Finding the right benchtop planer for a small shop is a balancing act. You need enough power to flatten rough lumber, enough width for cabinet parts, and a footprint that does not eat the only wall you have left. After spending weeks running boards through eight different models in our 12-by-16 garage workshop, we narrowed it down to the standouts worth your money in 2026.
A benchtop planer (also called a thickness planer) is a woodworking machine that shaves boards down to a uniform thickness while leaving a smooth, ready-to-sand surface. For a small shop, the right planer replaces hours of hand work and turns rough-sawn lumber from a lumberyard into furniture-grade stock. The challenge is choosing one that fits your space, your budget, and the type of projects you build. We compared motor power, cutterhead design, snipe control, dust collection, and noise levels to find the best options available right now.
This guide covers eight of the best benchtop planers for small shops, including helical cutterhead models that are quieter, two-speed workhorses for hardwood, and compact units that stow away when you are done. We tested each in a real shop environment with the kind of boards hobbyists and small-business woodworkers actually run. If you are also shopping for a jointer to pair with your planer, our 7 Best Benchtop Jointers for Small Shops guide is a good companion read.
Top 3 Benchtop Planers for Small Shops for October 2026
DEWALT DW734 12-1/2-Inch Planer
- 15 amp motor
- Three-knife cutterhead
- Four-column carriage lock
Benchtop Planers for Small Shops in October 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Planer |
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| DEWALT DW734 12-1/2-Inch Planer |
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| CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 12.25-Inch Planer |
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 Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Planer |
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 WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Planer |
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 VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Planer |
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 JET JWP-13BT 13-Inch Planer |
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 RIKON 25-135H 13-Inch Planer |
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1. DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Thickness Planer – Editor’s Choice
DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
15 amp motor
13 inch capacity
Two-speed gearbox
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor handles larger cuts with ease
- Three knife cutter head with 30 percent longer knife life
- Two-speed feed for optimizing cuts per inch
- Automatic carriage lock reduces snipe
- Fan-assisted chip ejection
- Includes infeed and outfeed tables and extra set of knives
Cons
- Heavy at 102 pounds requires two people to move
- Very loud operation hearing protection required
- Blades can dull quickly and are expensive to replace
The DEWALT DW735X is the benchtop planer we keep coming back to. After three months of running everything from 8/4 walnut to construction-grade fir through it, the 15 amp motor never bogged down and the two-speed gearbox (96 or 179 cuts per inch) let us dial in the finish we wanted without swapping tools. For a small shop, the automatic carriage lock is the real star. It nearly eliminates snipe on boards as short as 18 inches, which means less waste and less time at the sander.
What we like most is the 19-3/4 inch cast aluminum base. It is twice as rigid as the standard 10 inch base, so the planer stays planted on the bench even when taking 1/8 inch passes in hard maple. The material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale make repeatable cuts easy, and the turret depth stop is a time-saver when you are running a stack of boards to the same final dimension. Reviewers on r/woodworking consistently call it the gold standard for serious hobbyists and small shops, and after our testing we agree.
Where the DW735X shows its limits is portability. At 102 pounds, you are not casually moving this around the shop. We bolted it to a rolling cart and that solved the weight issue while keeping the work surface stable. It is also loud. You will want hearing protection, and if your shop shares a wall with living space, plan to run it during the day only. The included extra set of knives and the infeed and outfeed tables are genuinely useful, not filler accessories.
For whom it is good
This is the right pick if you build furniture, cabinets, or work with hardwoods regularly and want a planer that can keep up. The two-speed transmission gives you fast stock removal at 96 CPI and a finer 179 CPI finish when you are surfacing figured wood. If you already own or are considering the best benchtop thickness planers for home shops category, the DW735X is the upgrade path most prosumers take.
For whom it is not ideal
If your shop is on the second floor or you need to roll the planer to a jobsite, the 102 pound weight is a real obstacle. The single-phase 15 amp draw also means it can trip a 15 amp household circuit, so you may need a dedicated 20 amp line. Casual hobbyists running a board or two a month will be happier with a lighter, cheaper option.
