If you’re working with wide boards, choosing the right planer is essential to get smooth, even surfaces without sacrificing width. The DeWalt 13-inch Thickness Planer (DW735X) stands out as the best overall thanks to its reliable performance and dual-speed feed. The JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer is ideal for those needing maximum width capacity, while the WEN PL1326 offers a budget-friendly spiral cutterhead option. These choices balance power, capacity, and price, but each involves tradeoffs like size, weight, or cost. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the perfect fit for your projects.
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Key Takeaways
- The best overall choice, the DeWalt DW735X, balances power, durability, and features for versatile woodworking.
- The JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer offers the widest capacity but comes with increased size and cost, suitable for serious shop setups.
- Budget options like the WEN PL1326 provide good performance with spiral cutterheads at a lower price point, ideal for hobbyists.
- Choosing a planer with a helical or spiral cutterhead can reduce tear-out on wide, rough woods but often adds to cost and maintenance complexity.
- Size and portability vary greatly — larger models excel in capacity but may be cumbersome for small workshops or mobile setups.
| VEVOR Thickness Planer, 13-Inch Width, 15-Amp 2000W Motor, Two-Blade, Benchtop with Extended Infeeding Table |  | Best Overall for Power and Versatility | Worktable Width: 13 inches | Maximum Board Thickness: 6 inches | Extended Infeeding Table: 12 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Craftsman 15 Amp Benchtop Planer with Solid Steel Cutter Head |  | Best Value for Power and Durability | Power: 15 Amp | Application: Benchtops | Cutting Head: Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer |  | Best for Smooth Finish and Precision | Power: 15A | Blade Type: Spiral cutterhead with 26 HSS blades | Maximum Board Thickness: 6 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Rikon 25-135H 13-Inch Portable Planer with Helical-Style Cutterhead |  | Best for Portability and Heavy-Duty Capacity | Planing Capacity: 13 inches wide, 6 inches thick | Cutting Head: Six-row helical-style cutterhead with 26 HSS inserts | Motor: 15-amp, 115V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| DeWalt 13-inch Thickness Planer, 3-Knife, 2-Speed, 15 Amp (DW735X) |  | Best for Finish Quality and Precise Control | Blade Type: Three Knife Cutter Head | Motor Power: 15 Amp | RPM: 20,000 RPM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer with 15A Motor and Dual-Blade System |  | Best Value for Versatile Wide Boards | Motor Power: 2000W | Blade Type: HSS Blades | Blade Count: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer for Woodworking with Straight Knife Cutterhead and 2-Speed Feed |  | Best for Large-Scale, Precision Wide Boards | Cutting Capacity: 20 inches | Knife Type: High-speed steel | Feed Rate: 24 FPM / 31 FPM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| planer for wide board | Motor Power |
|---|---|
| VEVOR Thickness Planer | 2000W |
| Craftsman 15 Amp Benchtop Plan | — |
| WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spir | — |
| Rikon 25-135H 13-Inch Portable | — |
| DeWalt 13-inch Thickness Plane | 15 Amp |
| 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Pla | 2000W |
| JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer f | 3 HP |
More Details on Our Top Picks
VEVOR Thickness Planer, 13-Inch Width, 15-Amp 2000W Motor, Two-Blade, Benchtop with Extended Infeeding Table
This VEVOR model stands out for its robust 2000W motor, providing ample power to smooth both hardwood and softwood surfaces efficiently. Its 13-inch worktable, coupled with an extended infeeding extension, makes it ideal for long, wide boards—surpassing smaller, less capable models. The two-knife cutter head ensures durability and clean cuts, comparable to the DeWalt DW735X but with a more substantial motor. The inclusion of a dust collection port helps maintain a cleaner workspace, a feature often absent in less equipped models. The tradeoff is its weight and size; it can be cumbersome for small workshops or portable needs. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for woodshops that prioritize power and wide capacity, with some space and strength to handle demanding projects.
Pros:- Powerful 2000W motor for smooth, efficient cuts
- Extended infeeding table supports long stock
- High-precision two-knife cutter for durability
- Includes dust collection port for cleaner workspace
Cons:- Heavy and bulky, difficult to move
- Requires proper maintenance for peak performance
Best for: Professionals or serious hobbyists needing to plane wide, thick boards efficiently.
Not ideal for: Small workshops or hobbyists with limited space or infrequent planing needs.
- Worktable Width:13 inches
- Maximum Board Thickness:6 inches
- Extended Infeeding Table:12 inches
- Motor Power:2000W
- Motor Amperage:15 Amp
- Cutting Head:Two-knife, solid steel
- Overload Protection:20A built-in protector
- Speed:23,500 rpm
Our verdict“This model is best suited for workshops that need serious power and wide board capacity, accepting its bulkiness.”
