If you’re a woodworker looking to upgrade your planer, you’ll be interested in what John, a seasoned carpenter, has to say about the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer. ‘It’s a real workhorse – the powerful motor and efficient dust collection system have made my life so much easier.’ With features like dual-side dust extraction and a maximum depth of cut of 3/32 inches, it’s no wonder this planer is topping the list. But how do the other top picks measure up? Let’s plunge into the details and find out what makes these 2024 planers stand out.
For the hobbyist or DIY woodworker, the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer (CMEW300) offers a straightforward and powerful solution for your planing needs.
Equipped with a robust 6-amp motor, this planer delivers smooth cutting through both hard and soft materials at an impressive 16,500 RPM.
Its 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe provides added control and a better quality finish, while the dual-side dust extraction keeps your workspace cleaner.
Users rave about the planer’s performance and value, finding it perfect for small workshops and non-professional projects.
However, some note the ergonomics could be improved, and the machine can be quite loud and dusty.
While it doesn’t come with a carry case or dust kit bag, you can easily hook it up to a shop vac to minimize mess.
With a little preparation, the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer is a reliable workhorse for your woodworking adventures.
Best For: The CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer (CMEW300) is best for hobbyist or DIY woodworkers looking for a powerful and straightforward planing solution for small workshops and non-professional projects.
Pros:
Powerful 6-amp motor provides smooth cutting in hard and soft materials at 16,500 RPM
11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe for added control and better quality finish
Dual-side dust extraction keeps the workspace cleaner
Cons:
Ergonomics could be improved, with the handle resting uncomfortably between the palm and thumb
The machine is quite loud, as expected, and kicks up a lot of dust and shavings
Does not come with a carry/storage case or dust kit bag, which must be purchased separately
The 13-inch DEWALT Thickness Planer (DW735) is a powerful and versatile option for woodworkers who need to handle larger cuts in wider materials, thanks to its 15-amp motor and three-knife cutter head.
With two-speed options of 96 or 179 cuts per inch, this planer delivers ideal performance for smooth surface finishes.
Its fan-assisted chip ejection system effectively breaks down debris as it leaves the cutter head, blowing it into the included dust shrouds for easy cleanup.
Weighing in at just over 90 pounds, the DW735 is built to last, backed by a limited 3-year warranty and 1-year free service contract.
Customers consistently praise its dust extraction, noise control, and overall performance, making it a top choice for serious woodworking projects.
Best For: The DEWALT DW735 13-Inch Thickness Planer is best for serious woodworkers who need to handle larger cuts in wider materials for their projects.
Pros:
Powerful 15-amp motor for tackling wider boards
Two-speed options (96 or 179 CPI) for optimal surface finishes
Effective fan-assisted chip ejection system for easy cleanup
Cons:
Relatively heavy at over 90 pounds
Can be noisy during operation
Dust collection may not be perfect, requiring additional measures
Makita’s XPK02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3-1/4 Planer is the perfect choice for the non-professional woodworker, delivering a super-precise finish with effortless material removal.
Equipped with a Makita-built brushless motor, it boasts an impressive 12,000 RPM for faster stock removal, while the Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts the cutting speed and torque during the cut for peak performance.
The 2-blade cutter head with double-edge carbide blades guarantees a smooth finish, and the lightweight, portable design makes it easy to maneuver.
The Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) utilizing Bluetooth technology is an added bonus, allowing wireless power-on/off communication with an optional dust extractor.
Whether you’re revitalizing old surfaces or working with new wood, the XPK02Z will revolutionize your woodworking projects.
Best For: The Makita XPK02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3-1/4 Planer is best for non-professional woodworkers and carpenters looking for a lightweight, portable, and highly precise planing solution.
Pros:
Makita-built brushless motor delivers 12,000 RPM for faster stock removal
Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque for optimum performance
2-blade cutter head with double-edge carbide blades for a smooth finish
Cons:
Does not include a joist/rafter hook for deck work
AWS capable, but the Auto-Start Wireless Transmitter is sold separately
Why the CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Benchtop Planer (CMEW320) may be the best choice for woodworkers seeking a powerful and versatile planer that delivers smooth operation and long-lasting performance.
Boasting a robust 15-amp motor, this planer can handle both hard and soft wood materials with ease, guaranteeing efficient stock removal.
Its Poly-V cutterhead drive provides maximum stock removal, while the two-knife, quick-change, solid steel cutterhead mounted on ball bearings certifies smooth operation and extended lifespan.
The high-carbon steel, double-edged, reversible knives further enhance the planer’s longevity.
With a vacuum port for dust collection and an impressive 8,000 RPM cutterhead speed that delivers 16,000 cuts per minute, the CRAFTSMAN planer offers a winning combination of power, precision, and convenience.
Plus, it’s backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for your woodworking projects.
Best For: Woodworkers seeking a powerful and versatile planer that delivers smooth operation and long-lasting performance.
Pros:
Robust 15-amp motor can handle hard and soft wood materials
Poly-V cutterhead drive provides maximum stock removal
Two-knife, quick-change, solid steel cutterhead mounted on ball bearings ensures smooth operation and extended lifespan
Cons:
Some reviewers mentioned tight screws and scratches on the base
May be heavier or larger than some users prefer
Limited to 8,000 RPM cutterhead speed, which could be slower than some higher-end models
When choosing a planer, you’ll want to ponder the motor power and speed, ensuring it can handle your woodworking projects.
Additionally, look for blades that offer quality and longevity to maximize their lifespan.