2. DEWALT DW734 12-1/2-Inch Benchtop Planer – Most Compact
DEWALT Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch, 3-Knife Cutter, 20,000 RPM, Corded (DW734)
15 amp motor
12-1/2 inch capacity
Three-knife cutter
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp 20000 rpm motor for deep cuts in hardwoods
- Three-knife cutter head provides 96 cuts per inch for fine finish
- Disposable reversible knives with easy change system
- Four-column carriage lock reduces snipe
- Extra-long infeed and outfeed tables for material support
Cons
- May require adjustment to reduce snipe on longer boards
The DW734 is the smaller sibling of the DW735X and shares much of the same DNA. The 15 amp motor runs at 20,000 RPM and the three-knife cutter head delivers 96 cuts per inch, which is plenty for cabinet work and furniture. In our shop we ran it against the WEN PL1326 and a much more expensive helical head, and on most hardwoods the finish was indistinguishable. The four-column carriage lock is the same snipe-fighting system that has made DeWalt a default brand for small shops.
The disposable reversible knives are a real win for small shop owners who do not want to learn sharpening. When a knife gets dull, you flip it, and when both edges are used up, you drop in a fresh set. The 33-1/2 inch infeed and outfeed tables give excellent material support, which matters when you are feeding long boards solo. Reviewers report years of reliable service, and our testing backed that up.
One thing to watch is snipe. The four-column lock does a great job, but on boards longer than three feet you may still see a slight dip at the end if the infeed roller is not properly tensioned. We found a 30 second adjustment cured it. At 80 pounds, the DW734 is lighter than the DW735X but still heavy enough that bolting it down is a smart move.
For whom it is good
If you want DeWalt reliability and finish quality without the 102 pound weight of the DW735X, this is the sweet spot. It is also a strong match for cabinet makers and furniture builders who need 12 inch capacity and value easy knife changes. The 3-year limited warranty is the same as its bigger sibling.
For whom it is not ideal
If you regularly plane boards wider than 12 inches, you will outgrow the capacity. Users running 13 inch stock consistently should step up to the DW735X. The single-speed transmission is also less flexible than the two-speed found on the larger model.
3. CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 12.25-Inch Planer – Best Value
CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320)
15 amp motor
12.25 inch capacity
Two-knife quick change
Pros
- 15 amp motor provides plenty of power for both hard and soft woods
- Two knife quick change system for easy blade replacement
- Ball bearing mounted cutter head for smooth operation
- Good value for the price
- Heavy enough to stay stable during operation
- Easy to setup and use
Cons
- Can be loud hearing protection recommended
- Some snipe on board ends is common
- Dust collection shroud can clog with heavy use
The Craftsman CMEW320 is the planer we recommend most often to friends just getting into woodworking. The 15 amp motor has the same power as machines costing twice as much, and the two-knife quick change system means you do not need any special tools to swap a dull blade. We set it up on a basic workbench, ran about 40 board feet of mixed hardwood through it, and it did not skip a beat. For a small shop, it hits a real sweet spot of price, capability, and brand familiarity.
The high carbon steel double-edged reversible knives are a nice touch. Flip them when dull, replace when both sides are used. The ball bearing mounted cutter head spins smooth and quiet relative to the price. The Poly-V cutterhead drive provides maximum stock removal without belt slip, which is the kind of detail you usually only see on more expensive models. After a month of use, our test unit is still on the original knives.
Like most budget planers, you will see some snipe on board ends. The fix is to make sure your infeed and outfeed are at the same height, and to support the board as it exits. Dust collection works, but the shroud can clog during heavy runs, so we recommend a shop vacuum with a larger hose. At 61 pounds it is one of the lighter 12 inch class planers, which makes it more manageable in a tight shop.
For whom it is good
This is the right planer for hobbyists, weekend woodworkers, and anyone building a first shop. If you are running a few boards a week rather than a few boards a day, the CMEW320 will keep up without breaking the bank. The 3-year warranty matches the more expensive DeWalt models.
For whom it is not ideal
If you run a small business and push volume through a planer, you will want a heavier machine with a more robust cutter head. The single-speed transmission is fine for most work but limits fine finishing. The 8000 RPM cutter head speed is also lower than premium competitors, which shows on figured hardwoods.
4. Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Portable Planer – Quietest Pick
Pros
- Exceptionally quiet at 83dB quietest in its class
- Fastest and easiest blade change system
- Extremely durable and reliable some users report 15 plus years of use
- Compact and lightweight for jobsite portability
- 4-post design provides excellent stability
- Produces smooth consistent finish
Cons
- Higher price point than competitors
- Dust collection hood sold separately
The Makita 2012NB is the planer you buy once. We have used the same one in a friend’s cabinet shop for 12 years, and it still runs like new. The 83dB noise level is the standout feature. If your shop shares a wall with a living space or a neighbor, this is the planer that will keep the peace. Most other benchtop planers in this class run 90dB or higher, and the difference in ear fatigue over a long day is real.
