The 7 Best Hand Planers Reviews and Buying Guide

Hand planer is a beginner-friendly woodworking tool that can help you work with different projects easily.

They are also suitable for handling large-sized wood stock that are difficult to place over a table. These tools are efficient in removing extra thickness from stubborn wood, chamfering corners and even making rabbets.

Handheld planers are available in different types, power and efficiency. To choose the best among them, we recommend to consider the below factors.

Corded Vs. Cordless –

Corded or cordless are two power sources used to run the hand planers. Both have their own set of pros and cons and can be used in different situations.

• Corded models are lighter, affordable, and powerful but have limited movement. It needs to plug into an electrical outlet and has to invest in an extension cord for its proper working.
• Cordless models are portable and run-on battery but it is heavier, expensive and limited runtime. They require to invest in an extra battery for its proper working.

Motor Power –

Voltage (cordless models) and Amperage (corded models) is used to measure the motor power of the tool. A tool with a more powerful motor can easily cut through thicker and harder material and result in a perfect finish. For corded planers, we need at least 5 amps and to operate cordless models, we need at least 20V max voltage.

RPM –

The speed of a power tool is measured in RPM, and its range for hand planers will be 15,000 – 20,000 RPM. It means the rounds of cuts a blade make at a full speed in a minute. However, battery-powered planers have slight less RPMs than the corded models.

Cutting Width & Depth –

The cutting width is the maximum width of material that is taken off in a single pass, whereas the cutting depth is the maximum depth that will let you quickly work by taking off the surface in a single pass. The wider the cutting dimensions the quicker you can plan a large area. So, choose them as needed.

It would be a bit overwhelming to find your best option from various models of hand planers in the market. So, we came up with a list of the top-selling hand planers along with their best features, pros and cons that help you to pick the right one. Also, our detailed “Buying Guide” will help you to choose your best and perfect handheld planer.

Best Hand Planers

7 Best Hand Planers Reviews

1. Wen Hand Planer

Wen is a pretty popular power tool brand that has produced many high rated power tools. They also have an electric hand planer in their line up.

In the 1st position, we have a great hand planer from Wen. Wen 6534 is a powerful 8 amp hand planer that is capable of cutting 4 ⅜ inches cutting capacity. Along with such a high powered motor, you get a high cutting speed of 32000 cuts per minute. The cutting depth on Wen 6534 is adjustable on 16 different steps where it can be adjusted from 0 to ⅛ inches.

There is a 2-way dust port available on the top of the cutting section that can disburse dust on either the left side or right side, depending upon your preference. It also has a dust adaptor that can be used to attach external dust collectors. The cutting is done by 2 high-speed steel reversible planer blades and 2 V-shaped chamfer grooves. Wen gives 2 years of the warranty period on the tool.

Best Features

• 8 amp motor
• 4 ⅜ inches cutting capacity
• 32000 cuts per minute
• 16 step cutting depth adjustment
• Depth adjustment from 0 to ⅛ inches
• 2-way dust port
• Dust adaptor support
• 2 high-speed steel reversible blades
• 2 V-shaped chamfer grooves
• 3 years of the warranty period

Pros

• Warranty duration is pretty long
• High cutting speed

Cons

• Blade changing is difficult
• Dust collection could be better

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2. Makita Hand Planer

Makita is yet another well-known brand in the power tool industry. We have included a hand planer from Makita below.

Makita XPK01Z is the best cordless hand planer available in the market right now. It is powered by an 18-volt lithium-ion battery that is capable of 3 ¼ inches wide and 5/64 inches deep cuts in a single cycle. The cutting mechanism consists of 2 blade cutters head that has double edge carbide blades for better performance. Makita XPK01Z weighs only 7.4 lbs. It is significantly lightweight, considering it is a cordless hand planer.

Makita XPK01Z has a significant 14000 RPM rated motor that is designed for faster material removal rates. As for the depth adjustment, there is a quick depth adjustment knob on the top,, along with a painted scale for better understanding. You can adjust the depth of cuts within 0 to 5/64 inches range. There is an electric brake on the tool that can be used to stop the blade right after finishing a cycle for better productivity.

