If you are one of those woodworkers who is extremely fascinated by smooth cuts or superior finishes, you surely do not want to settle for average woodworking equipment.
Especially when getting a helical planer, it is necessary to ensure the machine provides wider cuts without leaving a rough edge behind. To achieve such efficiency, you will need to get the best helical planer.
And that’s precisely what we will help you find right here. We have selected the top ten planers with some of the best features that will adhere to your requirements – why don’t you navigate among them yourself?
Benefits of Helical Planer
If you have been thinking of getting a helical planer, then you are surely wondering whether it will be worth it. That is why we will be discussing the benefits of a helical planer right here.
Provides Smoother Cuts
The foremost benefit of any helical cutter-head is that it allows for smooth cuts and even smoother finishes. You can also alter the speed in most cases, which can produce cuts at a suitable speed – hence, you can never go wrong with it.
Works with a Wider Range of Materials
Since you can alter the speed of helical planers, you can also work with different wood materials. As a result, your projects can be versatile, and you won’t have to restrict your wood pieces to a specific type.
Very Powerful
Another significant benefit of helical planers is that they come with a powerful motor. As a result, they can work efficiently under heavy loads and provide the necessary speed.
Produces Low Noise
Despite being powerful, helical planers produce lower noises than their counterparts – making them more environment-friendly than expected. So, you won’t have to worry about excessive noise pollution every time you use them.
10 Best Helical Planer Reviews
Have you been thinking about getting a helical planer, but you haven’t had much luck finding one? Then here are our ten top picks that you should check out.
RIKON 25-135H | 13″ Portable Planer
Current price of RIKON 25-135H | 13″ Portable Planer
It is often necessary for helical planers to be accurate and easy to use. But finding one with both of these traits can be rather difficult; luckily, here is one that comes with both characteristics along with much more.
The aspect that makes it user-friendly and a fan favorite is its low noise production. Unlike its counterparts, you won’t have to be surrounded by noise pollution when using this.
Despite producing less noise than its competitors, the machine does not compromise in terms of power. With a 15 amp motor, you will get the power and performance you need for your projects.
When we talked about this machine being accurate, we entirely meant it. With a helical style cutter-head, the item delivers all of its cuts in the right places and within the right length.
On the other hand, with easy blade access, you will find it much more convenient to use this helical planer. Even if you are a beginner, you will not face any problems with it.
But that is not all. This product ensures durability as well, thanks to its all-steel construction. And the 2-speed feed rate is convenient, but it lets the users experiment with different types of projects as well.
Pros
- Produces less noise while working
- Comes with a powerful motor for high-performance
- Ensures accuracy with helical style cutter-head
- Convenient blade access for beginners
- Ensures durability and high speed
Cons
- The infeed and outfeed extensions are fiddly
- Not suitable for large projects
Verdict
This powerful helical planer produces minimal noise and ensures high performance. Both beginners and professionals can use it without any hassle whatsoever. Not to mention, this item provides the accuracy that you will need in your projects.
JET JWP-13BT, 13-Inch Helical-Style Benchtop Planer
Current price of JET JWP-13BT, 13-Inch Helical-Style Benchtop Planer
If you are a beginner, you might want a helical planer that is easy to use. If you are having difficulty finding one like that, we have some good news for you. We will talk more about that right here.
There is no need to worry about the blade changing process because it comes with an easy one. Not to mention, the helical-style cutter head will always ensure smooth and clean cuts no matter what you are working on.
If you generally have trouble keeping the boards flat, you will surely love this. Thanks to its reduced snipe, which is due to the steel cover and cast iron bed, all your project boards will remain flat.
Along with that, this item will provide the utmost power with speed. For instance, the 2-HP 15amp motor will ensure a powerful performance, whereas the cutter will turn at 10,000 RPM for a fast cutting speed.
This product will ensure maximum efficiency no matter which wood material you are working on. That is why it comes with a dual infeed speed control that will let you choose between 18 or 26fpm.
