Looking Beyond the Powermatic 20-Inch Thickness Planer Woodworking? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are looking for powermatic 20 inch thickness planer woodworking alternatives because the original machine demands specific shop conditions. This Powermatic model features a 5 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 100 inserts. It handles wide 20-inch stock and offers four feed speeds. The 801-pound cast iron table provides stability for large projects. However, its 230V three-phase requirement limits where you can place it. The size and weight also make it difficult to move around a busy workshop.
These alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. You might need a different cutting width or voltage. The list includes 15-inch and 13-inch models that fit smaller spaces. Some options use straight knives instead of helical heads. Others run on standard 120V power for hobbyist shops. Each selection addresses a specific gap left by the Powermatic. You can compare motor power, cutterhead style, and physical dimensions to find the right fit for your workflow.
Our top pick: Powermatic 20-Inch 4-Speed Helical Planer.
How Each Alternative Compares
JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer
The JET 15-Inch Helical Planer reduces the cutting width from 20 inches to 15 inches. It uses a 3 HP motor instead of the Powermatic 5 HP unit. This model also offers only two feed speeds rather than four. The weight drops significantly to 286 pounds, making it much easier to move than the 801-pound Powermatic. You gain a lighter machine that fits smaller shops. You lose maximum width capacity and some power for thick stock. Pick this if you need a helical cutterhead but do not require 20-inch capacity.
JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer
This JET model matches the 20-inch width of the Powermatic but switches from a helical cutterhead to a straight knife design. It uses a 3 HP motor, which is less powerful than the 5 HP unit in the original. The feed speed options are limited to two settings. The weight is 640 pounds, which is lighter than the Powermatic. You get wider capacity with traditional knife performance. You give up the quiet operation and smoother finish provided by the helical head. Choose this if you prefer straight knives and need wide stock processing.
WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer
The WOODERS 13-Inch Planer is a benchtop unit that cuts the width down to 13 inches. It uses a 15 Amp motor rather than the heavy-duty 5 HP industrial motor. The weight is only 62 pounds, making it highly portable compared to the massive Powermatic. It features a helical cutterhead for smooth finishes. You gain a compact machine that fits on a workbench. You lose the ability to process wide or thick stock. Pick this if you need a helical head for narrow boards and have limited shop space.
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
This JET 13-Inch Planer offers a 120V electrical connection, unlike the 230V requirement of the Powermatic. It has a 2 HP motor and a 13-inch cutting width. The weight is 75 pounds, which is vastly lighter than the 801-pound original. It uses a helical cutterhead with two feed speeds. You gain the ability to plug into standard outlets and easy mobility. You sacrifice width capacity and raw power. Choose this if you work with narrow boards and need a 120V helical planer without industrial power demands.
JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer
The JET 20-Inch Helical Planer matches the 20-inch width and helical cutterhead style of the Powermatic. It uses a 230V power supply like the original. The weight is 753 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the 801-pound Powermatic. Specific motor horsepower and feed speed details are not provided in the data. You get similar capacity and cutterhead technology in a slightly lighter package. You may give up the known four-speed feed control of the Powermatic. Pick this if you want a 20-inch helical planer with comparable stability.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Planer reduces the width to 13 inches and uses a 2000W motor. It is a benchtop unit weighing 61.7 pounds, far lighter than the Powermatic. It features a spiral cutterhead with 25 blades. You gain a compact, affordable option for narrow hardwoods. You lose the wide capacity and high power of the 5 HP industrial machine. The feed speed settings are not specified in the data. Choose this if you need a spiral head for small projects and want a lightweight benchtop solution.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Powermatic 20-Inch 4-Speed Helical Planer
Best for: large-scale woodworking with 3-phase power
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical
- Blade Count
- 100 inserts
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 8-inch
- Feed Rate
- 16/20 / 24/31 FPM
- Motor Power
- 5 HP
View on Amazon: Powermatic 20-Inch 4-Speed Helical Planer Affiliate link
This Powermatic 20-inch thickness planer features a 5 HP motor and a helical cutterhead with 100 carbide inserts. It offers four feed speeds from 16 to 31 FPM for precise control. The 20-inch cutting width and 8-inch maximum stock thickness handle large projects. You get a cast iron table and integrated casters for stability and mobility. It suits serious woodworkers needing professional-grade capacity.
