A benchtop jointer is a woodworking tool that is used to flatten and square the edges of rough lumber. If you're a woodworker, you know that a flat and square board is the foundation of any good project. A benchtop jointer is an essential tool for achieving this, especially if you're working with rough lumber.
There are several types of jointers on the market, but in this article, we'll be focusing on the best benchtop jointers. Benchtop jointers are smaller and more compact than their larger counterparts, making them a great option for hobbyists or those with limited workshop space.
When choosing a benchtop jointer, the most critical thing to consider is the size of the machine. The size of the machine will determine the width of the board you can work with. Other factors to consider include the power of the motor, the number of blades, and the ease of adjusting the infeed and outfeed tables.
In this article, we'll be reviewing the best benchtop jointers on the market, taking into account their size, power, and ease of use. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, we've got you covered.
Best Benchtop Jointers
If you're a woodworking enthusiast, you know the importance of having a good quality jointer in your workshop. A benchtop jointer is a versatile tool that can help you achieve perfectly flat and straight boards, which is essential for any woodworking project. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That's why we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best benchtop jointers available on Amazon. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, you're sure to find a jointer on this list that fits your needs and budget.
WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer
If you're looking for a reliable benchtop jointer, the WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The spiral cutterhead system with 12 staggered HSS blades provides an ultra-fine finish on both hard and soft woods.
- The spacious 30-by-6-inch table allows for easy maneuvering of your workpieces.
- The adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees, making it easy to create angled cuts along the faces of your boards.
Cons
- The aluminum table can scratch easily if not handled with care.
- The infeed table adjustment can be a bit finicky.
- The onboard dust port may not be as effective as a larger dust collection system.
If you're looking for a benchtop jointer that can handle a variety of woods and provide a fine finish, the WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice. The spiral cutterhead system ensures precision and accuracy, while the spacious table and adjustable fence make it easy to work with a variety of workpieces.
One thing to keep in mind is that the aluminum table can scratch easily, so it's important to handle it with care. Additionally, the infeed table adjustment can be a bit finicky, so it may take some practice to get it just right. Finally, while the onboard dust port is a nice feature, it may not be as effective as a larger dust collection system.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and affordable benchtop jointer, the WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering.
WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer
If you're looking for an efficient benchtop jointer to work with hard and soft woods alike, the WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a great option.
Pros
- The spiral cutterhead system provides an ultra-fine finish for your workpieces.
- The spacious table with support arms that extend up to 51 inches allows you to work with longer pieces.
- The adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees, providing angled cuts along the faces of your boards.
Cons
- The blade guard is a bit limited in its exposure of the cutterhead, which might make it difficult to work with certain types of wood.
- The fence could be more rigid to provide more stability during the cutting process.
- The dents on the blades might get damaged quickly when working with harder woods.
The WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a powerful tool that can help you flatten out your boards and workpieces with ease. Its spiral cutterhead system provides an ultra-fine finish for your workpieces, making it a great option for those who need precision in their work.
The spacious table with support arms that extend up to 51 inches is another great feature of this jointer. It allows you to work with longer pieces, which is particularly useful if you're working on larger projects.
The adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees, providing angled cuts along the faces of your boards. This is a great feature if you need to create bevels or chamfers on your workpieces.
However, the blade guard is a bit limited in its exposure of the cutterhead, which might make it difficult to work with certain types of wood. Additionally, the fence could be more rigid to provide more stability during the cutting process. Finally, the dents on the blades might get damaged quickly when working with harder woods.
Overall, the WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a great option for those who need precision in their work. It's easy to use and provides an ultra-fine finish for your workpieces. If you're looking for a reliable benchtop jointer, this one is definitely worth considering.
CUTECH 401100HI 10-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer
If you're looking for a powerful and reliable benchtop jointer, the CUTECH 401100HI 10-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The spiral cutterhead with 20 staggered inserts provides a smooth finish with the lowest amp draw compared to others.
