- Topic: Best planer for the money (2026 guide)
- Best for: Home workshops, DIY woodworking, small shops
- Planer types: Benchtop thickness planers
- Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
- Updated: 2026
Finding the best planer for the money in the USA means choosing a tool that gives clean cuts, steady power, and long-term use without a high price tag. Many woodworkers need a planer that handles hardwood, softwood, and reclaimed boards while staying easy to set up and maintain.
This 2026 guide focuses on planers that give strong results for the price. Each option below suits different needs, from rough lumber flattening to light furniture work, so you can pick the right planer for your shop.
| Planer | Cut Width | Motor | Best Use | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 13″ 3-Knife 2-Speed | 13 inches | 15 Amp | General woodworking | $650–$700 |
| Craftsman Benchtop Planer | 12.5 inches | 15 Amp | Budget projects | $400–$450 |
| WEN 12.5″ 2-Blade Planer | 12.5 inches | 15 Amp | Rough lumber | $350–$420 |
| PowerTec Benchtop Planer | 12.5 inches | 15 Amp | Light-duty work | $330–$380 |
| Ridgid 13″ 3-Blade Planer | 13 inches | 15 Amp | Frequent shop use | $700–$780 |
Best Overall Planer for the Money
DEWALT 13″ 3-Knife 2-Speed Thickness Planer
The DEWALT 13-inch planer stands out as the best planer for the money for woodworkers who want clean results across many projects. Its three-knife cutter head removes material evenly, which helps reduce sanding time on boards and panels.
The two-speed feed setting lets you switch between fast stock removal and smoother surface finishing. This makes it suitable for furniture parts, shelving boards, and hardwood projects. If you often prepare lumber for storage builds, pairing this with the best wood for shelves can improve final results.
Best Budget Planer for the Money
Craftsman Electric Benchtop Thickness Planer (15 Amp)
For woodworkers watching their spending, the Craftsman model offers one of the safest budget picks. It handles common planing tasks such as softwood boards, plywood edges, and reclaimed lumber without a complex setup.
This planer suits small workshops and DIY projects where space and cost matter. It keeps controls simple, which helps beginners get started quickly. If you plan to repair surfaces after planing, using the best wood filler for staining can help smooth imperfections.
Best Planer for Rough Wood
WEN 12.5″ 15-Amp 2-Blade Benchtop Planer
The WEN 12.5-inch planer works well for uneven, weathered, or reclaimed boards. Its motor handles hard passes without stalling, making it useful for rough lumber projects and workshop builds.
This model suits users who flatten boards before cutting or shaping. If your work includes outdoor wood preparation, having the best tool for cutting tree branches alongside this planer can help with early prep steps.
Best Light-Duty Planer for the Money
PowerTec Benchtop Thickness Planer (15 Amp)
The PowerTec planer fits light woodworking tasks such as craft projects, trim boards, and small furniture parts. Its compact size helps when shop space is limited, and setup time stays short.
While it is not meant for heavy daily use, it performs well for weekend projects and learning setups. This makes it a solid choice for hobbyists who want steady results without a large machine.
Also Consider
Ridgid 13″ Thickness Planer with 3-Blade Cutterhead
Ridgid’s 13-inch planer suits users who work often and want a strong cutter system. The three-blade head improves cut consistency, especially on hardwood boards.
This planer costs more than entry models, but it fits users who want fewer blade changes and long-term shop use without stepping into industrial pricing.
How to Choose the Best Planer for the Money
Focus on board width, motor strength, and cutter head design. Larger boards need wider capacity, while rough lumber benefits from steady feed pressure. Blade count affects finish quality, while size and weight matter for small workshops.
FAQs
The DEWALT 13-inch 3-knife planer gives balanced performance, clean cuts, and long-term use for most woodworkers.
Yes. Benchtop planers suit home shops, DIY projects, and small furniture work.
Most listed models handle hardwood, though slower feed rates give smoother results.
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