Best Features

• 18-volt lithium-ion battery
• 3 ¼ inches wide and 5/64 inches deep cuts possible
• 14000 RPM motor speed
• Depth adjustment from 0 to 5/64 inches
• Weighs only 7.4 lbs
• 2 high-speed steel
• Electric brake
• 2 years of the warranty period

Pros

• Warranty duration is pretty long
• Cordless hand planer
• Electric brake for better productivity

Cons

• Expensive price tag
• Battery needs to be bought separately

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3. Porter-Cable Hand Planer

Porter is an affordable brand that also produces various power tools and equipment. Fortunately, they also have an affordable handh planer.

Porter Cable PC60THP has a heavy-duty 6 amp motor that has a 16500 RPM rating. This much power is good enough for any sort of domestic projects. There is a dual-sided dust extraction system that will allow you to remove dust on the opposite side to prevent visual problems while working. There is a mold depth knob that offers depth adjustment settings in 10 different steps.

This hand planer has better performance regarding edge chamfering jobs as it has 3 chamfering grooves to get the job done. The maximum depth of cut that can be obtained with Porter Cable PC60THP is up to 5/64 inches, which is standard for hand planers. The material removal rate is pretty good with this planer because of its 0.47-inch maximum rabbit depth. Porter Cable gives 3 years warranty on the tool, which is better than many other options.

Best Features

• 6 amp motor
• 16500 RPM motor speed
• 10 step cutting depth adjustment
• Depth adjustment from 0 to 5/64 inches
• 2-way dust port
• 3 chamfer grooves
• 47-inch maximum rabbit depth
• 3 years of the warranty period

Pros

• Warranty duration is pretty long
• Affordable price tag

Cons

• Motor capacity could be better
• Depth adjustment steps are less

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4. Jellas Hand Planer

Jellas is a relatively small brand that specializes in developing premium grade power tools, hand tools, and pocket knives. The brand’s products are known for their innovative designs and robust build quality.

Jellas’ hand planer is powered by a 7.5amp motor that delivers up to 16500 RPM and 33000 cuts per minute. Plus, it is equipped with 2 double edged 65Mn carbide blades for providing smooth cuts. With this hand planer, you can cut wood up to ⅛-inch depth for quick and efficient processing of the workpiece. It comes with a reversible dust chute that can be connected to a vacuum cleaner and a dust bag for easy removal of the sawdust.

The hand planer features a dual handle design with auxiliary handles for convenient operation. The auxiliary push handle and depth adjustment handle are placed wide apart to prevent unevenness of the board surface if you accidentally slide the adjustment handle. The bottom plate made of mirror-grade aluminum provides high flatness along with high precision. There are 3 chamfer grooves to create angled chamfer along the edges for different woodworking projects.

Best Features

• 7.5 amp motor
• ⅛-inch cutting depth
• 165000 RPM motor speed
• 2 double-edged 65Mn carbide blades
• Dual handle design
• Reversible dust chute
• 3 chamfer grooves
• Mirror-grade aluminum flat bottom plate
• 8 lbs weight

Pros

• Power heavy duty option
• Easy to operate

Cons

• Blades have to be adjusted
• Warranty period is not specified

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5. STANLEY Hand Planer

STANLEY is one of the leading manufacturers of power tools, hand tools and related accessories. Their hand planer is suitable for crafts, 1-12-220 makers and all light-duty jobs.

It comes with a cast iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom, making it durable and capable of withstanding regular wear and tear. It also has epoxy coating to provide resistance from rust or corrosion.

As the planer has adjustable depth cut and alignment, it is suitable for cross-grain planing. The manufacturer provides lifetime-warranty on this product.

