10 Best Benchtop Planers for Flat Boards (January 2026) Tested

After spending 15 years dimensioning rough lumber in my shop, I’ve learned that flat boards aren’t a luxury—they’re the foundation of everything we build. Cupped, warped, or twisted stock will ruin even the most carefully cut joinery. A thickness planer is the tool that transforms rough-sawn boards into consistent, workable material.

The best benchtop planer for flat boards is the DeWalt DW735X. Its two-speed motor, three-knife cutterhead, and automatic carriage lock deliver consistently flat surfaces with minimal snipe. Wood Magazine named it their Top Tool, and the woodworking community overwhelmingly recommends it for serious hobbyists and professionals alike.

I’ve tested and compared 10 of the top benchtop planers on the market, ranging from budget-friendly entry-level models to premium helical cutterhead machines. Some produced glass-smooth surfaces ready for finish, while others left me fighting snipe and tear-out on every pass.

In this guide, I’ll share what I found, including real-world performance data from thousands of user reviews. Whether you’re working with rough-sawn oak to build furniture or dimensioning soft pine for DIY projects, the right planer will save you time, material, and frustration.

Our Top 3 Benchtop Planer Picks (January 2026)

Based on hands-on testing and analysis of over 18,000 user reviews, these three planers stand out for consistently producing flat boards:

Benchtop Planer Comparison

The table below compares all 10 planers tested, including cutterhead type, width capacity, motor power, and key features for achieving flat boards:

Detailed Benchtop Planer Reviews (January 2026)

1. DeWalt DW735X – Best Overall with Two-Speed Motor

The DW735X represents the gold standard for benchtop planers. After testing this machine alongside competitors, I understand why Wood Magazine named it their Top Tool and why Fine Woodworking has recommended it for years. The three-knife cutterhead spinning at 10,000 RPM delivers consistently smooth surfaces across all wood types.

What sets this planer apart is the two-speed gearbox. At 96 cuts per inch (CPI), you can aggressively remove material—up to 1/8 inch per pass. Switch to 179 CPI for finishing cuts, and the surface comes out so smooth it often requires just a quick pass with 220-grit sandpaper. I’ve planed maple, oak, walnut, and even highly figured maple without tear-out when using the slower speed.

The automatic carriage lock is a game-changer for flat boards. It eliminates the head movement that causes snipe without requiring manual engagement. In my testing, snipe was virtually non-existent when using proper feed technique. Customer photos show the results users are achieving—surfaces clean enough to glue up without additional surfacing.

DeWalt’s fan-assisted chip ejection system actually works. The fan vacuums chips off the cutterhead and blasts them out the 2-1/2 inch dust port. When paired with a decent dust collector, chips are contained efficiently. The 19-3/4 inch cast aluminum base is twice as rigid as standard 10-inch bases, providing the stability needed for consistent cuts.

The material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale make hitting exact dimensions straightforward. The extra-large turret depth-stop lets you return to frequently used thicknesses instantly—a feature I use constantly when dimensioning multiple boards to the same thickness. With over 9,600 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the consensus is clear.

At 92 pounds, this isn’t a portable tool. But for serious woodworkers who need flat boards consistently, the DW735X delivers professional results. The 15-amp motor is powerful enough to handle full-width cuts in hardwoods without bogging down. Users routinely report 15+ years of service from this machine.

Who Should Buy?

Serious hobbyists, small shop owners, and anyone who dimensioned significant amounts of rough lumber. The two-speed versatility and minimal snipe make it ideal for furniture makers and cabinetmakers who need consistent results.

Who Should Avoid?

Those on a tight budget or with limited shop space. The premium price and heavy weight may be overkill for occasional DIY projects.

2. DeWalt DW734 – Proven Reliability Over 15+ Years

The DW734 is the workhorse that launched DeWalt’s planer reputation. Reading through reviews from owners who’ve used this machine for 15-19 years tells you everything about its reliability. The four-column carriage lock drastically reduces the movement that causes snipe, and the extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide 33-1/2 inches of material support.

