Best Home Jointer: Top Picks for Smooth Woodworking 2024

If you're an avid woodworker, you know that a jointer is an essential tool for achieving flat, straight boards. But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the best home jointer for your needs.

First, let's talk about what a jointer does. Essentially, it flattens and squares up the edges of boards, making them easier to work with and ensuring a tight fit when joining them together. This is especially important for furniture makers, carpenters, and anyone who wants to create high-quality woodworking projects.

When it comes to home jointers, there are a few critical things to consider. One is the size of the machine - larger jointers can handle wider boards, but they also take up more space in your workshop. Another is the type of cutterhead - helical cutterheads are more expensive but provide a smoother cut and require less maintenance than traditional straight knives.

To help you find the best home jointer for your needs, we've tested and reviewed several top models on the market. From benchtop to floor-standing models, we've evaluated each jointer's performance, ease of use, and value for the price. So whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting, you can find the perfect jointer to take your projects to the next level.

Best Home Jointers

If you're a woodworker or DIY enthusiast, you know that a jointer is an essential tool for creating flat, straight, and square boards. A good jointer can save you time, money, and frustration by ensuring that your boards are perfectly aligned and ready for further processing. In this article, we've compiled a list of the best home jointers on the market, based on their features, performance, and customer feedback. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, you're sure to find a jointer that suits your needs and budget.

WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable jointer for your woodworking projects, 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 workpieces.
• The adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees, making it easy to create angled cuts.

Cons

• The aluminum table can scratch easily if not handled with care.
• The dust port may not be as effective as some users would like.
• The jointer is not suitable for heavy-duty projects.

This jointer is a great choice for hobbyist woodworkers who want a reliable tool that won't break the bank. The spiral cutterhead system ensures a smooth finish on your workpieces, while the adjustable fence and spacious table make it easy to work with a variety of materials.

In terms of drawbacks, the aluminum table can be easily scratched if not handled with care, and the dust port may not be as effective as some users would like. Additionally, the jointer is not suitable for heavy-duty projects, so if you're looking for a tool that can handle larger pieces of wood, you may want to consider a more heavy-duty option.

Overall, the WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable jointer for their woodworking projects.

WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer

If you're looking for a powerful and precise jointer for your home woodworking projects, the WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• The spiral cutterhead system with 16 staggered HSS blades provides an ultra-fine finish to both hard and soft woods.
• The spacious 33-by-8-inch table with support arms that extend up to 51 inches allows you to work with longer pieces of wood.
• The adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees, giving you more flexibility to create angled cuts.

Cons

• The blade guard only exposes a limited section of the cutterhead during jointing operation, which might make it harder to see what you're doing.
• The jointer is relatively heavy at 78.8 pounds, so it might not be easy to move around your workshop.
• Some users have reported that the blades wear out quickly and need to be replaced frequently.

The WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a reliable and efficient tool that can help you achieve professional-grade results in your woodworking projects. The spiral cutterhead system is a standout feature that provides an ultra-fine finish to both hard and soft woods, while the spacious table and adjustable fence give you more flexibility to work with longer pieces of wood and create angled cuts.

However, the blade guard might be a bit limiting in terms of visibility, and the jointer's weight might make it harder to move around your workshop. Additionally, some users have reported that the blades wear out quickly and need to be replaced frequently, which could be a potential drawback.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality jointer that can help you take your woodworking projects to the next level, the WEN 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering.

CUTECH 401120HI 12-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer

If you're looking for a powerful and efficient benchtop jointer for your home workshop, the CUTECH 401120HI 12-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The spiral cutterhead with 24 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 in at over 100 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around your workshop.
• Some users have reported that the dust collection port is not very effective, which can result in a messy workshop.
• The jointer is quite expensive compared to other benchtop jointers on the market.

If you're willing to invest in a high-quality jointer for your home workshop, the CUTECH 401120HI 12-Inch Spiral Cutterhead Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering. The spiral cutterhead with 24 staggered inserts provides a smooth finish with the lowest amp draw compared to others, while the powerful 12-amp motor makes it highly effective in making aggressive cuts. The fence enhancement brackets also ensure that you get a flawless cut every time.

