Top 5 Cordless Planers: Your Essential Buying Guide

Imagine this: You’ve got a beautiful piece of wood, ready to be shaped and smoothed. But then comes the hassle of cords, tripping hazards, and finding an outlet. Sound familiar? For anyone who loves working with wood, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the freedom of a cordless planer can be a game-changer. But with so many different models out there, how do you pick the one that’s right for you? It can feel overwhelming, right?

Choosing a cordless planer isn’t just about picking the cheapest one. You need to think about power, battery life, comfort, and what kind of projects you’ll be tackling. Will it be strong enough for hard woods? Will the battery last long enough for your job? These are the questions that swirl around when you’re trying to make the best choice. Don’t worry, though. We’re here to help you cut through the confusion.

In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of cordless planers. We’ll explore what makes a great one, break down the features that matter, and even look at some top picks. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what to look for, so you can confidently grab the tool that will help you create your next masterpiece. Let’s get planning!

Our Top 5 Cordless Planer Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Cordless Planer Detailed Reviews

1. DEWALT 20V MAX Planer

DEWALT 20V MAX Planer, 30,000 Cuts Per Minute, 2 mm Cut Depth, Brushless Motor, Bare Tool Only (DCP580B)

Rating: 8.8/10

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a powerful tool for woodworkers. It’s designed to quickly smooth and shape wood surfaces. This tool is bare tool only, meaning you’ll need a battery and charger separately. It’s built for serious DIYers and professionals.

What We Like:

  • The brushless motor gives you lots of power and makes the battery last longer.
  • It makes 30,000 cuts every minute, so it removes wood really fast.
  • You can adjust the cut depth very precisely, down to a tiny 0.01 mm.
  • The smooth aluminum surfaces on the front and back help keep your cuts straight and parallel.
  • A handy kickstand lets you set the planer down without marking your wood.
  • There’s a special groove in the front shoe that helps you easily cut a bevel on the edge of your wood.
  • The strong Poly-V drive belt is built to last a long time.
  • The handle is shaped for comfort, so your hands won’t get tired easily.
  • Replacement blades are easy to find, with part number DW6654 (N447366).

What Could Be Improved:

  • Since it’s a bare tool, you have to buy the battery and charger separately, which adds to the cost if you don’t already have them.
  • The maximum cut depth is 2 mm, which might be limiting for very deep planing tasks.

This DEWALT planer offers excellent performance for its class. It’s a great option for anyone needing to quickly and accurately work with wood.

2. Cordless Electric Hand Planer: 3-1/4-Inch Handheld Planer Compatible with Dewalt 20V Battery (No Battery) – 15000 RPM Power Wood Planer for Woodworking

Cordless Electric Hand Planer: 3-1/4-Inch Handheld Planer Compatible with Dewalt 20V Battery (No Battery) - 15000 RPM Power Wood Planer for Woodworking, Carpentry, and Home DIY

Rating: 8.9/10

Unlock your woodworking potential with the Cordless Electric Hand Planer. This powerful 3-1/4-inch handheld planer is designed for serious DIYers and carpenters. It works with your existing Dewalt 20V batteries, giving you freedom from cords. Get ready to tackle any wood project with speed and precision.

What We Like:

  • Brushless motor delivers a speedy 15,000 RPM for quick work.
  • The 3-1/4-inch width lets you remove material efficiently.
  • You can adjust the cutting depth very precisely, down to 0.08 inches (2mm).
  • It’s comfortable to hold and use, even for long periods.
  • Changing blades is fast and simple.
  • The safety switch design prevents accidental startups, keeping you safe.
  • It’s compatible with popular Dewalt 20V batteries, which is a big plus.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The battery is not included, so you’ll need to buy one separately.
  • For very fine woodworking, you might need to make multiple passes.

This planer offers a fantastic combination of power, precision, and user-friendly features. It’s a tool that can significantly speed up your woodworking and DIY projects.