What sets this device apart from the rest of its counterparts is that it comes with a four-post design. The benefit of this design is that it will provide optimal support and control, considering your work table and piece.
Pros
- Easy blade changing process with smooth cuts
- Keeps the boards flat during work
- Provides ultimate speed and power
- Comes with a dual infeed speed control feature
- Provides optimal support and control
Cons
- Not suitable for professional woodworkers
- Light-duty machine
Verdict
This beginner-friendly helical planer will provide ease of usage, simple blade changing processes, and other features that will make woodworking easier for you.
JET JWP-15BHH, 15-Inch Helical Woodworking Planer (722155)
Are you searching for a helical planer that will provide excellent value for money? In that case, here is an excellent one that will be worth the investment. We will discuss its most prominent features and functions right here.
First of all, this machine will make woodworking much easier for you. It comes with a very convenient safety feature – a green safety light with a magnetic switch that will light up once you turn the device on.
Moreover, you will get the support and control you need with this machine. Thanks to its four-post design and ground machined cast iron table, and you will be able to execute all your projects will full confidence using this.
On the other hand, this planer will ensure a superior finish no matter what you are working on. The helical cutter-head includes 48 staggered carbide knives that will align themselves without you having to put any effort into it.
Not to mention, you will get optimal cut efficiency using this machine. Thanks to its dual infeed speed control that works for 16 or 20fpm, you won’t have to compromise regardless of which wood material you are working on.
The planer also makes sure you don’t have to face the hassle of cleaning up after working. It comes with a 4-inch dust port that can be attached to the dust management system and automatically keeps your workspace clean.
Pros
- Includes a green safety light for alertness
- Ensures maximum control and support when working
- Carbide knives align themselves for a superior finish
- Provides optimal cut efficiency
- Makes cleaning up hassle-free
Cons
- The off button does not work at times
- Gas strut does not come with it
Verdict
Here is a helical planer that will ensure efficiency and make the woodworking project much safer and cleaner for you.
Related Post: How to Set a Planer with Helical Carbide Tips
JET JWP-208HH, 20-Inch Planer, Helical Head
Current price of JET JWP-208HH, 20-Inch Planer, Helical Head
Are you easily irritated by constant noise pollution when woodworking? In that case, here is a helical planer for you that will keep the noise levels down. It surely comes with other unique features that you will find out right here.
There is no point in having a helical planer if it is not robust. And so, you should always go for ones with excellent motors – for instance, this one. It comes with a 5-HP TEFC induction motor that contains three V-belt transmissions.
At the same time, you won’t have to worry about whether your table adjustment has been done correctly or not. This machine comes with a large hand wheel and a positive gear drive for precise table adjustments.
On the other hand, the machine includes an automatic chain tensioner and a two-speed gearbox. The benefit of this is that you will be getting an ideal feed rate – so you can work with any wood materials you like.
The helical cutter-head included also comes with 92 carbide inserts. These inserts align together to provide efficient cuts and superior finishes at all times – so you won’t have to put too much effort into that.
Additionally, the planer surely needs sufficient strength to make all these happen, and it gets that from its steel and cast iron construction. So, you won’t have to worry about the item falling apart while you are woodworking.
Pros
- Powerful motor with three V-belt transmission
- Ensures precise table adjustments
- Automatic chain tensioner for ideal feed rate
- Includes 92 inserts for efficient cuts
- Durable and strong construction
Cons
- The machine has a horrible finish
- Motor goes out easily
Verdict
Here is a strong helical planer that will ensure efficient and superior cuts.
Wahuda Tools 13″ Spiral Cutterhead Planer
Current price of Wahuda Tools 13″ Spiral Cutterhead Planer
If you have more than one workplace, you will need a helical planer that can be moved easily. And what can be more portable than a 77-pound machine? This item comes with many wonderful features, which we will discuss here.
