Removing warps and flexes from wood pieces and boards can be a challenging task. There is a solution for this, and it is the Benchtop Jointer. The benchtop joiners are designed to smooth warped wood and square-hewed lumber pieces. This makes it easier to work with and improves woodworking efficiency.
Key Factors to consider:
- Cutter Heads: There are three main types of cutter heads: straight, spiral, and helical. Helical cutter heads are considered to produce less noise and allow for individual parts.
- Amps and Power: Amps, typically between 10 and 12 amps, and power for determining the smoothness and efficiency of a power tool.
- Bed Width and Cutting Depth: Bed width, usually around 6 inches, indicates the maximum width of the wooden board that the jointer can handle. Cutting depth, usually ⅛ inch, determines the depth of the cut. These features help determine the jointer’s capacity for handling wood.
There are some more factors that you need to consider while selecting the benchtop jointer that are listed in the “Buying Guide” listed below.
Best Benchtop Jointers Table
| Best Benchtop Jointer | Ampere | Speed | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 6,000 to 10,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| WEN Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | Up to 12,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 6,000 to 11,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Wahuda Tools Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 12,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| RIKON Power Tools Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 12,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Detla Power Benchtop Jointer | 12 amps | 20,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Shop Fox Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 10,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Grizzly Benchtop Jointer | 10 amps | 10,000 RPM | Check On Amazon |
Best Benchtop Jointer Reviews
1. PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer
This Porter-Cable benchtop jointer is very versatile and very effective for all your woodwork projects at home. This is a perfect jointer for facilitating all your DIY woodwork projects.
The sheet metal material allows a variable speed of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM which enables the worker to choose depending on the hardness and size of the wooden board or the material being worked on. It features a dual knife head which makes the adjustment and replacement of the knives very simple. The in-built cutter head makes it easy for you to arrange the knives according to your preference.
The head is large which provides work support and the surface can be stocked up to handle 6-inch boards.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 6,000 to 10,000 RPM
- Weight: 35 lbs
Pros
- Good Variable speed.
- Two knives head.
- Easy to Assemble
Cons
- The fence is not easy to adjust
2. WEN Benchtop Jointer
Are you in need of a jointer to smoothen out your workpieces or wooden boards? These benchtop jointers allow precise cuts on all kinds of boards till the width of 6 inches.
The jointer features 12 high-speed steel cutter heads which allow smooth cuts in both hard and softwoods. Moreover, the 10-ampere motor enables 12,000 RPM. The infeed can be adjusted from 0 to ⅛ inches of the material with maximum precision and accuracy. The wide table allows a sturdy base to work freely. The spring-loaded blade guard prevents all kinds of injuries as only a portion of the cutter head is exposed to the user. The built-in dust port allows minimal cleanup.
There are two push blocks which enable safe jointing of the components. This jointer is compatible with all the replacement spiral blades.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: Upto 12,000 RPM
- Weight: 36.8 lbs
Pros
- Allows precise cuts.
- 12 HSS cutter heads which allow easy replacement.
- Built-in dust port.
- Spring-loaded blade guard.
Cons
- Not very accurate with longer boards.
3. CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer
Want a variable speed cutter head ranging from 12,000 to 22,000 cuts per minute? This benchtop jointer has this feature and so much more. It also has a variable speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM.
These jointers also feature a dual knife cutter with an in-built head lock cutter, and easy levelling of jackscrew knife which enables a smooth functioning and easy adjustment and replacement. They are suitable for face jointing, flattening and edging. Also, the variable speed allows accurate speed for any length or width of the material.
The 10-ampere machine is capable of all kinds of wood DIY work with any thickness and depth.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10-amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 6,000 to 11,000 RPM
- Weight: 39.7 lbs
Pros
- Variable speed.
- Variable cutter head speed.
- Built-in lock head.
- Easy levelling of jackscrew knives.
Cons
- Some issues are in the electronic speed controller unit
4. Wahuda Tools Benchtop Jointer
The Wahuda jointer offers smooth and level edges and surfaces easily and quickly. So that you can achieve smooth and precise cuts on figured and tough woods.
This jointer also features a spiral cutter head with 4-way carbide inserts for quieter and sharper operation. With the standard size of the blade makes the product cost-effective too and makes the replacement simple too. The 12,000 RPM is made possible with the 120V motor. It can easily take care of the flattening, jointing, handling, edging and tapering off any surface. The additional fence can be tilted at angles from 90° and 135° to increase versatility.