Best Features:

• Rests at 20 degrees angle
• Adjustable depth cutting and alignment
• Durable epoxy coating
• Cast iron base and sides
• Weighs only 1.9 pounds

Pros:

• Ready to use
• Good quality
• Reliable performance
• Value for money

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks

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6. Ryobi Hand Planer 

Ryobi is a pretty underrated brand when it comes to power tools. They have a lot of positive reviews on their power tools, including this hand planer.

Ryobi HPL52K is a moderately powered handheld planer that holds a 6 amp motor that is capable of up to 16500 RPM. It has a maximum 3 ¼ inches cutting capacity where the cutting depth could be adjusted from 1 to ⅛ inches where each sequential stop gives an increment of 1/96 inches. The depth adjustment option can be really helpful in case of high surface finish requirements. The machine is pretty easy to control because of its rubber molded grip.

There is an additional safety measure on the power switch that prevents accidental activation. This can be a real issue if you are dealing with intricate workpieces. There are 2 different exhaust ports that allow discharge on either side for ease of operation. The tool is designed ergonomically so that it won’t accidentally scuff on the rear side that causes marring on the workpiece. Ryobi gives a long 3 years of the warranty period that makes it one of the most reliable options available for you.

Best Features

• 6 amp motor
• 3 ¼ inches cutting capacity
• 1/96 inches cutting depth increment
• Depth adjustment from 1 to ⅛ inches
• Easy to control
• 2-way dust port
• Lock-off button for safety
• Ergonomic design
• 3 years of the warranty period

Pros

• Warranty duration is long
• Depth adjustment is very good

Cons

• Expensive price tag
• Motor capacity is comparatively lower

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7. Craftsman Hand Planer

Craftsman does not need any introduction. It is a global leader in the development of a wide range of power tools and hand tools. The brand’s products are known for their robust build quality along with superior performance and high efficiency.

Craftsman’s hand planer runs on a powerful 6-amp motor using which you can achieve smooth cuts on soft as well as hard materials. The motor delivers an impressive 16,500 RPM that helps in fast removal of the materials. Even if you are a beginner, you can achieve precision cuts using this hand planer. Thanks to the 11.5 inches cast aluminum shoe that provides better control and smooth finish.

With the help of the overmolded depth, you can choose from 10 positive steps and adjust the depth of cuts. Plus, you get 3 chamfering grooves for chamfering the edges.The 5/64 inches depth of cut allows you to remove excess materials within a short span of time. The extraction ports are present on both sides of the hand planner that saves you the trouble of cleaning the workspace manually. Craftsman backs all its hand planners with a 3 years warranty from the date of purchase.

Best Features

• 6 amp motor
• 16,500 RPM motor speed
• 10 step cutting depth adjustment
• 5/64-inch depth of cut
• 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe
• 3 chamfering grooves
• Dual-side dust extractor
• 3 years warranty

Pros

• Long warranty period
• Affordable pricing

Cons

• Not the most powerful option
• Depth adjustment steps are less

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How to Select the Best Hand Planer:

Knowing what features to consider while shopping and comparing them with your requirements will help you to pick the right one. So, we are here with a detailed buying guide to help you in deciding which model suits best for you from our above list of best hand planers.

Let’s get into the details of what factors to check when choosing a hand planer.

1. Corded or Cordless:

Corded or cordless are two types of power sources available for electric handheld planers. A corded planer has to plug into an electrical wall outlet for its functioning, whereas a cordless planer uses a battery pack to work efficiently. Make sure to consider your application before choosing the power source.

• Corded Hand Planer – It is lighter, affordable, and provide a significant power output till it is connected to a power source, yet has a limited range of movement. You have to invest in an extension cord to use it effectively.
• Cordless Hand Planer – It is portable that can be carried and used anywhere, yet has limited runtime (till the charging in battery lasts), is expensive, and a bit heavier. You have to invest in extra batteries for continuous working.

2. Motor Power:

We mainly focus on the amperage or voltage of the tool while talking about its motor power. Here, the amperage (amps) is used to measure the motor power of corded models, while voltage is the power indicator for cordless or battery-operated models.