However, it's important to note that the jointer is quite heavy, weighing in at over 100 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around your workshop. Additionally, some users have reported that the dust collection port is not very effective, which can result in a messy workshop. Finally, the jointer is quite expensive compared to other benchtop jointers on the market, so you'll need to consider whether it's worth the investment for your needs.

PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)

If you're in the market for a home jointer, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer is a solid option to consider.

Pros

• The variable speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM allows you to select the optimal speed for the material you're working with.
• The built-in cutter head lock makes it easy to replace and adjust knives.
• The extra large table provides ample work support and can surface stock up to 6 inches wide.

Cons

• The fence is flexible and may not stay square to the base, but can be clamped to solve this issue.
• The jointer is a benchtop model, which may limit the length of boards you can run through it.
• The jointer is not designed for heavy industrial use.

This PORTER-CABLE jointer is a great option for home woodworkers who need a reliable jointer for edging, flattening, or face jointing.

The variable speed range and built-in cutter head lock make it easy to work with a variety of materials and adjust the jointer as needed. Additionally, the extra large table provides ample support for larger pieces of wood.

While the flexible fence may be a downside for some users, it can easily be clamped to the base to ensure it stays square. Keep in mind that this is a benchtop model, so it may not be suitable for larger boards.

Overall, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for home woodworkers looking for a reliable jointer at an affordable price.

Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer

If you're looking for a budget-friendly jointer that can handle small to medium-sized woodworking projects, the Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer may be worth considering.

Pros

• Boasts a powerful 10.6A motor that delivers efficient material removal and precise cuts.
• Provides ample space to work with various wood sizes and shapes, thanks to its maximum cutting width of 6-Inch.
• Features stable and supportive tables that ensure accurate and controlled cuts every time.

Cons

• Assembly instructions are poor and can be difficult to follow.
• The jointer may not be suitable for heavy-duty woodworking projects.
• Some customers reported missing parts and issues with the planer fence staying square to the table.

The Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a reliable option for hobbyists and occasional users who need a jointer that won't break the bank. With its powerful motor and versatile cutting capabilities, it can handle a variety of woodworking projects.

However, the jointer's assembly instructions are not user-friendly, and some customers have reported issues with missing parts and the planer fence not staying square to the table. Additionally, the jointer may not be suitable for heavy-duty woodworking projects.

Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly jointer that can handle small to medium-sized woodworking projects, the Hoteche 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a decent option. However, if you're a professional woodworker or need a jointer for heavy-duty projects, you may want to consider a more robust option.

VEVOR Spiral Jointer

If you're looking for a powerful and versatile jointer, the VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Experience unprecedented smoothness with the upgraded 14-blade spiral cutterhead made of high-speed steel.
• Enjoy the unstoppable power of the 1.5HP motor that can reach up to 1000 RPM, suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods.
• The 27.6'' x 6.1'' worktable provides ample workspace for various wood sizes while maintaining a compact footprint.

Cons

• The jointer is made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers.
• The product has not yet received any customer reviews, making it difficult to gauge its performance.
• The price point may be higher than other comparable jointers on the market.

Crafted from high-quality materials, this benchtop jointer offers a range of features that are perfect for woodworking enthusiasts. The 14-blade spiral cutterhead delivers smoothness to your wood surfaces like never before, while the 1.5HP motor powers through with unparalleled precision and speed. The adjustable fence offers angles from ±45°, allowing you to effortlessly switch between vertical and beveled planing and diversify your woodworking projects.

Additionally, the jointer brings you the flexibility of 0-1/8" depth adjustment, catering to a broad spectrum of woodworking tasks. Whether you're rough dimensioning or fine finishing, each pass is precise, maximizing material efficiency and cutting down on waste.

Overall, the VEVOR Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a solid choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile jointer. While the product is on the higher end of the price range, its features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for woodworking enthusiasts.

RIKON Power Tools 8" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Style carbide Cutter Head & SP Coated Aluminum Table

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient jointer for your home workshop, the RIKON Power Tools 8" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Style carbide Cutter Head & SP Coated Aluminum Table is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The synthetic polymer coated aluminum tables make it easy to use and reduce friction and scratches.
• The helical cutter head with 16 two-sided carbide inserts provides super cutting action and flat surfacing results.
• The large fence tilts from 90 to 135 degrees, making it quick and accurate to use.