3. EQCOTWEA Foam Planer Saw Spray Foam Insulation Cutting Removal Tool 27.5″(70cm) Open Cell Foam Planer Saw 14.5m/s 110V 1800W

EQCOTWEA Foam Planer Saw Spray Foam Insulation Cutting Removal Tool 27.5"(70cm) Open Cell Foam Planer Saw 14.5m/s 110V 1800W

Rating: 9.4/10

Tackling spray foam insulation jobs just got a whole lot easier with the EQCOTWEA Foam Planer Saw. This powerful tool, boasting a 27.5-inch (70cm) blade, is designed to make cutting and removing open-cell foam a breeze. With its robust 1800W motor and a cutting speed of 14.5m/s, it’s built for efficiency and precision.

What We Like:

  • The extra-long blade cuts a wider path, saving you time and effort on big projects.
  • Strong aluminum support points mean this tool won’t break easily, so it will last a long time.
  • It cuts foam precisely right up to studs, without hurting your wood or metal framing.
  • Built-in bearings help you trim corners cleanly for a smooth, finished look.
  • Safety is a priority with a protective guard and a chain disengagement system.
  • The electric chainsaw design and comfortable handles make it easy and safe to use.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The power cord length might limit reach in some larger spaces.
  • While designed for open-cell foam, it may struggle with denser closed-cell varieties.

This EQCOTWEA Foam Planer Saw is an excellent investment for anyone working with spray foam insulation, offering both power and control. It’s a tool that helps you get the job done right and efficiently.

4. Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 3-1/4 in. Planer P611 (Tool Only)(Bulk Packaged)

Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 3-1/4 in. Planer P611 (Tool Only)(Bulk Packaged)

Rating: 8.9/10

The Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 3-1/4 in. Planer P611 is a handy tool for any DIYer or woodworker. It’s designed to make wood surfaces smooth and even. This planer is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ system, meaning it uses the same batteries as other Ryobi 18-Volt tools. This can save you money if you already own other tools in the series.

What We Like:

  • The automatic kickstand is a smart feature. It lifts the planer off your wood when you set it down, so it won’t leave marks. This keeps your projects looking clean.
  • It can cut up to 1/16 inch deep with each pass. This makes it versatile for different jobs, whether you need to remove a little or a lot of wood.
  • There’s a special spot on the planer to store the wrench for the blades. This means you won’t lose it and will always have it handy when you need to change the blades.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Remember that the battery and charger are sold separately. You’ll need to buy these if you don’t already have them.
  • This tool is sold in bulk packaging. This means it won’t come in fancy retail boxes, but it’s still the same great tool.
  • If you’re buying this outside of the US, be aware that international versions may have different terms. They are sold from abroad and might differ in how they fit, their age ratings, or the language on the label and instructions.

This Ryobi planer is a solid choice for smoothing wood. Its user-friendly design and ability to make quick work of material make it a valuable addition to your toolkit.

5. WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer

WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 3-1/4-Inch

Rating: 9.0/10

Tackle your woodworking projects with the WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer. This tool makes shaping and smoothing wood a breeze. Its powerful motor and adjustable depth settings give you control for a variety of tasks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this planer can help you achieve smooth, clean cuts.

What We Like:

  • The 6-amp motor delivers a strong 34,000 cuts per minute, so it cuts through wood quickly.
  • You can adjust the cutting depth precisely from 0 to 1/8 inches using 16 positive stops.
  • It easily makes rabbets up to 1 inch deep with the included 5/16 inch rabbeting guide.
  • The planer weighs only 6 pounds, making it comfortable to hold and maneuver for extended periods.
  • It comes with useful accessories like a dust bag, a kickstand, and a parallel fence bracket.
  • A 2-year warranty offers peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The dust collection system could be more efficient in capturing all wood shavings.
  • While powerful, some users might desire a slightly wider planing capacity for larger projects.

The WEN 6530 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly electric hand planer. Its combination of power, precision, and portability makes it a valuable addition to any workshop.

