wen vs dewalt planer

Wen vs DeWalt Planer: Which One Is Right for You?

DeWalt and Wen are some of the most popular manufacturers of Planers. But selecting one between the two can be confusing. 

So are you confused by Wen vs DeWalt Planer?

DeWalt is better than Wen in terms of:

  • Three-knife configuaration
  • Variable feed speed options up to 179 CPI
  • Optional vacuum for chip ejection
  • Dust hood included
  • Option for extra knives
  • Longer warranty period of 3 years

In contrast, Wen is better than DeWalt in terms of:

  • Fan-assisted/adjustable chip ejection
  • Optional Material removal gauge
  • Lighter weight range of 55.6-63 lbs

These two brands’ Planers are compared briefly here. This article has all details.

General Overview 

Let’s compare the two brands. 

AspectWenDeWalt
Motor Power15 Amp15 Amp
Motor Speed10,000 – 30,000 rpm20,000 rpm
Cutter Head Speed10,000 rpm10,000 rpm
Knife ConfigurationReversible SK5 or Staggered HSSThree-knife
Feed Speed Options26 FPM96 or 179 CPI
Chip Ejection SystemFan-assisted or AdjustableFan-assisted vacuum (optional)
Material Removal GaugeOptionalIncluded
Dust Hood IncludedNot availableOptional
Additional Set of KnivesNot availableOptional
Product Weight55.6 – 63 pounds80 – 92 lbs
Warranty2-year3- year

In-Depth Comparison 

Now let’s see the details of the two brands’ comparison. 

Motor Power

The Wen Planer is equipped with a 15 Amp motor, providing sufficient power for most planing tasks. The motor’s strength enables the Planer to handle various wood densities and thicknesses effectively.

Similarly, the DeWalt Planer also features a 15 Amp motor. This ensures that it delivers a comparable level of power, making it suitable for a wide range of planing.

Result: Draw.

WEN 6552T 13 in. 15 Amp

  • Onboard material removal gauge informs users about the cutting depth of each pass
  • Plane boards up to 6 in. T and 13 in. W
  • 15 Amp motor generates 25,500 cuts per minute at a 26 ft. per minute feed rate
  • 3-blade design makes easy work out of even the hardest of woods
  • Fan-assisted dust port removes sawdust from workpiece

Motor Speed

The Wen Planer offers a variable motor speed of 10,000 to 30,000 rpm. This adjustable speed range allows users to select the optimal speed for different wood types, thicknesses, and planing requirements. It provides greater control and versatility in achieving desired results.

All DeWalt Planers operate, in contrast at a fixed motor speed of 20,000 rpm. The 20,000 rpm speed is still capable of producing excellent planing results. And all DeWalt Planers are faster than all Wen planners except the Wen PL1303, the only Planer with 30,00 RPM. 

Result: Draw as DeWalt Planers win for having a higher average motor speed. And Wen wins when it comes to speed adjustment.

Cutter Head Speed

The cutter head speed of the Wen Planers is set at 10,000 rpm. This consistent speed ensures smooth and efficient material removal during the planing process.

The DeWalt Planers also features a cutter head speed of 10,000 rpm. This provides a similar performance to the Wen Planer in terms of material removal.

Remember that the cutter head is an important aspect when comparing any Planer. Even while comparing DeWalt DW734 and Ridgid R4331.

Result: Draw.

WEN PL1303 15-Amp 13-Inch

  • Plane boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide
  • 15A motor generates 30,000 cuts per minute at a 26 feet per minute feed rate
  • Includes three reversible 13-inch SK5 blades (model BP133K)
  • Adjust the depth of cut anywhere from 0 to 1/8 of an inch with each pass

Knife Configuration

Most Wen Planer offers two knife configuration options. It comes with either reversible SK5 knives or staggered HSS (High-Speed Steel) knives.

Reversible knives allow users to flip them over for extended use. While staggered HSS knives minimize tear-out and provide a smooth finish.

Just the Wen 6552T features a 3-Blade knife configuration. 

So is Wen a good Planer? In terms of knife configuration, it certainly is. 