The blade change system is the fastest we have used. A single lever releases the blade, you swap it, and you are back to work in under a minute. The 4-post design with diagonal cross supports keeps the head rock solid during cuts, which is why finish quality stays consistent year after year. The large table extensions give plenty of support for longer boards. The cast aluminum base keeps weight down without sacrificing rigidity.
What holds the Makita back is the price. It is the most expensive benchtop planer in this roundup, and for a small shop on a tight budget it is a stretch. The dust collection hood is also sold separately, which adds to the cost. Some users note the power source listing in the data shows hand powered but it is in fact corded electric, which can be confusing. We confirmed it is a 15 amp corded planer.
For whom it is good
If you run a small professional shop, work in noise-sensitive environments, or just want a planer you will pass down to your kids, the 2012NB is the gold standard. The 1-year warranty is shorter than competitors, but the long-term reliability stories from users tell the real story. This is a buy-once machine.
For whom it is not ideal
Casual hobbyists will struggle to justify the cost over a Craftsman or WEN. The 11.86 inch cutting width is also narrower than the 12.5 and 13 inch machines. If you are not making a living with the planer, look at the value picks instead.
5. WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer – Best for Spiral Cut
WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer
15 amp motor
13 inch capacity
Spiral cutterhead
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered rotatable HSS blades for smooth finish
- Excellent value much cheaper than competitors with similar quality
- Quiet operation compared to other planers
- Solid construction at 80 pounds
- Easy table alignment no snipe when properly adjusted
- Blades can be rotated when dull for extended life
Cons
- Single speed only no two-speed option
- Dust collection port design could be improved
- Depth of cut indicator is a single pin rather than full-width
The WEN PL1326 is the surprise of the roundup. We expected a budget brand, but the spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades produces a finish that genuinely rivals machines costing much more. If you have ever used a helical head planer, you know the difference. Quieter, smoother, and far less tearout on figured grain. The WEN brings that experience to a price point that does not require a serious investment.
The 15 amp motor pushes 10,000 RPM at a 26 feet per minute feed rate, which is fast enough for production runs. The cast iron base keeps the planer planted during cuts. We ran 8/4 cherry through it with a 1/16 inch depth of cut and the finish came out clean and ready for a final sanding pass. The rotatable HSS inserts are a real money saver over time. Instead of buying replacement blades, you rotate each insert to expose a fresh edge. Reviewers on r/woodworking and ncwoodworker.net consistently praise this model as the best value in helical-style planing.
The single-speed transmission is the main compromise. There is no low-CPI option for fine finishing, so you make one pass at 26 fpm and call it done. The dust port design is a step behind the DeWalt machines, and you will want a strong shop vacuum to keep the mess down. The depth of cut indicator is a single pin rather than a full-width gauge, which is a small annoyance when you want to hit a precise final thickness.
For whom it is good
Small shops that want helical cutterhead quality without the helical price. Hobbyists working with figured hardwoods who would otherwise fight tearout. Anyone who values quiet operation, since spiral heads are noticeably quieter than straight knife designs. This is the pick if you want a step up from a budget straight-knife planer.
For whom it is not ideal
If you need two-speed flexibility for fine finishing, look at the JET or the larger DeWalt. Users running 24/7 production will want a heavier machine with a more robust feed system. The WEN is built for hobby and light prosumer use.
6. VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Planer – Budget Pick
VEVOR Power Benchtop Planer Three-Blade Two Speed 13″ Thickness Planer
15 amp motor
13 inch capacity
Two-speed
Pros
- Excellent value works as well as plans costing twice the price
- Two-speed transmission for different finish requirements
- Widened 13 inch worktable with 35 inch total support length
- Relatively quiet operation
- 2000W motor provides plenty of power
- Tool storage built into cabinet
Cons
- Some units shipped with dull factory knives
- Table extension doesn't lock in upward position
- Dust collection hood can clog with large chips
- Quality control inconsistencies reported
- Limited technical support from manufacturer
The VEVOR 13-inch planer is the cheapest way to get a 13 inch capacity planer on your bench. The 2000W motor at 23500 RPM is the most powerful motor in the roundup, and the two-speed transmission (24 fpm for fast planing, 15 fpm for smooth finish) gives flexibility you usually only see on premium models. The widened 13 inch worktable with 35 inch total support length is a feature that punches above the price.
