Now that we’ve entered into another new year, it’s now time to review the best Benchtop jointers for 2019. After all, much like a planer, there’s no question that these tools are crucial to the woodworking process. A Jointer specializes in leveling the narrow edges of wood, preparing it to be adjoined to other planks or boards. This process is certainly no easy feat, but it’s made so much easier with a device such as this.
Benchtop jointers, in particular, can be better suited for wider or thicker workpieces. Users who often work on larger scale projects may want to consider this over a portable variant. It won’t just save you time, but also energy as you go about your daily work routine.
In this article, we don’t just want to sell you on a particular brand or model. That’s why we’ve identified the best benchtop jointers for you to choose from. And while it won’t directly answer the question of which one to buy, it will definitely make this process so much more bearable.
Here’s a quick overview of the candidates. We’ll be discussing them in greater detail during the third and fourth parts.
Benchtop Jointer Comparison Table
Benchtop jointer | features | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
1. Porter-Cable PC160JT Variable-Speed Jointer | - Built with a two-knife cutterhead setup for fast and easy material removal; it also yields a maximum strength of 22,000-cuts-per-minute - A 30-inch table that’s 6-inches wide, too, is perfect for larger materials; this includes tasks such as resizing cabinets and repairs | 5.0/5.0 | |
2. Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer | - An improved 2.5-inch dust port with a built-in collection system helps keep your area clean and sediment-free - The cast-iron worktable may be narrower than usual, but it provides stability when working on thicker materials | 4.0/5.0 | |
3. Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer | - The motor produces a maximum speed of 11,000-RPM, while the two-knife cutterhead operates at approximately 20,000-strokes-per-minute - Its 2.5-inch dust port and built-in vacuum system work well to take out any wooden chips, dust, or residue after cutting; does this task very efficiently | 4.3/5.0 | |
4. DELTA 37-071 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer | - Its heavy-duty cast-iron frame reduces vibrations almost completely and provides sufficient support, especially when working on items - Comes with 5-years of limited warranty, which not only protects your investment, but also simplifies maintenance and repairs | 4.8/5.0 | |
5. CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 Benchtop Jointer | - The two-knife cutterhead with leveling arrangement leads to fast and easy replacement of blades; no tools are required - Weighing about 35-lbs means this tool isn’t difficult to transport; still, proper support is provided for cutting | 3.2/5.0 | |
6. RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutterhead | - A 6-row helical-style cutterhead enable smooth slicing of wooden boards with even greater ease - One of the sturdiest models made; it’s all-steel construction and aluminum table are there to improve overall accuracy when working | 5.0/5.0 |
Benchtop Jointer Reviews
1. Porter-Cable PC160JT Variable-Speed Jointer
The Porter-Cable PC160JT Variable-Speed Jointer is an ideal entry-level option for beginners. It is neither too big nor too bulky, offering a perfect balance of functionality with mobility. A 6-inch wide worktable provides just the right amount of material support without taking up too much space.
Structurally, this tool is set up with a two-knife cutterhead that's both sharp and potent. Changing blades is easy, too. In terms of muscle, it yields a variable-speed range of 6,000 to 11,000-RPM, while the cutterhead has a maximum capacity of 22,000-cuts-per-minute. Renovation works and resizing cabinets are just some of the tasks this particular benchtop jointer specializes in.
Learning to level wood, though, is far from an easy task. And while having a solid foundation and steady supply of power certainly help, it is the Porter-Cable PC160JT's versatility that truly makes it unique. This is why it is one of the best options for beginners available today.
Pros
Cons
2. Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer
Although slightly smaller than the standard jointer, Grizzly Industrial’s G0725 model is still a quality option. It makes up for this deficiency, though, by remaining competitive in every other aspect. For example, it comes with a heavy-duty cast-iron table that minimizes vibrations considerably, while the center-mounted aluminum fence helps it support heavier materials.
The 2.5-inch port with a built-in dust collection system is another feature worth mentioning. Working with wood often leads to a big mess afterward. Having a provision like this means less time and effort are used up for cleaning. You’ll be able to rest right after instead of vacuuming every nook and cranny.
It won’t matter whether you’re a beginner or seasoned professional on the budget; the Grizzly Industrial G0725 is an affordable option that’s worth so much more than advertised. Needless to say, it’s one of the best benchtop jointers currently available today.