- The powerful 12-amp motor is the most powerful compared to other benchtop jointers on the market, making it highly effective in making aggressive cuts.
- The fence enhancement brackets stabilize both ends of the fence for a flawless cut.
Cons
- The jointer is quite heavy, weighing almost 94 pounds, which might make it difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported that the dust collection could be improved.
- The jointer is quite expensive compared to other models on the market.
If you're willing to invest in a high-quality benchtop jointer, the CUTECH 401100HI 10-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering. With its powerful motor and spiral cutterhead, it can handle even the most challenging tasks with ease. The fence enhancement brackets also ensure that you get a clean and precise cut every time.
One thing to keep in mind is that this jointer is quite heavy, so you might need some help moving it around. Additionally, some users have reported that the dust collection could be better, so you might need to invest in a separate dust collector if you're working in a small space.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality benchtop jointer that can handle a variety of tasks, the CUTECH 401100HI 10-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering.
PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)
If you're looking for a benchtop jointer, the PORTER-CABLE PC160JT is a solid choice.
Pros
- The variable speed range allows you to select the right speed for the size and hardness of material being cut.
- The two-knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement makes it easy to replace and adjust knives.
- The built-in cutter head lock facilitates knife replacement and adjustment.
Cons
- The jointer is relatively heavy at 35 pounds, so it may not be as portable as some other benchtop jointers.
- The jointer's dust collection system could be more effective.
- Some users have reported issues with the jointer's motor.
The PORTER-CABLE PC160JT is a versatile benchtop jointer that is well-suited for edging, flattening, or face jointing. The variable speed range allows you to select the right speed for the size and hardness of material being cut, and the two-knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement makes it easy to replace and adjust knives. Additionally, the built-in cutter head lock facilitates knife replacement and adjustment.
However, the jointer is relatively heavy at 35 pounds, so it may not be as portable as some other benchtop jointers. Additionally, the jointer's dust collection system could be more effective, and some users have reported issues with the jointer's motor.
Overall, if you're in the market for a benchtop jointer, the PORTER-CABLE PC160JT is a solid choice that offers a good balance of features and performance.
WAHUDA TOOLS Jointer
If you're in the market for a benchtop jointer, the WAHUDA TOOLS Jointer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Say goodbye to cupped wood with the Wahuda Jointer's ability to create perfectly flat surfaces and edges quickly and accurately.
- The spiral cutterhead with 4-sided carbide inserts allows for sharper and quieter cutting precision.
- The adjustable and expandable cast iron tables enhance stability even when working on longer, larger pieces, with a fence that tilts from 90 & 135° for versatility.
Cons
- The jointer is powered with a fixed 12,000 RPM 120V motor, which may not be powerful enough for some users.
- The jointer is only available in 6, 8, and 10-inch sizes, which may not be suitable for those who need a larger jointer.
- Some users have reported issues with assembly and alignment, which may require additional time and effort.
The WAHUDA TOOLS Jointer is a solid choice for those who need a benchtop jointer for smaller projects. With its ability to create flat surfaces and edges quickly and accurately, you'll be able to achieve smoother and more accurate cuts even on tough or figured woods. The spiral cutterhead with 4-sided carbide inserts allows for sharper and quieter cutting precision, which is a plus for those who value precision. The adjustable and expandable cast iron tables enhance stability even when working on longer, larger pieces, with a fence that tilts from 90 & 135° for versatility.
However, the jointer's fixed 12,000 RPM 120V motor may not be powerful enough for some users, especially those who work with hardwoods. Additionally, the jointer is only available in 6, 8, and 10-inch sizes, which may not be suitable for those who need a larger jointer. Finally, some users have reported issues with assembly and alignment, which may require additional time and effort.
Overall, the WAHUDA TOOLS Jointer is a good choice for those who need a benchtop jointer for smaller projects and value precision. However, if you need a more powerful jointer or a larger size, you may want to consider other options.
JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer
If you're in the market for a benchtop jointer, the JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer with a helical head is worth considering.
Pros
- The true helical cut with 14 indexable four-sided carbide blades provides a smooth finish and reduces tear-out.
- The heavy-duty cast iron tables and fence are durable and provide stability during use.
- The fully-adjustable fence with locking stops at +/- 45 degree tilt dual direction for beveling allows for precise cuts.
Cons
- The internal blower motor moves dust and chips away from the motor and cutter head, but the dust collection system could be improved.
- The powerful 1HP 15-amp motor turns the cutterhead at 10,000 RPM, but it can be loud.
- The highly visible scale for accurate depth of cut adjustments is helpful, but some users have reported difficulty in adjusting the depth of cut.
The JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for those in need of a benchtop jointer. The true helical cut with 14 indexable four-sided carbide blades provides a smooth finish and reduces tear-out, while the heavy-duty cast iron tables and fence are durable and provide stability during use. The fully-adjustable fence with locking stops at +/- 45 degree tilt dual direction for beveling allows for precise cuts. However, the internal blower motor moves dust and chips away from the motor and cutter head, but the dust collection system could be improved. The powerful 1HP 15-amp motor turns the cutterhead at 10,000 RPM, but it can be loud. The highly visible scale for accurate depth of cut adjustments is helpful, but some users have reported difficulty in adjusting the depth of cut. Overall, if you're looking for a benchtop jointer, the JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer with a helical head is a solid option to consider.
CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer
If you're in the market for a benchtop jointer, the CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is a solid option to consider.
Pros
- With a variable speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM and cutter head speed of 12,000 to 22,000 cuts per minute, you'll be able to select the correct speed for your material's size and hardness.
- The center-mounted fence ensures accurate edging and face jointing.
- The extra-large 6-3/16" x 30" table provides ample support for your workpieces.
Cons
- The fence setup can be cumbersome, which may be frustrating for some users.
- The instructions could be clearer, which may make assembly more difficult than necessary.
- The cutter head only has two knives, which may not be sufficient for some users.
The CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for hobbyists and DIYers. With its variable speed range, center-mounted fence, and extra-large table, it offers plenty of features to help you achieve accurate results. However, some users may find the fence setup to be cumbersome, and the instructions could be clearer. Additionally, the cutter head only has two knives, which may not be sufficient for users who need to work with harder or denser materials. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable benchtop jointer for occasional use, the CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is worth considering.
RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head
If you're looking for a powerful and reliable benchtop jointer, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is a great option.
Pros
- The 6 row helical-style cutter head with 12 HSS, 2-insert cutters provides super cutting action and flat surfacing results.
- The all-metal construction and machined aluminum tables make this jointer sturdy and durable.
- The quick depth setting mechanism with scale and adjustable fence that tilts from 90 degrees to 45 degrees quickly and accurately make it easy to use.
Cons
- The spring-loaded safety guard can be a bit finicky.
- The jointer is a bit heavy, making it less portable than some other benchtop jointers.
- The noise level is a bit high, so it may not be the best option for those who need a quieter workspace.
Overall, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is a great choice for those who need a powerful and reliable jointer. Its all-metal construction and quick depth setting mechanism make it easy to use, and the 6 row helical-style cutter head provides excellent cutting action. However, the spring-loaded safety guard can be a bit finicky, and the jointer is a bit heavy and noisy.
VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer
Looking for a benchtop jointer that can deliver unprecedented smoothness to your wood surfaces? Then the VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer is the one for you. With its upgraded 18-blade spiral cutterhead and a powerful 2HP motor, this jointer can handle any woodworking project with ease.
Pros
- The 18-blade spiral cutterhead delivers smoothness to your wood surfaces like never before.
- The 2HP motor powers through softwoods and hardwoods with unmatched efficiency and precision.
- The extendable arms provide ample space for handling large wood pieces.
Cons
- The jointer is made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers.