The powerful motor will let you work through thicker and harder materials easily, whereas undersized motors produce shotty cuts and thereby results in a less than perfect finish.

The corded electric hand planer should have at least 5 amps, in which the more powerful motor is always better. So, pick a model with a powerful 7.5-amp planer. Mostly, the cordless models use lithium-ion batteries of different max voltages (V), in which they operate efficiently at 20V max voltage.

3. Speed:

The operating speed of this power tool is another essential factor to consider, which is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). The speed range of most modern hand electric planers will be from 15,000 – 20,000 RPM. Here RPM is defined as the number of rounds a blade does in a minute once it reaches full speed. For instance, one can make 32,000 cuts per minute with this power tool at 16000 RPM, as two blades are mounted at 180° from each other on the shaft.

Usually, battery-operated cordless planers have a bit lower RPMs than their corded counterparts.  Also, the load we keep on the tool will drop their cuts per minute, especially while cutting a hardwood in a low depth setting.

4. Cutting Width:

The tool’s width value is given by the manufacturer is considered as the width of the cutting surface. It is defined as the maximum width of material that is removed in a single pass. So, the wider the cut dimension, the quicker a large surface is planed. While a narrow width can be benefitted to get in and around hard to reach or tight spots while dealing with small projects.

However, 3 ¼ inches is the most common cutting width capacity that we see in various electric planers. Thus, it is considered as the golden standard, why because most electric hand planers can exceed it easily.

5. Cutting Depth:

The cutting depth of a tool is another essential feature to check while buying this handheld planer. However, the maximum cut depth of electric planers is broken up into increments. The max depth of a tool will let you work faster by taking off a lot of surface area in a single pass. Also, it let you adjust the depth by increments to be precise in cutting. Here these increments are termed as positive stops. So, if there are more stops, the more accurate will be the width of your material.

You can adjust the depth with the help of a front knob. So, check the models that have a lock or won’t need to reset to zero, which helps to maintain a level and accurate depth. If your project requires more precise or accurate measurements, then pick a planer with 20 positive stops that let you fine-tune the depth.

6. Depth Scale:

A good depth scale will play a crucial role in controlling the workpiece’s finish quality. Usually, a deeper setting will help to cut off more material, whereas a shallower setting will trim a little bit. Almost all electric hand planers come with two scales – inches, and metric. Also, it is essential to double-check whether the setting you use is right or not. The difference between 1 cm and 1 inch is huge, which might destroy the work accidentally.

7. Blades:

Usually, the planer blades will do the actual work. Carbide and high-speed steel (HSS) are two main types of blades. Based on the requirement, one has to pick the right type of blade. For this, one has to know all about the blade types with their pros and cons. Few planers are featured to handle either type of blade.

• Carbide Blades –

Carbide blades have a higher cutting speed and can easily reach a hotter temperature. They are harder, sharper, expensive, durable, and offers a longer shelf-life than steel blades. It can cut through any type of wood, including synthetic type. Though their sharp edges last longer compared to HSS blades, yet need specialized tools to re-sharpen them. In most cases, it’s better to buy new blades, instead of replacing the dull blades. Add tungsten to enhance the rigidity of the carbide blade, which adds extra to the price tag.

• High-Speed Steel (HSS) Blades –

The HSS blades are affordable, and a better option for small, deeper cuts. They can cut through softwoods (like pine) only. But they are not as durable, won’t have strength or speed as carbide blades. Also, they lose sharpness quickly, yet can easily combat with a sharpening jig (or) find a replacement for these blades.

8. Number of Blades:

Though it is not an essential feature for beginners, as one blade is quite sufficient for them to do their operations. However, after gaining some experience, you came to know things work well when done in unison. So, we suggest using planers with at least two blades. Even though it takes a longer time to get used to this type of setup, yet its payoff is vast.

