WEN Thickness Planer Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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If you are looking for wen thickness planer alternatives, this guide compares 6 similar picks. The original WEN bundle offers a jointer and planer combo with spiral cutters for fine finishes. Its two-speed feed rates and 13-inch cutting width handle most benchtop tasks well. However, you might need a different spec, size, feature or brand for your specific shop setup. Some users prefer higher motor power, while others prioritize portability or a single-purpose machine. We selected these alternatives because their specs overlap with the original, ensuring they meet similar woodworking needs. The JET helical planer provides heavy stability for detailed work. The VEVOR spiral model offers wide capacity for hardwoods. The WEN standalone planer gives variable feed speeds. The VEVOR two-blade option suits small shops with foldable storage. The WOODERS 15-amp model delivers raw power for dense materials. The Cutech spiral planer reduces tearout on hard grains. Each choice balances cutting width, cutterhead style and speed settings. You can find the right tool by comparing these published specifications against your project requirements.
Our top pick: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle.
How these planers differ
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
The JET 13-Inch Helical Planer uses a helical cutterhead rather than the spiral style found on the WEN bundle. It offers 2 HP of motor power and runs on 120V, providing robust performance for detailed benchtop work. At 75 pounds, it is heavier than the WEN unit, prioritizing stability over portability. This model suits woodworkers who value cut quality and a solid base more than having a jointer included. You get dedicated planing power without the jointer component, making it ideal for shops focused solely on thicknessing wide boards with smooth results.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer shares the spiral cutterhead design but lacks the two-speed feed rate control of the WEN bundle. It operates at a single speed, which simplifies operation but reduces fine-tuning options for different wood types. Weighing 61.7 pounds, it is lighter than the WEN unit, making it easier to move. This planer fits users who prioritize cutting width and spiral blade smoothness over variable speed control. It is a solid choice for hardwoods but gives up the flexibility of adjusting feed rates for perfect finishes on delicate materials.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
The WEN PL1337 standalone planer mirrors the planer component of the bundle, featuring the same 13-inch width and two-speed feed rates. It uses a 26-blade spiral head for clean cuts, matching the finish quality of the bundled version. At 69 pounds, it is slightly lighter than the combined bundle weight. This model is for users who need variable feed speeds and wide capacity but do not require the jointer. You get the exact planing performance of the bundle’s planer unit without the extra jointer table, making it a focused choice for thicknessing tasks alone.
VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
The VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer differs significantly by using only two blades instead of a spiral or helical head. It has a narrower 12.5-inch cutting width compared to the 13-inch capacity of the WEN models. Weighing 78 pounds, it is heavier than the WEN planer but includes a foldable design for space-saving storage. This unit prioritizes raw motor power and compactness over maximum cutting width. It fits smaller shops handling moderate-width stock. You sacrifice the ultra-fine finish of spiral cutters for a simpler, more portable tool that saves bench space.
WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
The WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer uses HSS blades rather than the spiral cutterhead found on the WEN bundle. It features a 15-amp motor, emphasizing raw amperage and high-speed cutting for dense hardwoods. At 60 pounds, it is lighter than the WEN unit. This planer suits workshops where motor power matters more than cutterhead style. You give up the noise reduction and tearout prevention of spiral heads for a simpler blade system. It is ideal for users who prioritize speed and amperage over the fine-finish capabilities of the WEN spiral design.
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Planer also uses a spiral head and offers two-speed feed rates, similar to the WEN bundle. It is designed to reduce tearout and noise during hardwood planing. At approximately 75 pounds based on its dimensions, it is comparable in weight to the WEN bundle. This model fits users who prioritize surface quality and noise reduction over basic functionality. You get dedicated planing power with adjustable feed rates, making it ideal for detailed projects. It lacks the jointer included in the WEN bundle, focusing entirely on achieving smooth finishes on wide boards.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle
Best for: woodworkers needing jointer and planer combo
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- 16 FPM / 26 FPM
- Configuration
- Benchtop
- Speed Settings
- 2-Speed
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle Affiliate link
This bundle pairs a 13-inch spiral thickness planer with a 30-by-6-inch jointer. The planer offers two feed speeds, 26 FPM for quick work and 16 FPM for fine finishes. It handles boards up to 6 inches thick. The jointer removes up to 1/8 inch per pass and bevels up to 45 degrees. You get two spiral cutterheads for smooth results on wood.