- The jointer is relatively heavy, weighing in at 46.3 pounds.
- The jointer may require some assembly, which could be a challenge for some users.
If you're looking for a benchtop jointer that can deliver smooth and precise results, then the VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering. With its 18-blade spiral cutterhead made from high-speed steel, this jointer can handle any woodworking project with ease. The 2HP motor provides plenty of power, allowing you to work with softwoods and hardwoods alike. And with the extendable arms, you'll have plenty of space to handle even the largest wood pieces.
One potential downside to this jointer is that it's made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers. Additionally, at 46.3 pounds, it's relatively heavy, which could make it difficult to move around your workspace. Finally, some users may find that the jointer requires some assembly, which could be a challenge if you're not familiar with woodworking tools.
Overall, the VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile benchtop jointer. With its smooth cutting action, powerful motor, and spacious work area, this jointer can handle any woodworking project with ease.
CUTECH 40180HB 8-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer
If you're looking for a high-quality benchtop jointer that can help you achieve a smooth finish on your woodworking projects, the CUTECH 40180HB might be worth considering.
Pros
- The spiral cutterhead with 16 staggered inserts ensures a smooth finish on your boards.
- The depth of cut indicator helps you see how much material will be taken off, making it easier to achieve the desired result.
- The extendable tables provide additional support for larger boards, making it easier to work with them.
Cons
- The bed length might be too short for some users, even with the built-in extensions.
- The lack of variable speed might not be ideal for some projects.
- Some users might find the price a bit steep compared to other benchtop jointers on the market.
This benchtop jointer is a great option for those who want a high-quality tool that can help them achieve professional results. With its spiral cutterhead and depth of cut indicator, it's easy to create smooth finishes on your boards. The extendable tables also provide additional support, making it easier to work with larger boards.
If you're looking for a benchtop jointer that's easy to use and provides great results, the CUTECH 40180HB is definitely worth considering. However, keep in mind that the bed length might be too short for some users, and the lack of variable speed might not be ideal for some projects. Additionally, the price might be a bit steep for those on a tight budget.
Shop Fox W1876 6" Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead
If you're looking for a benchtop jointer that packs a punch, the Shop Fox W1876 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The spiral-style cutterhead with indexable carbide inserts provides ultra-precision cutting and a smooth finish.
- The adjustable infeed table with lock allows for easy and accurate depth adjustments.
- The compact size of the jointer makes it easy to fit in small workspaces.
Cons
- The assembly instructions could be clearer and more detailed.
- The jointer is relatively heavy, weighing in at 43 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
- The dust port size is 2-1/2 inches, which may not fit all dust collection systems.
The Shop Fox W1876 is a feature-packed benchtop jointer that provides precise and smooth cuts. The spiral-style cutterhead with indexable carbide inserts ensures that your cuts are accurate and smooth, while the adjustable infeed table with lock allows for easy and precise depth adjustments.
One of the standout features of the W1876 is its compact size. Despite packing a lot of power and features, it's small enough to fit in even the smallest workspaces. This makes it a great choice for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who don't have a lot of room to work with.
However, assembly can be a bit of a challenge. The instructions aren't as clear as they could be, which can make the process more difficult than it needs to be. Additionally, the jointer is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around your workspace.
Overall, if you're looking for a powerful and feature-packed benchtop jointer that won't take up too much space, the Shop Fox W1876 is definitely worth considering.
Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer - 10.6-Amp Wood Jointer Machine
If you're looking for an affordable benchtop jointer that can handle light-duty woodworking projects, the Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer might be worth considering.
Pros
- Boasts a robust 10.6A motor and operates at a voltage of 120V/60HZ for consistent power and reliable performance.
- Provides ample space to work with various wood sizes and shapes with a maximum cutting width of 6-Inch and a range of cutting depth from 0-3mm.
- Features a spacious left table measuring 156x340mm and a right table measuring 156x330mm, providing stability and support for your workpieces.
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty woodworking projects.