Choosing the Right Cordless Planer: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

A cordless planer is a fantastic tool for woodworkers. It helps you smooth out rough lumber and make wood perfectly flat. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.

What to Look For: Key Features

When you shop for a cordless planer, check for these important things:

  • Motor Power: A stronger motor means the planer can handle harder wood and cut deeper. Look for models with at least 7 amps for good performance.
  • Cutting Depth: This tells you how much wood the planer can shave off with each pass. A depth adjustment knob lets you control this. Most planers let you adjust from 0 to about 1/8 inch.
  • Cutting Width: This is how wide a piece of wood the planer can smooth in one go. Common widths are 3 ¼ inches or 4 ½ inches. Bigger is usually better for wider boards.
  • Blade Type: Most planers use double-sided blades. These are sharp and can be flipped when one side gets dull. Some high-end models have carbide blades, which last longer.
  • Weight and Ergonomics: You will hold this tool. A lighter planer is easier to use for longer periods. Good grips make it comfortable to hold.
  • Dust Collection: Planers create a lot of wood dust. A good dust port helps keep your workspace clean. Some planers have a bag, while others can connect to a shop vacuum.
  • Battery Life: Since it’s cordless, battery power is key. Check how long the battery lasts on a single charge. Having an extra battery is a good idea for big jobs.

Materials Matter: What Your Planer is Made Of

The parts of a cordless planer affect its strength and how long it lasts.

  • Housing: Most planers have a tough plastic housing. This keeps the tool light and protects the motor.
  • Base Plate: The part that slides on the wood is usually made of aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter. Steel is stronger.
  • Motor and Gears: These are inside and are usually made of metal. Better quality metal means they last longer.

Quality Check: What Makes a Planer Great (or Not So Great)

Some things make a planer work better, and others can make it frustrating.

  • Factors that Improve Quality:
    • A powerful motor helps it cut smoothly.
    • Sharp, high-quality blades make clean cuts.
    • Good dust collection keeps your work area tidy.
    • Comfortable grips reduce hand fatigue.
    • A sturdy build means it will last.
  • Factors that Reduce Quality:
    • A weak motor will bog down on tough wood.
    • Dull blades will tear the wood, leaving a rough finish.
    • Poor dust collection makes a mess.
    • A heavy or unbalanced tool is hard to control.
    • Cheap plastic parts can break easily.

User Experience and Use Cases: Putting Your Planer to Work

A cordless planer is useful for many woodworking tasks.

  • Smoothing Rough Lumber: If you buy lumber that isn’t perfectly flat, a planer makes it smooth.
  • Trimming Doors: You can shave a little bit off the bottom or side of a door to make it fit just right.
  • Creating Flat Surfaces: For projects like tabletops, you need flat wood. A planer helps achieve this.
  • Chamfering Edges: You can create a small angled edge on wood for a softer look.

Using a cordless planer is generally straightforward. You guide the tool over the wood. Adjust the depth for each pass. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cordless Planers

Q: What is the main job of a cordless planer?

A: A cordless planer smooths out rough wood and makes it flat.

Q: How deep can a cordless planer cut?

A: Most planers can cut about 1/8 inch deep per pass.

Q: What is a good cutting width for a cordless planer?

A: A width of 3 ¼ inches or 4 ½ inches is common and useful.

Q: Are cordless planers good for beginners?

A: Yes, they are relatively easy to use with practice.

Q: What safety gear should I wear when using a planer?

A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.

Q: Can I use a cordless planer on any type of wood?

A: They work best on softer woods. Harder woods require more power.

Q: How do I maintain my cordless planer?

A: Keep the blades sharp and clean the dust port regularly.

Q: Do cordless planers come with batteries?

A: Most do, but sometimes batteries and chargers are sold separately.

Q: What does “amp” mean for a planer’s motor?

A: Amps measure the motor’s power. Higher amps mean more power.

Q: Can a cordless planer replace a jointer?

A: No, a jointer makes edges perfectly square. A planer makes surfaces flat.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Leave a Comment