Jet Benchtop Planers: 4 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 4 picks

1 Best overall

JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Thickness Planer

Best for: Small shops needing 13-inch width capacity

Cutting Width

13"

Cutterhead Type

helical

Feed Speed

24.6 FPM

Amperage

15A

Max Stock Thickness

6"

Blade Count

30 carbide inserts

View on Amazon: JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Thickness Planer Affiliate link

This Jet benchtop planer planes boards up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick. Its helical cutterhead uses 30 carbide inserts for a smoother, quieter cut rated at 91 dB. The 2 HP motor runs at 9,500 RPM with a 24.6 FPM feed rate. It suits small shops and serious hobbyists needing a full-width planer without a stationary footprint.

Pros

• Helical cutterhead with 30 carbide inserts for smoother cuts
• Quieter operation at 91 dB compared to straight-knife models
• Generous 13-inch cutting width for wider boards
• Includes 5 spare carbide inserts for easy maintenance

Cons

• Limited to 6-inch maximum stock thickness
• Heavier at 66 pounds, requiring two people to unbox
• Stand and dust collector sold separately

Good fit if

• You need to plane boards up to 13 inches wide
• You want a quieter helical cutterhead for solid wood
• You have a small shop but need full-width capacity

Skip if

• You need to plane material thicker than 6 inches
• You plan to use the planer on plywood or reclaimed lumber
• You require a stationary machine with an included stand

Verdict: Jet 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer fits small-shop woodworkers who need a 13-inch capacity without a heavy footprint. It delivers a smooth cut and quieter operation for solid hardwood and softwood projects.

2 Best budget

JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer

Best for: narrower boards and smoother finishes

Cutting Width

13"

Cutterhead Type

Helical-style

Feed Speed

18 FPM / 26 FPM

Amperage

15-amp

Max Stock Thickness

6"

Blade Count

26 inserts

View on Amazon: JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer Affiliate link

This Jet benchtop planer features a 13-inch helical cutterhead with 26 high-speed steel inserts. It includes a 2-HP, 15-amp motor and offers two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM. The four-post design supports the cutterhead for stability. You get a 6-inch maximum stock thickness and a 1/8-inch maximum depth of cut. The cast iron bed helps keep boards flat. This model suits users needing a quieter, smoother cut in a compact footprint.

Pros

• Helical-style cutterhead with 26 quick-change inserts
• Two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM
• Cast iron bed reduces snipe and keeps boards flat
• Four-post design for maximum cutterhead control
• Adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables

Cons

• 13-inch cutting width is narrower than the 15-inch and 20-inch models on this list
• 2-HP motor is less powerful than the 5-HP motor in the 20-inch model
• 75-pound weight may be cumbersome for frequent transport

Good fit if

• You need a quieter operation with a helical cutterhead
• You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
• You value adjustable feed speeds for different wood types

Skip if

• You regularly plane boards wider than 13 inches
• You require the higher power of a 5-HP motor
• You need a planer with a 20-inch capacity

Verdict: Jet 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer delivers a smooth, quiet cut for narrower boards. It is the right tool for hobbyists who prioritize finish quality over maximum width and power.

3 Best 3 hp

JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer

Best for: Standard width hardwood and stability

Cutting Width

15"

Cutterhead Type

Helical

Feed Speed

16 fpm or 20 fpm

Max Stock Thickness

6"

Blade Count

48 carbide knives

Horsepower

3 HP

View on Amazon: JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer Affiliate link

The Jet 15-Inch 3 HP Planer features a helical cutterhead with 48 carbide knives. It offers a 15-inch cutting width and 6-inch max stock thickness. The 2-speed feed rate allows you to choose between 16 fpm or 20 fpm. The 286-pound cast iron table provides stability. This machine suits woodworkers who need a robust benchtop planer with precise cuts and reduced snipe.

Pros

• Helical cutterhead with 48 staggered carbide knives
• 2-speed feed rate for 16 fpm or 20 fpm
• Precision-ground cast iron table for stability
• PASS system reduces board snipe

Cons

• 15-inch cutting width is narrower than the 20-inch competitor
• 286-pound weight makes it difficult to move
• 1/8-inch max depth of cut limits stock removal speed

Good fit if

• You need a 15-inch width for most boards
• You prefer a helical cutterhead for smoother cuts
• You have a dedicated shop space for heavy tools

Skip if

• You frequently plane boards wider than 15 inches
• You need a lighter tool for frequent transport
• You require a 5 HP motor for heavy production

Verdict: Jet 15-Inch 3 HP Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize cut quality and stability over maximum width. It delivers precise results for standard lumber through its helical head and heavy cast iron base.