The expandable and adjustable iron cast tables can improve the stability to make it suitable for working on larger boards.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 8-inch
- Speed: 12,000 RPM
- Weight: 49.9 lbs
Pros
- Precise cuts can be achieved easily and quickly.
- Spiral cutter head with 4-way carbide.
- 120V motor.
- Tiltable additional fence.
Cons
- The cast iron outfeed table is not flat.
5. RIKON Power Tools Benchtop Jointer
This Rikon jointer features a 6-row helical cutter head style along with additional double-edge 16-carbide inserts for smooth and swift action.
This product allows knife changes which makes it suitable for all kinds of woodwork activities. The fence can tilt at an angle of 90° to 45°. Also, there is an easy-read measurement scale and a safety switch for better and efficient performance. The extendable table makes enough room to work with all kinds of boards. Further, it also features dust ports and spring-loaded accurate safety guards.
The compact size and lightweight design make it portable and the user can easily store it away when not in use.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 12,000 RPM
- Weight: 57.9 lbs
Pros
- Helical cutter head.
- Options of knife change.
- Easy read measurement scale.
- Compact size.
Cons
- Not suitable for hardwood.
6. Detla Power Benchtop Jointer
The Delta Bench Top Jointer is perfect for accurate and strong woodworking tools. Made from sturdy cast iron, this jointer stays stable and reduces vibrations. Its precise table and fence ensure consistent accuracy, allowing for clean and exact cuts every time.
With a heavy-duty cast iron fence support system, this jointer offers precise jointing. Adjusting the fence is easy thanks to positive stops at 90˚ and 45˚. It can cut up to 1/8″ deep and handles an impressive 20,000 cuts per minute. Whether you’re a woodworking enthusiast or a professional, this Jointer delivers professional-grade performance.
Best Features
- Amperage: 12 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 20,000 RPM
- Weight: 76 pounds
- Up to 1/8″ depth of cut
Pros
- Stable and vibration-free operation.
- Long-lasting accuracy.
- Heavy-duty construction.
- Easy-to-use fence adjustment system.
- High cutting capacity
Cons
- Inconsistent alignment of infeed and outfeed tables.
7. Shop Fox Benchtop Jointer
This cast iron jointer by Shop Fox is durable, sturdy and allows it to work for all boards that are 6-inches wide.
This 10-ampere jointer can manage a depth of ⅛ inches. Additionally, it features a spiral head with 12 inserts which can be replaced individually. The speed of the cutter head is impeccable at 10,000 RPM. The dust port is 2½ inches which accumulates the dust and keeps the surroundings clean.
The large table size makes it a sturdy base for all DIY wood projects. Additionally, the carbide insert size is large enough to accommodate all kinds of boards.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 10,000 RPM
- Weight: 43.08 lbs
Pros
- Cast iron material.
- 10 ampere suitable for all kinds of works.
- Large and sturdy table.
- Dust port keeps the surroundings clean.
Cons
- No adjustments are needed.
8. Grizzly Benchtop Jointer
Want high-speed steel to make precise cuts on the wooden board? This Grizzly jointer features cutting the edges directly perpendicular to the wood.
The jointer has a spiral cutter head which enables less maintenance, quiet operation and smooth finishes as opposed to the straight cutter heads. These jointers have been treated with heat for resistance to wear and tear and hardness. Further, the dual side inserts allow sharper edges and reduce noise while working. The dust created is finer and is collected in clogged lines throughout the edges.
The compact size allows it to be portable and store easily when not in use.
Best Features
- Amperage: 10 amps
- Size: 6-inch
- Speed: 11,000 RPM
- Weight: 81 lbs
Pros
- High-speed steel construction.
- Quiet operation.
- Less maintenance.
- Compact size.
Cons
- Not Mentioned
Things to Consider When Looking for a Benchtop Jointer
There are many options in the market highlighting different features about their benchtop jointer which might make it difficult for you to choose the ideal product for you.
In the following section, we have listed some of the basic things that will assist you while you pick your ideal benchtop jointer. However, while keeping these guidelines in your mind, it is also important for you to carry out primary research on the testing of different products and brands to know about your selected product.
1. Type of Cutter Head
Choosing the cutter head is one of the eminent things while selecting the benchtop jointer. This is that thing which decides the noise produced, sawdust amount accumulated and the energy required for it to function properly. There are three basic types of cutter heads. We have discussed them below.
