As we’ve written about before in our previous articles, a hand Planer is a portable device used to level wood and other similar materials. However, not everyone knows that there are two primary kinds – manual and electric. Their differences are pretty self-explanatory, but that’s not what our discussion will revolve around. Instead, our goal is to help you decide which among them best fits your needs.
Remember also not to be overwhelmed with the number of choices at your disposal. Simply dissect every aspect while keeping an open mind. Most importantly, reflect on your lifestyle and what things you need to prioritize. That should be the focal pain of every decision. Of course, we’ll be here to guide every step of the way.
So without further adieu, let’s jump into our best hand planer review and get the ball rolling!
Hand Planer Comparison Table
Hand Planers | Features | Types | Editor's Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Bosch PL2632K Hand Planer | - A 6.5-AMP motor delivers a maximum speed of 16,500-RPM for faster wood removal - Weighing only 6.3-lbs, it is easy to control and carry from one place to another; built for those always on the go | Electric Planer | 4.0/5.0 | |
2. WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer | - Extremely powerful and produces over 34,000-cuts-per-minute - Users select any of the 16 positive stops when managing the cutting depth | Electric Planer | 4.3/5.0 | |
3. WEN 6534 Electric Hand Planer | - The frame is made larger at 11.5-lbs to take on tougher jobs with less issues - Wider cutting capacity means your work time is lessened, especially on larger kinds of workpieces | Electric Planer | 4.2/5.0 | |
4. TACKLIFE RES002 Electric Hand Planer | - Equipped with a strong 7.5-AMP motor with a 32,000-cuts-per-minute capability; offers supreme efficiency - A longer cord of 10-feet gives better mobility, especially around cramped spaces | Electric Planer | 5.0/5.0 | |
5. Porter-Cable PC60THP Hand Planer | - Adjusting the cutting depth can simply be done by twisting the control knob - Durably built that almost eliminates any unnecessary shaking as you work | Electric Planer | 3.0/5.0 | |
6. Ryobi HPL52K Corded Hand Planer | - Includes several safety precautions like a kickstand and lock-on button to keep you away from harm’s way - Weighs only 3.25-lbs to significantly reduces stress on your arms while working | Electric Planer | 3.1/5.0 | |
7. Triton TPL180 Triple-Blade Planer | - Constructed with a magnesium frame for greater resistance on those hard-to-do jobs - Delivers approximately 45,000-cuts-per-minute; the strongest in its entire class | Electric Planer | 4.9/5.0 | |
8. Grizzly Industrial H7568 Smoothing Plane | - Made from steel so it is quite durable and intended to last several years - Solid rosewood handles are easy to hold and provide enough friction so you maintain control | Hand Planer | 3.0/5.0 | |
9. Taytools 469591 Fore Bench Hand Plane | - Extremely durable and is damn near indestructible because of its ductile cast iron frame - The knob is made from hand-rubbed Sapele, which significantly improves the gripping power | Hand Planer | 4.0/5.0 | |
10. Caliastro No. 4 Smoothing Bench Plane | - Engineered with a sturdy frame and solid natural wood handle for better maneuverability - Its blade can be re-sharpened so it maintains cutting quality at all times | Hand Planer | 4.3/5.0 |
Electric Hand Planers
An electric hand planer, as its name suggests, requires a steady supply of electricity to work. Whether corded or cordless, these tools offer unrelenting power and accuracy that cuts not only thick wooden boards, but also your work time. If you’re a professional or seasoned woodworker, then the following examples of hand planers could be just what you’ve been searching for.
1. Bosch PL2632K Hand Planer with Carrying Case
Even though it costs slightly more than your average electric hand planer, the PL2632K model from Bosch is still a high quality option to target. It comes with a 6.5-AMP motor that produces a maximum speed of 16,500-RPM. Quick and fast stock removal is its main specialty. And because it weighs only 6.3-lbs, maneuvering it around even thicker pieces of wood won’t be too difficult.
Besides the power, user protection is another aspect the Bosch PL2632K Hand Planer with Carrying Case has put a premium on. Since a device like this is so compact, people often write-off the risks that come with using it. The truth is, a hand planer without any safety measures in place could potentially cause severe injuries to operations. So having a lock-off release button and spring-loaded stand can go a long way in keeping you safe.
Those who are serious about woodworking must consider a model as extensive as the Bosch PL2632K. Its accuracy, reliability, and practicality all play an integral role in providing consumers with the best work experience possible.
Pros
Cons
2. WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer
There’s an old saying never judge a tool from its appearance, and the WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer is a prime example. It clocks in at only 6-lbs but still manages to deliver an astonishing over 34,000-cuts-per-minute. Potential users could now possess the convenience of hashing out excess wood at an incredibly efficient rate. But what exactly is the reason?
Well, at its heart is a 6-AMP motor that is strong enough to power the entire device. The presence of 16 positive stops and two double-sided blades has allowed users to manage the cutting depth and produce accurate strokes always. Simply twist a gauge to set the planer’s setting by increments of 1/128-inch.
Still, perhaps the most appealing aspect of the 6530 Electric Hand Planer is its user-centeredness. Not only can it be bought at an incredibly affordable price, but the inclusion of a 6-foot power cord, a retractable kickstand, and a 2-year warranty package also highlights how much the consumer experience means to WEN. As such, this is an attractive choice for beginners and newbies looking to make a mark in this industry.