Pros
- 5 HP motor for powerful cutting
- Helical cutterhead with 100 carbide inserts
- Four feed speeds from 16 to 31 FPM
- 20-inch cutting width for wide boards
- Cast iron table for stability
Cons
- Requires 230V/460V 3-phase power
- Heavy 801-pound build limits portability
- 8-inch maximum stock thickness restricts very thick material
Good fit if
- You need to plane wide boards up to 20 inches
- You have a 3-phase power supply in your shop
- You want a helical cutterhead for smoother finishes
Skip if
- You only have standard 110V household outlets
- You need to plane lumber thicker than 8 inches
- You require a lightweight machine for easy moving
Verdict: Powermatic 20-Inch Planer 5HP Helical is the right choice for shops with 3-phase power that need to process wide, thick stock with minimal tear-out.
JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer
Best for: 15-inch width with helical cutterhead stability
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical style
- Blade Count
- 48 knives
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6"
- Feed Rate
- 16 fpm / 20 fpm
- Motor Power
- 3 HP
View on Amazon: JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer Affiliate link
The JET JWP-15BHH is a 15-inch thickness planer with a 3 HP motor and helical cutterhead. It features 48 carbide knives and a 2-speed feed rate of 16 or 20 FPM. The precision-ground cast iron table ensures stability. This machine suits woodworkers needing a 15-inch capacity with improved cut quality and reduced snipe via the Precision Air Strut System.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 48 staggered carbide knives
- 2-speed feed rate for 16 FPM or 20 FPM
- Precision Air Strut System reduces board snipe
- 3 HP motor provides heavy-duty performance
- Precision-ground cast iron table for stability
Cons
- 15-inch width is narrower than the 20-inch competitors
- Requires 230V power, limiting outlet compatibility
- Weighs 286 pounds, making it difficult to move
Good fit if
- You need a 15-inch cutting width for most stock
- You want reduced snipe with a helical cutterhead
- You have a 230V outlet available in your shop
Skip if
- You require a 20-inch width for wide boards
- You only have standard 120V household outlets
- You need a lightweight benchtop unit for portability
Verdict: JET 15-Inch Helical Thickness Planer offers a robust 3 HP motor and helical cutterhead for a 15-inch capacity. It fits woodworkers prioritizing cut quality and stability over maximum width or portability.
JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer
Best for: Wide stock and straight knife preference
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Cutterhead Style
- Straight Knife
- Feed Rate
- 24 FPM / 31 FPM
- Motor Power
- 3 HP
- Voltage
- 230V 1Ph
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed
View on Amazon: JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer Affiliate link
This JET planer features a 20-inch cutting width and a 3 HP motor. It uses a straight knife cutterhead with four high-speed steel knives. You can choose between two feed rates: 24 FPM or 31 FPM. The machine weighs 640 pounds and has a large cast iron table. It suits woodworkers who need a wide capacity and prefer traditional straight knives over helical heads.
Pros
- 20-inch cutting width for wide boards
- Two-speed feed rates (24 FPM / 31 FPM)
- 3 HP TEFC induction motor
- Four high-speed steel cutter knives
- Large cast iron precision-ground table
Cons
- Straight knife cutterhead requires frequent sharpening
- Heavy 640-pound build limits portability
- Requires 230V power supply
Good fit if
- You regularly plane boards wider than 13 inches
- You prefer the cost-effective maintenance of straight knives
- You have a dedicated shop with 230V power
Skip if
- You need a lighter, benchtop unit
- You only have 120V outlets available
- You want a quieter helical cutterhead
Verdict: JET 20-Inch Thickness Planer is a heavy-duty choice for shops needing wide capacity. It fits users who prioritize cutting width and traditional straight knife performance over helical quietness.
WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer
Best for: Smooth finishes on 13-inch hardwoods
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral helical
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6-1/4 in
- Motor Power
- 15A, 2000W
- Cutterhead Speed
- 10,000 RPM
- Swing
- 13-Inch
View on Amazon: WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
The WOODERS 13-Inch Thickness Planer features a 15 Amp, 2000W motor and a spiral helical cutterhead. It operates at 10,000 RPM to deliver smooth cuts with minimal tear-out. The machine handles material up to 6-1/4 inches thick and 13 inches wide. Micro-adjustable controls allow for precise depth settings. This planer suits woodworkers who need heavy-duty performance and a quiet, clean finish on hardwoods.