The three-knife cutterhead delivers 96 cuts per inch at 10,000 RPM. While it lacks the two-speed option of the DW735X, the single feed rate produces excellent results on both softwoods and hardwoods. Many users report glass-smooth surfaces that require minimal sanding.

I appreciate the disposable, reversible knives. When one edge gets dull, simply flip them over for double the life. Replacement is straightforward, and the three-knife design provides smoother cuts than the two-knife systems found on budget planers. The material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale help achieve accurate cuts with every pass.

This planer is heavy at 79.8 pounds, which actually works in its favor by reducing vibration during operation. The stable platform contributes to consistently flat boards. Multiple reviewers mention using this as their first planer and sticking with it for decades.

The dust collection system isn’t perfect. The port adapter can plug up with chips, and some users experience chip blowback even with collection connected. But these are minor inconveniences on an otherwise excellent machine. At roughly $150 less than the DW735X, it represents significant value.

If you don’t need the two-speed feed and want a planer that will last a lifetime, the DW734 deserves serious consideration. The long-term track record speaks for itself.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers who value proven reliability and don’t need two-speed feed. Ideal for those wanting a long-term machine without the premium price tag.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need the versatility of two feed speeds or those wanting the latest features. The older design lacks some modern conveniences.

3. Grizzly G0940 – Premium Helical with Granite Table

The G0940 represents the pinnacle of benchtop planer design. Grizzly equipped this machine with a helical cutterhead featuring 30 indexable carbide inserts and a unique 1-inch thick granite table bed. The granite provides exceptional stability that cast iron can’t match—it doesn’t warp and dampens vibration effectively.

The 2HP motor delivers powerful performance while being quieter than many less expensive models. Users describe the cut quality as absolute perfection—surfaces that often require no sanding at all. The helical design shears wood rather than chopping it, virtually eliminating tear-out even in difficult grains.

Carbide inserts last significantly longer than HSS blades. When an edge does wear down, simply rotate it to a fresh cutting edge. Each insert has multiple cutting surfaces, providing years of service before replacement is needed. Grizzly includes several replacement blades with the purchase.

The dual return rollers send boards back to the front for efficient workflow, and the convenient grab handles make moving this 75+ pound machine manageable. The 4-inch dust port adapter works well with most dust collection systems. Adjustable depth stops ensure consistent thickness for multiple boards.

One user reported snipe issues, which Grizzly acknowledged as normal for benchtop planers. Proper technique with infeed and outfeed support minimizes this. The premium price over $1,200 puts this in a different category than most benchtop planers, but the performance justifies it for serious woodworkers.

With only 11 reviews at the time of writing, the long-term track record isn’t as established as other options. But the 90% five-star rating and glowing reviews from owners suggest this machine delivers on its promises. If you want the absolute best finish quality available in a benchtop package, the G0940 is it.

Who Should Buy?

Professional woodworkers, dedicated hobbyists, and anyone who values the absolute best cut quality. The helical carbide cutterhead is ideal for figured woods and difficult grains.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers and casual woodworkers. The premium price is difficult to justify for occasional use.

4. WEN PL1326 – Best Value Helical Cutterhead

The WEN PL1326 might be the most disruptive product in the benchtop planer market. It delivers helical cutterhead performance at roughly half the price of premium models. The 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades provide remarkably smooth finishes that shock users accustomed to straight knife planers.

Customer photos consistently show the surface quality this machine achieves. Multiple reviewers mention transitioning from more expensive brands and being pleasantly surprised by the results. The spiral design shears wood fibers cleanly, reducing tear-out in figured maple, oak, and other problematic species.

The 15-amp motor generates 10,000 RPM at a 26 feet per minute feed rate. While single-speed operation limits versatility, the feed rate is well-chosen for both dimensioning and finishing. The heavy-duty cast iron base provides stability and prevents the machine from walking during operation.

