9 Best 2-Speed Benchtop Planers, Compared
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This guide compares the best 2-Speed benchtop planers to help you find the right tool for your workshop. The VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer leads this list because its sturdy dual-roller feed system handles high power demands for hardwoods. We evaluated 9 models based strictly on specifications published on the listings. You will find details on motor power, cutterhead style, and physical dimensions for each option. Use this data to decide which planer matches your capacity needs and workspace constraints.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need high power for stationary hardwood work VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer Its 58.4-pound weight and dual-roller feed system provide stability for heavy stock removal.
- You prioritize finish quality and feed speed control WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer The spiral cutterhead and two-speed settings reduce tear-out and allow precise feed management.
- You want a smooth finish on wide boards Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer Its spiral cutterhead minimizes snipe and delivers a clean surface on 13-inch lumber.
- You seek stability and precise depth control JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer The 75-pound build and helical head ensure consistent cuts and reduced vibration.
- You process wide stock in a 230V workshop JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer The 20-inch capacity and 3 HP motor handle wide boards with professional power.
Our 9 picks
VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer
Best for: Stationary woodworking shops needing high power
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Blade Count
- 3
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- Two speed
- Motor Power
- 2000W
This VEVOR benchtop planer offers a 13-inch cutting width and a 2000W motor for hardwoods. It features a two-speed feed rate and three HSS blades for smooth finishes. The dual-roller system reduces vibration, while the 28.2-inch worktable supports long boards. You get precise depth control in 1/8-inch steps. It connects to 2-inch or 4-inch dust hoses for efficient chip removal.
Pros
- 2000W motor handles hardwoods like oak and maple
- Two-speed feed rate for efficiency or precision
- Dual-roller system reduces vibration and snipe
- Compatible with 2-inch and 4-inch dust hoses
Cons
- Only three blades compared to spiral heads on competitors
- 1/8-inch depth adjustment steps lack fine-tuning precision
- 58.4-pound weight limits portability
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for standard lumber
- You want dual rollers for stable board feeding
- You prefer two-speed control for different tasks
Skip if
- You require spiral cutterheads for tear-out-free cuts
- You need fine micrometer depth adjustments
- You plan to move the machine frequently
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer fits users who prioritize a sturdy dual-roller feed system and high power for hardwoods. It is a solid choice for stationary workshops needing reliable stock removal.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: Variable feed speed and spiral cutterhead finish
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Blade Count
- 26
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- 16 FPM / 26 FPM (two speed)
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
The WEN PL1337 is a 13-inch benchtop planer with a spiral cutterhead and two-speed operation. It features a 15-amp motor delivering 10,000 RPM and feed rates of 16 or 26 FPM. The unit planes boards up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick. Its 26 rotatable HSS blades provide a clean finish. This model suits users who need variable feed speeds for different material types.
Pros
- Two-speed feed rates of 16 FPM and 26 FPM
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered, rotatable HSS blades
- 15-amp motor generates 10,000 cutterhead rotations per minute
- Includes depth stop and onboard material removal gauge
Cons
- Heavier at 69 pounds, making it less portable
- Maximum stock thickness is limited to 6 inches
- Two-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
Good fit if
- You need variable feed speeds for different finish quality
- You want a spiral cutterhead for smoother cuts
- You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
Skip if
- You require a capacity larger than 13 inches
- You need to plane stock thicker than 6 inches
- You prefer a lighter machine for frequent moves
Verdict: The WEN PL1337 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize finish quality and feed speed control. It is a solid benchtop choice for standard width lumber.
VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer
Best for: figured stock with controlled feed speeds
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- 15 f/m, 24 f/m
- Motor Power
- 15 A, 2000 W
- Configuration
- Benchtop
The VEVOR 13-inch benchtop planer features a 2000W motor and two feed speeds: 15 FPM for smooth finishes and 24 FPM for quick stock removal. It planes boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide. The three-knife cutter head ensures consistent performance. You get a 35-inch total table length for long stock support. This machine suits woodworkers needing precision on figured lumber.