Craftsman 15 Amp Benchtop Planer with Solid Steel Cutter Head
This Craftsman planer offers a 15 Amp motor capable of tackling diverse woods, making it a solid choice for those needing reliable power at a friendly price point. Its solid steel cutter head ensures long-lasting sharpness and simplifies blade changes, outperforming models with simpler knife systems like the WEN in durability. While it doesn’t feature extended infeeding or advanced dust collection, its size and weight are manageable for most benchtop setups. Compared to the DeWalt DW735X, it might lack some refinements but provides comparable power and performance. The main tradeoff is that it can be somewhat heavy and requires manual blade replacement or sharpening, which adds effort. This makes it well-suited for serious hobbyists or small professional shops seeking a durable, straightforward machine.
Pros:- Powerful 15 Amp motor handles large cuts easily
- Durable solid steel cutter head with quick change feature
- Suitable for both hard and soft woods
- Includes dust collection port for cleaner workspace
Cons:- Potentially heavy and bulky for portable use
- Requires manual knife replacement or sharpening
Best for: Hobbyists or small professional shops needing a reliable, durable planer with good power.
Not ideal for: Very portable or space-constrained workshops, due to its weight and bulk.
- Power:15 Amp
- Application:Benchtops
- Cutting Head:Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head
- Dust Collection:Yes
Our verdict“This planer is ideal for users wanting a durable, powerful machine that balances cost and performance without complex features.”
WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
The WEN PL1326 distinguishes itself with a spiral cutterhead featuring 26 HSS blades, producing exceptionally smooth and clean finishes—an advantage over traditional straight knives like those in the Craftsman. Its capacity to handle boards up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick makes it suitable for wide projects, but it’s limited to 13 inches in width, unlike larger models like the RIKON 25-135H. The adjustable material removal gauge allows precise control, perfect for detailed finish work. However, it lacks additional features like dust collection, which might require a separate setup. Its lower RPM and simpler design mean it’s better suited for hobbyists or light professional use rather than heavy-duty production. The main tradeoff is the absence of dust collection and the limit on board width, but it excels at producing high-quality finishes on wider boards.
Pros:- Produces exceptionally smooth, clean finishes
- Adjustable material removal gauge for precision
- Capable of planing boards up to 6 inches thick
- Spiral cutterhead enhances finish quality
Cons:- Limited to 13-inch wide boards, smaller than some competitors
- No dust collection included, extra setup needed
Best for: Hobbyists or DIYers prioritizing smooth, high-quality finishes on wide but not overly thick boards.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty workshops or users needing integrated dust collection or wider capacities beyond 13 inches.
- Power:15A
- Blade Type:Spiral cutterhead with 26 HSS blades
- Maximum Board Thickness:6 inches
- Maximum Board Width:13 inches
- Motor Speed:10,000 RPM
- Feed Rate:26 feet per minute
Our verdict“This planer is best for those focused on achieving smooth finishes on wide boards, accepting its width and dust collection limits.”
Rikon 25-135H 13-Inch Portable Planer with Helical-Style Cutterhead
The RIKON 25-135H offers a compelling combination of capacity and portability, with a 13-inch width and ability to plane stock up to 6 inches thick. Its six-row helical cutterhead with 26 indexable HSS inserts provides smooth, easy-to-maintain cuts, outperforming standard straight blades like those in the Craftsman. Its two feed speeds allow tailored finishing, though the machine’s weight and bulk make it less suited for frequent moving. Compared to the WEN, it offers greater capacity and more robust construction, but at a higher price point. The limited maximum cut depth of 1/8 inch isn’t ideal for very thick stock, which could be a drawback for some. Overall, this model is best for professionals or serious hobbyists who need a portable yet powerful wide-board planer with easy-maintenance features.
Pros:- Handles wide boards up to 13 inches and 6 inches thick
- Helical cutterhead with replaceable HSS inserts for easy maintenance
- Two adjustable feed speeds for finishing control
- Supports dust collection for cleaner work environment
Cons:- Heavy weight makes it less portable
- Limited maximum cut depth at 1/8 inch
Best for: Woodworkers needing a portable, heavy-duty machine capable of surfacing large, thick stock regularly.
Not ideal for: Casual hobbyists or those with limited space who rarely plane large or thick boards.
- Planing Capacity:13 inches wide, 6 inches thick
- Cutting Head:Six-row helical-style cutterhead with 26 HSS inserts
- Motor:15-amp, 115V
- Maximum Depth of Cut:1/8 inch
- Feed Speeds:16 and 26 SFPM
- Dust Collection:Includes dust hood and adapter
Our verdict“This portable yet robust planer suits demanding users who need capacity and ease of maintenance, accepting its weight and cut depth limitations.”
