Best Power Handheld Planers of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Power handheld planers are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of woodworking applications. These handheld planers are designed to quickly and easily shave off thin layers of wood from the surface of a board, allowing for precise and smooth finishes. They are ideal for leveling uneven surfaces, chamfering edges, and creating rabbets or grooves. With their powerful motors and adjustable blade depths, power handheld planers can handle a wide range of materials, from softwoods to hardwoods. They are a must-have tool for any serious woodworker or DIY enthusiast looking to achieve professional-level results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer Cover #TOP 1
WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer with Brushless Motor Cover #TOP 2
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer with Brushless Motor
ftb score rating icon 9.7
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer Cover #TOP 3
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Power Handheld Planers

#TOP 1

WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer

WEN
6530
Orange
3-1/4 Inch
WEN 6530 Electric Hand Planer Cover
WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 3-1/4-Inch

The WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a powerful tool with a 6 Amp motor that can provide up to 34,000 cuts per minute. This electric hand planer has 16 positive stops that allow you to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches. With the included 5/16 inch rabbeting guide, you can make rabbets up to 1 inch in size. The lightweight design of this planer weighs in at a mere 6 pounds, making it easy to handle and transport.

What We Like
Cost-effective for homeowners
Easy to use for beginners
Adjustable depth settings
Good power for various woods
Lightweight and manageable
What We Don't Like
Small shavings collection bag
Some assembly directions unclear
#TOP 2

DEWALT 20V MAX Planer with Brushless Motor

DCP580B
Multi
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer with Brushless Motor Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer, 30,000 Cuts Per Minute, 2 mm Cut Depth, Brushless Motor, Bare Tool Only (DCP580B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a powerful hand planer that features a brushless motor, providing both power and runtime. With a fast removal rate of 30,000 cuts per minute, this planer has a maximum depth of cut of 5/64-inch (2 mm.). The calibrated depth adjustment knob allows for precision cuts, and the precision-machined front and back aluminum shoes ensure parallelism. The planer also has a kickstand for resting on work surfaces and a precision-machined groove for edge chamfering. The ergonomically designed handle provides comfort, and the poly-V drive belt provides increased belt durability. Replacement blades are available with the part number DW6654.

What We Like
Easy to use
Powerful performance
Adjustable settings
Great for various tasks
Good battery life
What We Don't Like
Needs dust collector attachment
Blades not standard size
#TOP 3

WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer

WEN
6534
4-3/8"
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer Cover
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 4-3/8-Inch

The WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a powerful tool with a motor that can provide up to 32,000 cuts per minute. With a 4-3/8-Inch cutting capacity, it can easily handle planing 2x4s and 4x4s. The 16 positive stops allow the user to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches. The two-way dust port shoots loose shavings to either the left or right depending on user preference, making cleanup easier.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Excellent value
Easy to use
Good quality cut
Comfortable handling
What We Don't Like
Noise level
Quality control issues
#TOP 4

BOSCH PL2632K Woodworking Hand Planer

PL2632K
No Color
BOSCH PL2632K Woodworking Hand Planer Cover
BOSCH 3-1/4 Inch 6.5 Amp Hand Planer for Woodworking, 2.6 mm Cut Depth, Corded with Carrying Case (PL2632K)

The Bosch PL2632K Jointer Planer is a lightweight and powerful tool that features a 6.5 amp Planer and 16,500 RPM speed for fast stock removal and smooth finish in both soft and hard wood. It is convenient with an ambidextrous lock-off release button and a lock-on button for extended operation. The aluminum front and rear shoes are precision-machined for accuracy, and the tool has a machined groove for chamfering and sanding. The versatile two-blade hand plane system can be converted for use with large high-speed steel blades, and the dual-mount guide fence can be mounted on either side of the tool.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Easy cutting depth adjustment
High-quality blade performance
Stable and smooth operation
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Guide alignment issues reported
Case design requires disassembly
#TOP 5

PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer, 6-Amp

PC60THP
Hand Planer
One Size
PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer, 6-Amp Cover
PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer, 6-Amp, 5/64-Inch (PC60THP)

The PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer, 6-Amp, 5/64-Inch (PC60THP) is a powerful electric hand planer with a heavy-duty 6 amp motor, 16,500 rpm for smooth material removal, and dual side dust extraction. The overmold depth knob with 10 positive steps and 3 chamfering grooves allow for better planer control and multiple depth control settings, while the 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe provides added control and better finish quality. With a 5/64-inch depth of cut, this hand planer can remove excess material in less time.

What We Like
Easy depth adjustment
Smooth finish
Good power and performance
Affordable pricing
Lightweight and portable
What We Don't Like
Potential for sniping
Old-fashioned design
#TOP 6

WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer

WEN
6528
Black
WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer Cover
WEN 6528 3.8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 2-3/8-Inch

The WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer is a powerful and lightweight tool that is perfect for any woodworking project. With its 3.8-amp motor, it can provide up to 32,000 cuts per minute, ensuring smooth and precise cuts every time. The nine positive stops allow you to easily adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/16 inches, giving you complete control over the thickness of your wood. Weighing only 4.3 pounds, this planer is easy to maneuver and reduces fatigue during extended use. It also features an onboard storage slot for the blade adjustment wrench and a kickstand to prevent damage to your workpiece. Backed by a two-year warranty, the WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer is a reliable and convenient tool for all your woodworking needs.