Pros
- Two-speed feed rates for speed or finish
- Spiral cutterheads for ultra-fine wood finishes
- 13-inch cutting width for wide boards
- Jointer fence bevels up to 45 degrees
Cons
- Requires more bench space for two machines
- Jointer table height is not adjustable
- No variable speed control on the planer
Good fit if
- You need both planing and jointing in one purchase
- You want spiral cutterheads for better surface quality
- You work with boards up to 13 inches wide
Skip if
- You only need a thickness planer
- You have limited bench space
- You prefer a single compact machine
Verdict: WEN PL1337 and JT630H Bundle delivers dual functionality with spiral cutters. It suits woodworkers who need jointing and planing capabilities without buying separate units.
JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer
Best for: smooth cuts and stability
- 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
The JET 13-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer uses a helical cutterhead with 26 quick-change inserts. It features 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 handles 13-inch width and 6-inch depth. This machine suits users who want smoother cuts and reduced snipe in a benchtop format.
Pros
- Helical cutterhead with 26 quick-change inserts for smoother cuts
- Two feed speeds: 18 FPM and 26 FPM
- Cast iron bed reduces snipe and keeps boards flat
- Four-post design provides maximum control and support
Cons
- Heavier build at 75 pounds
- Limited to 13-inch cutting width
- No mention of dust collection port specifications
Good fit if
- You want a quieter, smoother cut than standard knives
- You need two feed speeds for different wood types
- You have space for a 75-pound benchtop machine
Skip if
- You need a planer wider than 13 inches
- You require a lightweight tool for frequent moving
- You prefer a single-speed operation only
Verdict: JET 13-Inch Helical Benchtop Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize cut quality and stability over portability. Its helical head and heavy base make it ideal for detailed benchtop work.
VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: Hardwood planing with wide boards
- 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 VEVOR benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a 2000W motor that delivers up to 8,000 cuts per minute. It uses a spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades to reduce vibration and snipe. The dual-roller feeding system advances boards precisely. It handles hardwoods like oak and maple with ease. The unit weighs 61.7 pounds and supports both 2-inch and 4-inch dust hoses for efficient chip removal.
Pros
- 2000W motor provides 8,000 CPM for hardwood planing
- Spiral cutterhead with 24 alloy blades reduces splinters
- Dual-roller feeding system improves board stability
- Compatible with 2-inch and 4-inch dust hoses
Cons
- Single-speed feed rate limits process control
- 61.7-pound weight makes it heavy for a benchtop unit
- 1/8-inch depth increments are less precise than finer adjustments
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for wider boards
- You plan to plane dense hardwoods like oak
- You want a spiral cutterhead for smoother finishes
Skip if
- You require variable feed speeds for delicate work
- You need finer than 1/8-inch depth adjustments
- You have limited bench space for a 61.7-pound tool
Verdict: VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer fits users who prioritize cutting width and spiral blade smoothness over variable speed control. It is a solid choice for hardwoods but lacks the fine-tuning options found in higher-end models.
WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer
Best for: Users needing variable feed speeds and wide capacity
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Blade Count
- 26
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6 in
- Feed Rate
- 16 FPM / 26 FPM (two speed)
- Motor Power
- 15 A
View on Amazon: WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
The WEN PL1337 is a benchtop thickness planer with a 13-inch cutting width and a 15-amp motor. It features a spiral cutterhead with 26 rotatable HSS blades for a clean finish. You get two feed speeds: 26 FPM for quick dimensioning and 16 FPM for smoother results. It planes boards up to 6 inches thick. This model suits users who want variable speed control in a standard benchtop footprint.
Pros
- Two-speed operation with 26 FPM and 16 FPM feed rates
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 staggered, rotatable HSS blades
- 15-amp motor delivers 10,000 cutterhead RPM
- Planes material up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick
Cons
- Heavier build at 69 pounds
- Limited to a 2-year warranty
- Single speed option is not included in this specific configuration
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch capacity for wider boards
- You want two feed speeds for different finish requirements
- You prefer a spiral cutterhead for smoother wood surfaces
Skip if
- You require a single-speed model for simplicity
- You need a planer under 60 pounds for easy transport
- You are looking for a model with a longer warranty period
Verdict: WEN PL1337 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Planer fits woodworkers who value the flexibility of two feed speeds and the clean cut of a 26-blade spiral head. It is a solid choice for those who need to plane wider stock without moving to a larger machine.
VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
Best for: small shops needing power and foldable storage
- Cutting Width
- 12.5"
- Blade Count
- 2
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6.3"
- Feed Rate
- 236"/min (6 m/min)
- Motor Power
- 15 A, 1800 W
- Cutterhead Speed
- 8000 rpm
View on Amazon: VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
The VEVOR 12.5-inch benchtop planer features a 15-amp, 1800-watt motor and a cutterhead speed of 8000 rpm. It offers a feed rate of 236 inches per minute and handles stock up to 6.3 inches thick. The unit includes a heavy-duty stand and foldable extension plates for stability. This model suits users needing a compact, powerful tool for repurposing weathered wood with a smooth finish.
Pros
- 15-amp 1800-watt motor delivers 8000 rpm cutterhead speed
- 236 inches per minute feed rate for efficient material removal
- Foldable stand with extension plates saves workspace
- Dust exhaust interface supports 2-inch or 1.8-inch collectors
Cons
- 12.5-inch cutting width is narrower than the 13-inch competitors
- Only includes two HSS blades instead of spiral or multi-blade heads
- 78-pound weight makes it less portable than lighter benchtop options
Good fit if
- You need a powerful motor for dense hardwoods
- You have limited bench space and need foldable extensions
- You work with boards up to 12.5 inches wide
Skip if
- You regularly plane lumber wider than 12.5 inches
- You require a spiral cutterhead for ultra-smooth finishes
- You need a faster feed rate than 236 inches per minute
Verdict: VEVOR 12.5-Inch Benchtop Thickness Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize raw motor power and space-saving design over maximum cutting width. It is a solid choice for smaller shops handling moderate-width stock.
WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
Best for: high-speed planing of dense hardwoods
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Blade Count
- 2
- Maximum Stock Thickness
- 6.3 in
- Motor Power
- 15A, 2000W
- Cutterhead Speed
- 10,000 RPM
- Swing
- 13-Inch
View on Amazon: WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer Affiliate link
This benchtop thickness planer features a 15-amp, 2000W all-copper motor that drives the cutterhead at 10,000 RPM. It handles boards up to 13 inches wide and 6.3 inches thick. The dual-blade HSS system aims to reduce snipe. You get overload protection and a dust port for shop cleanliness. It suits users who need raw power for dense hardwoods and soft pines without motor bogging.
Pros
- 15-amp, 2000W all-copper motor
- 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed
- 13-inch cutting width
- Overload protection included
- Integrated dust port
Cons
- Only 2 HSS blades included
- No helical spiral cutterhead
- 60-pound weight makes it heavy
Good fit if
- You need high RPM for dense hardwoods
- You want a 15-amp motor for power
- You prefer HSS blades over carbide
Skip if
- You require a spiral cutterhead
- You need more than 2 blades
- You want a lighter benchtop unit
Verdict: WOODERS 13-Inch 15A Benchtop Planer delivers high-speed cutting for users who prioritize motor power and HSS blade simplicity. It fits workshops where raw amperage matters more than cutterhead style.
Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer
Best for: Hardwood planing with reduced tearout
- Cutting Width
- 13 in
- Cutterhead Style
- Spiral
- Blade Count
- 26 inserts
- Feed Rate
- 2-speed (16 FPM)
- Swing
- 13-Inch
- Configuration
- Benchtop
View on Amazon: Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer Affiliate link
The Cutech 40800H is a 13-inch benchtop planer with a spiral cutterhead holding 26 tungsten carbide inserts. It features a 2-speed feed rate, allowing you to slow down to 16 FPM for hardwoods to reduce tearout. The design includes a snipe minimizer and depth stop for consistent results. This machine suits users seeking smoother finishes and quieter operation than standard planers.