Whether you need to work with hardwood or softer materials, this planer will give you speed options to work well with both. With 26fpm or 18fpm options, you can easily select the most suitable one you happen to think is.
Not to mention, this machine is highly cost-effective and efficient as well. For that, it comes with 4-sided carbide inserts along with a spiral cutter-head. You can easily maintain the inserts or swap them out when needed.
On the other hand, the machine comes with a very powerful 15amp motor that will let you execute your projects without any hassle. The 8-position pre-set depth will also allow you to be creative with your projects.
Moreover, the machine’s table offers a length of 45 inches, and it can be easily adjusted. Hence, if you are working on longer boards, you will not face any trouble.
You can easily clean your workspace once you are done working on your project, thanks to the dust port adapter included. This feature will make the cleaning up much more hassle-free for you.
Pros
- Suitable for different types of wood materials
- Cost-Effective and efficient
- Powerful motor with 8-position pre-set depth
- A table can be adjusted easily
- Includes dust port adapter for easy clean-up
Cons
- The machine is not durable
- Does not include safety features
Verdict
You can easily adjust the table of this planer and work with different materials, which makes this machine rather versatile compared to its counterparts.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two speed, 13-Inch (DW735X)
Current price of DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two speed, 13-Inch (DW735X)
It can be challenging to find helical planers that are easy to use and provide excellent value for money. Luckily, there is one that includes both of these aspects along with a lot more – we will tell you all about it right here.
When it comes to accuracy, this machine makes no compromise. Thanks to its thickness scale and material removal gauge, you will be getting accurate cuts that you were only dreaming of so far!
On the other hand, this machine makes everything more convenient with its automatic carriage lock. This feature reduces the movement that will cause snipe without the user putting any effort into it.
The aluminum base of the machine is 19-3/4 inches, and it is a lot more rigid than standard bases. You can also change the feed speed using the two-speed gearbox included – hence, you can work with different materials at different lengths.
Not to mention, the three-knife cutter head prolongs the longevity of the knives. This feature also makes changing the knives much faster and easier. Therefore, even as a beginner, you won’t struggle much with it.
Excess chips and dust can easily make your workspace messy, and the fan-assisted chip ejection feature of the machine takes care of it. It vacuums the chips off of the machine – so you won’t have to do all the cleaning yourself.
Pros
- Ensures accurate cuts with material removal gauge
- Reduces snipe automatically
- Changeable speed and longer aluminum base
- Changing knives is faster and easier
- Makes the workspace less messy
Cons
- Not durable
- Contains plastic materials
Verdict
This helical planer comes with features and functions that will go beyond your expectations and make woodworking much faster and more efficient.
Related Post: What’s the Difference Between Helical and Spiral Cutters
Makita 2012NB 12″ Portable Planer
Current price of Makita 2012NB 12″ Portable Planer
Woodworking machines are usually loud, which can be annoying for both the woodworkers and the people close to them. Fortunately, this is not something you will have to be concerned about with this machine!
Thanks to its compact and lightweight body, you can effortlessly take this helical planer to your workplace. It only weighs about 28 kilograms – so you won’t need any extra help for transporting it either.
At the same time, the machine only produces noises as high as 83dB. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about excessive noises disrupting your workflow. Not to mention, you can also make fast and straightforward blade changes using this.
On the other hand, this portable planer ensures stability and support. The planer comes with a four-post design and a diagonal cross, which will let you have more control over your woodworking projects.
This machine will not discriminate no matter how large, or small your workpieces are. It comes with large table extensions, so your wood board will perfectly fit into it and let you have a convenient woodworking session.
Despite being compact and lightweight, this machine can work with various materials and provide the needed power. Therefore, you can use it for working on different types of wood without any hesitation whatsoever.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for portability
- Produces low noise levels for comfort
- Ensures stability and support while working
- Has large table extensions for different lengths of boards
- Works with different types of woods
Cons
- Not durable
- Can freeze up easily
Verdict
Here is a highly functional and compact helical planer that will produce low noise levels to make woodworking comfortable for its users. Moreover, it is quite versatile as well.
