WOODSTARTER Benchtop Planers: 2 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 2 picks

1 Best overall

WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer

Best for: Wide stock and thick slabs

Cutting Width

13 in

Blade Count

3 HSS blades

Maximum Stock Thickness

6-1/4 in

Feed Rate

21 FPM

Motor Power

2,000 W

Cutterhead Speed

10,000 RPM

View on Amazon: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer Affiliate link

This WOODSTARTER benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a 2,000W motor running at 10,000 RPM. It includes three HSS blades and a 21 ft/min feed rate for efficient stock removal. The 29-inch worktable helps reduce snipe on long boards. It suits woodworkers needing a wide capacity for thick slabs and wide panels in a compact footprint.

Pros

• 13-inch cutting width handles wide stock
• 2,000W motor maintains 10,000 RPM under load
• Three HSS blades provide smooth finishes
• 21 ft/min feed rate speeds up work

Cons

• 52-pound weight makes it less portable
• Maximum stock thickness is limited to 6-1/4 inches
• No variable speed control listed in specs

Good fit if

• You need to plane boards up to 13 inches wide
• You work with thick stock up to 6-1/4 inches
• You want a stable benchtop unit for a fixed shop

Skip if

• You require a portable planer for job sites
• You need to plane material thicker than 6-1/4 inches
• You prefer a lightweight machine for easy storage

Verdict: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Benchtop Planer delivers high capacity and power for wide boards. It fits woodworkers who prioritize width and thickness over portability.

2 Best budget

WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer

Best for: Wide stock and high-power planing

Cutting Width

13 in

Blade Count

2 HSS blades

Maximum Stock Thickness

6.2 in

Feed Rate

21 FPM

Motor Power

15 A (2,000 W)

Cutterhead Speed

10,000 RPM

View on Amazon: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer Affiliate link

This WOODSTARTER benchtop planer features a 15-amp motor running at 10,000 RPM. It planes boards up to 13 inches wide and 6.2 inches thick. The cutter head uses two HSS blades for consistent results. You get a 21 FPM feed rate and a 29-inch extended table. Overload protection safeguards the motor during heavy use.

Pros

• 15-amp 2000W motor delivers 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed
• Planes stock up to 13 inches wide and 6.2 inches thick
• Two HSS blades provide smooth cuts on hardwoods
• Adjustable infeed and outfeed extensions extend worktable to 29 inches
• 3-in-1 dust port connects to various vacuum hoses

Cons

• Only two HSS blades compared to the competitor's three
• 21 FPM feed rate is slower than some faster models
• Weighs 52.8 pounds, making it less portable than lighter units

Good fit if

• You need to plane wide boards up to 13 inches
• You want a powerful 15-amp motor for demanding workloads
• You require a stable cast iron base for flat results

Skip if

• You prefer a faster feed rate for high-volume production
• You need more than two blades for a finer finish
• You require a lighter machine for frequent transport

Verdict: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 15 Amp Planer suits woodworkers who need a high-capacity machine for wide stock. Its 15-amp motor and 13-inch width handle large projects effectively.

Specifications side by side

WOODSTARTER Benchtop Planers Ranked

These two models share a 13-inch swing and benchtop configuration. You can choose between a three-blade or two-blade cutterhead. The 3-Blade version weighs 52 pounds and fits wide stock. The 2-Blade model weighs 52.8 pounds and includes a 15-amp motor. Both machines target wood for general woodworking applications. You should pick the 3-Blade unit for thick slabs. It offers higher capacity for wide boards. The 2-Blade option suits high-power planing tasks. Its 15-amp motor handles large projects effectively. Choose based on your preferred blade count and power needs.

Who WOODSTARTER Planers Suit

WOODSTARTER targets woodworkers who prioritize cutting width over compact storage. Their range consists of two 13-inch benchtop models. These machines handle wide stock and thick slabs effectively. The lineup lacks smaller swing options, so narrow boards may not justify the footprint. You will not find portable or handheld variants here. The brand focuses on stationary benchtop power. If you need high capacity for large projects, this brand fits. Users valuing portability or smaller workspaces should look elsewhere. The spread is narrow, offering only wide-capacity solutions.

How to Choose the Right Planer

1. Check Swing Width

   You need a swing that matches your widest board. Both WOODSTARTER models offer a 13-inch swing. This capacity handles wide stock and thick slabs effectively. If you work with narrow boards, this width may be excessive. The 13-inch measurement defines the maximum board width the machine can process in one pass. Choose this spec if you prioritize cutting width over compact storage. Verify your typical board width before buying to ensure the swing is sufficient for your projects.

2. Compare Blade Count

   Blade count affects surface finish quality. The top pick features a three-blade cutterhead. More blades typically produce a smoother surface with fewer tear-out marks. The second model uses a two-blade design. Fewer blades may require more sanding to achieve a fine finish. You should check the blade count if surface quality is your primary concern. The three-blade version is better for wide stock where finish matters. Consider how much post-planing sanding you want to avoid when deciding between two and three blades.

3. Review Amperage

   Motor power determines cutting efficiency under load. The second model includes a 15-amp motor. Higher amperage provides more torque for dense or wide boards. This spec helps prevent stalling during deep cuts. You should compare amperage if you plan to take heavy cuts. The 15-amp rating suits high-power planing tasks. Check your workshop electrical capacity to ensure your circuit can handle this draw. Adequate power ensures consistent performance when planing thick slabs or hardwoods without bogging down.

4. Assess Weight

   Weight influences stability and portability. Both units weigh approximately 52 to 52.8 pounds. This mass provides stability during operation, reducing vibration. However, it limits easy relocation compared to lighter tools. You should consider weight if you need to move the planer frequently. The benchtop configuration keeps it on a workbench. Heavier machines stay put better but are harder to store. Factor in your bench space and how often you need to transport the tool.

5. Verify Configuration

   Configuration determines where you place the machine. Both WOODSTARTER options are benchtop models. This design requires a sturdy, level workbench for safe operation. You cannot place these on the floor like jointers. Ensure your bench can support the weight and handle the vibration. Benchtop planers save floor space but need a dedicated, stable surface. Check your bench height and stability before purchase. This configuration suits woodworkers with limited shop space who need a stationary, high-capacity planer.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• woodstarter 13 inch 3 blade benchtop planer vs 13 inch two blade
• woodstarter 13 inch benchtop wood planer review
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