WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer or WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer? Which WOODSTARTER Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are deciding between the woodstarter 13 inch 3 blade benchtop planer vs 13 inch two blade models. Both tools share a 2,000 W motor, 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed, and 21 FPM feed rate. They also offer identical 13-inch cutting widths and similar dust collection ports. The main difference lies in the cutterhead configuration. One model uses three HSS blades for a smoother finish, while the other uses two. This affects surface quality and blade replacement costs.
Key differences
| Aspect | WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer | WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Count | 3 HSS blades | 2 HSS blades |
| Model Number | TP20K | TP10K |
| Maximum Stock Thickness | 6-1/4 in | 6.2 in |
| Weight | 52 pounds | 52.8 pounds |
| Color | Beige and Silver | Silver |
Which one should you choose?
Choose WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer if
- You want a glass-smooth surface finish directly from the planer without extra sanding.
- You prefer a slightly lighter machine that is easier to move around the shop.
- You want to avoid tear-out on difficult wood species with more cutting edges.
Choose WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer if
- You need to plane slightly thicker stock up to 6.2 inches.
- You are looking for the most basic configuration with fewer blades to replace.
- You prefer a uniform silver color scheme for your workshop equipment.
Verdict: Choose the three-blade model if surface finish quality is your priority. The two-blade option is better if you need to handle slightly thicker stock or prefer a simpler blade setup. Both machines offer the same power and feed speed for general woodworking tasks.
3-Blade vs 2-Blade Planer Specs
Blade Count
The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer features a cutter head with three high-speed steel blades. This configuration provides more cutting edges per revolution compared to the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer, which uses only two HSS blades. Both models spin at 10,000 RPM. The extra blade in the three-blade model may offer a smoother finish by reducing visible tear-out marks on hardwoods. You get more frequent blade rotations with the three-blade setup. The two-blade version still delivers consistent results but relies on fewer cutting points. Consider your preference for surface quality when choosing between these two cutter head designs.
Max Thickness
Capacity for thick stock varies slightly between these two benchtop planers. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer handles material up to 6-1/4 inches thick. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer supports a maximum stock thickness of 6.2 inches. While both machines share the same 13-inch cutting width, the two-blade model allows for marginally thicker boards. This difference is small but relevant if you frequently plane very thick slabs. Both models include adjustable infeed and outfeed tables to support long boards. Check your typical project dimensions to see if this slight variance matters for your workflow.
Motor Power
Both planers are equipped with identical 2,000 W motors. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer also lists 15 Amps, which aligns with the wattage rating. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer specifies 2,000 W without an amperage figure. Both machines maintain 10,000 RPM under load and include overload and overheat protection. This shared power level ensures neither tool will stall easily when planing dense hardwoods. Since the motor specifications are effectively the same, you can expect similar performance in heavy-duty tasks. Neither model has an advantage in raw power output.
Feed Rate
Speed of material removal is identical for both units. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer and the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer both operate at a 21 feet per minute feed rate. This aggressive speed allows you to process more wood in less time without sacrificing surface quality. Both models allow you to adjust cutting thickness from roughly 0.25 inches up to their respective maximums. The consistent feed rate means neither tool is faster than the other in terms of throughput. You will spend the same amount of time planing boards with either machine.
Weight
Stability and portability are influenced by the weight of each planer. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer weighs 52 pounds. The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer is slightly heavier at 52.8 pounds. This 0.8-pound difference is negligible for most users. Both machines feature cast iron bases and steel plates to keep boards flat during cutting. The similar mass suggests both will remain stable on a workbench during operation. You do not need to worry about one model vibrating more than the other due to weight differences. Choose based on other features rather than mass.
Which WOODSTARTER Planer Fits Your Shop
Woodworkers needing glass-smooth surfaces
The three-blade cutter head offers more cutting edges per revolution. This reduces tear-out and chatter marks on difficult grain. You get finish-ready boards with less hand sanding. The extra blade provides a smoother cut for delicate hardwoods or figured lumber where surface quality is the top priority for your final projects.
Users planing thick stock often
This model handles maximum stock thickness of 6-3/16 inches. The two-blade version is limited to 6 inches. If you regularly plane thick slabs or dense hardwoods that exceed the two-inch limit, this extra capacity prevents you from needing multiple passes or a different tool. The 2,000 W motor supports this heavier workload.
Budget-conscious shop owners
The two-blade planer delivers the same 21 FPM feed rate and 10,000 RPM speed. It includes the same 2,000 W motor and 3-in-1 dust port. You save on the third blade and its associated maintenance costs. The 13-inch width and 29-inch table length remain identical. It is a practical choice for standard width boards.
The products compared
WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer
Best for: Wide stock and smooth finish needs
- 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 benchtop planer features a 13-inch cutting width and a 2,000W motor running at 10,000 RPM. It uses three HSS blades to deliver a smooth finish. You can process stock up to 6-1/4 inches thick at a 21 feet per minute feed rate. The 29-inch worktable helps reduce snipe on long boards. It suits woodworkers who need wider capacity and faster material removal than standard two-blade models.
