The advent of the handheld planer makes it really easy to plane shingles, decks, fence boards, and almost anything else you can imagine. And, no, you don’t need a drill to use one, either.
A planer is basically an electric razor for wood. You place the handle on the piece of wood you want to plane and move a set of blades back and forth, shaving off small pieces of wood. You can use a powered planer to shape and smooth wood, or to make the wood flat.
A handheld planer is lightweight, compact, easy to use, and convenient. While handheld power planers don’t replace benchtop planers, they do come in handy for many tasks that would require a lot more time and effort with a manual planer.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| MAKITA 6-3/4" PLANER | Best Overall |  |
| WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer | Budget Pick |  |
| DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX Brushless Planer | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. MAKITA 6-3/4" PLANER
Pros:
- Versatile in its use
- Powerful and well-built
- Storage of carbide inserts is possible
- Comes with 24 months of warranty and 27 month of support
- Solid design and firm grip
- Ergonomic grip
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Heavier than many other models
- Not suitable for beginners with less hand strength
If you are looking for a heavy-duty tool that can not only handle the most demanding jobs but also work long hours (with its long-lasting battery), then the Makita 6-3/4" Planer with a two-speed metal gearbox is definitely the choice for you. It is a lightweight tool with a built-in lithium-ion battery, able to run for 8 hours continuously. It has a powerful motor of 2-amps. This machine is also easily adjustable for different finger placements, with its ergonomic handle. This tool has a powerful motor of 2 amps which is more than enough to tackle any planing job.
2. DEWALT Hand Planer Kit
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Great for serious DIY projects
- Safe operational speed
- Easy-to-use
- Stainless steel blades
- Carrying bag included
- One-year limited warranty
- Powerful
- Compact
- Affordable
Cons:
- Mediocre blade for occasional use
- Speed should be regulated for efficient performance
- Handle can get uncomfortable after a while
- Overall quality of blades
On the list of best hand planers, we have put this Dewalt Hand Planer Kit, it comes with a 5.5-amp motor that can be set to run from 0 to 3500 RPM. If you need it to perform faster, just switch to high speed and make it go up to 5500 RPM. This small but powerful machine is great for serious DIY projects because it can handle wood thicknesses of 1-7/8 to 2-1/8 inch. It is also corded with a 9-foot power cord for added freedom of movement.
The planer has a lightweight design and can be used right-handed or left-handed. If space is a problem, we still recommend this Dewalt hand planer for its compact size and easy use with one hand.
3. Bosch PL1632 6.5 Amp Planer
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable at just 12lbs
- Adjustable depth stop with 3 custom grooves
- Carbon brushes and beveled knives for durability
- Decent dust collection system
- Hassle-free 5 years of service warranty
- Automatic oiling system
- Comes with sample wood selection for practice
Cons:
- Flimsy base
- Not very durable
- Shrouds can get in the way while planing
- Tricky switch placement
- Some parts are difficult to take off and put on
The Bosch PL1632 6.5 Amp Planer with three adjustable settings is simply the best hand planer. It allows for a smooth and no-fuss planing, is lightweight at just 12 pounds, and also has an automatic knife sharpener. It also comes with a 5 years service warranty, which protects buyers against any defects or acts of manufacturing. It also has many great cutting features including adjustable bevel settings.
The cast aluminum base is a little flimsy but doesn’t affect performance much. The Bosch Planer 1632 comes with a sample wood selection that helps beginners get used to the machine quickly, and it includes the instruction manual.
4. Makita KP0810 3-1/4" Planer
Pros:
- High speed and powerful motor
- Powerful and heavy-duty carbide knives
- Built-in electronic feedback system
- Thickness gauge for ideal cutting depth
- Quiet and durable
- Carrying case included
- Ideal for door and window installations
- Relatively affordable
Cons:
- High maintenance
- Some users have reported motors wearing out easily
When it comes to electric hand planers, Makita is a household name … and you can see why. The Makita KP0810 Planer is one of the best options to consider. If you do a lot of window and door installation, then this is the perfect power tool for you.