4 Best premium

JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer

Best for: Wide stock and high-volume planing

Cutting Width

20-Inch

Cutterhead Type

Helical

Feed Speed

24/31 fpm

Horsepower

5 HP

Voltage

230V

Dimensions

26 × 36.7 × 41.4 inches

View on Amazon: JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer Affiliate link

This Jet planer offers a 20-inch cutting width and a 5 HP motor for heavy-duty work. It features a helical cutterhead and a two-speed feed rate of 24 or 31 fpm. The 753-pound weight and 230V power requirement indicate a stationary tool. You should choose this if you need wide capacity and precise adjustments for professional woodworking.

Pros

• 20-inch cutting width for wide boards
• 5 HP TEFC induction motor
• Helical cutterhead for smooth cuts
• Two-speed feed rate (24/31 fpm)

Cons

• Requires 230V power outlet
• Weighs 753 pounds
• Large footprint at 36.7 inches wide

Good fit if

• You regularly plane boards wider than 13 inches
• You have a 230V electrical supply
• You need a stable, heavy-duty machine

Skip if

• You only have standard 110V outlets
• You need a portable benchtop tool
• You rarely plane material wider than 15 inches

Verdict: Jet 20-Inch 5 HP Planer is built for shops that need to process wide stock efficiently. It fits users with the space and power to support its substantial size and output.

Specifications side by side

Jet Benchtop Planer Specs Compared

You can sort these Jet models by horsepower and cutting width. The JWP-13BTHH and 722130 both offer 13-inch capacity. The 722130 adds 2 HP and 2-speed feed control. This suits hobbyists who want finish quality over raw width. The JWP-13BTHH is lighter at 66 pounds, fitting small shops with space limits. It lacks the higher power of the budget pick but remains quiet and smooth for softwood projects. Heavier users should look at the 15-inch and 20-inch models. These require more floor space and electrical support. The JWP-15BHH provides 3 HP for standard lumber. The JWP-208HH delivers 5 HP for wide stock. Both use 230V power and feature cast iron bases for stability. Choose based on your board width and available power.

Where Jet Fits Your Shop

Jet’s lineup spans from compact benchtop units to heavy industrial machines. You start with 13-inch models under 75 pounds, ideal for small shops. The range expands to 15-inch and 20-inch planers, weighing up to 753 pounds. These larger units require 230V power and significant floor space. All listed models use helical cutterheads for smooth finishes. You will find no 12-inch or 14-inch options in this specific group. There are also no 110V models above 13 inches. Choose based on your available voltage and workspace dimensions.

How to Choose the Right Jet Planer

1. Check Cutting Width

   Start by measuring the widest board you plan to plane. The JWP-13BTHH offers a 13-inch capacity, which fits most standard lumber and small-shop projects. If you regularly process wider stock, consider the 20-inch JWP-208HH. This model handles broad boards efficiently but requires significant floor space. Ensure your workbench or stand can support the machine's footprint. Selecting the correct width prevents bottlenecks in your workflow and ensures you can handle your typical material without unnecessary delays or limitations.

2. Assess Horsepower Needs

   Horsepower determines how much material the cutterhead can remove in a single pass. The 722130 model provides 2 HP, which is sufficient for hobbyists prioritizing finish quality over raw power. For more demanding tasks, the JWP-15BHH offers 3 HP, while the JWP-208HH delivers 5 HP for high-volume work. Higher horsepower helps maintain consistent cut speeds through dense hardwoods. Match the motor power to your typical project density to avoid stalling or excessive wear on the cutterhead during heavy planing operations.

3. Verify Voltage Requirements

   Check your shop's electrical supply before purchasing. The 722130 and JWP-13BTHH operate on standard 120V circuits, making them accessible for most home workshops. Larger models like the JWP-15BHH and JWP-208HH require 230V power. You must install a dedicated circuit for these units to handle the startup load safely. Using the wrong voltage can damage the motor or create a fire hazard. Confirm your outlet compatibility to ensure the planer integrates smoothly into your existing electrical infrastructure without needing costly upgrades.

4. Evaluate Weight and Space

   Weight impacts stability and portability. The JWP-13BTHH weighs 66 pounds, offering a balance of stability and ease of movement for benchtop use. In contrast, the JWP-208HH weighs 753 pounds, requiring a permanent, reinforced floor setup. Heavier machines vibrate less during operation, resulting in smoother cuts. Lighter units may need secure clamping to prevent shifting. Measure your available floor space and ensure your structure can bear the load. Choosing the right weight class ensures safe operation and optimal cut quality for your specific shop environment.

5. Consider Feed Speed Options

   Feed speed affects surface finish and cutting efficiency. The 722130 and JWP-15BHH feature 2-speed feed controls, allowing you to adjust the rate at which wood enters the cutterhead. Slower speeds often yield a finer finish on figured or difficult grains, while faster speeds increase productivity for rough stock. The JWP-13BTHH does not list variable feed speeds in its attributes. Select a model with adjustable feed if you frequently switch between rough milling and fine finishing tasks to maximize versatility in your workflow.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best jet benchtop planers with 2-Speed
• jet 13 benchtop thickness planer vs 13 inch benchtop thickness planer
• best jet benchtop planers
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