- The packaging is not very protective, so there is a risk of damage during shipping.
- Some customers have reported missing parts and poor instructions.
This benchtop jointer is built to last with its durable construction, making it a valuable addition to your workshop. However, it's important to note that it's not suitable for heavy-duty woodworking projects. The packaging is not very protective, so there is a risk of damage during shipping. Some customers have reported missing parts and poor instructions. Overall, if you're a hobbyist or occasional user looking for an affordable benchtop jointer, the Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer might be worth considering.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a benchtop jointer, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Table Size
The size of the jointer's table is an important consideration. A larger table will allow you to work with longer and wider boards, but it will also take up more space in your workshop. Consider the size of the projects you typically work on and choose a table size that will accommodate them.
Cutterhead
The cutterhead is the part of the jointer that actually removes material from the wood. There are two main types of cutterheads: helical and straight. Helical cutterheads are generally considered to be superior because they produce a smoother finish and are quieter than straight cutterheads. However, they are also more expensive. Consider your budget and the level of finish you require when choosing a cutterhead.
Dust Collection
Jointers produce a lot of dust, so it's important to choose a model with effective dust collection. Look for a jointer with a dust port that will connect to your shop's dust collection system, or choose a model with a built-in dust collection system.
Fence
The fence is the part of the jointer that guides the wood through the cutterhead. Look for a fence that is sturdy and adjustable. A fence that can be adjusted to different angles will allow you to make bevel cuts.
Motor
The motor is what powers the jointer. Look for a motor that is powerful enough to handle the types of wood you typically work with. A motor with a higher horsepower rating will be able to handle tougher materials.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best benchtop jointer for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality benchtop jointer?
When looking for a high-quality benchtop jointer, there are several features to consider. Firstly, the size of the jointer is important. Look for a jointer with a wide table and long bed, as this will allow you to work with longer and wider pieces of wood. Additionally, the motor should be powerful enough to handle tough hardwoods. A fence that is easy to adjust and stays in place during use is also important. Finally, consider the type of cutterhead - a helical cutterhead is generally considered to be an upgrade over a traditional straight knife cutterhead.
How does a helical cutterhead improve a benchtop jointer's performance?
A helical cutterhead consists of a series of small, square cutters that rotate on a spiral pattern. This design results in a smoother, quieter cut, and reduces tear-out on the wood surface. Additionally, the square cutters can be rotated multiple times before needing to be replaced, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
What are the advantages of a benchtop jointer over a full-size jointer for a small workshop?
A benchtop jointer is a great option for a small workshop because it takes up less space than a full-size jointer. Additionally, benchtop jointers are often more affordable than their larger counterparts. While they may not be able to handle the same size of wood as a full-size jointer, they are still capable of producing flat, smooth surfaces on smaller pieces of wood.
Can you recommend a benchtop jointer that offers the best value for its cost?
There are several benchtop jointers on the market that offer great value for their cost. The WEN 6559T and the Delta Power Tools 37-071 are both popular options that offer a wide table, long bed, and helical cutterhead at an affordable price point.
For beginners, what are the key factors to consider when choosing their first benchtop jointer?
When choosing your first benchtop jointer, consider the size of the jointer and the type of cutterhead. Look for a jointer with a wide table and long bed, as this will allow you to work with a variety of wood sizes. A helical cutterhead is generally considered to be an upgrade over a straight knife cutterhead, but may not be necessary for a beginner. Additionally, consider the overall build quality and ease of use.
How do I decide between a benchtop jointer and a jointer-planer combo for my woodworking projects?
When deciding between a benchtop jointer and a jointer-planer combo, consider the types of projects you will be working on. A jointer-planer combo allows you to both flatten and thickness wood, while a benchtop jointer only flattens. If you frequently work with rough lumber or need to thickness wood, a jointer-planer combo may be the better option. However, if you primarily work with smaller pieces of wood and don't need to thickness, a benchtop jointer may be the more cost-effective choice.
