10 Best Portable Planers 2025 in the United States

The WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer is designed to offer powerful and efficient performance. Its 15-amp motor delivers a high cutterhead speed of 10,000 RPM, making it capable of handling tough materials with ease. The spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades ensures a smooth and clean finish, which is a significant advantage for users seeking precision in their woodworking projects.

Additionally, the planer can accommodate boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide, providing a decent cutting width and depth that should be satisfactory for most home and small workshop tasks. The onboard material removal gauge is a helpful feature as it allows users to monitor the cutting depth of each pass, adding to its user-friendliness.

The WEN PL1326 is relatively heavy, weighing 36.74 kilograms, which may impact its portability and make it less convenient to move around. While it excels in power and performance, the dust collection system might require additional accessories to be efficient, as dust management is crucial in maintaining a clean workspace. This planer is well-suited for users who need a robust tool for precise and smooth finishes but might find it challenging to move around due to its weight.

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 Makita 2012NB 12" Portable Planer is a reliable option for woodworkers looking for a blend of performance and portability. This planer features a cutting width of 11.86 inches, which is suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. The 1650-watt motor offers ample power and ensures smooth operations, while the cutterhead speed optimizes the finish of the workpiece.

It comes equipped with double edge blades, making blade changes both fast and straightforward, which can be a significant time-saver during intensive projects. The planer is designed to be compact and lightweight at 61.8 pounds, making it easier to transport to different job sites. Stability is enhanced by the 4-post design with diagonal cross supports, ensuring precise and consistent planing. Additionally, the noise level of 83dB is relatively low, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods.

However, at nearly 62 pounds, it may still be a bit hefty for some users who prioritize ultra-lightweight tools. While it lacks specialized dust collection features, proper workshop setup and external dust collection can mitigate this. The included one-year warranty provides an added layer of assurance. This planer is well-suited for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who need a portable yet powerful planing solution.