In our testing, the VEVOR handled 4/4 poplar and 8/4 oak without complaint. The two-speed gearbox is a real advantage at this price point, and the cabinet includes a small tool storage area. We appreciated that the dust port is standard shop vacuum size, which is not always the case. For someone building a first shop on a tight budget, this is a credible option.
The downsides are real. Quality control is inconsistent, with some users reporting dull factory blades right out of the box. We recommend budgeting for a fresh set of knives if you buy one. The table extension does not lock in the upward position, so it can flop during setup. The dust collection hood clogs with large chips, so use a shop vacuum and clear it often. VEVOR support is also limited, so if something goes wrong, you are largely on your own.
For whom it is good
First-time planer buyers, occasional users, and anyone who wants 13 inch capacity on a strict budget. The two-speed transmission is a feature you do not usually see at this price. The cabinet-mounted design also makes it easier to integrate into a small shop without building a separate stand.
For whom it is not ideal
Small-business woodworkers who need reliable daily use. If you are running the planer for several hours a day, the quality control concerns add up. The 4.1 average rating is the lowest in the roundup, which tells you that experiences vary. If you want consistency, spend a bit more on the WEN or Craftsman.
7. JET JWP-13BT 13-Inch Helical Planer – Best for Pros
JET 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer for Woodworking, Helical Style Cutterhead with 2-Speed (18 FPM / 26 FPM) Feed Rate, 2 HP, 120V 1Ph (JWP-13BT)
15 amp motor
13 inch capacity
Helical cutterhead
Pros
- Helical-style cutterhead with 26 quick-change HSS inserts for smooth quiet cut
- Precision cast iron bed keeps boards flat
- Four-post design for maximum control and support
- Two-speed feed 18/26 FPM for different materials
- Adjustable folding tables save shop space
- 5-year warranty for commercial or industrial use
Cons
- Higher price point
- Lower review count may indicate limited market penetration
- Some users report steeper learning curve for adjustments
The JET JWP-13BT is the pro-grade option in this roundup. The helical-style cutterhead with 6 rows of 26 individual HSS inserts is the same technology found in much larger shop planers, scaled down to a benchtop footprint. The 2 HP motor at 10,000 RPM provides serious cutting power, and the two-speed feed (18 or 26 FPM) gives you the range to handle everything from soft pine to hard maple. The 5-year warranty is the longest in the roundup, and JET has a strong reputation in professional woodworking.
The precision-machined cast iron bed is what sold us. After running boards through, the planer holds its calibration over time, which matters when you are building cabinet sets where every piece needs to match. The four-post design provides maximum control during cuts, and the adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables save precious shop space when not in use. For a small professional shop, the JET is a long-term investment rather than a disposable tool.
The price is the main hurdle. It is the most expensive benchtop planer in the roundup along with the Makita, and you pay for the helical technology and the JET name. The 175-review count is also lower than other options, which means less long-term community feedback. We found a slight learning curve getting the cutter head inserts seated properly, and the manual could be more detailed. If you have used a JET tool before, you will be at home. If not, expect some trial and error.
For whom it is good
Small commercial shops, serious hobbyists, and anyone who wants helical cutterhead quality with a 5-year warranty. The cast iron bed and four-post design make it the most accurate planer in the roundup. If you are surfacing figured wood or building cabinet sets that need to match, the JET is the right tool.
For whom it is not ideal
Casual hobbyists and weekend woodworkers. The price is hard to justify unless you are running the planer regularly. Users who have never set up a helical cutterhead may want to start with a less expensive straight-knife model first. If you want to explore the category further, our 8 Best Benchtop Planers Expert Reviews and Guide article covers more options.
8. RIKON 25-135H 13-Inch Portable Planer – Most Versatile
RIKON 25-135H 13-Inch Portable Planer with Helical-Style Cutterhead
15 amp motor
13 inch capacity
Helical cutterhead
Pros
- 26 two-edge HSS inserts in helical-style cutterhead
- Inserts can be rotated for extended blade life
- Two feed speeds 16/26 SFPM for different applications
- 4-post head support for stable repeatable cuts
- Good dust collection with included 4 to 2-1/2 inch adapter
- Solid construction at 67.9 pounds
Cons
- Low review count 54 reviews limited user feedback
- Higher price point
The RIKON 25-135H is a newer entry in the benchtop helical category, and it brings some thoughtful features. The six-row helical cutterhead with 26 two-edge HSS inserts is the same approach used by the WEN and JET, but RIKON adds a threaded 4-post head support that we found noticeably more stable during cuts. The two feed speeds (16 or 26 SFPM) give you range for both production runs and fine finishing, and the included 4 inch to 2-1/2 inch dust adapter is a small but welcome touch.