Cons

• It's a bit heavy at 60 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
• The dust ports are a bit small at 4" and 2-1/2".
• The price may be a bit high for some home users.

This jointer is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and efficient tool for their home workshop. The synthetic polymer coated aluminum tables make it easy to use and reduce friction and scratches, while the helical cutter head with 16 two-sided carbide inserts provides super cutting action and flat surfacing results. The large fence tilts from 90 to 135 degrees, making it quick and accurate to use.

One downside to this jointer is that it's a bit heavy at 60 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the dust ports are a bit small at 4" and 2-1/2". Finally, the price may be a bit high for some home users.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient jointer for your home workshop, the RIKON Power Tools 8" Benchtop Jointer with Helical Style carbide Cutter Head & SP Coated Aluminum Table is definitely worth considering.

CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient home jointer, the CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The variable speed range allows you to select the correct speed for the material's size and hardness.
• The center-mounted fence ensures accurate edging and flattening.
• The extra-large table provides ample support for larger workpieces.

Cons

• The fence setup can be cumbersome.
• The instructions can be somewhat vague.
• The aluminum workpiece plates are fragile and can be easily damaged.

The CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is a powerful and versatile tool that can handle a variety of jointing tasks. With a variable speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM and a cutter head speed of 12,000 to 22,000 cuts per minute, you can easily select the correct speed for your material. The two-knife cutter head, with jackscrew knife leveling arrangement and built-in cutter head lock, allows for easy knife replacement and adjustment.

One of the standout features of this jointer is the center-mounted fence, which ensures accurate edging and flattening. The extra-large 6-3/16" x 30" table also provides ample support for larger workpieces, making it easier to work with larger materials.

However, the fence setup can be cumbersome, and the instructions can be somewhat vague, which may make it difficult for some users to set up and use the jointer properly. Additionally, the aluminum workpiece plates are fragile and can be easily damaged, which may be a concern for some users.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient home jointer, the CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Jointer is definitely worth considering. With its variable speed range, center-mounted fence, and extra-large table, it's a versatile tool that can help you tackle a variety of jointing tasks with ease.

Woodstock Jointer Pal

If you're looking for an affordable and easy-to-use jointer knife setting jig, then the Woodstock Jointer Pal might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The polycarbonate body makes it durable and lightweight.
• It's compatible with 4 to 8-inch jointers with HSS knives, making it versatile.
• The Jointer Pal makes knife installation easy, saving you time and effort.

Cons

• It may not work with jointers that have carbide-tipped knives.
• The magnets may not be strong enough to hold the knives in place for some users.
• Some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the jig.

If you're a beginner woodworker or DIY enthusiast who wants to save time and effort when changing jointer knives, the Woodstock Jointer Pal might be worth considering. The polycarbonate body is durable and lightweight, making it easy to handle. It's also compatible with a wide range of jointers with HSS knives, so you can use it with multiple tools. Additionally, the Jointer Pal is designed to make knife installation easy, which can save you time and effort.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The Jointer Pal may not work with jointers that have carbide-tipped knives, which can limit its versatility. Additionally, the magnets may not be strong enough to hold the knives in place for some users, which can affect the accuracy of the jig. Finally, some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the jig, so it may not be the best option for those who require precise measurements.

Overall, the Woodstock Jointer Pal is a good option for those who want an affordable and easy-to-use jointer knife setting jig. However, it's important to consider the limitations and potential issues before making a purchase.

JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer, Helical Head, 1 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JJ-6HHBT)

If you're looking for a powerful and versatile jointer, the JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer with its helical head and adjustable fence is a great option for you.

Pros

• The 14 carbide-tipped helical head blades provide a smooth and consistent cut surface.
• The heavy-duty cast iron tables and fence offer stability and durability.
• The fully adjustable fence with locking stops at +/- 45 degree tilt dual direction allows for accurate and precise beveling.

