5 Best DeWalt Planers of 2026
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The DEWALT 13-Inch Thickness Planer stands out as the best overall for serious woodworkers, delivering consistent performance and precision. If you’re on a tighter budget, the DEWALT 12.5-Inch Benchtop Planer offers solid capability without the premium price. For quick, portable jobs, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Planer is a strong versatility pick.
Most people shopping for a Dewalt planer aren’t just looking for another tool, they’re trying to solve a problem like warped boards, uneven surfaces, or the frustration of hand-sanding large stock. Buying the wrong one can mean wasted time, poor finishes, or a machine that can’t handle your workload.
This guide cuts through the noise by focusing on real-world performance, based on specs, owner feedback, and years of working with power tools. I looked at motor strength, cutterhead design, depth control, and durability to find the models that actually deliver where it matters.
Top 5 Dewalt Planers in the Market
The Best Dewalt Planers, Reviewed
DEWALT 13-Inch Thickness Planer
Strengths
- Includes extra knives
- Infeed and outfeed tables
- Three-knife cutter head
- Two-speed feed options
- 3-year warranty
Trade-offs
- Bulky setup
- Noisier than smaller planers
If the DW735 is a workhorse, the DW735X is the full workshop package. It shares all the same strong specs, the 15 amp motor, three-knife cutter head, and dual feed speeds, but adds value with included infeed/outfeed tables and a bonus set of knives. Reviewers often point to this as the smarter buy over the DW735 because you’re getting extras that matter in daily use. The fan-assisted chip ejection works well on long runs, and the automatic snipe reduction is something I’d expect in this class.
I’d pick the DW735X over the DW734 for anyone doing regular thickness planing because the 13-inch width gives real flexibility with wider boards. And compared to the cordless DCP580B, this delivers far more consistent performance for stock prep. The 3-year warranty is a nice touch, signaling DeWalt’s confidence in durability.
Product photos
DEWALT 12.5-Inch Benchtop Planer
Strengths
- Affordable price
- 15 amp motor
- Three-knife cutter head
- Long infeed/outfeed tables
- Fine finish quality
Trade-offs
- 12.5-inch max width
- No extra knives included
- Less refined snipe control
The DW734 is DeWalt’s budget-minded 12.5-inch option, but don’t let the lower price fool you, it still packs a 15 amp motor and a three-knife cutter head, which is rare at this tier. It delivers a fine finish thanks to 96 cuts per inch, and owners say it handles hardwoods without hesitation. The four-column carriage lock does a decent job minimizing snipe, though it’s not quite as refined as the automatic system on the 13-inch models.
Where it falls short is width capacity. If you’re often working with boards over 12 inches, you’ll hit limits fast. But for most homeowners and hobbyists, this is more than capable. Compared to the DW735, it’s less aggressive but also less expensive and slightly more compact.
Product photos
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Planer
Strengths
- Cordless convenience
- Brushless motor
- Fine depth adjustment
- Lightweight and portable
- Chamfer groove in shoe
Trade-offs
- Bare tool only
- Less power than corded
- Not for heavy stock removal
The DCP580B is the only cordless option here, and that’s its biggest selling point. The brushless motor delivers 30,000 cuts per minute with decent runtime, and the 2 mm max depth works for light to medium material removal. It’s a solid pick for on-site work where outlets are scarce, think trim upgrades, door fitting, or deck leveling. The depth adjustment is precise down to 0.01 mm, and the aluminum shoes help maintain flat cuts.
But battery power comes with trade-offs. It can’t match the feed consistency or depth capacity of the corded DW734 or DW735X. Owners report it struggles with dense hardwoods on longer passes. And since it’s sold bare tool, you’ll need a 20V Max battery and charger separately.
