Best Jointer in 2023: Unbiased Review & Buying Guide

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Generally, a benchtop jointer isn’t the first power tool required for woodworking projects, and hobbyists and DIYers might not need one. You probably turn to a portable table saw and sliding miter saw first.

However, don’t underestimate the power of wood jointers. They’re just as important to the woodworker as any other power tools. If you tend to work on rough-hewn stocks, it’s almost impossible to get uniform and smooth workpieces without one.

When it comes time to find the best benchtop jointer, you need to do plenty of research. This review has everything you need to know about the top benchtop jointers on the market. Plus, there’s a helpful buyer’s guide and FAQ section, so you’re sure to get all the information you need.

9.5
Porter-Cable PC160JT 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Porter-Cable PC160JT 6-inch Benchtop Jointer Best Overall

mall stocks and want a fully portable machine might prefer the 6-inch jointer from Porter-Cable.
9
Jet JJP-8BT 8-inch Jointer-Planer Combination

Jet JJP-8BT 8-inch Jointer/Planer Combination Best in list

When you choose the Jet 8-inch jointer/planer, you can have the budget for one tool and get them both.
9
Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer

Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer Best Choice

You can cut many workpieces here without worrying about excessive vibrations or sway.
8.5
Delta 37-071 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Delta 37-071 6-inch Benchtop Jointer Best features

The body features a cast-iron construction to reduce vibrations.
8.5
Wahuda Tools 50160CC-WHD Bench Top Jointer

Wahuda Tools 50160CC-WHD Bench Top Jointer Values for money

It can handle the thickest wood pieces without damaging the wood’s surface!
8
Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer

Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer Best Compact

The housing features heavy-duty steel, so it resists vibration.

Top 7 Jointer Options

Craftsman CMEW020 Benchtop Jointer

Best Performance
This jointer has a solid construction and stable base. It handles the weight of heavy woodblocks.
9.5Expert Score
Easy replacement and knife adjustments

There is also a two-knife cutter head that gets through tough hardwood. Since it has a cutter head lock, you can put it in the right setting.

Hard and soft surfaces
9.5
Accurate cutting
9
Pros
  • Lightweight and compact benchtop jointer
  • Feels and looks solid, with a stable base
  • Easy to assemble
  • Handles tough hardwoods, even with its compact side
  • Most budget-friendly of the benchtop jointers
Cons
  • Features two knife cutter heads instead of the helical cutter heads
  • Infeed/outfeed table and fence made of aluminum which could warp
Craftsman CMEW020 Benchtop Jointer

If you want a full-sized stationary jointer but don’t have the budget, you may wonder what to do. With that, you could be a weekend warrior, so to speak, so you’re not sure if you need this machine often or if it might just sit around in the garage, collecting dust. Those who want a budget-friendly and powerful machine that delivers should consider the Craftsman benchtop jointer.

This jointer has a solid construction and stable base. It handles the weight of heavy woodblocks. With that, it’s lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to carry it from the garage to the job site.

You’re sure to appreciate the variable speed, making it the best jointer out there. With the variable speed option, you can have a variable speed range from 6,000 to 11,000 RPM!

There is also a two-knife cutter head that gets through tough hardwood. Since it has a cutter head lock, you can put it in the right setting. Other power jointers don’t feature this! Plus, there’s a jackscrew knife leveling arrangement, so you can easily replace or adjust the knives as necessary

Though the infeed/outfeed tables and fences are strong and solid, they are made of aluminum. Therefore, you should be careful.

Porter-Cable PC160JT 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Best Overall
The infeed and outfeed tables and the fence are made of aluminum. Though it does resist corrosion quite well, this material could warp in the long term. Therefore, you should think about that before buying the jointer.
9.5Expert Score
Two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement

It does feature a 6-inch width of cut, making it easier to work on large stocks comfortably.

Ample work support
9.5
Easy adjustment
9
Pros
  • Highly affordable benchtop joiner
  • Lightweight and compact (perfect for professionals and hobbyists)
  • Easy to assemble
  • Conveniently located dust exhaust port on the side of the machine
  • Reliable performance
  • Offers smooth cuts
Cons
  • Features two knife cutter heads instead of helical inserts
  • Infeed/outfeed table and fence made of aluminum which could warp
Porter-Cable PC160JT 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Those who primarily work with small stocks and want a fully portable machine might prefer the 6-inch jointer from Porter-Cable. This benchtop jointer has two very sharp knife cutter heads that plane through tough workpieces easily. You also get reliable performance, and it’s easy to use.