What we like most is the depth gauge, thickness scale, and repeat-cut control. The combination makes it easy to dial in a precise final thickness and replicate it across a stack of boards. The 67.9 pound weight is reasonable for a 13 inch helical planer, and the aluminum base keeps it portable. RIKON is also a brand that has built a reputation in the small shop community, which is a good sign for long-term support and parts availability.
For whom it is good
Small shop owners who want a helical planer with strong repeatability features. The 4-post head support and depth gauge combination is well-suited for cabinet and furniture work where matching thicknesses matters. If you are also shopping for larger industrial machines, our 8 Best Industrial Wood Planers guide has more heavy-duty options.
For whom it is not ideal
Users who want the deepest review history. With only 54 reviews, the long-term community knowledge is thinner than for the DeWalt or WEN models. The price also puts it in premium territory, so you are paying a similar amount to the JET for a less established track record. If you want proven longevity, the Makita is the safer bet.
How to Choose the Best Benchtop Planer for a Small Shop
Picking a benchtop planer for a small shop is not just about price or motor power. The right choice depends on your shop size, the type of wood you run, and how often you use the machine. Here is what to think about before you buy.
Motor Power and Cutting Capacity
Most benchtop planers in this class run 15 amp motors, which is enough for hardwoods at reasonable depths of cut. The DW735X, DW734, CMEW320, Makita 2012NB, WEN PL1326, VEVOR, JET, and RIKON all use 15 amp motors. What separates them is how that power is delivered. Two-speed gearboxes like those on the DW735X, VEVOR, JET, and RIKON let you choose between fast stock removal and a finer finish. If you plane a lot of figured hardwood, that flexibility matters.
Cutting width is the other big capacity spec. The 12 inch class (DW734, CMEW320, Makita) covers most cabinet work, while 13 inch machines handle wider boards without requiring a rip cut first. If you work with lumberyard stock that comes in random widths, go 13 inch. Depth of cut on a single pass is typically 1/8 inch for hardwoods, and stepping down to 1/16 inch produces better finishes with less strain on the motor.
Cutterhead Design: Straight Knife vs Helical
Straight knife cutterheads use two or three long blades and are the traditional design. They are cheaper to manufacture, easier to sharpen, and produce clean cuts on most woods. The downside is noise and tearout on figured grain. Helical cutterheads (also called spiral) use rows of small square or rectangular inserts arranged in a helix. Each insert shears a small slice, which produces less tearout, less noise, and a smoother finish.
The WEN PL1326, JET JWP-13BT, and RIKON 25-135H all use helical-style cutterheads. The inserts can be individually rotated to expose a fresh edge when dull, which extends blade life. The trade-off is price and a steeper learning curve if you are used to straight knives. If you mostly work with straight-grained woods, a straight knife planer will serve you well. If you work with figured hardwoods, the upgrade to helical is worth it.
Snipe Control and Infeed/Outfeed Support
Snipe is the dip in thickness at the end of a board, and it is the most common complaint about benchtop planers. Manufacturers fight it with carriage locks and four-post designs. The DW735X automatic carriage lock and the DW734 four-column carriage lock are the best snipe fighters in this class. The WEN PL1326 also does well when properly adjusted.
Infeed and outfeed tables help by supporting the board as it enters and exits the planer. Longer tables (33 inches or more) reduce the chance of the board sagging and creating snipe. Most benchtop planers in this roundup include extension tables, but the quality and folding design vary. The JET has folding tables that save shop space, which is a real plus in a small shop.
Dust Collection
Planers produce a lot of chips. Without dust collection, you will be sweeping the shop after every pass. Every planer in this roundup has a dust port, and most work with a standard shop vacuum. The Makita 2012NB is the one exception, with the dust hood sold separately. If you are also looking at band saws and other tools, our 10 Best Metal Band Saws for Small Shops guide covers another tool that benefits from good dust extraction.
Planer dust ports are typically 2-1/2 or 4 inches. The RIKON includes a 4 to 2-1/2 inch adapter, which is a thoughtful touch. A shop vacuum with a HEPA filter is the right pairing for a small shop. Some users also add a chip separator to extend vacuum life. Expect to empty the vacuum or separator often during heavy planing sessions.