Pros
- Two feed speeds (15 and 24 FPM) for finish or speed
- 2000W motor delivers high RPM for fine finishes
- Three-knife cutter head with HRC55-60 hardness
- 35-inch total table length supports long stock
Cons
- Heavier build at 61.9 pounds
- Straight knife cutter head causes more tear-out on figured wood
- No digital display for feed speed selection
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width capacity
- You require two feed speeds for different finishes
- You plane boards up to 6 inches thick
Skip if
- You need a spiral or helical cutter head
- You require a 15-inch or wider capacity
- You want a lighter machine under 50 pounds
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch 2-Speed Benchtop Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize feed speed control and a wide 13-inch capacity. It is a solid choice for general thickness planing on straight grain lumber.
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
Best for: Smooth finish on hardwoods in 13-inch width
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Blade Count
- 26 inserts
- Feed Rate
- 2-speed (16 FPM)
- Swing
- 13-Inch
View on Amazon: Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
This Cutech benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a spiral cutterhead with 26 tungsten carbide inserts. It offers a 2-speed feed rate, including a slow 16 FPM setting for difficult hardwoods. The design includes a snipe minimizer with four lead screws and a flip dust hood. It suits woodworkers who need a smooth finish and reduced noise without the bulk of a larger machine.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 inserts for smooth finish
- 2-speed feed rate with 16 FPM option
- Patented snipe minimizer design
Cons
- Smaller 13-inch width compared to 15-inch models
- Heavier and bulkier build than basic models
- No app or remote connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for standard lumber
- You want a spiral cutterhead for reduced tearout
- You prefer a 2-speed feed rate for hardwoods
Skip if
- You require a 15-inch or larger cutting width
- You need a single-speed machine for simplicity
- You want a lightweight portable option
Verdict: Cutech 13-Inch 2-Speed Spiral Planer fits hobbyists who value a smooth finish and snipe reduction in a compact benchtop footprint. It is ideal for those planning to process wide boards up to 13 inches without needing industrial capacity.
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
Best for: Smooth finish and stability seekers
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical style
- Blade Count
- 26 inserts
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6"
- Feed Rate
- 18 FPM / 26 FPM
The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Planer features a helical cutterhead with 26 high-speed steel inserts. It offers two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM. The 2-HP motor runs at 10,000 RPM. It handles boards up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick. The cast iron bed helps keep wood flat. This machine suits woodworkers seeking a smooth, quiet cut with adjustable depth stops.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 26 quick-change inserts
- Two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM
- Cast iron bed reduces snipe
- Adjustable folding infeed and outfeed tables
Cons
- Heavier build at 75 pounds
- Limited to 13-inch width capacity
- Maximum depth of cut is only 1/8 inch
Good fit if
- You need a quieter operation with a helical head
- You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
- You want adjustable feed speeds for different materials
Skip if
- You require a wider 15-inch or 20-inch capacity
- You need a lighter unit for easy transport
- You prefer a straight knife cutterhead design
Verdict: JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer is ideal for serious hobbyists who value cut quality and stability. It fits users who prioritize a smooth finish and precise depth control over maximum width capacity.
JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer
Best for: Wider boards and helical cut quality
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical style
- Blade Count
- 48 knives
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6"
- Feed Rate
- 16 fpm / 20 fpm
This 15-inch benchtop planer features a 3 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 48 carbide knives. It offers two feed speeds, 16 or 20 fpm, to handle different wood types. The 230V power requirement suits dedicated workshops. Its heavy cast iron table and four-post design provide stability for precise cuts up to 1/8 inch deep.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 48 staggered carbide knives
- Dual feed speeds: 16 fpm or 20 fpm
- Precision-ground cast iron table for stability
- PASS system reduces board snipe
- 3 HP motor for heavy-duty performance
Cons
- Requires 230V power supply
- Weighs 286 pounds, making it difficult to move
- Larger footprint than standard 13-inch models
Good fit if
- You need a 15-inch capacity for wider boards
- You have a 230V electrical outlet in your shop
- You want a helical cutterhead for smoother finishes
Skip if
- You only have standard 115V household outlets
- You need a lightweight machine for frequent transport
- You only work with boards under 13 inches wide
Verdict: JET 15-Inch 3HP Helical Planer delivers professional-grade stability and cut quality for users with the necessary power and space. It is ideal for woodworkers who prioritize a helical head and wider capacity over portability.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle
Best for: 13-inch width and 6-inch thickness projects
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- 16 FPM / 26 FPM
- Configuration
- Benchtop
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle
This WEN benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a spiral cutterhead for fine finishes. It offers two-speed operation with feed rates of 16 FPM and 26 FPM. The machine handles boards up to 6 inches thick. You get precise dimensioning and smooth results on wood. It suits workshop projects requiring reliable thicknessing without excessive noise or tear-out.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with staggered HSS blades
- Two-speed feed rates of 16 and 26 FPM
- 13-inch cutting width for wider boards
- Handles stock up to 6 inches thick
Cons
- Limited to 6-inch maximum stock thickness
- Only two speed settings available
- Benchtop footprint requires stable surface
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for standard lumber
- You prefer spiral cutterheads for smoother cuts
- You want two feed speeds for different tasks
Skip if
- You require more than 6-inch thickness capacity
- You need three or more speed settings
- You plan to plane boards wider than 13 inches
Verdict: WEN 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer delivers precise thicknessing with a spiral cutterhead and dual feed speeds. It fits woodworkers who need a 13-inch width and 6-inch depth capacity for refined finishes.
JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer
Best for: Wide stock and 230V workshops
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Cutterhead Style
- Straight Knife
- Feed Rate
- 24 FPM / 31 FPM
- Motor Power
- 3 HP
- Voltage
- 230V 1Ph
This JET benchtop planer features a 20-inch cutting width and a 3 HP motor. It uses a straight knife cutterhead with two feed speeds: 24 FPM and 31 FPM. The machine includes a 5-inch dust port and a precision-ground cast iron table. It suits users who need wide capacity and precise height adjustments for large woodworking projects.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width handles wide boards
- Two feed speeds: 24 FPM and 31 FPM
- 3 HP motor provides strong cutting power
- 5-inch dust port for efficient collection
Cons
- 640-pound weight makes it difficult to move
- Requires 230V power, not standard 120V outlets
- Straight knife head needs frequent sharpening
Good fit if
- You need to plane boards wider than 15 inches
- You have a 230V electrical circuit available
- You prefer traditional straight knife cutterheads
Skip if
- You only have standard 120V household outlets
- You need a lightweight machine for small shops
- You want a spiral helical cutterhead
Verdict: JET 20-Inch 3 HP Straight Knife Planer is a heavy-duty option for wide stock. It fits shops with 230V power and space for large, stationary equipment.
Powermatic 15-Inch Helical Thickness Planer
Best for: Wide stock and heavy-duty woodworking
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Width
- 15-Inch
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical
- Blade Count
- 74 inserts
- Feed Rate
- 16 FPM / 20 FPM
- Motor Power
- 3 HP
This Powermatic 15HH is a heavy-duty 2-speed benchtop planer with a 15-inch cutting width. It features a 3 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 74 carbide inserts. The two-speed gearbox offers feed rates of 16 FPM and 20 FPM. Lockable casters and return rollers aid mobility and repetitive cuts. It suits woodworkers needing wide capacity and a fine finish.
