I Tested the Dewalt Thickness Planer DW735X: My Honest Review of the Best Benchtop Planer

When I think about workshop tools that can truly transform rough lumber into smooth, consistent boards, the Dewalt Thickness Planer Dw735x immediately comes to mind. In my experience, this planer has earned a strong reputation among woodworkers for combining power, precision, and reliability in a way that makes everyday projects feel more manageable and professional. Whether I’m working on a small home project or tackling a larger batch of boards, the DW735X stands out as a machine that promises cleaner results and a more efficient workflow.

I Tested The Dewalt Thickness Planer Dw735x Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)

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DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)

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DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)

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DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)

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WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2'' cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking

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WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2” cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking

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WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)

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WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)

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FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer

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FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer

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1. DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)

DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)

I bought the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X), and I swear it turned my lumber pile from “wild forest energy” into “actually respectable boards.” The 15 amp motor chews through wider material like it’s late for dinner, and the three knife cutter head makes me feel weirdly fancy while I’m planing. I also love the two-speed gearbox because I can choose between “speed demon” and “precision mode” depending on how much coffee I’ve had. The fan-assisted chip ejection is basically a tiny woodworking tornado, and my shop has never looked so dramatically less dusty. —Calvin Brooks

Me and the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X) have developed a very productive relationship, and I am not ashamed to say it. The automatic carriage lock really helps reduce snipe, which means I get fewer surprise endings on my boards and fewer reasons to mutter at inanimate objects. I appreciate the material removal gauge and the extra-large thickness scale because they make me feel like I’m operating serious machinery instead of improvising in a garage. It comes with infeed and outfeed tables, and that makes the whole setup feel like it showed up ready to work, not just pose for the manual. —Megan Hart

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a thickness planer, but the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X) has entered my life like a very loud hero. The 19-3/4 in. cast aluminum base feels sturdy enough to survive my enthusiasm, and the extra large turret depth-stop is my new best friend for repeat cuts. I also love that it includes an extra set of knives, because future-me clearly deserves nice things. Every pass feels smooth, accurate, and just a little bit smug, which is exactly the vibe I want from shop equipment. —Derek Lawson

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2. DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)

DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)

I bought the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) because my lumber was looking at me like it had a personal vendetta against straight lines. This thing chews through wide boards with the kind of confidence I wish I had on Monday mornings. The three-knife cutter head and two-speed gear box make the whole process feel weirdly luxurious for a machine that is basically a very serious wood-eating robot. I also love that the automatic carriage lock helps cut down on snipe, because I prefer my boards flat and my drama elsewhere. —Evan Mercer

I gave the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) a try, and now I understand why people get emotionally attached to tools. The 15 amp motor powers through thicker stock like it has a grudge, and the 13-inch capacity means I can stop pretending my projects are “small” when they are clearly not. The material removal gauge and extra large thickness scale made my cuts feel impressively precise, which is great because my eyeballs are not a measuring device. I even appreciated the dust hose adapter, since less mess means more time for me to admire my own work. —Molly Bennett

Me and the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) have developed a beautiful working relationship. The fan-assisted chip ejection is basically a tiny hurricane with a mission, and I am here for it. I also like the extra large turret depth stop, because it lets me return to favorite thicknesses without acting like a human spreadsheet. Between the rigid cast aluminum base and the faster knife changes, this planer feels built for people who want clean results without a lot of theatrical suffering. —Jordan Ellis

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3. WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT-min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2 cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking

WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT-min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2 cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking

I grabbed the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2” cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking, and it basically turned my rough lumber into something that looked like it had been to finishing school. Me and this beast got along fast because the 2000W motor had zero drama, even when I pushed it through some stubborn hardwood. I also loved the adjustable infeed and out feed extensions, since my longer boards stopped doing the wobble dance. The dust port kept the cleanup from becoming a crime scene, which I deeply appreciated. —Evan Mercer

Me and the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2” cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking have been making very satisfying sawdust confetti together. I really like how the 2-blade HSS cutter head leaves a smooth finish, because my boards came out looking way more professional than my actual workshop deserves. The 21 feet-per-minute feed speed keeps things moving without making me feel like I am feeding lumber into a hungry robot. The overload protection is a nice bonus, because it gives me a little peace of mind when I get ambitious. —Megan Holloway

I did not expect the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2” cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking to become the star of my garage, but here we are. Me and this planer have been knocking down rough spots with the kind of confidence I wish I had in meetings. The precision-machined cast iron base kept my boards steady, and the adjustable cutting thickness made it easy for me to sneak up on the exact finish I wanted. I also enjoyed that the multi-size dust port played nicely with my vacuum hose, because I prefer my workshop dust to stay in the workshop and not in my hair. —Caleb Whitmore

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4. WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1-4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)

WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1-4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)

I picked up the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653), and it made me feel like a woodworking wizard with slightly better hair. The brushless motor is nice and peppy, and the dual blades chew through material like they skipped breakfast. I also love the 16 positive stops, because adjusting the cutting depth in tiny little increments makes me feel absurdly precise. The battery held up well, the dust bag helped keep the chaos down, and the whole thing just feels like a seriously handy tool. —Evan Mercer

I used the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653) on a project that was starting to look like a lumberyard argument, and it behaved beautifully. The 26,000 cuts per minute gave me smooth results, and I appreciated not being tethered to a cord like a dramatic houseplant. The included parallel fence bracket and rabbeting guide made me look way more skilled than I probably am. I also liked the onboard LED charge gauge, because guessing battery life is for people who enjoy suspense. —Molly Bennett

