve your goals faster and more conveniently. However, you need to take your time and select the best tool that will help you to take your art to a higher notch. By reading this guide, you will not only be able to understand what you need to look for, but you will also be able to purchase what suits your need.
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planer
- https://wiki.ezvid.com/best-planers
- https://www.pinterest.com/Basshamls/planers
- https://www.pinterest.com/johnwagers/planer
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thickness_planer
Last update on 2023-03-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
