Power tools can be quite complex, too, because even though they look similar, each one actually has a very specific role to play. Jointers, for instance, are primarily used to level wood and correct any uneven portions. On the other hand, its close relative, the planer, can be utilized when smoothening out a surface or adjusting the thickness. In a way, both tools go hand-in-hand when creating furniture, sculptures, or other wooden products.
In this article, we’ll be dissecting all the parts that make each one great by providing specific – and real-life – examples. Hopefully, as we go through one section after the other, you can understand better how and when to maximize these marvelous pieces of machinery.
So without further adieu, here’s our comparison of a jointer versus a planer.
Jointer vs Planer Comparison Table
FEATURES | Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical cutterhead | Dewalt Dw734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer |
|---|---|---|
Power | Its 2-horsepower motor coupled with a helical cutterhead blade can produce swift insertions within a few seconds | Powered by a 15-AMP to produce speeds of up to 20,000-RPM and create deeper insertions in hardwood |
Size and Stability | A 73-inch long table is capable of support larger materials with minimal effort | An extra-long worktable is extendable up to 33.5-inches – one of the biggest in its class |
Knife Quality | Utilizes a hand-wheel operated worm gear system to seamlessly adjust and tilt the entire table | Comes with extra-sharp cutter knives that lasts 30-percent longer than other similar accessories |
User Friendliness | The control switch is strategically located and easy to reach for the operator’s greatest convenience | Equipped with an dust hood that helps in facilitating the collection of dust, waste, and other debris |
Assurance | A non-mar insert found in the jointer’s fence protects the surface from scratches | This product comes with a three-year limited warranty package and 90-day money-back guarantee |
Price | $$$$$ | $$$ |
Breaking It Down
In this heated matchup of jointer versus planer, let’s take a closer look at what each one offers. Comparing and contrasting their best features according to standards set forth by consumers is a great way to arrive at a conclusion. If you’re currently choosing amongst these two powerhouses, you may want to continue reading the section below.
1. Size and Stability
This isn’t just about how large a particular model is, but also its durability. Don’t take this aspect for granted because when you begin slicing through wider and heavier workpieces, the quality of your work could really suffer. Therefore, be sure to make this a priority.
Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
Weighing in at 490-lbs and with dimensions of 25 x 73 x 46-inches, the Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer is certainly a heavyweight in more ways than one. This device has been designed for heavy-duty work and can take on larger workpieces without breaking a sweat. Its 73-inch wide infeed and outfeed table is clear proof of that. As such, professionals have had nothing but good things to say about it. Just be sure you find an appropriate area because moving it again won’t come easy.
Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer
Shaped like a box, the Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer may not be the biggest tool around, but its compact size is perfect for supporting hefty materials. The infeed and outfeed areas are quite substantial for its size, too, capable of extending up to 33.5-inches in width. It offers users a good balance of mobility and steadiness and is a popular choice for those who often move from one place to another.
Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
2. Affordability
It seems that both products appeal to very different markets – that much is true. But which one offers greater value? There’s only one way to find out, and that’s by dissecting each of their features and price points.
Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
Clearly, this jointer is better suited for specialists with several years of experience under their belt. Nevertheless, the Powermatic 1610086K, with its strong motor and hardwearing frame, should ensure that difficult jobs get done in the least amount of time possible. Experts often say that time is money, and this tool’s abilities absolutely proves that point.
Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer
Priced at just under $500, the Dewalt DW734 has been a preferred choice for mid to top-tier woodworkers ever since its introduction. One primary reason is that it offers a tremendous bang-for-buck ratio. In layman’s terms, this tool is reasonable enough for the average Joe, while still able to perform – and accomplish – a wide range of different tasks. Add in its comprehensive warranty package and you easily have yourself a contender.
Winner: Dewalt DW734 Single speed Benchtop Planer
3. Knife Quality
Seeing as both a jointer and planer’s primary function is to level wood, having reliable blades is a must. After all, utilizing anything dull or bland might compromise the tool’s overall cutting capacity. Let’s find out, though, which is the sharper of the two.
Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
Its helical cutterhead is setup with 4-sided carbide blades that create smoother insertions and cleaner cuts. Since this tool is built for larger pieces of wood, having these types of accessories will go a long way in maintaining efficiency. Plus, these knives are heavy-duty as well, so they’ll show minimal signs of wear-and-tear.
Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer
The Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer is no slouch either. Its set of reversible knives last 30-percent longer than the traditional variety, saving you both time and money in the process.
Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
4. User Friendliness
As with our other articles, the overall user experience is an aspect we’ve consistently put a premium on. Things like the position of controls, manual, and distribution structure all play a part in ensuring that the consumer comes first.
Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
One of our most favorite things about the Powermatic 1610086K is its strategically placed mount switch, specifically designed for user convenience. It gives operators the flexibility to control the jointer without crouching down or bending over. Moreover, its hand-wheel operated worm gear system has simplified adjusting the table to precisely match your requirements.
Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer
The Dewalt DW734, on the other hand, is extremely portable for its size. Even though its looks bulky, the handles found on each side allow users to easily carry it from one place to another. The presence of a dust hood likewise prevents residue from falling out of the vacuum
Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
Pros and Cons
Sanders | pros | cons |
|---|---|---|
Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead | - Is capable of leveling large workpieces with little issue - A simple tilting system puts the table in your most convenient positions - Deliver smooth cuts - Extremely powerful and capable of a wide range of functions | - Quite bulky; very difficult to move once installed in a certain location - Not priced for beginners |
Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer | - Designed for accurate cuts that are both smooth and clean - Easy to transport from one jobsite to another - The knives are heavy-duty and built from the sturdiest materials - Comes with a solid warranty package | - Comes with only one speed setting |
Conclusion
After going through everything the Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead and Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer have to offer, it is quite clear that each one answers very different needs. Therefore, it’s almost impossible to determine which is the better option.
In the end, we’d recommend the Powermatic 1610086K to seasoned professionals looking to make their processes more efficient, while the Dewalt DW734 is enhanced for hobbyists or contractors that often jump across multiple job locations. Both are widely considered as exceptional tools, which is why there’s no choice but to call the jointer vs. planer debate a tie.
The post Jointer vs. Planer: Which One Should You Buy? appeared first on Think Woodwork.