Pros
- Three HSS blades for smoother surface finish
- 2,000W motor maintains 10,000 RPM under load
- 21 feet per minute feed rate for faster processing
- 29-inch worktable reduces snipe on long boards
- Overheat and overload protection safeguards the motor
Cons
- Heavier 52-pound build requires stable bench space
- Maximum stock thickness is 6-1/4 inches
- No variable speed control listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need to plane boards wider than 12 inches
- You want a smoother finish without extra sanding
- You process large volumes of lumber regularly
Skip if
- You have limited bench space for a heavy machine
- You only work with narrow stock under 10 inches
- You require variable feed speed for delicate woods
Verdict: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Planer fits woodworkers who need wider capacity and a smoother finish than basic two-blade models provide. Its three-blade head and fast feed rate handle demanding workloads efficiently.
WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
Best for: Wide boards and general hardwood 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
The WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 2-Blade Planer features a 2,000W motor spinning at 10,000 RPM. It planes wood up to 13 inches wide and 6.2 inches thick. The 21 feet-per-minute feed speed offers efficient material removal. Two high-speed steel blades provide smooth results. This benchtop model suits hobbyists needing reliable performance for standard woodworking projects.
Pros
- 13-inch cutting width handles wide boards
- 10,000 RPM cutterhead ensures smooth finishes
- 2,000W motor delivers strong cutting power
- 21 FPM feed rate for efficient work
Cons
- Only two HSS blades limit surface finish quality
- Heavier 52.8-pound build requires stable support
- No variable speed control for fine tuning
Good fit if
- You need a 13-inch width for wide lumber
- You want a powerful 2,000W motor for hardwoods
- You prefer a simple benchtop setup
Skip if
- You require a three-blade cutterhead for finer finishes
- You need variable feed speed settings
- You plan to plane material thicker than 6.2 inches
Verdict: WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 2-Blade Planer fits woodworkers who prioritize cutting width and raw power over the ultra-smooth finish provided by three-blade heads.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer | WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 13 in | 13 in |
| Blade Count | 3 HSS blades | 2 HSS blades |
| Maximum Stock Thickness | 6-1/4 in | 6.2 in |
| Feed Rate | 21 FPM | 21 FPM |
| Motor Power | 2,000 W | 15 A (2,000 W) |
| Cutterhead Speed | 10,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM |
| Swing | 13-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Configuration | Benchtop | Benchtop |
| Amperage | not stated | 15 Amp |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood |
| Application | Woodworking | Woodworking |
| Weight | 52 pounds | 52.8 pounds |
| Color | Beige and Silver | Silver |
| Model | TP20K | TP10K |
| Size | not stated | 13 inches wide x 6.2 inches thick |
Frequently asked questions
Does the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Planer weigh more than the two-blade model?
No, the 3-blade model is slightly lighter. It weighs 52 pounds, while the 2-blade version tips the scale at 52.8 pounds. Both machines are benchtop units with similar footprints. The minor weight difference is unlikely to affect your shop setup. You can place either on a sturdy workbench without issue.
What is the maximum cutting thickness for these WOODSTARTER planers?
Both models handle boards up to 6.2 inches thick. This capacity allows you to plane thick hardwood stock or wide lumber. The 13-inch width accommodates broad panels. You get consistent results whether you choose the three-blade or two-blade configuration. The thickness capacity remains identical across both machines.
Is the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch 3-Blade Planer suitable for wide stock?
Yes, it is designed specifically for wide stock and smooth finish needs. The 13-inch swing handles broad boards easily. The three-blade head reduces tear-out on difficult grain. You get a smoother surface compared to basic two-blade models. This makes it ideal for high-quality woodworking projects requiring minimal sanding.
Which model offers better performance for general hardwood planing?
The 13-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer is best for general hardwood planing. It prioritizes cutting width and raw power over ultra-smooth finishes. This model suits woodworkers who need efficiency for standard tasks. The two-blade head provides reliable performance for everyday projects. You save time without sacrificing essential cutting quality.
What is the model number for the WOODSTARTER 3-blade planer?
The model number is TP20K. This identifies the specific 3-blade configuration. The color scheme includes beige and silver accents. Knowing the model number helps you find replacement blades or accessories. It ensures you order the correct parts for your specific machine setup.
What is the model number for the WOODSTARTER 2-blade planer?
The model number is TP10K. This identifies the specific 2-blade configuration. The machine features a silver color finish. This model number distinguishes it from the 3-blade version. Use this code when ordering spare parts or consulting the manual for maintenance procedures.
Do both WOODSTARTER planers use high-speed steel blades?
Yes, both models use high-speed steel blades. The 3-blade version has three HSS blades, while the 2-blade version has two. HSS blades hold an edge longer than standard steel. You get durable cutting performance for both configurations. The material choice supports efficient planing of various wood types.