WEN Thickness Planer Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Looking for wen thickness planer alternatives? You might want options that fit your specific workshop constraints or budget. The WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle handles boards up to 13 inches wide with a spiral cutterhead. It offers two feed speeds for quick dimensioning or fine finishing. The bundle also includes a jointer with a 30-by-6-inch table. This makes it ideal if you need both tools at once. However, you may prefer a dedicated planer with more power or a different footprint. Some users might need a wider cutting capacity or higher voltage for heavy stock. Others may want a lighter unit for benchtop use. We selected these alternatives because their core specifications overlap with the original. Each pick shares key features like helical cutterheads or similar cutting widths. This ensures they can perform comparable tasks. You can compare these specs to find the best match for your projects.
How these planers differ
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
The JET 13-Inch Helical Planer matches the original’s 13-inch cutting width and two-speed feed options. It uses a helical cutterhead for smooth finishes, just like the bundle. However, this model is a dedicated benchtop unit without the included jointer. It weighs 75 pounds, offering more stability than the lighter WEN bundle. The 2 HP motor provides consistent power for narrow stock. You should choose this if you prioritize finish quality and a heavy, stable base over the versatility of a jointer. It lacks the jointing capability but delivers professional results on its own.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
The WEN 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer shares the same brand, spiral cutterhead, and two-speed feed rates as the original. It handles 13-inch wide boards just like the bundle. The key difference is that this is a standalone planer without the jointer. It weighs 69 pounds, making it lighter and more portable than the bundle. The model PL1337 focuses on clean results through its 26-blade spiral head. You should pick this if you only need planing and want a more compact footprint. It gives up the jointing feature but retains the same finish quality and feed speed control.
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Planer offers a 13-inch cutting width and two-speed feed, matching the original’s core capabilities. It uses a helical cutterhead for smooth hardwood planing. This unit is a compact benchtop model, weighing less than the bundle which includes a jointer. It focuses on noise reduction and finish quality rather than heavy industrial capacity. The rifle green finish distinguishes it visually. You should choose this if you value quiet operation and a smaller footprint. It gives up the jointing function but provides professional spiral cut quality in a form factor designed for hobbyists who prioritize smoothness over wide stock capacity.
JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer
The JET 15-Inch Helical Planer exceeds the original’s 13-inch width with a 15-inch cutting capacity. It features a powerful 3 HP motor and two-speed feed, offering more raw power than the bundle. This model requires 230V power, unlike the likely 120V bundle. It weighs 286 pounds, providing immense stability for heavy-duty work. The helical cutterhead ensures high-quality finishes. You should pick this if you frequently plane wide stock and have industrial power available. It lacks the jointer and portability of the bundle but delivers professional-grade width and power for serious woodworking tasks.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Planer matches the 13-inch cutting width and uses a helical cutterhead with 25 blades. Unlike the original, this model is single-speed, lacking the two-speed feed option for finish adjustments. It weighs 61.7 pounds, making it lighter than the bundle. The unit focuses on high power and cutting force for hardwoods. You should choose this if you prioritize cutting force and surface quality over fine speed control. It gives up the jointing capability and variable feed speeds but provides a stable, powerful option for users who do not need multiple feed rates.
VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer
The VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Planer offers a 13-inch cutting width and two-speed feed, similar to the original’s planer section. However, it uses a three-blade head instead of a spiral cutterhead. This model is a standalone planer without the jointer. It weighs 61.9 pounds and prioritizes table length and motor power over helical cut quality. You should pick this if you need variable feed speeds but do not require the smooth finish of a spiral head. It gives up the jointing function and spiral technology but offers solid capacity for wide stock with a focus on power and speed adjustments.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle
Best for: woodworkers needing both planing and jointing
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Type
- Spiral
- Max Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Speed
- 2-Speed
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle Affiliate link
This WEN bundle pairs a 13-inch thickness planer with a jointer for complete board preparation. The planer offers two feed speeds of 26 and 16 FPM, allowing you to choose between quick dimensioning and fine finishes. It handles boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide. The jointer features a 30-by-6-inch table with a fence that bevels up to 45 degrees. Both tools use spiral cutterheads for smooth results.