Cons

• The price is on the higher side compared to other benchtop jointers.
• The jointer is quite heavy and not very portable.
• Some users have reported issues with the infeed table being damaged during shipping.

The JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a powerful and versatile jointer that can handle a variety of woodworking projects. The helical head with 14 indexable four-sided carbide blades provides a true helical cut, resulting in a smooth and consistent cut surface. The heavy-duty cast iron tables and fence offer stability and durability, while the fully adjustable fence with locking stops at +/- 45 degree tilt dual direction allows for accurate and precise beveling.

One downside of this jointer is its price, which is on the higher side compared to other benchtop jointers. Additionally, the jointer is quite heavy and not very portable, which may be a concern for some users. Finally, some users have reported issues with the infeed table being damaged during shipping.

Overall, if you're willing to invest in a high-quality jointer for your woodworking projects, the JET 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is a great option that offers precision, durability, and versatility.

VEVOR Spiral Jointer

If you're in the market for a reliable jointer, the VEVOR Spiral Jointer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Elevate your woodworking with unprecedented smoothness thanks to the upgraded 18-blade spiral cutterhead.
• With a 2HP motor that can reach up to 1000 RPM, this jointer can handle even the toughest of woods with ease.
• The extendable arms provide a spacious work area of up to 8'' x 42.3'', making it easy to handle larger wood pieces.

Cons

• At 46.3 pounds, this jointer is not the lightest, which may make it difficult to move around.
• The jointer is made in China, which may be a dealbreaker for some buyers.
• Some users have reported that the jointer requires more maintenance than they expected.

If you're looking for a jointer that delivers smoothness like never before, the VEVOR Spiral Jointer is definitely worth considering. With 18-blade spiral cutterhead made from high-speed steel with a hardness exceeding 60HRC, this jointer is both durable and stable, significantly reducing your maintenance and blade replacement frequency.

The 2HP motor powers through softwoods and hardwoods with unparalleled precision and speed, turning every planing task into a masterpiece of woodworking artistry. The extendable arms provide a maximum working size of 8'' x 42.3'', making it easy to handle larger wood pieces. Plus, the jointer offers an adjustable fence with angles from ±45°, allowing you to switch between vertical and beveled planing with ease.

However, at 46.3 pounds, this jointer is not the lightest, which may make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the jointer is made in China, which may be a dealbreaker for some buyers. Some users have also reported that the jointer requires more maintenance than they expected.

Overall, if you're looking for a jointer that delivers smoothness and precision, the VEVOR Spiral Jointer is definitely worth considering.

Task T33581 Brick Jointer

If you're looking for a dependable brick jointer for your construction projects or DIY tasks, the Task T33581 Brick Jointer is worth considering.

Pros

• Made from hardened and tempered zinc-plated carbon steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting use.
• Ideal for most masonry jobs, making it a versatile tool to have in your kit.
• Measuring approximately 12-Inch by 5/8-Inch by 3/4-Inch, it's compact and easy to handle.

Cons

• The tool may not be suitable for larger masonry projects.
• The curved bar design may not be comfortable for everyone to use.
• The product does not come with any additional accessories or attachments.

This brick jointer is a reliable and sturdy tool that can help you achieve neat and finished joints in your brickwork. Its hardened and tempered zinc-plated carbon steel construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use and last a long time. Additionally, its compact size and versatile design make it ideal for most masonry jobs.

However, it's worth noting that the tool may not be suitable for larger masonry projects, and the curved bar design may not be comfortable for everyone to use. Additionally, the product does not come with any additional accessories or attachments, so you'll need to purchase them separately if needed.

Overall, if you're looking for a dependable brick jointer for your home projects, the Task T33581 Brick Jointer is a solid choice.

Shop Fox W1876 6" Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead

If you're looking for a feature-packed 6-inch benchtop jointer, the Shop Fox W1876 might be a good fit for you.

Pros

• The spiral-style cutterhead with indexable carbide inserts ensures ultra-precision cutting depth adjustments.
• The infeed table is knob-adjustable and lockable.
• The in. and metric cut depth indicator and extruded-aluminum fence make adjustments easy.