Pros
- 15-inch cutting width for wide boards
- Helical cutterhead with 74 carbide inserts
- Two-speed gearbox with 16/20 FPM rates
- 3 HP motor for maximum power
- Lockable built-in caster system for mobility
Cons
- Requires 230V power supply
- Weighs 502 pounds, making it bulky
- Larger footprint than 13-inch models
Good fit if
- You need to plane boards up to 15 inches wide
- You have a 230V outlet in your shop
- You want a helical cutterhead for a smoother finish
Skip if
- You only have standard 120V outlets
- You need a lightweight machine for easy transport
- You primarily work with narrow stock under 13 inches
Verdict: Powermatic 15-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer is a robust choice for shops handling wide lumber and requiring high power. Its helical head and heavy build deliver professional results for serious woodworking projects.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer | VEVOR 13-Inch Three-Blade Two-Speed Planer | Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer | JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer | JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle | JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer | Powermatic 15-Inch Helical Thickness Planer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 13 in | 13 in | 13 in | 13 in | 13" | 15" | 13 in | 20-Inch | 15-Inch |
| Cutterhead Style | not specified | Spiral | not specified | Spiral | Helical style | Helical style | Spiral | Straight Knife | Helical |
| Blade Count | 3 | 26 | not specified | 26 inserts | 26 inserts | 48 knives | not specified | not specified | 74 inserts |
| Maximum Stock Thickness | 6 in | 6 in | 6 in | not specified | 6" | 6" | 6 in | not specified | not specified |
| Feed Rate | Two speed | 16 FPM / 26 FPM (two speed) | 15 f/m, 24 f/m | 2-speed (16 FPM) | 18 FPM / 26 FPM | 16 fpm / 20 fpm | 16 FPM / 26 FPM | 24 FPM / 31 FPM | 16 FPM / 20 FPM |
| Motor Power | 2000W | 15 A | 15 A, 2000 W | not specified | 2 HP, 15 A | 3 HP | not specified | 3 HP | 3 HP |
| Cutterhead Speed | not specified | 10,000 RPM | not specified | not specified | 10,000 RPM | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Voltage | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 120V 1Ph | 230V 1Ph | not specified | 230V 1Ph | 230V 1Ph |
| Swing | 13-Inch | 13-Inch | not specified | 13-Inch | 13-Inch | 15-Inch | not specified | 20-Inch | 15-Inch |
| Configuration | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | not specified | Benchtop | not specified | not specified |
| Speed Settings | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed |
| Amperage | not specified | not specified | 15 Amp | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Target Material | Wood | not specified | Wood | not specified | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood |
| Application | Woodworking | not specified | not specified | not specified | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking |
| Dimensions | 28.2 × 13 × 6 inches | 22.3 × 34.6 × 20 inches | 27.4 × 20.7 × 18.9 inches | not specified | 28 × 22 × 19 inches | 25.5 × 46.5 × 48 inches | not specified | 26 × 36.5 × 41.5 inches | 48 × 28 × 44 inches |
| Weight | 58.4 pounds | 69 pounds | 61.9 pounds | not specified | 75 pounds | 286 pounds | not specified | 640 pounds | 502 pounds |
| Size | Two Speed | Spiral, 13-Inch, Two Speed | 13inch | 22¼" x 34⅝" x 19⅞" | 28 x 22 x 19 inches | 15-inch | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Two Speed 3 Blade | Orange | 13" Three-blade | Rifle Green | White | White | Orange | White | Yellow |
| Model | M1B-LS-3305 | PL1337 | Raboteuse Dégauchisseuse | 40800H | 722130 | JWP-15BHH | RM | JWP-208-1 | 15HH |
If you need dual-speed rotation for workshop listening, compare the best 2-Speed turntables by their motor specifications.
How to choose the right one
-
Check swing capacity
The swing determines the maximum board width the planer can handle. Most benchtop models in this list feature a 13-inch swing, which suits standard lumber widths. If you regularly process wider boards, consider the JET 15-Inch or Powermatic 15-Inch models. The JET 20-Inch offers the widest capacity at 20 inches. Ensure your typical stock fits within the swing limit to avoid excessive trimming or inability to plane the board at all.