Pros
- Two-speed feed rates for speed or finish quality
- Spiral cutterheads on both machines for fine finishes
- Jointer fence bevels up to 45 degrees
- Handles boards up to 13 inches wide
Cons
- Maximum stock thickness is limited to 6 inches
- Jointer removes only 0 to 1/8 inch per pass
- Bundle includes two separate machines requiring more space
Good fit if
- You need to dimension and joint boards up to 13 inches wide
- You want the option for slower feed speeds for fine finishes
- You require angled cuts on board faces
Skip if
- You frequently work with lumber thicker than 6 inches
- You prefer a single compact unit over a bundle
- You need a jointer with a wider cutting capacity
Verdict: WEN 13-Inch Planer and Jointer Bundle delivers versatile spiral-head performance for boards up to 13 inches wide. It is best for woodworkers who need both thicknessing and jointing capabilities in one purchase.
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
Best for: smooth finishes on narrow boards
- 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 cutting width and a helical-style cutterhead with 26 high-speed steel inserts. It includes a 2-HP motor and two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM. The cast iron bed and four-post design help keep boards flat. It is built for users who need precision and a smoother finish than standard planers provide.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 26 quick-change inserts for quieter, smoother cuts
- Two feed speeds allow you to choose between 18 FPM and 26 FPM
- Cast iron bed and four-post design reduce snipe and improve board flatness
- Adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables save shop space
Cons
- Heavier build at 75 pounds makes it less portable than lighter benchtop models
- Maximum depth of cut is limited to 1/8 inch per pass
- Only 13-inch width capacity restricts work on wider boards
Good fit if
- You want a quieter planer with a helical cutterhead
- You need two feed speeds for different wood types
- You prioritize flatness and reduced snipe in your cuts
Skip if
- You frequently plane boards wider than 13 inches
- You need to remove more than 1/8 inch in a single pass
- You require a lightweight planer for frequent transport
Verdict: JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer suits woodworkers who value finish quality and stability over raw speed or portability. Its helical head and heavy base deliver professional results for narrow stock.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: smooth finish quality on 13-inch boards
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Type
- Spiral
- Feed Speed
- 2-speed (16 / 26 FPM)
- Amperage
- 15 A
- Max Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Blade Count
- 26 blades
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
This WEN benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a spiral cutterhead with 26 rotatable blades. It offers two feed speeds: 26 FPM for quick dimensioning and 16 FPM for fine finishes. The 15-amp motor runs at 10,000 RPM. You can plane boards up to 6 inches thick. It includes a depth stop and dust port. This model suits users needing clean finishes without excessive tear-out.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered HSS blades
- Two feed speeds: 16 and 26 FPM
- 15-amp motor generates 10,000 cutterhead RPM
- Includes depth stop and material removal gauge
Cons
- Weighs 69 pounds, making it less portable
- Only 26 blades compared to 26+ on competitors
- Single-speed motor limit compared to helical alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for wider boards
- You prefer spiral heads for smoother finishes
- You want two feed speed options
Skip if
- You require a 15-inch cutting width
- You need a 30+ blade spiral head
- You prioritize lightweight portability under 50 pounds
Verdict: WEN 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer delivers clean results through its 26-blade spiral head and dual feed speeds. It fits woodworkers who value finish quality over maximum cutting width.
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
Best for: Quiet, smooth hardwood planing
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Type
- Spiral
- Feed Speed
- 2-speed (16 FPM)
- Blade Count
- 26 inserts
View on Amazon: Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer Affiliate link
The Cutech 40800H is a 13-inch spiral cutterhead benchtop planer designed for smooth, quiet operation. It features 26 tungsten carbide inserts and a two-speed feed rate of 16 FPM to handle hardwoods without tearout. The unit includes a snipe minimizer, eight-position depth stop, and board return rollers for consistent results. It suits woodworkers seeking professional finishes in a compact footprint.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 inserts for reduced noise
- Two-speed feed rate controls tearout on figured wood
- Patented snipe minimizer with four lead screws
- Eight-position repeat cut depth stop
- Board return rollers for easy handling
Cons
- Benchtop design requires a sturdy workbench
- 13-inch cutting width limits board capacity
- Single-speed motor at 16 FPM max
Good fit if
- You need a quiet planer for hardwoods
- You want minimal snipe without extra locks
- You prefer spiral cutterhead smoothness
Skip if
- You regularly plane boards wider than 13 inches
- You need a heavy-duty cabinet model
- You require variable speed feed control
Verdict: Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer delivers professional spiral cut quality in a compact form. It fits hobbyists who value finish smoothness and noise reduction over heavy industrial capacity.
JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer
Best for: heavy-duty wide stock planning
- 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
This JET planer features a 3 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 48 carbide knives. It offers a 15-inch cutting width and 2-speed feed rates of 16 or 20 FPM. The precision-ground cast iron table ensures stability. The Precision Air Strut System reduces board snipe. It suits users needing wide capacity and high power for demanding woodworking tasks.
Pros
- 3 HP motor for heavy-duty performance
- 15-inch cutting width capacity
- Helical cutterhead with 48 carbide knives
- 2-speed feed rate control (16/20 FPM)
- Precision Air Strut System reduces snipe
Cons
- 286-pound weight limits portability
- Requires 230V electrical outlet
- 6-inch maximum stock thickness
Good fit if
- You need a 15-inch cutting width
- You have 230V power available
- You want a helical cutterhead
Skip if
- You require a benchtop footprint
- You only have 115V outlets
- You need to move the tool frequently
Verdict: JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer delivers professional-grade width and power. It fits workshops with 230V power that prioritize stability and cut quality over portability.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: Hardwood planing with high power and width
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Type
- Spiral
- Max Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Blade Count
- 24 blades
- Dimensions
- 28.2 × 13 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 61.7 pounds
View on Amazon: VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
This VEVOR benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades. It is driven by a 2000W motor that delivers up to 8,000 cuts per minute. The unit includes a dual-roller feeding system to reduce vibration. It supports boards up to 6 inches thick. The 28.2-inch worktable accommodates longer stock. It suits users who need a powerful tool for hardwoods.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades
- 2000W motor with 8,000 CPM
- Dual-roller feeding system
- 28.2-inch long worktable
- Compatible with 2-inch and 4-inch dust hoses
Cons
- Single-speed motor limits cutting speed control
- 61.7-pound weight reduces portability
- 1/8-inch depth increments lack fine adjustment
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch planing width for wide boards
- You require a powerful motor for hardwoods
- You want a spiral cutterhead for smoother finishes
Skip if
- You need fine depth control in small increments
- You require variable speed for different materials
- You need a lightweight tool for frequent transport
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer provides high power and a wide cutting capacity for serious woodworking. It fits users who prioritize cutting force and surface quality over fine speed adjustments. The heavy build ensures stability during hard cuts.
VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer
Best for: Wide stock planing with variable feed speeds
- Cutting Width
- 13 in.
- Feed Speed
- 15 f/m, 24 f/m
- Amperage
- 15 A
- Max Stock Thickness
- 6 in.
- Dimensions
- 27.4 × 20.7 × 18.9 inches
- Weight
- 61.9 pounds
View on Amazon: VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer Affiliate link
This VEVOR benchtop planer planes stock up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick. It features a 2000W motor with two feed speeds: 24 f/m for quick removal and 15 f/m for smooth finishes. The three-knife cutter head ensures consistent results. You get a 35-inch extended table for long board support. A vacuum port aids in dust collection during use.