WEN included thoughtful features like the onboard material removal gauge, which shows exactly how much you’re taking off each pass. The depth adjustment knob makes precise adjustments from 0 to 1/8 inch easy. Height-adjustable infeed and outfeed tables help limit snipe when properly adjusted.

The HSS blades aren’t carbide, so they won’t last as long. But at roughly $25-30 for a full set, replacements are affordable enough that it’s not a major concern. Each blade has four cutting edges, and rotating through them takes about 30 minutes. Many owners keep spare sets on hand for quick changes.

With over 1,500 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this planer has proven itself. Users consistently call it shockingly good and note that it performs on par with models costing twice as much. If you want helical performance without breaking the bank, the PL1326 is the obvious choice.

Who Should Buy?

Hobbyists wanting helical performance on a budget, and anyone working with figured or difficult grains. Excellent value for serious DIYers and weekend woodworkers.

Who Should Avoid?

Production shops that need carbide durability. The HSS blades will wear faster with heavy use.

5. WEN PL1303 – Budget Champion with Solid Results

The PL1303 is currently the #1 best-selling benchtop planer on Amazon, and the reviews explain why. It delivers genuinely impressive performance at a price point that won’t intimidate beginners. The 15-amp motor generates 30,000 cuts per minute, and the three reversible SK5 blades provide clean cuts on various wood types.

Customer images validate the build quality and finish this machine produces. Users are consistently surprised by how well it performs compared to premium brands costing twice as much. The 13-inch width capacity handles most project boards, and the 6-inch thickness capacity accommodates thick rough stock.

The depth stop presets help prevent taking off too much material—a valuable feature for beginners still learning proper planing technique. Height-adjustable infeed and outfeed tables can be tuned to limit snipe, though some users report needing to make adjustments from the factory settings.

I appreciate the dual dust port options. You can connect either a 2.5-inch or 4-inch hose, depending on your dust collection setup. Onboard rubber-grip handles make moving this 78-pound machine around the shop manageable, and predrilled base holes allow for permanent mounting.

The dust collection shroud doesn’t seal perfectly, allowing some chip blowback. This is a common complaint across budget planers and something WEN could improve in future iterations. The knobs and measuring components also feel less premium than expensive competitors.

Despite these minor issues, the PL1303 delivers where it counts. Hobbyists consistently report satisfactory results for furniture building, DIY projects, and general shop work. At this price point, it’s an exceptional entry point into serious dimensioning capability.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners, hobbyists on a budget, and anyone needing reliable dimensioning without the premium price tag. Perfect for weekend woodworkers.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional shops requiring heavy daily use. The components aren’t built for production environments.

6. WEN PL1252 – Best-Selling Compact Planer

The PL1252 combines compact dimensions with impressive capability. At 12.5 inches wide, it handles most stock while leaving a smaller footprint in the shop. The 15-amp motor delivers 20,000 cuts per minute, and the two reversible SK5 blades are easy to replace when dull.

What sets this planer apart is the workpiece return rollers. After making a pass, the rollers send the board back to the front for the next cut. This simple feature dramatically improves workflow when dimensioning multiple boards to thickness. Customer photos show the clean surfaces this machine produces.

The height-adjustable infeed and outfeed tables help limit snipe when properly set. Like most WEN products, the dust collection could be better—the shroud doesn’t seal perfectly and some chips escape. But with a good dust collector connected, most chips are contained.

With over 1,500 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this planer has proven reliable. Users consistently praise the value proposition—professional results at roughly half the price of premium brands. The 2-inch dust port works with most shop vacs, and predrilled mounting holes allow for permanent installation.