9. Handling Comfort:

Since it is a hand power tool, handling comfort plays a vital role. So, it is a must to check few aspects like the tool’s weight, design orientation, surface properties, handle’s grip, etc., which falls under the handling comfort category. You should look at a balance of all these aspects to get optimum comfort to handle this hand planer. Remember that if you are uncomfortable with the tool, you can’t generate satisfying results on the workpiece.

10. Weight:

The weight of this power tool will vary a lot depending on certain factors like materials, built construction, power and size. It is vital to consider based on the type of work you use this planer.

For instance, a lightweight cordless model is the best option for those who are working in awkward positions or carrying it around. While heavier tools will make you feel fatigued and uncomfortable quickly and thereby results in improper working. While a lightweight tool allows you to work for a longer time without much effort.

11. Dust Collector:

Planing generates a lot of dust, splinters and flakes. So, a dust collector is a must-have feature to ensure that your workplace won’t turn into a huge mess. The planer with a good suction bag will suck all those ejected chips and shavings. For this, you have to connect the bag with the hand planer via. attachment points. Most planers offer a dual-dust exhaust that let debris from your work shoot out to the side that not working.

12. Grip Handle:

Though it is an overlooked feature by most people, yet it is used to determine the overall work quality. Using a hard and rigid handle will make your hand feel pain after working for a while. This pain will let you lose focus, which results in doing mistakes and overall destruction in your working process. Thus, the grip handle should allow you to work peacefully by focusing on the work by not on the pain or discomfort caused by the handle while operating the hand planer.

13. Chip Direction:

The direction of the chip will let you know the place where the shavings, debris, and chips are ejected. This will help you to keep your face away from there and to have a safe operation. Also, you can pick some options that offer chip chutes and angling them away from the face as a protective aid.

14. Other Features:

There are so many other aspects to check for determining which one is best for you. Take a look at some of these features and check them while buying the hand planer.

Chamfering Grooves – A chamfering groove will help to turn a corner into a flat surface. Planers will use either a v groove or three grooves based on the type of work you are dealing with.

Guides – It let you keep a straight line and be a level where it is required. Remember that not all planers have this option, and they can be different.

Shoes – It is placed at the bottom of the planer and made with aluminum. The shoe has to be level, or else the cut won’t be level.

Rabbets – These cuts are vital when you require a recess at the edge of the material/wood. Usually, planers offer different rabbet guides and depths, so one has to be careful with its selection.

Kickstand – Most planers have some sort of kickstand that is used to prevent exposed blades from touching the tabletop or ground. Also, it prevents the sharp edges from getting dulled or chipped.

Fences – It let you turn the workpiece into a perfect square surface on all sides. Just like a table saw fence, the planers have a fence to guide them steadily along the edge of the work surface. Few manufacturers design their fences to adjust for the purpose of perfect jointing or chamfering.

Trigger-Lock – This feature keeps the planer on without continuous squeezing the trigger. It helps to work for a longer time, as it relieves the hand strain caused due to the constant holding of the trigger in the ON position.

Stationary Support – An electric planer should be portable and easy to handle, which you have to stabilize sometimes. Then without stationary support, it would be hard to pull off. So, it is an ideal solution to get a planer with a bench converter feature.

Retractable Feet – Accidents, while planning will happen mostly by placing the planer down even still blades, are running. But one can prevent the chance of these accidents with the help of retractable feet. They work similarly to electric brakes. So, we suggest using a planer having this safety feature.

Build Quality – The build quality of the power tool is essential to consider before its purchase. The poor build quality of a tool will result in a quick breakdown, worse final cuts, and quick replacement of the tool. So, check the build quality that should be strong, durable, reliable and last longer.

15. Durability & Warranty:

The power tools should be durable and last longer without being replaced or re-purchased quite often. Usually, a power tool is constantly forced upon a single or multiple hard surfaces for doing various applications like planing, grinding, or cutting. So, there is a high chance that the hand planer gets damaged if it is not durable regarding your usage.

Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer on the product if you are unable to inspect its durability. Generally, a highly reliable product offers a longer warranty period. Most manufacturers offer a 1-year minimum warranty, while others offer 3 years or 5 years long warranty on their product.