The infeed and outfeed tables and the fence are made of aluminum. Though it does resist corrosion quite well, this material could warp in the long term. Therefore, you should think about that before buying the jointer.

However, it does feature a 6-inch width of cut, making it easier to work on large stocks comfortably. On top of that, this jointer has a variable speed range going from 6,000 to 11,000 RPM. It’s quite affordable and could make a good investment for hobbyists.

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Jet JJP-8BT 8-inch Jointer/Planer Combination

Best in list
This machine has a heavy-duty steel housing with sheet metal for the infeed and outfeed tables. The upper portion comes with a jointer and two cutter heads. Then, the bottom section is a planer. You can switch your dust collection system at the top to have a fully-functioning planer.
9Expert Score
Combination benchtop jointer and planer

The bottom section is a planer. You can switch your dust collection system at the top to have a fully-functioning planer.

PORTABLE
9.5
POWERFUL
9
Pros
  • Power jointer and planer in one
  • Fairly inexpensive
  • Wider cut width than other jointers
  • Features a 13-amp motor
  • Uses two steel knife cutter heads to handle tough hardwoods
Cons
  • Extruded aluminum used for the fence
  • Oddly positioned dust extractor
  • hose gets in the way of the outfeed
Jet JJP-8BT 8-inch Jointer-Planer Combination

Some people might like the two-in-one power tool from Jet. With a planer and jointer, you can complete your collection of tools in the workshop. Plus, it doesn’t cost much to get both options.

When you choose the Jet 8-inch jointer/planer, you can have the budget for one tool and get them both.

This machine has a heavy-duty steel housing with sheet metal for the infeed and outfeed tables. The upper portion comes with a jointer and two cutter heads. Then, the bottom section is a planer. You can switch your dust collection system at the top to have a fully-functioning planer.

You’re sure to appreciate the cast iron construction. Even with cast iron, it’s portable and compact, weighing just 67 pounds. However, it does come with an aluminum fence, so it could dent or warp in the long term.

Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer

Best Choice
This benchtop jointer features two cutter heads and cast iron for the infeed and outfeed tables. Still, the aluminum fence is quite underwhelming. While it is an adjustable fence, it could warp or get damaged.
9Expert Score
Built-in mini impeller-driven dust collection fan and collection bag

The tables feel and look solid on this 6-inch jointer.

Cutter head speed
9.5
Fully adjustable aluminum fence
9
Pros
  • Durable high-speed steel used for the cutter heads
  • Conveniently located on/off switch for easy reach
  • Infeed/outfeed tables made of precision-ground cast-iron
  • Two safety push locks
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • Could have issues with alignment and fence stability
Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer

The Shop Fox brand is different from most benchtop jointers reviewed today. Though other benchtop jointers are suitable for hobbyists because of their light builds, this one features a solid-steel cast-iron construction. Therefore, it’s a bit more stable and heavier than others. You can cut many workpieces here without worrying about excessive vibrations or sway.

This benchtop jointer features two cutter heads and cast iron for the infeed and outfeed tables. In fact, the tables feel and look solid on this 6-inch jointer. Still, the aluminum fence is quite underwhelming. While it is an adjustable fence, it could warp or get damaged.

Still, you’ve got more control over the cutting depth, and this machine features a cutter head speed of 10,000 RPM or 20,000 cuts per minute. Plus, it’s reasonably priced, so it works well for professionals and DIYers.

Delta 37-071 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Best features
The model is stable under heavy loads. With the Delta brand, you don’t have to worry about it. The body features a cast-iron construction to reduce vibrations.
8.5Expert Score
Durable cast iron construction

These benchtop models from Delta have a 12-amp motor and an aluminum cutting head that gets through the toughest hardwoods.

Heavy duty
9.5
Precision-machining
9
Pros
  • Very stable with cast iron construction
  • Conveniently located on/off switch for easy reach
  • Cast-iron fence
  • Easy to assemble out of the box
Cons
  • More expensive than others
  • Hard to carry
  • Fence support brackets stick out
  • Poor customer service from the Delta brand
Delta 37-071 6-inch Benchtop Jointer

Overall, most benchtop jointers are made using aluminum and steel. That construction ensures that these benchtop models are portable and lightweight. However, that could compromise stability.