It features a three-blade cutter set that gives a smooth and even finish. The blades are built using carbide, which is considered to be the best material for cutting, along with an open and close side lever switch.
The machine has a powerful yet quiet 15 amp motor, which means you get smooth and fast planing operations. This is actually one of the most powerful and efficient tools in its class.
5. PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer
Pros:
- Lightweight (only 3.8 pounds)
- 12-month limited warranty
- Quick-release depth stop
- 3-position handle to quickly change positions
- Easy, one-hand operating lever
- Slanted front to drain shavings
- Adjustable magnetic base
- Quick release spindle lock
- Consistent plunging depth
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Dust-collection bag has insufficient capacity
- Doesn’t include a carrying case
Although this planer is of a smaller size compared to other models, its construction is quite sturdy. This is because it’s made of durable aluminum and cast iron. These materials won’t cause the tool to vibrate excessively, and they ensure it weighs only 3.8 pounds. The Porter Cable PC60THP features a maximum speed of 1,500 rpm and has a contoured handle and adjustable base.
The Porter Cable hand planer has a quick-release spindle lock and a wide cutting length that’s 12 inches. It also features an edge guide that can be easily adjusted to create a consistent cutting depth. Inside the handle, there is a depth post that adjusts the depth of the cutting blade. It also has a quick-release depth stop that allows for easy changes.
6. Bosch 12V Max Planer
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Simple operation
- Excellent design with great gripping points
- Backed by a one-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Won’t work on left-handed door bottoms
- Takes a lot of practice to master
- Not the most powerful hand planer
Want to tackle DIY projects, but don’t think you have the skills to make it happen? Not to worry. All you need is a reliable hand planer, and you’ll be ready to take on any project!
Experts agree that hand planers are the best choice for people with tight budgets and smaller jobs. If you’re working with expensive exotic wood or even just hardwood, then a hand planer might not be the best tool for you. But if you’re looking to get your floors looking smooth, or just want a quick and budget-friendly touch-up on your door bottoms, then a hand planer is right for you!
Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best electric hand planers for you to choose from.
7. WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer
Pros:
- Great price
- Lightweight
- Easy to maneuver and control
- Ergonomic over-mold handles for better grip
Cons:
- Does not work well on all types of wood
- Not a versatile tool
- Doesn’t have replacable blades
The WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is our top choice for the best electric hand planers available in 2020. It is a mid-range priced unit that comes with a set of 6 steel blades that can be easily replaced. It has a 3-1/4-inch cutting length and can handle soft materials like plywood and pine. It also has an ergonomic over-mold handle and an attractive design that suits almost any woodworking workshop or home.
This particular product is a great choice for door frames, cabinets, tables and desks. It can also be used for woodworking projects like model airplane building, dairies, and architectural interiors. Plus, the speed can be adjusted according to the type of wood you are working on – soft, hard, or wooden frames.
However, keep in mind that this is not a versatile tool that can work on all types of wood without problems. It is best for soft and low density woods. It wouldn’t work well on dense woods like oak.
8. DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX Brushless Planer
Pros:
- A great entry-level model for woodworking beginners
- Powerful motor with a brushless design
- Great battery life
- Lightweight and portable design
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Large and bulky design
- Noisy
When it comes to the best corded and cordless hand planers, we’re looking for a few things. First, the motor should be durable, powerful, and easy to use. Second, it’s also important for the design to be well-balanced. Third, we need a tool that’s cordless and lightweight. The DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX Brushless Planer meets all these needs.
The DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX Brushless Planer comes with a 20V Max Lithium Ion battery and charger. It also has a brushless technology, which ensures it lasts longer and runs efficiently. The tool can be fully charged in under an hour, so you can clear up shop and get back to the job. It comes with a powerful motor that delivers 3000 feet per minute and an adjustable tool depth of 3/32”, 1/8”, and 3/16”.