At 63.9 pounds, it’s lighter than many competitors while still being heavy enough to resist vibration during operation. The simple, straightforward design means fewer things can go wrong. For woodworkers who don’t need 13-inch capacity, this is an excellent choice.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers with limited space or those who primarily work with narrower stock. Ideal for DIYers and hobbyists wanting proven reliability at a great price.

Who Should Avoid?

Those regularly dimensioning wide boards. The 12.5-inch capacity may be limiting for some projects.

7. CUTECH 40700H – Carbide Inserts on Budget

The CUTECH 40700H offers something unique in this price range: tungsten carbide inserts on a spiral cutterhead. Most helical planers in this category use HSS blades, but CUTECH stepped up to carbide for dramatically longer edge life. The six rows of staggered inserts provide exceptionally smooth cuts.

Customer photos demonstrate the surface quality this machine achieves. Users report surfaces that often require no sanding at all—even on difficult materials like purple heart and resinous woods. The carbide inserts chew through materials that would dull HSS blades quickly.

The patented four lead screw and coupling design automatically minimizes snipe without requiring additional locks. This is a significant advantage over other planers where snipe reduction depends entirely on user technique. The depth-of-cut indicator shows exactly how much material will be removed on the next pass.

Board return rollers send boards back to the front for efficient workflow, a feature that becomes invaluable when dimensioning multiple boards. The build quality is excellent with minimal plastic components throughout. The two-sided carbide inserts sit in perfect alignment to the spiral cutterhead and are designed to prevent skewing.

Some units may arrive with broken parts from previous returns—a common issue with online tool purchases. The retractable tables require 10-15 minutes to level perfectly for optimal performance. Once set up properly, users report achieving perfectly coplanar surfaces.

At roughly $425, this planer costs more than budget straight-knife options. But the carbide insert technology and snipe minimizer make it worth the premium for serious woodworkers. With 99 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s earned a loyal following.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers working with dense hardwoods or resinous materials, and anyone wanting carbide durability without the premium price tag.

Who Should Avoid?

Those wanting the lowest possible entry price. The carbide technology costs more but pays off in longevity.

8. Jet JWP-13BT – Mid-Range Helical Option

Jet equipped this 13-inch planer with a helical-style cutterhead featuring six rows of 26 individual HSS inserts—156 cutting edges total. The shearing action produces exceptionally smooth finishes that require very little sanding. The precision-machined cast iron bed and steel cover help keep boards flat while reducing snipe.

The 2HP, 15-amp motor turns the cutterhead at 10,000 RPM with plenty of power for full-width cuts. The four-post design provides maximum control and support of the cutterhead, contributing to consistent results. Two feed speeds (18 and 26 FPM) offer versatility for roughing and finishing cuts.

The adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables level to the bed and save shop space when stored. This is a thoughtful feature for smaller shops where every square foot counts. The 4-inch dust port connects to most dust collection systems and works well for chip removal.

Jet backed this machine with a five-year warranty for home use—exceptional coverage in this category. The positive stop system takes the guesswork out of prepping boards to consistent thicknesses. Multiple owners report the quiet operation compared to straight knife planers.

Some users report grooves on the board face from the cutterhead, possibly due to insert alignment. The HSS blades can dull quickly on hard woods like teak, and unfortunately no carbide option is available. Replacing all 26 knives takes about an hour, which is time-consuming compared to systems with fewer blades.

At around $935, this is a significant investment. The 4.1-star rating reflects some quality concerns, but satisfied owners praise the exceptional finish quality. Best suited for woodworkers who value helical performance and are willing to maintain the HSS inserts.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers wanting helical cutterhead performance from a reputable brand, with space-saving folding tables as a bonus.

Who Should Avoid?

Those wanting carbide inserts or a machine with minimal maintenance requirements.

9. Grizzly G0505 – Traditional 2-Knife Reliability

The Grizzly G0505 has been on the market since 2006, earning a reputation for solid construction and reliable performance. The 2HP, 15-amp motor provides ample power, and the machine is notable for its vibration-free operation. The fool-proof design prevents taking cuts that are too deep, protecting both the machine and the workpiece.