With the Delta brand, you don’t have to worry about it. The body features a cast-iron construction to reduce vibrations. Therefore, the model is stable under heavy loads. However, there’s also a cast-iron fence support system, with the infeed and outfeed tables being made of the same material. Therefore, there’s less risk of warping or groove development.

You’re sure to find that these benchtop models from Delta have a 12-amp motor and an aluminum cutting head that gets through the toughest hardwoods. Pair that with a cutting depth of 1/8-inch, and you can get quieter cutting and almost everything else you need when working with rough lumber.

The best jointers have push blocks and a built-in dust blower. This one is no exception!

Wahuda Tools 50160CC-WHD Bench Top Jointer

Values for money
The steel housing, and the infeed/outfeed tables are made using cast iron. Plus, the square carbide inserts are sharp. Couple those things with the 10-amp motor, and it can handle the thickest wood pieces without damaging the wood’s surface!
8.5Expert Score
Create perfectly flat surfaces and edges quickly

Because of the cast-iron construction, there’s no need to worry about warping or grooves.

Cutting-Edge
9.5
Solid Buil
9
Pros
  • Spiral or helical cutter head with carbide inserts
  • Fence tilt of up to 135 degrees
  • Outfeed/infeed tables made of cast iron
  • Durable and solid steel base to reduce vibration
  • Doesn't make a lot of noise compared to other woodworking jointers
Cons
  • Extruded aluminum fence
  • More expensive than others
  • Takes time to adjust and fine-tune the tables
Wahuda Tools 50160CC-WHD Bench Top Jointer

Though the Wahuda Tools brand isn’t as well-known as others, this benchtop jointer features everything you could want from a machine. It’s different because it features a helical or spiral cutter head. Plus, the square carbide inserts are sharp. Couple those things with the 10-amp motor, and it can handle the thickest wood pieces without damaging the wood’s surface!

You’re sure to appreciate the steel housing, and the infeed/outfeed tables are made using cast iron. Because of the cast-iron construction, there’s no need to worry about warping or grooves.

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For the most part, the fence is reliable and square. However, it’s not made with cast iron; instead, it uses extruded aluminum.

Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer

Best Compact
It offers a stable base for the powerful motor. Overall, you’re sure to appreciate the two cutting-head options. They are knife-style, but you don’t get a helical cutterhead.
8Expert Score
Built-In Dust Collection

Since both the infeed and outfeed table uses this material, it could be one of the best jointers out there. Plus, the fence is made of extruded aluminum.

Cast iron table
9.5
Maximum depth
9
Pros
  • Cast iron table
  • Fence tilt of 135 degrees
  • Solid and stable base
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Challenging to adjust the cutting head because screws are overly tight
Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer

When you want durability and performance, the Grizzly Industrial benchtop jointer holds its own. Though it might look like something your grandfather owned, it could be one of the best jointers out there. The housing features heavy-duty steel, so it resists vibration. With that, it offers a stable base for the powerful motor.

You also get a cast iron table, so it’s warp-resistant. Since both the infeed and outfeed table uses this material, it could be one of the best jointers out there. Plus, the fence is made of extruded aluminum.

Overall, you’re sure to appreciate the two cutting-head options. They are knife-style, but you don’t get a helical cutterhead. With that, they are sharp and can handle tough stocks. There’s also a great dust collection system available to ensure that the workshop stays clean.

The Basics for Benchtop Jointers

Overall, benchtop jointers are machines that plane the board’s face. If you have a twisted, bowed, or cupped board that you want to cut to width on the table saw, you should run it through a jointer first. That way, it’s got a smoother and straighter face. Benchtop jointers can also be used to straighten the edges of workpieces so that you can glue them together.

Jointers are quite versatile. They’re used to remove marks and flaws made by your table saw. With that, you can cut rabbets and chamfers or taper a workpiece. However, solid wood is all you can cut with a jointer. Plywood, particleboard, and other materials can’t be cut here.

You can find two types of jointers (benchtop and stationary). A stationary one works well if you plan to cut in the workshop. However, if you must take it to a job site or have a small workshop, a benchtop version works well.