Pros
- 13-inch cutting width for wide boards
- Two feed speeds for finish control
- 2000W motor with over-current protection
- 35-inch total table length
Cons
- Heavier build at 61.9 pounds
- Standard three-blade cutter head
- Requires separate stand for optimal use
Good fit if
- You need to plane wide boards up to 13 inches
- You want variable feed speeds for different wood types
- You require a sturdy cast iron bed for flatness
Skip if
- You need a helical or spiral cutterhead
- You require a lightweight portable tool under 50 pounds
- You want a pre-assembled unit with an included stand
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch 3-Blade Planer offers solid capacity for wide stock and dual feed speeds. It fits woodworkers who prioritize table length and motor power over a helical cutterhead.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle | JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer | Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer | JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer | VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer | VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 13 in | 13" | 13 in | 13 in | 15" | 13 in | 13 in. |
| Cutterhead Type | Spiral | Helical-style | Spiral | Spiral | Helical | Spiral | not stated |
| Feed Speed | not stated | 18 FPM / 26 FPM | 2-speed (16 / 26 FPM) | 2-speed (16 FPM) | 16 fpm or 20 fpm | not stated | 15 f/m, 24 f/m |
| Amperage | not stated | 15-amp | 15 A | not stated | not stated | not stated | 15 A |
| Max Stock Thickness | 6 in | 6" | 6 in | not stated | 6" | 6 in | 6 in. |
| Blade Count | not stated | 26 inserts | 26 blades | 26 inserts | 48 carbide knives | 24 blades | not stated |
| Cutterhead Speed | not stated | 10,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Horsepower | not stated | 2 HP | not stated | not stated | 3 HP | not stated | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | 120V | not stated | not stated | 230V | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 28 × 22 × 19 inches | 22.3 × 34.6 × 20 inches | not stated | 25.5 × 46.5 × 48 inches | 28.2 × 13 × 6 inches | 27.4 × 20.7 × 18.9 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 75 pounds | 69 pounds | not stated | 286 pounds | 61.7 pounds | 61.9 pounds |
| Color | Orange | White | Orange | Rifle Green | White | Single Speed Spiral Blade | 13" Three-blade |
| Model | RM | 722130 | PL1337 | 40800H | JWP-15BHH | M1B-LS-3301 | Raboteuse Dégauchisseuse |
| Size | not stated | 28 x 22 x 19 inches | Spiral, 13-Inch, Two Speed | 22¼" x 34⅝" x 19⅞" | 15-inch | 13inch-2000(25 Blades) | 13inch |
If you need different cutterhead styles or feed speeds, evaluate wen thickness planer alternatives with comparable motor ratings.
Frequently asked questions
Which planer is best for woodworkers needing both planing and jointing?
The WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle is the top choice. It delivers versatile spiral-head performance for boards up to 13 inches wide. You get both thicknessing and jointing capabilities in one purchase. The orange model features a helical cutterhead and two feed speeds for efficient work.
What is the best premium option for smooth finishes?
The JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer suits those who value finish quality and stability. Its helical head and heavy base deliver professional results for narrow stock. This white unit weighs 75 pounds and measures 28 by 22 by 19 inches. It runs on 120V power with a 2 HP motor.
Is there a budget-friendly planer with good finish quality?
The WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer is the best budget pick. It delivers clean results through its 26-blade spiral head and dual feed speeds. This orange model fits woodworkers who value finish quality over maximum cutting width. It weighs 69 pounds and measures 22.3 by 34.6 by 20 inches.
Which planer is best for quiet hardwood planing?
The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer is ideal for hobbyists who value finish smoothness and noise reduction. It delivers professional spiral cut quality in a compact form. This rifle green model features a helical cutterhead and two feed speeds. It is designed for quiet operation without heavy industrial capacity.
What is the best 3 HP planer for heavy-duty work?
The JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer delivers professional-grade width and power. It fits workshops with 230V power that prioritize stability and cut quality. This white unit weighs 286 pounds and measures 25.5 by 46.5 by 48 inches. It features a helical cutterhead and two feed speeds for wide stock.
Which planer offers high power and width for hardwoods?
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer provides high power and a wide cutting capacity. It fits users who prioritize cutting force and surface quality. The heavy build ensures stability during hard cuts. This model features a helical cutterhead but operates at a single speed. It weighs 61.7 pounds.
Is there a VEVOR planer with variable feed speeds?
Yes, the VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer offers dual feed speeds. It provides solid capacity for wide stock and prioritizes table length and motor power. This model does not feature a helical cutterhead. It weighs 61.9 pounds and measures 27.4 by 20.7 by 18.9 inches.