In contrast, all of the DeWalt Planers utilize a three-knife configuration. This design enhances the Planer’s cutting efficiency and provides consistent results by evenly distributing the workload among the knives.

Winner: DeWalt Planers win this round for having more and better knife configuration options. 

DEWALT DW734, 13-inch 3

  • Powerful 15 amp, 20,000 rpm motor of the woodworking planer handles larger, deeper cuts in hardwoods.
  • Three-knife cutter head with 10,000 rpm cutter-head speed of the thickness planer provides 96 cuts per inch, one of the finest finishes of any portable planer
  • Disposable, reversible knives of the wood planer deliver 30% more knife life and make knife change fast and easy.
  • Four-column carriage lock drastically reduces the movement that causes snipe
  • Extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide 33-1/2-inch of material support.
  • Material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale deliver accurate cuts with every pass
  • Turret depth stop allows user to return to their most frequently used depths with ease
  • Powerful 15.0 Amp, 20,000 RPM motor handles larger, deeper cuts in hardwoods.
  • Three knife cutter-head with 10,000 RPM cutter head speed provides 96 cuts per inch, one of the finest finishes of any portable planer.
  • Disposible, reversible knives deliver 30% more knife life and make knife change fast and easy.
  • Four-column carriage lock drastically reduces the movement that causes snipe
  • Extra-long infeed and outfeed tables provide 33-1/2-inch of material support. Material removal gauge and extra-large thickness scale deliver accurate cuts with every pass

Feed Speed Options

The Wen Planers offer a feed speed of 26 feet per minute (FPM). This speed allows for efficient and steady material feed, enabling users to work at a comfortable pace.

The DeWalt Planer, in contrast, provides two feed speed options: 96 or 179 cuts per inch (CPI). These options give users more control over the finish quality. This allows them to choose the desired level of smoothness and surface texture.

Winner: DeWalt wins for having more options. 

Chip Ejection System

A dirty Planer might be why your Planer is not pulling wood through. So having a feature that helps clean the Planer is very helpful. 

The Wen Planers provide a chip ejection system that is either fan-assisted or adjustable. This feature helps remove chips and debris efficiently, keeping the work area clean and preventing clogging.

The DeWalt Planers include a fan-assisted vacuum chip ejection system as an optional feature. This system effectively collects and removes chips, maintaining a clean and tidy workspace.

Result: Draw because both systems are efficient. 

Wen Planer PL1337 13-Inch

  • Two-speed operation provides a 26 FPM feed rate for quick dimensioning and a 16 FPM feed rate for perfect finishes
  • Spiral cutterhead utilizes 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades for a clean, smooth finish
  • Plane boards up to 6 inches thick and 13 inches wide
  • 15-amp motor generates 10,000 cutterhead rotations per minute and up to 1354 cuts per inch
  • Includes a depth stop, an onboard material removal gauge, a combination 2-1/2-inch and 4-inch dust port, onboard wrench storage, workpiece return rollers, and a two-year warranty

Material Removal Gauge

The material removal gauge is an optional feature for the Wen Planers. This gauge allows users to set precise cutting depths, ensuring accurate and consistent material removal during planing operations.

Only Wen PL1326, Wen 6552T, and Wen PL1337 have material gauge present. 

In contrast, the material removal gauge is included with all DeWalt Planers. Its presence enables users to easily adjust and monitor the amount of material being removed, enhancing accuracy and control.

Winner: DeWalt Planers win because all models have material gauge present. 

DEWALT DW735, 13-Inch

  • Powerful 15-AMP, 20,000 RPM motor (10,000 RPM cutterhead speed) handles larger cuts in wider materials with ease
  • Three knife cutter-head delivers 30-percent longer knife life and makes knife change faster and easier
  • Two speed gear box allows users to change feed speed to optimizing cuts per inch at 96 or 179 CPI
  • Fan-assisted chip ejection vacuums chips off of the cutter-head and exhausts them out of the machine

Dust Hood

The Wen Planer does not include a dust hood as a standard accessory. Users may need to make separate arrangements for effective dust collection during planing.

