10 Best Portable Planers 2026 in the United States

The WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer is a solid choice for those in need of a portable planer. It features a cutting width of 12.5 inches and can handle boards up to 6 inches thick, making it versatile for various woodworking projects.

The depth adjustment allows you to take off anywhere from 0 to 1/8 of an inch in a single pass, providing good control over the thickness of your material. The 15-Amp motor is quite powerful, generating 20,000 cuts per minute and feeding through wood at a rate of 26 feet per minute, which means it can handle tough jobs quickly and efficiently.

The inclusion of two reversible SK5 blades ensures you have a backup when one side gets dull, extending the usability of the blades. However, at 29.03 kilograms, this planer is on the heavier side, which may affect its portability despite being labeled as a 'benchtop' model.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a solid option for those needing a portable planer. One of its standout features is the impressive 30,000 cuts per minute, which ensures a fast and efficient removal rate, making it suitable for jobs that require quick and precise material removal. The maximum cutting depth of 2 mm allows for decent material shaving, and the depth adjustment knob provides fine control over cut depth, down to 1/256 inches.

The brushless motor is a significant advantage, offering both power and runtime, which is essential for extended use on various tasks. Additionally, the precision-machined aluminum shoes contribute to the accuracy and parallelism of the cuts, enhancing the quality of work. Its ergonomic handle design aims to reduce user fatigue, a thoughtful feature for prolonged operation.

Portability is a notable strength, given the tool's battery-powered nature and manageable weight of 7.4 pounds, making it easy to transport and use across different job sites. However, it’s important to note that the tool is sold as ‘bare tool only,’ meaning the battery is not included and must be purchased separately, which could be inconvenient for some users. The dust collection system isn’t highlighted, so users might need to manage dust manually or with additional equipment.

The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer is a solid choice for woodworking enthusiasts looking for a reliable, benchtop model with professional features. It offers a generous 13-inch cutting width and up to 1/8-inch cutting depth, which suits most small to medium-sized boards. Powered by a strong 2 HP motor running at 10,000 RPM, it has enough muscle for smooth, consistent cuts. One standout feature is its helical-style cutterhead equipped with 156 quick-change steel inserts, which not only produces quieter and cleaner cuts but also makes blade maintenance easier since you can replace individual inserts instead of full blades. The planer has two feed speeds (18 and 26 feet per minute) to adapt to different wood types or finish requirements.

Its cast iron bed and steel cover help keep boards flat and minimize sniping, which improves precision. Portability-wise, weighing 75 pounds, it’s not ultra-light but still manageable to move around in a workshop, especially with its folding infeed and outfeed tables that save space when not in use. Dust collection is addressed with a hood included, though the sound level is on the louder side at 97 dB, so ear protection is advisable during longer sessions. Some users might find the planer a bit heavy for frequent transport, but for a benchtop model, it balances power and size well.

This planer suits hobbyists and serious woodworkers who need accuracy and durability without stepping up to a full-size industrial machine. The 5-year warranty adds peace of mind for home use, though commercial users get a shorter coverage. If you want a robust planer that handles a variety of wood types with smooth cuts and easy blade maintenance, this model is worth considering, especially if you have a dedicated workspace for it.