Pros
- 15 Amp, 2000W all-copper motor for continuous power
- Spiral helical cutterhead reduces noise and tear-out
- 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed for efficient cutting
- Micro-adjustable thickness controls for repeatable precision
Cons
- 13-inch cutting width limits wide board projects
- 62-pound weight makes it less portable
- Single-speed operation lacks variable feed control
Good fit if
- You need a 15 Amp motor for hardwoods
- You want a helical cutterhead for smooth finishes
- You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
Skip if
- You require more than 13 inches of planing width
- You need variable speed control for delicate work
- You prefer a lighter, benchtop-only unit
Verdict: WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Planer delivers professional-grade smoothness and power for medium-width boards. It fits woodworkers who prioritize finish quality and motor strength over maximum width capacity.
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
Best for: narrow boards and 120V workshops
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical style
- Blade Count
- 26 inserts
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6"
- Feed Rate
- 18 FPM / 26 FPM
- Motor Power
- 2 HP, 15 A
View on Amazon: JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer Affiliate link
This JET benchtop planer features a 13-inch width capacity and a helical cutterhead with 26 inserts. It runs on 120V power with a 2-HP motor. The two-speed feed rate offers 18 or 26 FPM for flexible operation. The four-post design supports the cutterhead for precision. It suits users needing a 120V helical option for smaller workshop spaces.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 26 inserts for smoother cuts
- Two-speed feed rate: 18 FPM or 26 FPM
- 120V power supply for standard outlets
- Four-post design for cutterhead stability
- Adjustable folding tables save space
Cons
- 13-inch width is narrower than 15 or 20-inch alternatives
- 75-pound weight adds bulk to benchtop setups
- Maximum depth of cut limited to 1/8 inch per pass
Good fit if
- You need a 120V helical planer for lighter duty work
- You primarily plane boards under 13 inches wide
- You want quieter operation from a helical cutterhead
Skip if
- You regularly plane lumber wider than 13 inches
- You require heavy stock removal in a single pass
- You need a 220V machine for higher power
Verdict: JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer fits hobbyists who need 120V helical cutting in a compact footprint. It is ideal for narrow boards but not for wide stock.
JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer
Best for: Wide boards and heavy-duty shop use
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Cutterhead Style
- Helical
- Feed Rate
- 24/31 fpm
- Motor Power
- 5 HP
- Voltage
- 230V 1Ph
- Dimensions
- 26 × 36.7 × 41.4 inches
View on Amazon: JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer Affiliate link
The JET 20-Inch Planer features a 5 HP motor and helical cutterhead for smooth finishes. It supports a 20-inch cutting width and offers two feed rates of 24 or 31 fpm. The 230V power requirement suits dedicated shops. You will appreciate the precise 1/16-inch height adjustments and the stable welded steel base for consistent results.
Pros
- 5 HP TEFC induction motor provides strong cutting power
- Helical cutterhead reduces noise and tear-out
- Two-speed feed rates of 24 and 31 fpm allow flexibility
- 1/16-inch increment height scale enables precise depth adjustments
- One-piece welded steel base ensures stability during operation
Cons
- Requires 230V power which limits placement options
- Heavy 753-pound build makes it difficult to move
- Large footprint requires significant workshop space
Good fit if
- You need a 20-inch planing capacity for wide boards
- You have a 230V electrical supply in your shop
- You want precise height adjustments for fine woodworking
Skip if
- You only have standard 120V outlets available
- You need a portable or benchtop unit for small spaces
- You prefer lighter machines that are easy to relocate
Verdict: JET 20-Inch Helical Planer delivers professional-grade performance for shops with ample space and 230V power. It is ideal for woodworkers who prioritize stability and precision over portability.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: narrow hardwood planing with spiral blades
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Blade Count
- 24
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- Single speed
- Motor Power
- 2000W
View on Amazon: VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
This benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades. A 2000W motor drives the head at 23,500 RPM, delivering up to 8,000 cuts per minute. The dual-roller feeding system reduces vibration, while the 28.2-inch worktable supports long boards. It offers 1/8-inch depth adjustments and handles stock up to 6 inches thick.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades for smooth finishes
- 2000W motor provides 8,000 CPM for hardwoods
- Dual-roller feeding system reduces vibration and snipe
- Compatible with 2-inch and 4-inch dust hoses
Cons