Product photos
DEWALT 3-1/4-Inch Hand Planer Kit
Strengths
- High cut rate
- Carbide blades included
- Kickstand and chamfer groove
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Accepts HSS blades
Trade-offs
- Narrow cutting width
- Not for stock thicknessing
- Blades can dull quickly
This hand planer is all about precision and mobility. The 5.5 amp motor spins at 34,000 cuts per minute, which is fast enough to clean up joints or taper edges without tear-out, even in tough grain. The compact 3.25-inch width makes it perfect for detail work, door jambs, window frames, or fitting panels where a big planer would be overkill. Owners appreciate the kickstand and chamfer groove, which add real utility during trim work.
It’s no substitute for a thickness planer, but as a trim tool, it outperforms many in its class. I’d choose this over the DCP580B for jobs where power and corded reliability matter more than battery freedom. The included reversible carbide blades are a plus, though some note they dull faster in abrasive materials.
Product photos
DEWALT 13-Inch 2-Speed Planer
Strengths
- 15 amp motor
- Three-knife cutter head
- Two-speed gearbox
- Fan-assisted chip ejection
- Cast aluminum base
Trade-offs
- No extra knives included
- Heavier than budget models
On paper, the DW735 is built like a tank and designed for serious woodworking. The 15 amp motor and 20,000 RPM feed rate give it the muscle to handle wide stock without bogging down, and the three-knife cutter head is a real differentiator, owners consistently report smoother finishes and longer knife life compared to two-knife models. The two-speed gearbox is where it really stands out, letting users choose between 96 or 179 cuts per inch depending on whether they’re roughing down or finishing.
The cast aluminum base adds serious rigidity, which helps with consistency, and I like that the automatic carriage lock reduces snipe without needing manual tweaks. While it doesn’t come with extra knives like the DW735X, the core mechanics are solid. For heavy-duty runs on thick hardwoods, this one’s built to keep up.
Product photos
How We Picked These dewalt planers
Rather than a hands-on lab test, my research for these recommendations focused on a detailed comparison of specifications and features across the Dewalt planer lineup. I weighed published data against owner reviews from multiple sources and considered insights from other power tool experts. This allowed me to rank each model based on its strengths and intended use, looking at how well it delivers on Dewalt’s reputation for durability and performance.
For Dewalt planers, motor power, cutter head quality, and depth adjustment precision were the most important factors. A powerful motor is essential for handling hardwoods efficiently, while a quality cutter head directly impacts the finish. Accurate and easy-to-use depth settings are crucial for consistent results, especially for those seeking repeatable cuts. These elements heavily influence a planer’s overall capability and usability.
Specifications clearly reveal motor size, cutter head speed, and maximum cut depth. However, I paid close attention to owner feedback regarding long-term durability, ease of blade changes, and the effectiveness of chip ejection systems. Reputation and consistent praise for features like snipe reduction also factored heavily into my assessment. You’ll find more discussion of versatile options in our guide to top handheld power planers.
Choosing The Right dewalt planers
Choosing the right planer depends heavily on what you plan to build, and how much you value portability versus raw power.
A quality planer delivers consistently flat, smooth surfaces with minimal effort. Key considerations include motor power for handling hardwoods, cutterhead design for cut quality and knife life, and features that minimize common issues like snipe. Look for robust construction, accurate depth adjustment, and effective chip collection.
Motor Power and Material Capacity
Don’t underestimate the importance of a powerful motor. While smaller hand planers get by with 5.5 amps, tackling thicker stock or hardwoods requires at least a 15 amp motor, like you find in many of the DeWalt models. This is especially true if you regularly work with materials over 6 inches wide. A more powerful motor won’t bog down and will deliver cleaner cuts. Consider the maximum depth of cut as well; a wider range gives you more flexibility.
Cutterhead Design & Knife Quality
The cutterhead is where the magic happens. Three-knife cutterheads are the current standard, offering a good balance of cut quality and knife longevity. DeWalt often highlights a 30% longer knife life with their designs, which translates to less frequent (and costly) replacements. Beyond the number of knives, pay attention to the steel quality – carbide inserts are more durable than high-speed steel, though they can be harder to sharpen. Here’s what I look for: * A straightforward knife change mechanism is essential. * Readily available replacement knives are a must; you don’t want to be stuck with a useless tool waiting for parts. * A high RPM cutterhead speed (10,000 rpm or higher) contributes to a smoother finish, reducing the need for sanding.