Cons

• The assembly process might be a bit tricky, especially if you rely on the instructions.
• The manual doesn't provide clear guidance on how to parallel the infeed and outfeed tables.
• The bases and valla might not be 100% straight.

This jointer is a great option for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable tool for their woodworking projects. However, if you're a professional woodworker, you might want to consider a more heavy-duty jointer.

The Shop Fox W1876 is packed with features that make it easy to use and adjust, including the spiral-style cutterhead, the adjustable infeed table, and the cut depth indicator. However, the assembly process might be a bit tricky, and the manual doesn't provide clear guidance on how to parallel the infeed and outfeed tables.

Overall, if you're looking for a feature-packed 6-inch benchtop jointer that won't break the bank, the Shop Fox W1876 is worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best home jointer, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. The following are some of the features you should look for when choosing a jointer:

Cutting Width

The cutting width is an important factor to consider when choosing a jointer. The cutting width determines the maximum width of the board that the jointer can handle. If you frequently work with wider boards, you should consider a jointer with a wider cutting width.

Cutting Depth

The cutting depth is the maximum amount of material that the jointer can remove in a single pass. If you plan on working with thicker boards, you should consider a jointer with a greater cutting depth.

Cutterhead

The cutterhead is the part of the jointer that does the actual cutting. There are two types of cutterheads: helical and straight. Helical cutterheads are generally more expensive, but they provide a smoother finish and require less maintenance than straight cutterheads.

Fence

The fence is the part of the jointer that guides the board as it is being cut. A good fence should be sturdy and easy to adjust. Look for a fence that can be tilted to allow for bevel cuts.

Dust Collection

Jointers can produce a lot of sawdust, so it's important to choose a jointer with an effective dust collection system. A good dust collection system will help keep your workspace clean and reduce the amount of sawdust in the air.

By considering these features, you can choose the best home jointer for your needs. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, a good jointer is an essential tool for creating high-quality, professional-looking projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for when choosing a jointer for home use?

When choosing a jointer for home use, there are a few features that you should consider. Firstly, you should look for a jointer with a wide enough bed to accommodate the size of the wood you will be working with. Additionally, a longer bed length can be helpful for working with longer pieces of wood. You should also consider the size of the motor, as this will affect the jointer's power and performance. Other features to consider include the type of cutterhead (helical or straight knives), the number of knives, and the ease of adjusting the infeed and outfeed tables.

Which budget-friendly jointers offer the best value for novice woodworkers?

For novice woodworkers on a budget, there are a few jointers that offer good value for money. The WEN 6559T 6-Inch 10-Amp Corded Benchtop Jointer and the PORTER-CABLE PC160JT Variable Speed 6" Jointer are both affordable options that offer decent performance. Another option is the Grizzly G0725 6 by 28-Inch Benchtop Jointer, which is a little more expensive but offers higher power and a longer bed length.

How do benchtop jointers compare to floor-standing models in terms of performance?

Benchtop jointers are generally smaller and less powerful than floor-standing models, which can affect their performance. However, for home use and smaller woodworking projects, a benchtop jointer can be perfectly adequate. Floor-standing jointers are generally more expensive and take up more space, but they offer higher power and performance for larger projects.

What are the advantages of a jointer-planer combo for a small workshop?

A jointer-planer combo machine can be a great option for a small workshop where space is limited. These machines combine the functions of a jointer and a planer, allowing you to save space and money. Additionally, a jointer-planer combo machine can be more convenient than having to switch between two separate machines when working on a project.

Can you recommend any reliable jointer brands for long-term home use?

There are several reliable jointer brands that are suitable for long-term home use. Some popular options include Jet, Powermatic, Grizzly, and Delta. These brands offer a range of jointers with different features and price points, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

What maintenance tips should be followed to ensure the longevity of a home jointer?

To ensure the longevity of your home jointer, there are a few maintenance tips that you should follow. Firstly, you should keep the jointer clean and free of debris, as this can affect its performance. You should also regularly lubricate the moving parts of the jointer to prevent wear and tear. Additionally, you should sharpen or replace the knives as needed, and check the alignment of the tables to ensure accurate cuts. Finally, you should store the jointer in a dry, protected area when not in use.