-
Match voltage to shop
Voltage requirements vary significantly across these units. Most 13-inch benchtop planers, including the VEVOR and WEN models, operate on standard 120V circuits. However, heavier 15-inch and 20-inch units like the JET and Powermatic require 230V power. Verify your workshop electrical setup before purchasing. Using a 230V machine on a 120V circuit will prevent it from running. This spec is critical for ensuring the motor delivers adequate power for dense hardwoods without tripping breakers.
-
Evaluate cutterhead style
Cutterhead style affects cut quality and noise. Straight knife heads, like those on the JET 20-Inch, are traditional and easier to sharpen but may cause tear-out. Helical and spiral heads, found on the WEN and JET 13-Inch models, use multiple small carbide inserts. These reduce tear-out and operate more quietly. The spiral design on the WEN PL1337 specifically targets finish quality. Choose a spiral or helical head if you prioritize smooth surfaces on figured wood.
-
Consider motor power
Motor power influences how much material the planer can remove per pass. Higher horsepower motors handle dense hardwoods better. The JET 15-Inch and 20-Inch models feature 3 HP motors, providing robust performance for heavy stock removal. The JET 13-Inch Helical Planer offers 2 HP, which is sufficient for most hobbyist tasks. Lower power motors may struggle with thick cuts or hard species. Match the motor power to the density of wood you plan to process regularly.
-
Assess weight and stability
Weight impacts stability during operation. Heavier machines vibrate less and produce smoother cuts. The JET 20-Inch weighs 640 pounds, offering exceptional stability for its size. Benchtop 13-inch models range from 58 to 75 pounds. The VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer weighs 58.4 pounds, while the JET 13-Inch Helical weighs 75 pounds. A heavier unit reduces snipe and chatter. Ensure your workbench or stand can support the machine's weight safely.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a spiral and straight knife cutterhead?
A spiral cutterhead uses multiple small carbide inserts arranged in a helix pattern. This design reduces tear-out and snipe, providing a smoother finish on figured hardwoods. Straight knife heads use two or three large blades. They are easier to sharpen but can leave visible chatter marks on difficult grain patterns.
Which 2-speed benchtop planer is best for wide boards?
The JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer offers the widest capacity at 20 inches. It also features a 3 HP motor and requires 230V power. For slightly narrower boards, the JET 15-Inch Helical Planer and Powermatic 15-Inch models provide 15-inch swings. These larger units are heavy and require significant floor space.
Do all 2-speed planers require 230V power?
No. Many benchtop models, including the VEVOR and WEN options, run on standard 120V power. However, higher-capacity units like the JET 15-Inch, JET 20-Inch, and Powermatic 15-Inch require 230V outlets. Always check the voltage specification before purchasing to ensure your workshop has the correct electrical setup for the machine.
How does the weight of a planer affect its performance?
Heavier planers provide greater stability during operation, reducing vibration and improving cut quality. The JET 20-Inch model weighs 640 pounds, offering maximum rigidity. Lighter benchtop models, such as the VEVOR 13-Inch at 58.4 pounds, are more portable but may require additional stabilization. Weight often correlates with the motor power and build quality.
What is the maximum thickness capacity for these benchtop planers?
Most models in this list handle stock up to 6 inches thick. The WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle specifically notes a 6-inch depth capacity. Check the specifications for each model to confirm the maximum thickness. This dimension determines how thick a board can be before planing.
Is a helical cutterhead better than a spiral one?
Both helical and spiral cutterheads use multiple inserts to reduce tear-out. The terms are often used interchangeably in marketing. The JET and Powermatic models feature helical heads, while the WEN and Cutech models use spiral designs. Both styles offer smoother finishes than straight knives, making them suitable for difficult woods.
Which planer is best for hobbyists with limited space?
The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer is designed for hobbyists needing a compact footprint. It processes boards up to 13 inches wide without requiring industrial space. The VEVOR 13-Inch Two-Speed Three-Blade Planer is another compact option at 58.4 pounds. These models fit well in smaller workshops while still offering 2-speed control.