Skip to main content

ToughJobs may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The best handheld planers for woodworking projects

Planers are designed to do the prep work for any wood project. They are a manual tool and finding the right one will help you get the job done. A high-quality planer will result in an efficient project and a smoother outcome. Planers come in different price ranges and types. Bench planers are ones that typically remain in place on a workbench. They are sturdy and can make the woodworking job easier. Handheld planers require a little more manual work but are a great tool for workers who love to be hands-on. Regardless of what type of planer you get, make sure it is sturdy and durable so it can be a long-lasting, efficient tool.

Planers are designed to reduce the thickness of a piece of wood. They can easily smooth wood and flatten it to your desired design. If you are a woodworker, you know how essential a planer is for your set of tools. They are the perfect way to get your wood prepped for more intricate designs and sculpting. Choose a planer that best suits your needs and always ensure it is durable and sturdy for long-lasting strength.

Porter-Cable Hand Planer

Best Planer Overall

The Porter-Cable Hand Planer has a heavy-duty 6-amp motor. It has a dual side dust extraction that allows for extraction on either side of the tool. The over-mold depth knob has 10 positive steps. The three chamfering grooves allow for options when edging your project.

DeWalt 13-Inch Thickness Planer

Best Bench Planer

The DeWalt 13-Inch Thickness Planer includes one stationary 13-inch planer, in/out feed tables, extra blade, and a dust hose adapter. The stand is not included. The dimensions are 24 inches long by 22 inches wide by 18 inches tall. The depth capacity is 6 inches and the max depth cut is 1/8 of an inch. The wide capacity is 13 inches and the weight of this tool is 92 pounds. It is made for 110V and is not convertible to a 220V. It includes automatic carriage lock that reduces the movements and snipes. It has a two-speed gearbox that allows users to change the feed speed in order to optimize cuts.

WEN 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer

Best Value

The WEN 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer has a 6-amp motor and provides up to 34,000 cuts per minute. It has 16 positive stops and adjusts to the cutting depth from 0 to 1/8 inches. It can make rabbets of up to 7/10 inches in size and includes a rabbeting guide. This tool is lightweight in design and weighs only 6 pounds for easy use. Its motor is 120V. This product includes the power planer, dust bag, a kickstand, a parallel fence bracket, and a two-year warranty.

Planers are a tool you may not have heard of if you are not into woodworking. If you are a beginner woodworker or an experienced one, you will surely need a sturdy planer in your life. Planers prep the wood for desired thickness and smoothness. They will ensure that your woodworking is efficient and effective and will always lead to a smooth, high-end result.

ToughJobs Contributor
ToughJobs Contributor