9. Makita KP0800K 3-1/4-Inch Planer Kit
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Comes with a carbide cutter
- Fantastic for DIY
- Lightweight and compact
- Ultra-quiet operation
Cons:
- Construction feels a tad flimsy
- Doesn’t work on ripped wood
- Cuts unevenly on rough surfaces
- Cutter head requires frequent sharpening
This entry-level blood cutter from Makita is a fantastic choice for those looking for an easy way to get a high-quality, flat, clean edge on wood. This compact planer has a 3.25 inch cutter head and is comfortable to use thanks to the rubber handle. It has a 3,000 RPM motor and gives you a maximum depth of cut of 1/64-inch in a single pass.
The Makita KP0800K won’t hog all the space in your workshop. It’s compact enough to be tucked away under your workbench. This unit also comes with a carbide cutter that you can use to do fine cuts. The Makita planer requires a 120V electrical connection. It takes about an hour to get the unit up and running.
10. Ryobi HPL52K 6 Amp 16,500 RPM 3 1/4" Corded Hand Planer
Pros:
- Easy to start due to the built-in One-Touch Start feature
- Powerful motor
- Comfortable handles
- High performance blades
- includes a motorized stand
- light and easy to carry
- strong magnetic switch
- affordable price
This machine supports large-sized planer blades, so the cutting capabilities are top notch. The blades are made from carbide, so as you might have guessed, they’re super durable. The motor is capable of delivering 20,000 RPM, so you can expect the planing process to be very quick. And, it’s designed to have a long life, so the motor should last you for years to come.
The planer also comes with a tool-free depth adjustment set up, which will allow you to easily customize the depth your planer can cut through wood to your desired level. This allows for more accurate operations, which is crucial when you’re working with delicate pieces of furniture!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best electric hand planer?
The best electric hand planer is a Makita HP541K. This device is cordless, and it is able to discharge dust in a better way compared to other hand planers.
Another type of electric hand planer is the corded planer. This device has lower power and noise but produces more vibrations than a cordless planer.
The last type is the pneumatic planer. This type features higher power but produces a lot of vibration and is not easy to use.
What is the best hand planer?
The best hand planer is a bit of a crowded category. There are some true gems in this class, and also a lot of poorly made products.
Check this from wiki on “Top 5 best hand planers”.
Harbor Freight 2. Hitachi 3. PORTER-CABLE 4.Work Sharp 5. Makita
I have a few of the top 5 hand planers listed above and currently have the Porter-Cable planer on my worksite. It tore through the job, and for a handheld planer, it certainly destroys any other handheld planer I've seen. It is just an amazing tool, hands down.
Are handheld planers any good?
Handheld wood planers are a unique and affordable solution for anyone who doesn't need their wood planer often enough to justify a full-size machine. An older carpenter told me once, “You'll chip your arms off if you use those handheld wood planers.’
To be fair, an old-fashioned wood planer can, and often does, leave your arms sore. They also tend to make a lot more noise than a handheld wood planer. If the handheld wood planer is being used in a small workshop where it will be combined with a full-size wood planer, it will likely be loud enough. One of the best features of a handheld wood planer is that it can take down the edge of large pieces with relative ease.
How do I choose an electrical planer?
The first thing you should do is consider the material you will be planing. This planer will be useless for items made from wood and metal.
When selecting the tool, you need to know if it is a fixed or variable planer. Fixed planers are used on solid wood and will cut a straight line. Variable planers can be used on different materials. If you have lots of different job sites, it is better to go with a fixed planer.
The tool is also available in two different types, top and side. Handheld planers typically have top blades. This means that you will need to hold it on a top side when you make your cuts. Side blades are designed to be used with speaker side while you secure your work piece on another end.
Conclusion
In our opinion, the best-electric hand planer is the Milwaukee 5625-20. It has a powerful motor that allows it to produce a high-quality, clean cut. Moreover, it has been designed with a “Tool Free Depth of Cut” lever that adjusts the size of the cut, so that users will have optimum control over their work. It comes with a strong rip fence so that users can customize the size of the cut, ideal for people with different needs and preferences.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| MAKITA 6-3/4" PLANER | Best Overall | |
| WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer | Budget Pick | |
| DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX Brushless Planer | Upgrade Pick | |