DEWALT Benchtop Planer, Single Speed, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch (DW734)
Current price of DEWALT Benchtop Planer, Single Speed, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch (DW734)
Are you in search of a helical planer that is durable and easy to use? In that case, you just got lucky! Here is one that contains both of these aspects and a lot more – which we will be discussing right here.
If most of your woodworking projects consist of hardwoods, you will fall in love with this machine. With a 15amp motor, this planer comes with a speed of 20,000 RPM – so you can easily slice open any hardwood.
Each of the cuts will have smooth finish, thanks to the three-knife cutter head. The cutter-head speed is 10,000 RPM, which provides about 96 cuts every inch. Hence, you will always get the finish that you want.
The knives included are reversible as well as disposable. Therefore, you can easily change the blades whenever you deem it necessary. At the same time, the longevity of the knives is also significantly increased because of this.
On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about snipes as long as you use this helical planer. It comes with a four-column carriage lock that reduces the movement that usually causes the machine to snipe.
But that’s not all. The planer contains other unique features that will make woodworking much better for you. For instance, you will be getting a turret depth stop and a material removal gauge for better cuts and easier adjustments.
Pros
- Includes a powerful motor with a high speed
- Cuts have a smooth finish
- Disposable knives with more longevity
- Restricts movement that causes snipe
- Better cuts and easier adjustments
Cons
- Height adjustment does not work
- The parts may not line up
Verdict
Here is a helical planer that offers more longevity – whether the blades or the planer itself.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-Inch
Current price of DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-Inch
Are you concerned about the storage of your helical planer once you buy it? Well, that is not something for you to worry about with this one. But it also comes with other outstanding features, which you will find out right here.
This planer provides ease of storage, but it makes moving the machine around much easier as well. As a result, you can take this planner to various job sites without any struggle.
Despite being convenient to store and carry, the machine is solid and durable. It is built to handle heavy loads. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about, no matter which type of wood you are working on.
On the other hand, the machine contains a very powerful 15 amp motor. The motor provides a speed of 20,000 RPM, while the cutter-head moves at 10,000 RPM. Hence, it can produce more significant cuts without any hassle.
The machine comes with a three-knife cutter head to make sure you can change the blades quickly and easily. This aspect of the planer also makes sure the knives have a 30% longer life than their counterparts – so you can use them for longer.
What makes this planer even better is that it is very versatile. For instance, it contains a two-speed gearbox that will let you change the feed whenever necessary. So you can experiment with different materials.
Pros
- Easy to store and move
- Strong under heavy loads
- Powerful motor and high speed
- Long-Lasting blades
- Versatile and convenient
Cons
- Does not include table extensions
- No safety features
Verdict
This is a versatile and powerful helical planner that you can take to multiple job sites.
WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
Current price of WEN PL1252 15-Amp 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
It can be difficult to find a helical planer that won’t rip your bank account, but luckily there is a great machine that provides excellent value for money. And it contains everything that you need – find out about it right here.
One of the best aspects of this helical planer is taking it anywhere you like. Even if you have more than one job site, there isn’t much trouble for you to face. Moreover, its compact body will not take up much space either.
However, with a 12.5-inch wide board, you will be able to work on various wood pieces. Whether your project requires large wood pieces or small ones, this planer will never discriminate.
Despite being compact and portable, the machine is potent. It comes with a 15-amp motor that provides a speed of 20,000 RPM. Not to mention, it contains a feed rate of 26fpm for maximum efficiency and smooth finishes.
What makes it even better is that it contains two 12.5-inch blades that are reversible. This aspect will let you switch them if any of the sides become dull, and it will significantly increase their lifespan.
