10 Best Handheld Planers 2026 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer (DCP580B) is a powerful and efficient tool designed for handheld use. It is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery (not included), making it highly portable and convenient for various woodworking projects. The brushless motor is a standout feature, providing excellent power and runtime, ensuring the planer can handle demanding tasks with ease. With a cutting speed of 30,000 cuts per minute, it offers a fast removal rate, which is ideal for quick and efficient planing jobs.

The maximum cutting depth of 2 mm allows for precise material removal, and the calibrated depth adjustment knob ensures fine adjustments down to 1/256 in. for enhanced accuracy. The precision-machined aluminum shoes help maintain parallelism of the cuts, while the ergonomic handle design provides comfort and reduces user fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the kickstand feature is useful for resting the planer without damaging the work surface.

One area where this planer could improve is the dust collection system, as it does not seem to have a dedicated feature for managing dust and debris, which could be a drawback for users working in cleaner environments. Another point to note is that the planer is sold as a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger need to be purchased separately. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a highly performing and durable tool, making it an excellent choice for both professional and DIY enthusiasts.

The Makita XPK01Z cordless handheld planer is a compact and lightweight tool, weighing just 7.4 lbs, making it easy to handle for extended periods. Its 18V lithium-ion battery (sold separately) provides the freedom to work without cords. The motor spins at 14,000 RPM, allowing it to quickly remove wood with a cutting width of 3-1/4 inches and a maximum cutting depth of 5/64 inch per pass. It uses a 2-blade cutter head with double-edged carbide blades, which helps deliver a smooth finish and long-lasting sharpness. The depth adjustment is precise and straightforward thanks to the click knob with clear markings.

The planer's cutting width is on the smaller side, which might mean more passes on wider boards. Since it is a bare tool, you’ll need to buy the battery separately, which could add to the cost. For dust management, using an external vacuum or working in a well-ventilated area is recommended to control debris effectively.

This model suits DIY enthusiasts and light to medium woodworking tasks where portability and ease of use are priorities. For larger or heavy-duty projects, a model with a wider cutting width or a more powerful motor may be more appropriate.

The Makita 1002BA handheld planer is designed with professionals in mind, offering a strong 9.6 AMP motor running at 15,000 RPM, which provides plenty of power for various planing tasks. Its 4.38-inch cutting width is suitable for typical woodworking needs, while the precision-machined curved base helps with notching and working on rounded surfaces. Weighing just 4 pounds, it is fairly lightweight, making it easier to handle during extended use. The planer features convenient front and rear grips, improving control and comfort, especially with its large two-handed design.

The product is hand-powered, which might limit consistent performance compared to corded electric models. The blade setup, including a sharpening holder and blade gauge assembly, supports easy maintenance and precise adjustments. Dust collection includes a large ejection chute for chip discharge, though it lacks an advanced dust collection system, which could be a downside if working indoors or aiming to minimize cleanup.

This planer serves well for users needing a reliable, powerful tool that balances ease of control with effective cutting. It is particularly useful for professionals or serious DIYers who frequently work with curved surfaces.