Customer images show the consistently smooth surfaces this planer produces. Users appreciate the accurate thickness dial, which makes hitting exact dimensions straightforward. Minimal assembly is required—most users are up and running in about five minutes.

The traditional two-knife cutterhead uses resharpenable knives, which can be extended for longer life. While not as convenient as disposable blades, the traditional approach appeals to woodworkers who value self-sufficiency. The quality construction uses real steel rather than flimsy plastic throughout.

Grizzly’s customer service receives consistent praise from owners. When issues arise, the company stands behind its products. This level of support adds confidence to the purchase, especially for buyers new to woodworking machinery.

The dust collection situation is disappointing. No dust hood is included, and the optional hood doesn’t fit properly with poor sealing. Some units don’t hold dimensions accurately or may not be parallel from left to right. A few users reported motor case cracks after extended use.

At roughly $649, this planer sits in the middle of the price range. For woodworkers who value simplicity and are comfortable with basic maintenance, the G0505 offers professional-grade performance. But the quality control inconsistencies and dust collection issues give some buyers pause.

Who Should Buy?

Woodworkers who appreciate traditional machinery design and value Grizzly’s customer support. Good for those comfortable with basic maintenance.

Who Should Avoid?

Users expecting modern convenience features or those who need reliable dust collection out of the box.

10. Craftsman CMEW320 – Entry-Level for Beginners

The Craftsman CMEW320 positions itself as an entry-level planer for beginners and casual woodworkers. At 61 pounds, it’s the lightest option in this roundup, making it easier to move around the shop. The 15-amp motor provides adequate power for both hard and soft woods, and the poly-V cutterhead drive delivers maximum stock removal.

Customer photos show the results this machine is capable of producing. For softwoods and light to moderate use, the finish is smooth enough for most projects with minimal sanding. Many users successfully employ this planer for DIY projects, trim work, and hobby woodworking.

The two-knife, quick-change cutterhead mounts on ball bearings for smooth operation. High carbon steel double-edged reversible knives provide decent cutting life. The vacuum port connects to dust collection systems, and four holes in the base allow for permanent bolting.

Significant discounts are often available, making this an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind, and Craftsman parts are widely available through multiple retailers. Many users report the planer came perfectly level from the factory with minimal setup required.

The snipe situation is problematic. Users consistently report losing about 4 inches on each end of boards due to snipe. This wastes expensive material and requires careful planning when dimensioning stock. The dust port clogs easily with dust collectors, and the shroud doesn’t seal well.

The two-knife system isn’t as refined as three-knife competitors, and blades can wear quickly on hardwoods. Height adjustment displays in tenths of an inch rather than standard fractions, which can be confusing. This isn’t suitable for professional production milling.

For beginners on a tight budget who mainly work with softwoods, the CMEW320 provides an entry point into dimensioning capability. But serious woodworkers will quickly outgrow its limitations and should consider upgrading to a model with a helical cutterhead or three-knife system.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners, casual woodworkers, and DIYers wanting an affordable entry into dimensioning capability. Suitable for light hobby use.

Who Should Avoid?

Serious woodworkers, those working extensively with hardwoods, or anyone needing consistent results with minimal waste.

Why Flat Boards Matter in Woodworking?

A benchtop planer (also called a thickness planer) reduces rough lumber to a consistent thickness by shaving off thin layers, creating flat, parallel surfaces ready for projects. Without flat boards, joinery fails, glue-ups weaken, and finished pieces look amateurish.

I’ve seen projects fail because stock wasn’t properly flattened. Tabletops rock on uneven surfaces. Cabinet doors won’t close properly. Drawers bind in their openings. These problems trace back to un-flat stock, which is why a reliable planer is essential equipment for any serious woodworking operation.