Pros
- Spiral cutterhead with 26 inserts for smoother finish
- 2-speed feed rate down to 16 FPM
- Patented snipe minimizer with 4 lead screws
- Two-sided inserts prevent skewing during use
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier build at 22¼ x 34⅝ x 19⅞ inches
- Spiral inserts cost more to replace than standard blades
- No app or remote connectivity for control
Good fit if
- You want to plane figured hardwoods without tearout
- You need consistent thickness with the 8-position depth stop
- You prefer quieter operation from a spiral head
Skip if
- You need a single-speed machine for simpler setups
- You require a smaller footprint for tight workshops
- You prefer standard HSS blades for lower replacement costs
Verdict: The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Planer fits users who prioritize surface quality and noise reduction over basic functionality. Its spiral head and adjustable feed rate make it ideal for detailed hardwood projects.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle | JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer | VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer | WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer | VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer | WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer | Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 13 in | 13" | 13 in | 13 in | 12.5" | 13 in | 13 in |
| Cutterhead Style | Spiral | Helical style | Spiral | Spiral | not stated | not stated | Spiral |
| Blade Count | not stated | 26 inserts | 24 | 26 | 2 | 2 | 26 inserts |
| Maximum Stock Thickness | 6 in | 6" | 6 in | 6 in | 6.3" | 6.3 in | not stated |
| Feed Rate | 16 FPM / 26 FPM | 18 FPM / 26 FPM | Single speed | 16 FPM / 26 FPM (two speed) | 236"/min (6 m/min) | not stated | 2-speed (16 FPM) |
| Motor Power | not stated | 2 HP, 15 A | 2000W | 15 A | 15 A, 1800 W | 15A, 2000W | not stated |
| Cutterhead Speed | not stated | 10,000 RPM | not stated | 10,000 RPM | 8000 rpm | 10,000 RPM | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | 120V 1Ph | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Swing | not stated | 13-Inch | 13-Inch | 13-Inch | not stated | 13-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Configuration | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop |
| Speed Settings | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | not stated | 2-Speed | not stated | not stated | 2-Speed |
| Amperage | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 15 Amp | not stated |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood | Wood | not stated | Wood | Wood | not stated |
| Application | Woodworking | Woodworking | Woodworking | not stated | Woodworking | Woodworking | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 28 × 22 × 19 inches | 28.2 × 13 × 6 inches | 22.3 × 34.6 × 20 inches | 23.8 × 14 × 18.1 inches | 22.4 × 14.2 × 17.9 inches | not stated |
| Weight | not stated | 75 pounds | 61.7 pounds | 69 pounds | 78 pounds | 60 pounds | not stated |
| Color | Orange | White | Single Speed Spiral Blade | Orange | 12.5" Foldable | Blue | Rifle Green |
| Model | RM | 722130 | M1B-LS-3301 | PL1337 | Thickness Planer 12.5 inch | PL13-15AB | 40800H |
| Size | not stated | 28 x 22 x 19 inches | 13inch-2000(25 Blades) | Spiral, 13-Inch, Two Speed | 12.5inch | not stated | 22¼" x 34⅝" x 19⅞" |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best jointer and planer combo?
The WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Planer and Jointer Bundle is the top pick for this need. It combines the PL1337 planer with the JT630H jointer in one package. Both units feature spiral cutterheads for clean finishes. This setup saves space compared to buying separate machines.
What is the best option for smooth cuts and stability?
The JET 13-Inch 2-Speed Helical Planer is the best premium choice for stability. It uses a helical cutterhead and includes a heavy base to reduce vibration. With 2 HP of motor power, it handles detailed benchtop work effectively. Its 75-pound weight ensures solid performance.
Which planer is best for budget-conscious hardwood planing?
The VEVOR 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer is the best budget option. It features a spiral cutterhead with 25 blades for smooth cuts on wide boards. It lacks variable speed control but provides solid performance for hardwoods. Its 61.7-pound weight makes it manageable for most workshops.
Is there a WEN planer with variable feed speeds?
Yes, the WEN 13-Inch Two-Speed Spiral Benchtop Planer offers variable feed speeds. It includes a 26-blade spiral head for clean cuts on wider stock. This model allows you to adjust feed rates for different wood types. It is ideal if you need flexibility without moving to a larger machine.
Which planer is best for small shops with space constraints?
The VEVOR 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer is designed for small shops. It features a foldable design for easy storage and raw motor power. While the cutting width is 12.5 inches, it handles moderate-width stock well. Its 78-pound weight provides stability despite its compact footprint.
What is the most powerful planer for dense hardwoods?
The WOODERS 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer is the best choice for high-speed planing. It features a 15-amp motor for raw power on dense hardwoods. It uses simple HSS blades rather than a spiral head. This model suits workshops where motor amperage is more important than cutterhead style.
Which planer reduces tearout and noise for hardwoods?
The Cutech 13-Inch Spiral Cutterhead 2-Speed Planer reduces tearout and noise. Its spiral head and adjustable feed rate make it ideal for detailed hardwood projects. The rifle green finish adds a distinct look. This model prioritizes surface quality and quiet operation over basic functionality.