DeWalt 13-inch Thickness Planer, 3-Knife, 2-Speed, 15 Amp (DW735X)
The DeWalt DW735X stands out for its three-knife cutter head, which extends knife life and delivers smooth, chip-free finishes compared to two-knife models like the Craftsman. Its two-speed gearbox offers flexibility for different materials and cut types. The cast aluminum base provides stability, and automatic carriage lock reduces snipe, making it highly precise on wide boards. Compared with the WEN, the DW735X offers a more refined finish, but lacks the spiral cutterhead’s smoothness. Its maximum width of 13 inches makes it suitable for wide boards, though it doesn’t match the capacity of larger machines like the RIKON. Its higher price and heavier weight might be downsides for casual users. This planer is perfect for those prioritizing finish quality and fine control on wide projects.
Pros:- Three-knife cutter head for longer blade life
- Two-speed gearbox for versatile cuts
- Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
- Stable cast aluminum base for precision
Cons:- Higher price point compared to two-knife models
- Heavy and less portable
Best for: Woodworkers focused on high-quality finishes and precise dimension control for wide, detailed projects.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious hobbyists or those needing portability and extra features like dust collection bundled in.
- Blade Type:Three Knife Cutter Head
- Motor Power:15 Amp
- RPM:20,000 RPM
- Cutting Speed:10,000 RPM cutterhead
- Cutting Width:13 inches
- Included Accessories:Infeed/outfeed tables, extra knives
Our verdict“This planer excels at producing fine, accurate finishes on wide boards, ideal for detailed woodworking but less suited for casual hobbyists.”
13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer with 15A Motor and Dual-Blade System
This 13-inch planer offers a compelling combination of power and precision, making it a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshops that need to process wide boards efficiently. Its 2000W motor handles dense hardwoods with ease, outperforming smaller, less powerful models like the WEN PL1326, which struggles with tougher woods. The dual-blade system effectively eliminates snipe, providing a cleaner finish compared to traditional three-knife setups, but this comes at the cost of only two replacement blades, which may require frequent changing if used heavily. Its ergonomic design minimizes fatigue during long sessions, and the dust port helps keep the workspace tidy, unlike less sophisticated dust collection systems on some competitors. The main tradeoff is its weight, making it less suitable for mobile setups or small workbenches. Overall, this planer makes sense for those who prioritize power and surface quality over portability.
Pros:- Powerful 2000W motor handles dense hardwoods with ease
- Dual-blade system reduces snipe and improves surface quality
- Ergonomic design minimizes operator fatigue
- Includes a dust port for cleaner workspace
Cons:- Heavy and may require a sturdy workbench for stability
- Limited to two replacement blades, which may need frequent changing
- Potentially loud operation due to high RPM
Best for: Small to medium woodworking shops needing reliable power and surface finish on wide boards
Not ideal for: Mobile woodworkers or hobbyists with limited space, due to its weight and size
- Motor Power:2000W
- Blade Type:HSS Blades
- Blade Count:4
- Max Width:13 inches
- Height Range:1/4 to 6.3 inches
- RPM:10,000
Our verdict“This planer is ideal for users who need a powerful, reliable machine for wide boards and can accommodate its weight and noise level.”
JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer for Woodworking with Straight Knife Cutterhead and 2-Speed Feed
The JET 20-inch planer is designed for serious woodworkers who need to process wide, thick boards with high precision. Its 3 HP motor and large cast iron table deliver superior stability and smooth cuts, making it a step up from smaller models like the 13-inch VEVOR or WEN options, especially for large projects requiring meticulous detail. The two-speed gearbox offers flexibility—slower for finishing cuts and faster for roughing, a feature absent in many budget options. The 1/16-inch incremental height adjustments provide fine control, ideal for precise thicknessing. However, the tool’s heavy weight and requirement for 230V power limit portability and make it less suited for small or mobile workshops. While its large dust port and cast iron table support professional workflows, the size and power needs mean it’s best for dedicated woodworking setups rather than casual use. This model is best for those prioritizing accuracy and capacity over mobility.
Pros:- Large 20-inch capacity for wide boards
- Two-speed gearbox enhances versatility for different cuts
- Cast iron table provides stability and accuracy
- Effective dust collection with large 5-inch port
Cons:- Requires 230V power, limiting portability
- Heavy and bulky, difficult to move or store
- Higher upfront cost compared to smaller, less capable models
Best for: Professional workshops or serious hobbyists working on large, detailed projects needing maximum width and precision
Not ideal for: Limited space garages or mobile woodworkers who need a lightweight, portable solution
- Cutting Capacity:20 inches
- Knife Type:High-speed steel
- Feed Rate:24 FPM / 31 FPM
- Motor Power:3 HP
- Voltage:230V
- Table Material:Cast iron
- Height Adjustment:1/16 inch increments
Our verdict“This planer excels in precision and capacity for large-scale projects, making it suitable for dedicated professional or hobbyist shops with ample space and power supply.”