Moreover, you can get very creative with this item, and it will let your projects be versatile as well. For instance, you can adjust the depth up to 1/8-inch without hassle – just with a pass.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for portability
- Different sizes of pieces can be worked with
- Powerful motor with high speed
- Reversible blades with long lifespans
- Depth can be adjusted
Cons
- Does not last
- Difficult to clean
Verdict
Here is a lightweight helical planer that can be stored anywhere and is versatile for a broader range of projects.
Things to Consider Before Buying
To make sure you execute your woodworking projects correctly, you need to have the best equipment. And hence, it is essential to get a proper helical planner for your projects.
You need to know all the necessary features and factors to get a suitable helical planer. However, there is nothing to be concerned about because we will be providing all the information you need right here.
We have compiled all the key aspects that you need to look out for, and if you follow these properly, you will surely be satisfied with your purchase.
- Motor Power
Most helical planers come with a motor with 15amp power, which is quite the ideal amount. If you see any planer with lower motor power, it’s best not to go for it – unless your projects are light-duty. At the same time, investing in a more powerful motor may not necessarily be worth it.
- Speed and Infeed Rate
The higher the motor power, the more speed the planer will be able to generate. But alongside the speed, you should also consider the infeed rate. In general, an infeed rate of 18-26 would be ideal for projects containing different types of wood.
- Construction of the Planer
A helical planer needs to be strong to handle robust power and speed. That is why you should take a look at its construction as well. Make sure it is made using durable materials and is perfectly aligned. Also, try to avoid planers that contain plastic parts.
- Safety Features
Now, many helical planers do not come with safety features because it is expected of the user to be careful enough. However, a minor slip can result in deadly injuries when it comes to woodworking equipment, and hence, it is best to go for those that come with safety features.
- Portability
You don’t need to go for this feature if you have one workplace or if you don’t feel the need to move your woodworking equipment around too much. But if you have different job sites, you should choose a compact and lightweight planer that can be transported and stored easily.
- Table Extensions
It is only normal for you to go for wood pieces of different lengths. And in that case, it is pretty vital to have table extensions. If you end up working on a wood piece that is too long, your planner may not be able to accommodate it. So, always make sure the machine comes with table extensions.
- Dust Port
Woodworking produces a lot of dust and chips – cleaning all that by yourself can be more hassle-some than expected. If you want to avoid such hassle, it is best to go for machines with dust ports or a dust port adapter. Do not overlook this feature because it can make things easier for you.
- Blade Changing Process
The blade-changing process often calls for a lot of struggles, even for professionals. Therefore, you should choose a helical planer with an easy blade-changing process. Also, ensure it comes with instructions regarding the procedure to execute it flawlessly.
- Noise Produced
Noise pollution is one of the biggest enemies of woodworkers, and if you want to avoid it at all costs, you should get a planer that produces low noise levels. Most branded helical planers are made to produce little to no noise, and it will surely be worth the investment as well.
FAQs
Is the helical cutter head better than the spiral one?
Professional woodworkers prefer helical cutter heads because they are better for woodworking. However, spiral cutter heads also offer many advantages that you could consider – it mainly depends on your preferences.
What advantage do helical blades provide?
The most prominent advantage of helical blades is that they help reduce stresses on the cutting edge. They do so by gradually disengaging the workpiece.
Which wood materials would be suitable for helical planers?
Helical planers are most versatile because they can work with various wood materials. Hence, chances are you can work on any wood material without any hassle.
Are helical planers portable?
Not all helical planers are portable; however, some are built for top-notch portability. If you have multiple workplaces, then you should go for portable helical planers – in that case, choose a compact and lightweight one.
Can I change the speed of my helical planer?
Some helical planers include dual infeed rates, through which you can choose different speeds for working on different materials. However, not all helical planers will have this characteristic, so you should focus on it while purchasing the planer.
Final Words
The trickiest part of getting woodworking right has the right equipment – and we hope this article has helped you get the one that will be ideal for your projects.
If you are confused, go through our buying guide first and then select the best helical planer from our reviews – that way, you will know what you need.