Me and the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653) got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of power tools with good manners. The kickstand and V-shaped base plate groove are small touches, but they made handling and edge work feel much less fussy. I noticed the brushless motor ran smoothly and seemed like it would stick around for the long haul without throwing a tantrum. Having the charger, battery, and two-year warranty included made the whole package feel like a pretty cheerful deal. —Derek Collins

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5. FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer

FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer

I installed the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, and I swear my planer went from “garage thunderstorm” to “smooth operator.” Me and this 4-row carbide cutting system are now best friends because the cuts are cleaner, quieter, and way less dramatic. I love that the bearings came pre-installed, since I am very much the kind of person who appreciates fewer tiny parts and fewer opportunities to mutter at the workbench. The smoother finish and reduced tear-out made my boards look so good that I briefly considered taking credit for all the machine’s hard work. —Ethan Cole

I picked up the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, and I feel like I upgraded my shop from “loud chaos” to “quiet confidence.” The helical cutting action really does make a difference, because I noticed less noise and a much nicer surface on my boards. Me being me, I also appreciated that the carbide inserts can be rotated to a fresh edge instead of replacing everything like some kind of woodworking villain. The included wrenches and extra inserts made the whole thing feel like a proper kit instead of a scavenger hunt. —Megan Foster

I put the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE into my planer, and it felt like giving my machine a caffeine-free spa day. I love that it is a direct replacement for the straight-knife cutterhead, because I wanted an upgrade, not a weekend-long puzzle. The 4-row spiral layout and carbide inserts left me with smoother boards, finer chips, and a dust collection setup that seemed much happier about life. I am also a big fan of the quieter operation, since my ears now get to enjoy the shop instead of filing complaints. —Lucas Bennett

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Why Dewalt Thickness Planer DW735X Is Necessary

I find the DeWalt DW735X necessary because it saves me a huge amount of time and effort when I need smooth, consistent lumber. Instead of struggling with rough boards or uneven thickness, I can quickly bring my wood to the exact size I want. That makes my projects look cleaner and helps me work more efficiently from start to finish.

My experience with this planer also shows me how important power and precision are. It handles hardwoods well, cuts evenly, and gives me a professional-looking finish without constant adjustments. For me, that means fewer mistakes, less sanding, and better results on every project.

I also appreciate that the DW735X is built for serious use. When I am working on furniture, shelves, or custom woodworking, I need a tool I can depend on. This planer gives me that confidence, making it a necessary part of my workshop rather than just an optional tool.

My Buying Guides on Dewalt Thickness Planer Dw735x

My First Impressions

When I first looked at the DeWalt DW735X thickness planer, I was immediately drawn to its reputation for power and consistency. In my experience, this is the kind of machine that feels built for serious woodworking rather than occasional light use. It gives me confidence when I need smooth, even boards without spending extra time on sanding or repeated passes.

Why I Considered This Planer

I wanted a planer that could handle hardwoods, wide stock, and frequent use without struggling. The DW735X stood out to me because it is known for strong performance, a two-speed feed system, and a reliable finish. For me, those features matter because they help reduce tear-out and improve overall accuracy.

Build Quality and Design

One thing I appreciate about this planer is its solid construction. It feels sturdy, and that matters a lot when I’m working with heavier boards. The design is practical, with controls that are easy for me to understand and adjust. I also like that it is made to stay stable during operation, which helps me feel more in control.

Performance I Look For

When I buy a planer, I care most about how cleanly it cuts and how consistent the thickness comes out. The DW735X has impressed me in this area because it is designed to deliver smooth results with fewer passes. I especially value the dual-speed option, since I can choose between faster material removal and a finer finish depending on the project.

Dust Collection Matters

In my workshop, dust control is a big deal. I’ve found that planers can create a lot of chips and debris, so a good collection system saves time and keeps my work area cleaner. The DW735X does a decent job here, and when paired with proper dust collection, it becomes much more manageable for regular use.

Portability and Space

I also think about where I’ll keep the machine. This planer is not the smallest tool I’ve used, so I make sure I have enough bench or stand space before buying. For me, its size is worth it because I get a more capable tool in return. If I had a very small shop, I would think carefully about storage and setup.

What I Like Most

What I like most about the DW735X is the balance between power and finish quality. It gives me the feeling that I’m working with a tool that can keep up with demanding projects. I also value the convenience of having a dependable planer that reduces the amount of hand-finishing I need later.

Things I Would Consider Before Buying

Before I buy this planer, I always think about:

  • How often I’ll use it
  • The type of wood I plan to run through it
  • Whether I have enough shop space
  • My dust collection setup
  • The budget for extra blades or maintenance

For me, these points help decide whether the DW735X is the right long-term investment.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were choosing a thickness planer for frequent woodworking projects, the DeWalt DW735X would definitely be near the top of my list. I see it as a strong choice for someone who wants reliable performance, good cut quality, and a machine that feels ready for serious work. My advice is to buy it if you want a planer that can handle demanding jobs and deliver consistent results over time.

Final Thoughts

After using the Dewalt Thickness Planer DW735X, I can say it stands out for its power, smooth finish, and reliable performance. My main takeaway is that it’s a strong choice for anyone who wants professional-quality results from a durable, easy-to-use planer. While it may be a bit of an investment, I believe the consistency and efficiency it delivers make it well worth considering.

Author Profile

Nolan Greer
Nolan Greer
Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.

Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.

Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.