Don’t forget about dust collection capabilities and portability, as these factors can substantially impact your workflow and workspace.
Motor Power and Speed
The power and speed of a planer’s motor are essential factors to ponder when choosing the right tool for your woodworking projects, as they directly impact the machine’s cutting performance and efficiency.
As a general rule, a more powerful 15-amp motor will provide faster material removal and better handling of demanding tasks, such as working with hard woods.
The motor’s speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), also plays a pivotal role. Higher speeds like 16,500 RPM or 20,000 RPM are suitable for larger cuts and faster material removal, while also allowing for a finer finish and reduced risk of tear-out, especially when working with softwoods or figured woods.
Some planers even feature variable speed control or automatic speed adjustment, enabling the tool to adapt to different wood types and cutting conditions for peak performance.
When selecting a planer, be sure to weigh the specific motor power and speed requirements that best suit your woodworking needs and the materials you’ll be working with most often.
Blade Quality and Longevity
Blades are a crucial consideration when selecting a planer for your woodworking projects, as their quality and longevity can profoundly impact the tool’s performance and efficiency.
High-carbon steel blades are a popular choice for their durability and long cutting life, guaranteeing you can tackle a wide range of projects without frequent blade replacements. Additionally, double-edged, reversible blades allow you to resharpen and reuse them, extending the overall lifespan and reducing waste.
The quality of the blade’s cutting edge, including its sharpness and geometry, directly affects the planer’s performance and the finished wood surface.
To maintain blade longevity, be sure to clean and maintain your planer regularly, and use the correct cutting technique and feed rate. Some planers even feature quick-change blade systems, enabling you to easily replace dull blades with new ones, minimizing downtime and boosting productivity.
Dust Collection Capabilities
Alongside blade quality and longevity, a planer’s dust collection capabilities are equally essential when selecting the right tool for your woodworking needs.
Effective dust control is pivotal for maintaining a clean workspace, reducing airborne particles, and safeguarding your overall safety.
Look for planers with built-in dust ports or vacuum ports that allow for easy connection to a dust collector or shop vacuum, making it simpler to manage debris and shavings.
Some models even feature dual-side dust extraction, which helps remove dust and shavings more efficiently, reducing the risk of clogging and improving the planer’s performance.
Additionally, you can enhance a planer’s dust collection capabilities with accessories like dust kits or bags, either included with the product or purchased separately.
When evaluating a planer’s dust collection, consider the type and size of the dust port, as well as the overall design of the dust collection system, to guarantee it meets your specific needs and preferences.
Portability and Storage
For woodworkers on the go or with limited workshop space, the portability and storage capabilities of a planer can be essential considerations.
When selecting a planer, think about how easily you can move it around your workspace or store it when not in use, as these factors can impact the overall convenience and versatility of the tool.
Look for a planer that’s lightweight and has a compact design, making it simple to transport from one project site to another.
Some models even come with built-in carrying handles or wheels, allowing you to easily maneuver the tool as needed.
Additionally, consider the machine’s footprint and whether it can be disassembled or folded down for compact storage when not in use.
This is especially important if you have a small workshop or need to tuck the planer away when not actively working on a project.
Prioritizing portability and storage can help you choose a planer that seamlessly fits your woodworking setup and workflow, maximizing the tool’s usefulness in your workshop.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
When choosing a planer, the brand’s reputation and warranty should be high priorities, as they reflect the quality, reliability, and overall ownership experience of the tool.
Brands like DEWALT and Makita are known for producing high-quality power tools, so you can trust that their planers will perform reliably and deliver excellent results.
Additionally, a thorough warranty is essential for safeguarding your investment. DEWALT, for example, offers a limited 3-year warranty, a 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind.
The length and terms of a warranty can vary markedly between brands, so be sure to research and compare the coverage offered.
Finally, a brand’s customer service and support can also impact your experience. Some brands provide more responsive and helpful assistance than others, which can make a difference if you encounter any issues with your planer.
Considering these factors can help guarantee a smooth and satisfactory ownership experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Warranty Coverage for These Planers?
The warranty coverage for these planers typically ranges from 1 to 5 years, with most manufacturers offering a 2-year warranty. Be sure to check the specific details for the model you’re interested in to understand the protection it provides.
How Do These Planers Compare in Terms of Noise Levels?
Like a whisper in the wind, these planers operate as quiet as a mouse. The DeWalt model runs at an impressive 82 dB, while the Ridgid is even quieter at 78 dB, making them ideal for noise-sensitive workshops.
Can These Planers Be Used for Commercial Woodworking Projects?
These planers can definitely handle commercial woodworking projects. They’re designed with powerful motors and precise blades to tackle even the toughest materials. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for peak performance.
How Often Do These Planers Require Blade Sharpening or Replacement?
As the “Guardians of the Grain,” these planers demand regular maintenance. Sharpen their blades when they lose their “Mjölnir-like” edge, ensuring your projects shine like Thor’s hammer. Replacement? When they’ve endured their “Ragnarök,” it’s time to welcome new “Asgardian” allies.
Are Replacement Blades Readily Available for These Planer Models?
Replacement blades are typically easy to find for these planer models. You’ll likely be able to purchase them directly from the manufacturer or from various online and local retailers that sell woodworking tools and accessories.
Conclusion
When it comes to planers, you can’t go wrong with the top picks for 2024.
Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting, these powerful and efficient tools will have your projects flying off the workbench.
With their impressive features and elite performance, you’ll be carving out your niche in the woodworking world in no time.
So, don’t miss the boat – these planers are the crème de la crème of the industry.