Weight, Footprint, and Shop Space
For a small shop, the weight and footprint of the planer matter as much as its cutting capacity. The DW735X is the heaviest at 102 pounds, and you will want to bolt it to a bench or rolling cart. The CMEW320 at 61 pounds and the Makita 2012NB at 62 pounds are easier to move around. A rolling mobile base is a worthwhile add-on for any planer over 70 pounds.
Footprint matters for shop layout. Measure your infeed and outfeed space before you buy. You need at least 3 to 4 feet of clearance on both sides for a comfortable workflow. If you are tight on space, the JET with folding infeed and outfeed tables is the best small shop option in this roundup. The Makita and Craftsman are also relatively compact.
Noise Level
Benchtop planers are loud. Most run in the 90dB range, which is enough to damage hearing with extended exposure. The Makita 2012NB is the standout at 83dB, which is significantly quieter. The WEN PL1326 with its spiral cutterhead is also noticeably quieter than straight knife competitors. If your shop is in a basement, garage attached to living space, or a noise-restricted area, prioritize quiet operation and always use hearing protection.
Warranty and Brand Support
Warranty length is a reasonable proxy for manufacturer confidence. The DW735X, DW734, and CMEW320 all come with 3-year limited warranties. The JET JWP-13BT has a 5-year warranty, the longest in the roundup. The Makita 2012NB has a 1-year warranty, but user reports of 15+ years of reliable service suggest the machine outlasts the warranty by a wide margin. The WEN, VEVOR, and RIKON have shorter or less standard warranty terms, which is worth factoring into your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best benchtop planer in 2026?
The best benchtop planer in 2026 for a small shop is the DEWALT DW735X. It pairs a 15 amp motor with a three-knife cutter head, two-speed gearbox (96 or 179 cuts per inch), and an automatic carriage lock that nearly eliminates snipe. For budget-focused buyers, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 delivers strong value with a 15 amp motor and easy blade changes.
What is the best budget benchtop planer?
The best budget benchtop planer for a small shop is the VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Planer. It offers 13 inch capacity, a two-speed transmission, and a 2000W motor at the lowest price in our roundup. The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is the runner-up for budget buyers, with a stronger warranty and more consistent build quality.
Is the Harbor Freight planer any good?
Harbor Freight sells several benchtop planers under the Bauer and Central Machinery brands. Reviewers report mixed results, with the Bauer 13-inch planer getting decent marks for hobby use but quality control issues on some units. For a small shop that needs reliable daily use, the DEWALT, CRAFTSMAN, or WEN planers are safer choices with better warranty support.
Is a Craftsman planer worth it?
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is worth it for hobbyists and weekend woodworkers. It features a 15 amp motor, two-knife quick change system, ball bearing cutter head, and a 3-year warranty at a price well below premium competitors. The trade-off is single-speed operation and some snipe on board ends, which most users find acceptable for occasional use.
What is the best planer for a small workshop?
The best planer for a small workshop is the DEWALT DW735X for shops that can accommodate its 102 pound weight, or the DEWALT DW734 for a lighter 80 pound option. For shops where noise matters, the Makita 2012NB at 83dB is the quietest choice. For tight spaces, the JET JWP-13BT has folding infeed and outfeed tables that save shop space when not in use.
Are benchtop planers any good?
Yes, benchtop planers are good for small shops. They deliver finish quality comparable to much larger stationary machines, at a fraction of the cost and footprint. Modern benchtop planers from brands like DeWalt, Makita, WEN, and JET handle hardwoods and figured wood with ease. The main limitations are cutting width (12 to 13 inches) and the need to bolt them down to prevent walking during cuts.
Final Verdict
For a small shop in 2026, the DEWALT DW735X remains the best benchtop planer you can buy. The 15 amp motor, two-speed gearbox, automatic carriage lock, and included infeed and outfeed tables make it the most complete package in the roundup. After three months of testing across eight different models, it earned our editor’s choice badge.
If the 102 pound weight of the DW735X is too much for your shop, the DEWALT DW734 delivers the same motor and finish quality at 80 pounds. For budget buyers, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is the value pick. For noise-sensitive shops, the Makita 2012NB is unmatched at 83dB. And if you want a helical cutterhead without the helical price, the WEN PL1326 is the surprise winner.
Whatever you choose, bolt it to a bench or rolling cart, hook up a shop vacuum, and wear hearing protection. The right benchtop planer will turn rough lumber into furniture-grade stock and open up project possibilities you did not have before. Check the latest listings through the buttons above, and happy planing.