The DeWalt Planer, on the other hand, offers a dust hood, although it is an optional feature. This hood helps to capture and contain the dust coming out from the workspace. But only the DW734 comes with a dust good preinstalled. 

Winner: DeWalt Planers win for having dust hood included. 

Additional Set of Knives

Wen does not provide an additional set of knives with their Planers. Users may need to purchase extra knives separately if required.

However, the DeWalt Planers offer the option to purchase an additional set of knives. This is beneficial for users who prefer to have spare blades readily available for quick replacement. Or for different planing requirements.

But only the DeWalt DW735X has additional knives included, while other models don’t. 

Winner:  DeWalt wins for having models with additional knives. 

DEWALT DW735X, 13-inch 3

  • Purchase includes one stationary 13″ Planer, in/out feed tables with fasteners (attached to the base of the Planer base), extra blades and dust hose adapter. Stand is not included.
  • Three knife cutter head of the thickness planer delivers 30% longer knife life and makes knife change faster and easier
  • Two-speed gear box of the wood planer allows users to change feed speed to optimizing cuts per inch at 96 or 179 CPI
  • Fan-assisted chip ejection vacuums chip off of the cutter head and exhausts them out of the machine
  • 19-3/4-inch cast aluminum base is 2 times more rigid than a standard 10-inch base and folding tables
  • Automatic carriage lock reduces the movement that causes snipe without the need for manual engagement by the user
  • Material removal gauge and extra large thickness scale deliver accurate cuts with every pass

Product Weight

The weight of the Wen Planers ranges from 55.6 to 63 pounds. This weight makes it relatively lightweight and portable, allowing for easier transportation and maneuverability.

In contrast, the DeWalt Planers weigh between 80 and 92 pounds. While it is heavier than the Wen Planers, the weight is attributed to its robust construction and durability. This ensures stability and longevity.

DW734 is the lightest DeWalt. And Wen PL1252 is the lightest of all the available Planers between the two brands. And DW735X is the heaviest. 

Note that size and weight difference can have a huge impact. It is especially seen while comparing DeWalt 12.5 and 13 Planer.

Result:  Draw because both have their usefulness. 

WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch

  • Plane boards up to 6 inches thick and 12.5 inches wide
  • 15A motor generates 20,000 cuts per minute at a 26 feet per minute feed rate
  • Includes two reversible 12.5-inch SK5 blades (model BP122K)
  • Adjust the depth of anywhere from 0 to 1/8 of an inch with each pass

Warranty

The Wen Planers come with a 2-year warranty, providing customers with protection against manufacturing defects. And ensuring peace of mind during the initial period of use.

In comparison, the DeWalt Planers offer a 3-year warranty, exceeding the coverage provided by the Wen Planer.

Winner: DeWalt Planers win for having a longer warranty period. 

Final Verdict 

Planers made by Wen and DeWalt are both excellent choices for woodworkers. 

The Wen Planer is better for those looking for a variable motor speed, a different knife configuration, and lower weight. This  makes it suitable for users who prioritize versatility and portability.

On the other hand, the DeWalt Planer is the preferred choice for those seeking robustness and extended warranty coverage.

FAQs

Do I really need a Planer?

A Planer may significantly improve your woodworking projects. This is especially true if you often deal with rough or uneven material and seek smooth and consistent surfaces.

How many horsepower is a DeWalt Planer?

The most popular DeWalt Planer, the DW735, has a 2-horsepower motor. 

Is a Planer better than a sander?

Planers and sanders are both tools used to smooth wood, but they serve different purposes. Planers are better for removing large amounts of material, while sanders are better for smoothing small imperfections.

Conclusion

And that concludes our discussion on Wen vs DeWalt Planer. Both are excellent brands of Planer and you cannot go wrong with either. But make sure the choice you make aligns with the work you do. 

Good luck!

2 thoughts on “Wen vs DeWalt Planer: Which One Is Right for You?”

  1. Pingback: DeWalt 12.5 vs 13 Planer: The Perfect One For You!

  2. Pingback: Oliver Vs Dewalt Planer: Know The Differences!

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