- Single-speed feed rate limits processing flexibility
- 13-inch width is narrower than 20-inch alternatives
- 61.7-pound weight adds bulk to benchtop setups
Good fit if
- You need a spiral cutterhead for reduced tear-out
- You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
- You want precise 1/8-inch depth control
Skip if
- You require a feed rate faster than single speed
- You regularly plane material wider than 13 inches
- You need a two-speed motor for heavy stock removal
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer suits woodworkers who prioritize a spiral cutterhead and steady feed on narrower stock. It fits users who need robust 2000W power in a benchtop form factor.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Powermatic 20-Inch 4-Speed Helical Planer | JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer | JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer | WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer | JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer | JET 20-Inch 5 HP Helical Planer | VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 20-Inch | 15" | 20-Inch | 13 in | 13" | 20-Inch | 13 in |
| Cutterhead Style | Helical | Helical style | Straight Knife | Spiral helical | Helical style | Helical | Spiral |
| Blade Count | 100 inserts | 48 knives | not stated | not stated | 26 inserts | not stated | 24 |
| Maximum Stock Thickness | 8-inch | 6" | not stated | 6-1/4 in | 6" | not stated | 6 in |
| Feed Rate | 16/20 / 24/31 FPM | 16 fpm / 20 fpm | 24 FPM / 31 FPM | not stated | 18 FPM / 26 FPM | 24/31 fpm | Single speed |
| Motor Power | 5 HP | 3 HP | 3 HP | 15A, 2000W | 2 HP, 15 A | 5 HP | 2000W |
| Cutterhead Speed | not stated | not stated | not stated | 10,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM | not stated | not stated |
| Voltage | 230V/460V 3Ph | 230V 1Ph | 230V 1Ph | not stated | 120V 1Ph | 230V 1Ph | not stated |
| Swing | 20-Inch | 15-Inch | 20-Inch | 13-Inch | 13-Inch | 20-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Configuration | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Benchtop | not stated | Benchtop |
| Speed Settings | 4-Speed | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | not stated | 2-Speed | not stated | not stated |
| Amperage | not stated | not stated | not stated | 15 Amp | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | not stated | Wood |
| Application | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | not stated | Woodworking |
| Dimensions | 27 × 37 × 42 inches | 25.5 × 46.5 × 48 inches | 26 × 36.5 × 41.5 inches | 22.4 × 14.2 × 17.9 inches | 28 × 22 × 19 inches | 26 × 36.7 × 41.4 inches | 28.2 × 13 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 801 pounds | 286 pounds | 640 pounds | 62 pounds | 75 pounds | 753 pounds | 61.7 pounds |
| Size | 20" | 15-inch | not stated | not stated | 28 x 22 x 19 inches | not stated | 13inch-2000(25 Blades) |
| Color | Gold | White | White | Spiral Helical Cutterhead | White | White | Single Speed Spiral Blade |
| Model | 209HH | JWP-15BHH | JWP-208-1 | WDS-PL13-15S | 722130 | JWP-208HH | M1B-LS-3301 |
If you also cut curved stock, evaluate powermatic 14 inch woodworking bandsaw alternatives by their throat clearance and motor horsepower.
Frequently asked questions
Which planer is best for 3-phase power users?
The Powermatic 20-Inch 4-Speed Helical Planer is the top choice for shops with 3-phase power. It features a 5 HP motor and a 20-inch swing. The machine weighs 801 pounds and measures 27 inches in length. It delivers minimal tear-out for wide, thick stock processing.
What is the best 15-inch helical option?
The JET 15-Inch 3 HP Helical Planer is the best 15-inch alternative. It offers a 15-inch capacity with a helical cutterhead for stability. The unit weighs 286 pounds and measures 25.5 inches in length. It fits woodworkers who prioritize cut quality over maximum width.
Is there a 20-inch planer with straight knives?
Yes, the JET 20-Inch Straight Knife Thickness Planer uses a traditional straight knife cutterhead. It has a 3 HP motor and a 20-inch swing. The machine weighs 640 pounds and measures 26 inches in length. It suits users who prefer straight knife performance over helical quietness.
Which planer is best for narrow boards on 120V?
The JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer is ideal for 120V workshops. It features a 2 HP motor and a helical cutterhead. The benchtop unit weighs 75 pounds and measures 28 inches in length. It is designed for narrow boards and hobbyists needing a compact footprint.
What is the lightest helical benchtop planer?
The WOODERS 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer is the lightest option at 62 pounds. It features a 15 Amp motor and a spiral helical cutterhead. The unit measures 22.4 inches in length and 17.9 inches in height. It delivers professional-grade smoothness for medium-width hardwoods.
Which model has a spiral cutterhead?
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer features a spiral cutterhead with 25 blades. It has a 2000W motor and a 13-inch swing. The unit weighs 61.7 pounds and measures 28.2 inches in length. It suits users who need steady feed on narrower stock.