How We Picked
To evaluate the best planers for wide boards, I focused on performance, build quality, and capacity. I considered each model’s maximum board width, motor power, and cutterhead type, as these directly impact the ability to handle large, thick stock efficiently. Usability factors such as ease of adjustment, dust collection, and weight also influenced rankings, since they affect daily workflow and setup. Finally, I balanced value with durability, ensuring the top picks provide long-term reliability, even if they cost more upfront. This approach helps identify options suitable for a range of woodworking needs and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Planer For Wide Boards
Selecting the right planer for wide boards involves more than just looking at maximum width. It’s important to consider factors like motor power, cutterhead type, and overall build quality to ensure consistent results and long-term reliability. Beyond the specs, understanding how different features impact usability and maintenance can prevent costly mistakes and improve your woodworking experience.Board Width and Thickness Capacity
The primary feature to evaluate is how wide and thick a board the planer can handle. For wide boards, choose a model with at least 13 inches of capacity, but if you work with exceptionally large stock, models offering 20 inches or more are worth the investment. Keep in mind that wider capacity often means a larger footprint and weight, which can affect maneuverability and storage.
Motor Power and Cutting Performance
A powerful motor—typically 15 amps or more—is essential for smooth cuts on thick or hard woods. Higher horsepower models tend to produce fewer tear-outs and can maintain consistent feed speeds, especially with dense material. However, more powerful motors usually come with increased size and cost, so find a balance that matches your workload and workspace.
Cutterhead Type: Straight, Helical, or Spiral
Traditional straight knives are more affordable and easier to replace but can produce more tear-out on difficult woods. Helical or spiral cutterheads, like those in some of the reviewed models, offer cleaner cuts and less tear-out, especially on wide, rough, or warped stock. The tradeoff is higher initial cost and potentially more complex maintenance, so consider your typical projects and budget.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Features like adjustable infeed/outfeed tables, simplified blade changing, and dust collection significantly improve daily operation. Heavy or bulky models might be challenging to move, so consider your workspace size. Regular maintenance, such as blade replacement or cutterhead cleaning, also impacts long-term satisfaction—look for models with accessible, straightforward procedures.
Size, Portability, and Storage
Wider planers tend to be larger and heavier, which can limit mobility and require dedicated storage space. If your workshop is small or you need a portable solution, a more compact, lighter model might be better, even if it sacrifices some capacity. Conversely, dedicated shop setups should prioritize capacity and durability over portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a standard planer for wide boards?
Most standard planers are limited to widths of 12 to 13 inches, which may be insufficient for very wide boards. For boards wider than this, a dedicated wide planer—typically 15 inches or more—is necessary to avoid jointing in multiple passes or risking uneven results. Investing in a planer with greater capacity simplifies operations and improves consistency, especially on large projects.
Is a spiral cutterhead worth the extra cost for wide boards?
Spiral cutterheads significantly reduce tear-out and produce cleaner finishes, which is especially beneficial on wide, rough, or warped wood. While they do come with a higher price tag, their ability to handle more challenging stock with less fuss can save time and frustration long-term. If you frequently work with wide or difficult wood, a spiral cutterhead can justify the added expense.
How important is motor power when choosing a wide board planer?
Motor power directly impacts the planer’s ability to cut through dense or thick wood smoothly. Higher horsepower models, such as 15 amps or more, tend to deliver more consistent results without bogging down. For wide boards, especially hardwoods, a powerful motor reduces the risk of uneven thickness and tear-out, making it a key factor in selecting a dependable machine.
Should I prioritize capacity or portability?
This depends on your workspace and project scope. Larger, high-capacity planers are best suited for dedicated shops with ample space but can be cumbersome to move or store. If you need a mobile setup or have limited space, look for models that balance capacity with weight and size. For most hobbyists or small workshops, a mid-sized planer offers a practical compromise.
How often should I replace or sharpen planer blades?
Blade maintenance frequency depends on usage and the type of wood processed. Regular sharpening or replacement ensures smooth, even cuts and prolongs the life of your machine. For wide boards or dense hardwoods, blades wear faster and should be checked more frequently. Many models offer easy blade replacement, but investing in quality blades and proper maintenance routines is essential for consistent performance.
Conclusion
For those seeking a versatile, reliable all-rounder, the DeWalt DW735X offers a strong balance of capacity and features suitable for most woodworking shops. If your projects demand maximum width, the JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer is the clear choice, despite its size and cost. Hobbyists or occasional users on a budget will find the WEN PL1326 provides solid performance at a lower price point. Beginners should prioritize models with straightforward operation and maintenance, while professionals or dedicated shops might lean toward premium options with advanced cutterhead designs and greater capacity. Ultimately, matching your specific project needs and workspace constraints will lead to the best decision.Fall yard work Picks
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