What We Like
Easy to use
Great for small projects
Powerful for the price
Quick adjustments
Durable and reliable
What We Don't Like
No dust bag included
Requires some tuning
#TOP 7

CRAFTSMAN CMEW300

CMEW300
Black, Red
CRAFTSMAN CMEW300 Cover
CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer, Electric Hand Planer for Woodworking, with Blades, Edge Guide, and Dust Bag (CMEW300)

The CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer is a powerful and versatile tool that is perfect for both professional and DIY woodworking projects. With its heavy-duty 6 Amp motor, this hand planer provides smooth and precise cuts in both hard and soft materials. The 16,500 RPM allows for fast material removal, making your work more efficient. The 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe offers added control and ensures a high-quality finish. Additionally, the dual side dust extraction keeps your workspace clean and free from debris. The overmolded depth knob with 10 positive steps allows for better control and multiple depth settings, giving you the flexibility to achieve the desired result. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer is a reliable and convenient tool that will enhance your woodworking experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to control
Powerful performance
Great price
Effective for outdoor tasks
Flexible sawdust direction
What We Don't Like
Height adjustment issue
Missing accessories
#TOP 8

Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Planer P611

P611
Grey|yellow
Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Planer P611 Cover
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 3-1/4 in. Planer P611 (Tool Only)(Bulk Packaged)

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Planer P611 features an automatic kickstand that prevents marring of workpiece, and can cut up to 1/16 inch per pass for maximum versatility. Its convenient on-board blade wrench storage makes blade changing easy. Battery and charger are sold separately. This item is shipped in a generic box, removed from retail packaging.

What We Like
Easy to use
Powerful performance
Accurate edge planning
Good battery life
Well-made and balanced
What We Don't Like
Instructions could be clearer
Some noise and dust
#TOP 9

Makita KP0800K Planer

KP0800K
Blue
Makita KP0800K Planer Cover
Makita KP0800K 3-1/4" Planer, with Tool Case , Blue

The Makita Planer is a powerful handheld tool that can efficiently plane up to 3-1/4" wide and 3/32" deep in a single pass. Equipped with a 6.5 AMP motor, this machine delivers more output power for increased stock removal and superior finishes. The two-blade cutter head with 17,000 RPM delivers a smooth finish and fast stock removal. The spring-loaded stand elevates the base to protect the blades and workpiece, while the easy blade setting system allows for fast blade installation. With these features, the Makita Planer is perfect for both professional and DIY woodworking projects.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Accurate and smooth cuts
Solid construction
Versatile for various projects
Compact and easy to use
What We Don't Like
Blade alignment can be tricky
Extra blades may not fit
#TOP 10

DEWALT D26676 Hand Planer

D26676
Black, Yellow
One Size
DEWALT D26676 Hand Planer Cover
DEWALT Hand Planer, 5.5-Amp, 3-1/4-Inch (D26676)

The DEWALT Hand Planer is designed to enhance your woodworking projects with its impressive features. The 296mm machined aluminum shoe provides a smoother finish and minimizes vibration, allowing you to work more comfortably. With its tall profile and large depth adjustment knob, you can easily make precise adjustments in 0.1mm increments, ensuring accuracy in your plans. The finger rest handle design promotes better balance, reducing fatigue during long hours of use. These thoughtful features make the DEWALT Hand Planer a reliable tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What We Like
Easy to use
Great cutting performance
Well made
Handles rough wood well
Good for small jobs
What We Don't Like
Feels underpowered for larger jobs
Battery life may be short
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are electric hand planers worth it?

Yes, electric hand planers are worth it. They have powerful motors and can handle larger tasks, allowing for faster completion with less effort compared to traditional hand planers.

2. What is the difference between a hand planer and a planer?

An electric planer operates similarly to a hand planer but uses electric power. Electric planers are larger and heavier than hand planers and are designed for smoothening surfaces to achieve an even and smooth finish.

3. What is better, a hand planer or an electric planer?

While hand planers are generally cheaper, electric planers offer more power and convenience. Electric planers are recommended for larger tasks and provide faster results with less physical effort.

4. What should you not use a planer for?

Planers are designed specifically for flattening a board's top and bottom surfaces. They are not suitable for creating square edges or cleaning up the sides of a board. For these tasks, a jointer or table saw would be more appropriate.

5. What should you not do with a planer?

When using a planer, never run materials containing nails, screws, or other metallic objects. Do not remove debris unless the planer has come to a complete stop and is locked out. Avoid looking into the planer while it is running, and never stand in front of or behind stock going through the planer.

6. What is the best wood for a hand planer?

Various woods can be used for making hand planers, including beech, goncalvo alves, apple, pear, hornbeam, cherry, ash, oak, and birch. Some woodworkers also add a separate sole of rosewood or pau ferro for added stability and durability.

Editor's Notes

During our power handheld planer research, we found 24 power handheld planer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 92,013 customer reviews through our big data system to write the power handheld planers list. We found that most customers choose power handheld planers with an average price of $108.99.

The power handheld planers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of power handheld planers, including WEN, DEWALT, Bosch, PORTER-CABLE, CRAFTSMAN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Power Handheld Planers Comparison Table

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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand WEN DEWALT WEN Bosch PORTER-CABLE WEN CRAFTSMAN RYOBI Makita DEWALT
Item Weight 6.5 Pounds 7.4 Pounds 9.5 Pounds 6.3 Pounds 8.2 Pounds 4.3 Pounds 3.31 Kilograms 5.6 Pounds 4.6 Kilograms 8.9 Pounds
Color Orange Multi - No Color Hand Planer Black Black, Red Greyyellow Blue Black, Yellow
Material - Blend Metal Plastic Aluminum Wood Aluminum Plastic Metal Aluminum Aluminum, High Carbon Steel
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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