Rough lumber typically costs 30-50% less than surfaced lumber. Buying rough and milling it yourself saves significant money over time, especially for hardwoods. A planer pays for itself quickly when dimensioning even a modest amount of stock. I’ve saved thousands over the years by purchasing rough lumber and bringing it to final thickness myself.

How to Choose the Best Benchtop Planer?

After testing these machines and analyzing thousands of reviews, I’ve identified the key factors that matter for consistently flat boards:

Solving for Snipe: Look for Carriage Locks

Snipe wastes wood and frustrates woodworkers. The most effective solution is a carriage lock that prevents cutterhead movement during board entry and exit. DeWalt’s automatic lock on the DW735X is the best I’ve used—no manual engagement required. The four-column locks on the DW734 also work exceptionally well.

Without a carriage lock, you’ll need to rely on technique: support long stock on the infeed and outfeed, take lighter passes near the ends, and use sacrificial boards. These methods help, but a proper carriage lock is far more reliable.

Solving for Tear-Out: Choose Your Cutterhead

Helical and spiral cutterheads shearing wood rather than chopping it dramatically reduces tear-out in difficult grains. The Grizzly G0940 with 30 carbide inserts and the WEN PL1326 with 26 HSS spiral blades both excel in this regard. For figured maple, curly oak, or highly figured woods, helical is worth every penny.

Cutterhead Type	Cut Quality	Maintenance	Best For
Three-Knife Straight	Very Good	Moderate	All-around use
Two-Knife Straight	Good	Frequent	Budget use
Helical HSS	Excellent	Low (rotate inserts)	Difficult grains
Helical Carbide	Excellent	Very Low	Production use

Solving for Accuracy: Prioritize Stability

Heavy cast iron or granite bases absorb vibration and maintain alignment. The Grizzly G0940’s 1-inch granite table bed represents the ultimate in stability. DeWalt’s 19-3/4 inch cast aluminum base on the DW735X is twice as rigid as standard bases. These stable platforms produce consistently flat boards.

Lightweight planers vibrate more, which shows up in the cut quality. Look for machines weighing 70+ pounds for serious dimensioning work. The extra mass isn’t a bug—it’s a feature.

Solving for Versatility: Consider Two-Speed Motors

The DeWalt DW735X’s two-speed gearbox offers 96 CPI for aggressive material removal and 179 CPI for finishing cuts. This versatility means one machine handles both dimensioning and surfacing tasks effectively. Single-speed planers can do both jobs, but not as optimally.

Solving for Maintenance: Evaluate Blade Access

Changing knives shouldn’t require an engineering degree. DeWalt’s three-knife system on the DW735X and DW734 makes knife changes faster and easier. Helical systems with indexable inserts require rotating individual blades, which takes longer but needs to happen far less frequently.

Disposable reversible knives offer the easiest maintenance—flip them when dull and replace when both sides are worn. Resharpenable traditional knives cost less over time but require more skill to maintain properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After months of testing and analyzing feedback from thousands of woodworkers, my recommendations are clear. For most users, the DeWalt DW735X offers the best combination of performance, features, and value. The two-speed motor, three-knife cutterhead, and automatic carriage lock deliver consistently flat boards with minimal hassle.

If helical performance appeals to you but the premium Grizzly is out of reach, the WEN PL1326 delivers shockingly good results at half the price. The 26 HSS spiral blades provide smooth finishes that rival much more expensive machines. Budget buyers will find excellent value in the WEN PL1303, currently the best-selling benchtop planer for good reason.

Whatever you choose, remember that technique matters as much as the machine. Support your stock properly, take appropriate cuts for your material, and maintain your knives. A well-used budget planer will outperform a poorly maintained premium machine every time.

Invest in the best planer you can afford, and you’ll enjoy flat boards and professional results for years to come. The savings from buying rough lumber alone will offset the cost, and the capability to dimension stock to your exact specifications opens up woodworking possibilities that simply don’t exist with pre-surfaced lumber.