- Straight Knives Cutter Heads: They usually feature three blades meant for spinning the entire width of the drum. With each pass, they cut through the piece of wood with the entire width. They are easy to maintain but they make a lot of noise. But, if they strike a rock or nail, they become trash.
- Helical Cutter Heads: These are high-quality heads that feature several small blades arranged in a spiral position. They have smooth functioning and make much less noise. Additionally, these blades can be replaced individually if they go bad.
- Spiral Cutter Heads: These heads have smooth functioning and make less noise than the first alternative but you need to replace the whole unit if they need repair.
2. Amps and Power
To get the work done in the stipulated time and to work effortlessly, woodworkers need powerful machines to work efficiently.
Yes, the power of the motor is important but the amperage and speed of the motor are even more essential. The 10-ampere jointers are ideal for all jobs. They prevent overheating even when working heavy-duty. They are also very efficient as they can perform 20,000 or more cuts in a minute.
3. Cutting Depth and Bed Width
The cutting depth specifies how much wood can be removed at one time. The task of achieving the perfectly carved wood is all about precision and patience. The average depth of the cut should be ⅛ of an inch as it allows the worker to easily remove a good amount of waste.
The bed width of the jointer is another important feature to look for when selecting the benchtop jointer. It decides the length of the board which can be handled by the jointer.
For small woodwork projects, the 6-inch benchtop jointers are suitable for 6-inch wood boards. The bed width of the jointer should match the length of the boards that you usually work with. The 8-inch and the 10-inch wooden boards usually require a standing jointer which can be really expensive.
4. Fence
Arguably, the bed is the most eminent part of the jointer but the fence is just as important. The main purpose of these are to work as a sturdy base while the worker planes the wooden board to a plane surface. However, it has more uses which makes this part much more important.
Once the wooden piece is milled perfectly, the workers pass the board against the fence to achieve an adjustable or square edge which is hard to find in a readymade board. For high-quality wood projects, this step is crucial which makes the fence very important.
5. Dust Accumulation
Hygiene and aesthetics go side by side. If you are a beginner in woodwork, you probably do not have any idea about how much time and effort goes into collecting the minute dust particles after the completion of the work. So, it is important for you to select a jointer with an in-built vacuum system which can collect all the dust for you to work in a healthy environment.
6. Stability
Your money should be put into a jointer which gives you a well-built frame which is stable and does not produce a lot of noise or vibrate furiously in the long run. For a stable structure, you can go for cast iron frames as the carbon flyaways guarantee a non-vibrating process and also a stable structure.
7. Safety
The safety features should always be considered when buying the jointer or any product for any physical task. Safety should always take precedence over the budget as life is more important and power tools are hazardous. Therefore, it is better to go for the jointer which keeps safety in mind and possesses features like front power buttons, spring safety guards, push sticks and push blocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: The benchtop jointers are essentially power tools that are used to flatten the surfaces and smoothen the edges of a rough piece of wood. They can also be used to get rid of the hacksaw impressions on the wooden boards and smoothen the warped woods.
Ans: Jointer is used to create flat surfaces and planes on wooden surfaces. It can also alter warped, bowed, twisted, or cupped timbers. While the planer can be only used to reduce the thickness of the wooden board.
Ans: The basic parts of the benchtop jointer are a cutter head, outfeed tables, infeed, and power motor. Some of the additional features are fence, safety push sticks, safety push blocks, and dust port which adds to the benefits.
Ans: The main application of the benchtop jointer is to smoothen the edges of the wooden boards so that they can be joined together to make smooth door edges, tabletops and cabinets. You can also use it to strengthen the curvatures for window panes, door handles and others.
Ans: While working with the benchtop jointer, you should never make free-hand adjustments while the machine is running.
Conclusion
When choosing a benchtop jointer, it’s important to focus on precision cutting, and stability. These aspects play a key role in finding the right jointer for your woodworking tasks. A good quality benchtop jointer can greatly enhance your work efficiency and the overall quality of your projects. Remember to prioritize these features when making your purchase.
Our Top Recommendations for you:
- If you are looking for recommendations, we have listed our top three favourites from our list. The first recommendation from our list is PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer. It is a very versatile product and proves efficiency by allowing variable speed.
- The second suggestion from our list of products is CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer. This product features variable speed and adjustable cutter head speed to work on several boards.
- The third and final product from our list is WEN Benchtop Jointer. It features 12 HSS cutter heads which allow smooth functioning and easy replacement.