They have universal motors, so they could be a bit louder than stationary versions. With that, benchtop jointers have shorter infeed and outfeed tables but are still the best choice for woodworkers on a budget.

Buyer’s Guide for a Benchtop Jointer

Before buying power jointers, it’s important to consider these factors:

Infeed Table, Outfeed Table, and Width of Cut

When you’re focused on the best jointer, you must consider the length of its infeed table and outfeed table. The width of cut is also crucial.

Overall, the infeed table is found on the right side. This is where you put the workpiece into your jointer’s cutter head. Then, the material passes to the outfeed table once it goes through the cutting head.

In contrast to the stationary models, benchtop jointers often have shorter tables because they are smaller. If you cut shortboards, the length of the tables isn’t a big deal.

The same applies to the width of the cut. The cutting depth determines how wide the wood pieces can be. Benchtop models often have a cut width ranging from 4 to 6 inches. However, more powerful ones might go up to 16 inches.

Cutter Head Speed

There are three styles of cutter heads, and you should understand the pros and cons of each.

The spiral or helical cutterhead is the first one. With this type, there are rows of square carbide inserts arranged into a helical or spiral pattern on the steelhead. With that, the spiral cutterhead produces better cuts with grain stock. Though they’re more expensive at first, they can be cost-effective in the long run because they don’t need to be replaced as often.

Most people go with a helical cutter head. However, you might prefer one with straight blades. If you cut normal stocks and need smooth cuts, helical cutter heads might not be ideal. In fact, straight-knife heads are much cheaper than a helical blade, but they lose their sharpness quicker than the carbide inserts. With that, you might find it hard to align and install new straight knives if you’re not experienced. That doesn’t mean you can’t learn, but it could lead to more exertion and stress while you try to work things out.

Jointer Fence

One other important aspect of the best benchtop jointers is their fence. This is what guides the stock so that it can go through the cutter head and make straight cuts. Overall, you need a flat surface and want accurate cutting with a smoother finish.

This means that the fence must tilt at the right angle to make chamfer and bevel cuts. You may also need it to taper your wood.

Generally, it is best to use a higher fence on your jointer. It must be perfectly straight and flat across its width. Before buying something, make sure to check the fence using a steel square. If you purchase it online, make sure that the company offers a money-back guarantee. That way, you can return it if it’s not perfectly straight.

Dust Collection

Dust collection for a jointer is crucial. Overall, it depends on the location of your workshop. If your area is small, you may need something with its own system. That reduces the effort you must put in to clean the space. Plus, it keeps things cleaner while you work.

However, most models don’t have a self-cleaning option. If you don’t mind cleaning up a bit after you work, this might be a better choice. However, you should be aware that dust collection systems are known to boost the lifespan of the jointer.

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Motor

Most jointer models have a one-horsepower motor. This is seen as standard and can handle most wood types. However, based on the stock you use and your experience, you might want something with more power.

With that, hardwoods tend to require a powerful motor, though softwoods don’t. It’s crucial to understand that a higher horsepower means that the machine uses more electricity.

FAQs

Many times, people still have questions, even after reading everything in the review. This is normal, and the frequently asked questions section is here to ensure that you get all the answers you need. You may not know how to use the jointer or wonder what the difference is between this tool and a planer. Regardless, here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions:

How Can You Sharpen the Jointer Blades?

Whether you have three knives or one, you should make sure that they are sharp and ready for action, especially when working with longer boards. Though you can send them out to a professional for sharpening, that can get expensive when you have multiple blades. With that, your machine is out of commission for weeks until the blades get back.

You can sharpen your blades yourself with a jig that allows you to hold your cutter head in place. Therefore, you can sharpen the blades without having to install them. It’s possible to buy a jig, but you can make one with a small hardwood block that fits between the gap of the table and the cutter with a dowel blocking the blade so that the cutter can’t turn.

Once you buy or create a blade jig for the jointer, it’s possible to sharpen the blades. This cuts down on knife replacement prices, though you may have more knife adjustments to consider.