16. Price:

The price of a particular product is an essential factor for most people. However, the price range of the hand planers will be $65 – $230, which depends mostly on the brand, features, warranty period and built quality. Based on your frequency of its usage, you can pick a product from either high range (often users) or low range (occasional user) prices.

How Do a Hand Planer Works?

One has to push the planer towards the wood surface (forward direction) after placing it on the top of the workpiece, which is called making a pass. It is essential to cut the outer layer of the wooden surface. However, the planer’s blade cut things it meets as per the depth you set through the adjustment knob. A general rule is that the deeper you go, the harder it becomes and the slower will be to make the pass. Based on the tool’s power and the number of cuts it does in a minute, it will determine the easiness of these cuts.

For instance, the cutter head of your planer will spin at a speed of 16000 RPM. If it contains two blades, then it results in 32000 cuts per minute. Simply, the more cuts a tool does in a minute will make it easy to work with.

A manual hand planer comes with a sharp single-sided blade that is used to shave away the outer layer while making a pass. Though these have back and front shoes and handles yet can operate with human power (manually), which are not as efficient as electric models. Also, it won’t cut depths or harder as electric planers do.

If looking to use an electric hand planer for chamfering or edge beveling, then check for a tool having a V-groove on the base plate.

What can we do by using an electric hand planer?

An electric hand planer is used for various purposes that make it a must-have tool in the tool arsenal. Here are some of its uses that let you know what we can do with an electric model.

• Improve Accuracy – It will increase the work accuracy while operating, which, in turn, saves a lot of effort and time and let you enjoy your woodworking project.
• Smoothing Wood Surfaces – This planer will quickly smooth out a rough surface, and leaves the faces and edges of the wood even and close to similar.
• Dimension Boards – It is capable to adjust the board dimensions. It let you trim down the edge for the right width (or) make passes to bring down the lumber’s overall thickness.

Why purchase an electric hand planer?

There are so many reasons to buy and use an electric hand planer. Have a look at some reasons to know why it is essential to buy an electric hand planer.

• Portability – Portability is a must while working in shared places like the basement or garage. Also, it works well in outside places where there is no power outlet or a bit of difficulty to set a full planer.
• Space Saver – Finding space in small shops to use these tools is a bit difficult task. While electric hand planers won’t have a stand or cabinet, which means they need less room. Also, it let you store them easily under the bench.
• Speed & Efficiency – The workflow and speed are essential to consider when working in the shop. It will improve efficiency while working with bulky materials. Also, it makes your work less compared to hand-powered tools.
• Larger Boards – A full-sized planer is limited in the material size it handles. While handing boards that are long or heavy will make you struggle to deal until an electric hand planer address any wood surface.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Conclusion:

A hand planer can be a really important tool for you if you are a regular wood worker. Even if you are just a DIY enthusiast, you can get a lot of wood work done with a hand planer that would otherwise take a long time and considerable effort. As you have read through our selection of best hand planers available in the market, you might have found the one that is best suited for you. We have also given a buying guide that will help to clear any second doubts about the product. Still, if you are unable to make a decision, you can take a look at our recommendations below:

• If you are looking to get a cordless hand planer, we will suggest you Makita Hand Planer as it is currently the best cordless hand planer in the market. It has an 18-volt lithium-ion battery that is capable of providing up to 3 ¼ inches wide and 5/64 inches deep cuts. Makita is giving a solid 3 years of warranty period that is much better than a few corded options on the list.
• Next up, we will recommend Wen hand planer as a heavy-duty option. It is the most powerful option from our list as it houses an 8 amp motor that can provide 32000 cuts per minute. There is a 2 year warranty period included with the Wen 6534.
• Lastly, we will suggest Craftsman Hand Planer as it is the most budget-friendly option out there. With an affordable price tag, you will get a powerful 6 amp motor that can work at a high speed of 16500 RPM. There is a long 3 years of warranty on this hand planer, which is good enough regarding its price tag.

Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any!