Portability vs. Stationary Use & Features
Deciding between a benchtop, a full-size floor model, or a cordless option involves balancing convenience and capability. Cordless planers, like the DeWalt 20V MAX, offer unmatched freedom but typically sacrifice some power and depth of cut. Benchtop models provide a good compromise, while floor-standing planers are best for serious woodworkers who need maximum capacity and precision.
A little preventative maintenance – keeping knives sharp and the bed clean – goes a long way toward a planer’s longevity and performance.
If you’re looking for more in-depth information on the top models available, check out our best electric planer models guide. We also have extensive planer reviews and ratings if you want to see how different planers stack up against each other.
Dewalt Planers Compared
Here’s a spec-by-spec comparison of the Dewalt planers discussed.
| Product Title | Max Cut Depth (in.) | Motor (amps) | Cuts Per Inch | Corded/Cordless | Cutterhead Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 13-Inch Thickness Planer | N/A | 15 | 96/179 | Corded | Three-Knife |
| DEWALT 12.5-Inch Benchtop Planer | N/A | 15 | 96 | Corded | Three-Knife |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Planer | 5/64 | 20V | 30,000 | Cordless | N/A |
| DEWALT 3-1/4-Inch Hand Planer Kit | 1/16 | 5.5 | 34,000 | Corded | Carbide/HSS |
| DEWALT 13-Inch 2-Speed Planer | N/A | 15 | 96/179 | Corded | Three-Knife |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between Dewalt’s 13-inch and 12.5-inch planers?
The 13-inch model offers a slightly larger capacity for wider boards, and includes two speed settings (96 and 179 cuts per inch) for adapting to different wood types and desired finish quality. Otherwise, both are 15-amp corded planers with three-knife cutterheads.
Are Dewalt planer knives difficult to change?
Dewalt designs prioritize relatively easy knife changes. Owners consistently praise the straightforward locking mechanism, and replacement knives are widely available, preventing project delays. However, you’ll still need a screwdriver and potentially a mallet for removal and installation.
Is the Dewalt 20V MAX cordless planer powerful enough for hardwoods?
While convenient, the cordless model is best suited for softer woods and smaller projects. It has a 20V motor and smaller cut depth, so hardwoods may cause it to bog down, resulting in a less-smooth finish than a corded option.
How does Dewalt address the issue of snipe (uneven edges) in their planers?
Dewalt planers incorporate features like infeed and outfeed tables and a chip ejection system designed to minimize snipe. However, some snipe is common with any planer; using consistent pressure and a proper technique will deliver the best results, as described in our wood planer buying advice.
Where can I find replacement knives for my Dewalt planer?
Replacement knives are available from most major hardware retailers, online marketplaces like Amazon, and directly from Dewalt’s website. For the best selection and to verify compatibility, I recommend checking wood planer comparisons to confirm the correct knife type for your specific model.
The Bottom Line
Choosing a planer always involves some trade-offs. Do you prioritize the freedom of cordless operation, or the sheer power and capacity of a corded model? For most homeowners and DIYers who need a versatile workhorse, the DEWALT 13-Inch Thickness Planer stands out. It delivers the power to handle a wide variety of projects, and owner feedback consistently praises its build quality and performance.
If you’re on a tighter budget or need a more portable option, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Planer is a solid choice. For those seeking a good balance of power and convenience, I recommend checking out our best benchtop thickness planers guide, where you’ll find the DEWALT 12.5-Inch Benchtop Planer as a strong contender. And for quick, small jobs, the DEWALT 3-1/4-Inch Hand Planer Kit offers surprising capability in a compact package.
Ultimately, the best planer isn’t about the highest number of features or the biggest motor. It’s about finding a tool that feels comfortable in your hands, delivers consistent results, and allows you to confidently tackle your projects. Focus on sharp knives, accurate adjustments, and a robust build – those are the fundamentals that truly matter.