To sharpen your own blades, follow these steps:

  • Cover your outfeed table’s edges with some thick tape so that they don’t get damaged during the process.
  • When you’ve locked your blade in place with your jig, move the cutting head to the right depth for sharpening. You may put a scrap wood piece on the table length, lowering the outfeed table until that blade makes contact with the wood.
  • Use a 600-grit diamond sharpening stone here. Start sharpening the blade by putting the stone on it and drawing back in the direction of your outfeed.
  • Continue doing that until you’ve created a small bevel along the length of your blade. You can use a magnifying glass to examine it up close.
  • Then, switch to a 1,200-grit stone to repeat the process.
  • When the blade is sharpened, remove your jib, rotate it to the next blade, put the jig back in, and repeat that process until each blade is sharpened.
  • How Does Someone Use a Jointer?

    To use a jointer correctly, follow these directions:

  • Start by using your shop square to ensure that the joint between the guide fence and outfeed area is at 90 degrees. The point of this machine is to get a perfectly square edge. If that joint isn’t at 90 degrees, this isn’t possible.
  • Adjust the depth dial to the right setting.
  • Position your wood stock on the infeed table and ensure that the crown side is up. Turn on your jointer. Make sure that the face is cut first and then the edges. You may adjust the variable speed setting as needed. Some jointers come with five different speed settings, so go at your own pace.
  • Keep the wood stock firmly on the fence, and push your lumber through with the push pads.
  • Now, cut the other face and then the edges.
  • If you do it correctly, you get a square lumber piece with four smooth sides. Remember, the goal is to get a smoother finish
  • What’s the Difference Between a Jointer and a Planer?

    A planer and jointer are both used to remove wood from the sides of your wood piece. However, the jointer takes uneven or bowed lumber and makes it square and straight. The planer removes large amounts of wood to bring a thick board down to the right thickness.

    Conclusion

    Now that you know a bit more about what a jointer does and why you need one, it’s time to determine the winner. Which power tool is the best? Though there are differences in opinion, the Craftsman benchtop jointer might be the jointer on the market. Though it’s not perfect for every woodworker in the world, it does have many benefits.

    How does this tool stand apart from the crowd?

    When you’re cutting a tough workpiece, it’s not a problem with this machine. It can get through hard and softwoods easily because of the 10-amp motor. It also features a durable and sharp two-knife cutter head. This compact jointer features a variable speed setting to offer you more control when working on different pieces.

    Dust collection is also fairly easy! However, it doesn’t feature dust collection systems, so you must hook it up to your Shop-Vac to make it work correctly.

    The fence, as well as the outfeed and infeed tables, are made using aluminum. This is quite durable and handles heavy materials easily. Just make sure to take care so that you don’t dent it or overload it. Otherwise, it might warp.

    When you get the tool, you can set it up effortlessly. Plus, the push blocks make it easier and safer to work with. Those who have a small workshop might prefer this jointer compared to others. It is also great for portability and weighs 40 pounds. Take it on the job site and never have a problem!

    Why trust Handyman.Guide?

    s written by Itamar Ben-Dor, who has 25 years of experience in renovations, carpentry, locks, creation, landscaping, painting, furniture construction, and furniture renovation, works with concrete, plumbing, door repair, and more.

    Itamar Ben-Dor has been in the home improvement business for over 25 years. Itamar Ben-Dor is a jack of all trades. He's worked in the renovation field for years, doing everything from locksmithing to carpentry. He's a small repairs specialist. But his true passion lies in furniture construction and renovation - he loves seeing old pieces come back to life with some new woodwork or a fresh coat of paint.

    He has taken courses on many topics in these fields at professional colleges in Israel. Over the years, Itamar has also become quite skilled in gardening, carpentry, and renovations. He's worked on projects of all sizes, from massive renovations to small repairs. No job is too big or too small for him!


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    Itamar Ben Dor
    Itamar Ben Dor

    My father is a practical engineer, and as a hobby he was also involved in construction, renovations, carpentry and woodwork at home; So there was always tools, saws, drills and more at home. Already I was a little kid Dad and I would renovate the house. Once we built a shed for garden tools, once we did flooring for the garden, once we renovated the bathroom and that’s the way it is. Long before there was an internet, directories and plans. We would build things, kitchen cabinets, install electrical appliances, do flooring, pour concrete and more ... I in this blog want to pass on to you the experience I have gained over the last 20 plus-minus years since I was a child to this day and give you information about the best tools, project plans, guides and more.

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