10 Best Benchtop Jointer- Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Every woodworking enthusiast understands how important it is to have the best benchtop jointer. A jointer helps with virtually all woodworking projects that involve flattening the surface of the wood. With this tool, you get a smooth surface with no warps and with a twist-free texture. 

As a woodworker or DIYer, your finished product must not look irregular simply because you could not straighten and smoothen it at the initial stages; that’s why you should get yourself a benchtop jointer.

Many features separate these jointers, and so, most people, especially the beginners, find it hard to settle for the right product, thereby spending a lot of money on products. To bring a stop to this, I’ve reviewed some of the very top jointers that will deliver to perfection when needed.

Furthermore, I’ve included a buyer’s guide with comprehensive discussions of some of the critical aspects of these tools that you should consider while making your purchases. Read on for more information regarding the benchtop jointers.

List of the Best Benchtop Jointers…

1. PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, (PC160JT)

PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) has a variable 6,000 to 11,000 RPM speed range making it the best benchtop jointer. This speed range enables you to choose your speed. The speed that you select depends on the size and hardness of your object of interest. This feature gives you a significant advantage because different projects will require you to adjust the Jointer’s speed. For example, You can opt for the slower motion for pliable woods and faster movement for harder woods. The Jointer also has a 10 AMP motor, which gives it high power.

The benchtop jointer has a pair of adjustable and comfortable to change steel knives. Your project is worked on properly because of the fence that you can adjust as you please. The Jointer also comes with a cutter lock that ensures the safety of the machine so that you are confident about it.

Sometimes, you may be working with long and thick boards. This Jointer is the right choice because its table is 30 inches, which gives you lots of room.

The Jointer has a 4-inch dust port that allows you to work in a clean station. It has a tremendous mounting method that enables you to get accurate edge jointing. The Jointer’s fence has positive stops at 45 and 90 degrees making your operations secure.

The Summary of Top Features

• Large table that creates a conducive environment for working on long and thick boards.
• A varying 6,000 to 11,000 RPM speed range providing you with an option to choose the most suitable speed for your project.
• Two knife cutter head with jackscrew knife leveling arrangement that allows quick replacement and adjustment of the knives.
• It has a built-in cutter headlock that gives room for knife adjustment and replacement.
• The excellent mounting method provides sufficient support for your materials throughout the cut to get accurate edge jointing.

Pros

• Variable speed functionality.
• Easy to set up.
• Variable speed functionality.
• Great mounting method
• Quick replacement and adjustment of knives.
• Built-in cutter headlock.

Cons

• It has a flimsy fence

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2. POWERMATIC 1791279DXK 54A Deluxe 6-INCH JOINTER WITH QUICK-SET KNIVES

Powermatic 1791279DXK 54A Deluxe 6-Inch Jointer with Quick-Set Knives offers you an opportunity to replace the knives. This feature makes the jointer a good one, as you can use it for an extended period. Whenever the blades wear out, you can comfortably replace them.

The jointer uses a 1-horsepower 1-ph motor making it powerful to suit your projects. Its heavy steel stand provides stability, and the cast iron center-mount fence guides the material through the jointer’s blade. This fence has positive stops at 90 and 45 degrees giving so much flexibility because you can adjust it as you please.

The Summary of Top Features

• Cast iron table that is durable and you will use it for a long time
• It is quick and easy to assemble, thus saves time.
• Includes two positive stops at precisely 45 and 90-degree intervals making it flexible and convenient.
• Ready set knives offer you a fast, accurate, and easy replacement; thus, you can use the jointer for a long time.
• Heavy steel stand that makes the jointer stable as you use it.
• Powered by a 1-horsepower 1-ph motor, which makes it a powerful jointer.

Pros

• Cast iron table.
• Easy assembly.
• Two positive stops at precisely 45 and 90-degree intervals.

Cons

• The fence is not entirely flat, which may be an issue.

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3. Delta 37-071 Benchtop Jointer

Delta 37-071 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer has a durable, cast iron construction that increases its weight so that it is stable and allows you to work with minimum vibrations. The precision machining of the table provides long term accuracy.

For flexibility and convenience, the jointer has a simple fence adjust system with adjustable positive stops at 90 and 45 degrees. This feature allows you to make adjustments as you please so that you can have great results.

For quick and precise cuts, the jointer allows up to 1/8″ depth of cut and 20,000 cuts per minute.

 The Summary of Top Features

• The simple fence adjusts the system with adjustable positive stops at 90 and 45 degrees for flexibility and convenience.
• Heavy-duty, a cast-iron fence support system that allows accurate jointing.
• Precision machining of the table and fence is suitable for long term accuracy.
• Up to 1/8″ depth of cut and 20, 000 cuts per minute for quick and precise cuts.
• The durable cast iron construction increases the weight of the jointer, providing stability and reducing vibrations.

Pros

• Great for Hardwood.
• Solid, sturdy base.
• Fairly accurate operation on the table and fence.
• Quick and precise cuts.
• A simple wall adjusts the system.

Cons

• Must be connected to a shop vac for effective chip removal.
• No cut depth gauge.

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4. WEN 6560 Benchtop Jointer With Filter Bag

WEN 6560 Benchtop Jointer with Filter Bag gives you the advantage of working in a clean space. It has a filter bag and a dust collection port that allows you to clean up, making it arguably the best benchtop jointer in the market quickly. It has a spacious 6-1/4 x 28-1/2 inch table that is accommodative of more significant projects.

As you are working, you want to work on a benchtop that allows you to work free of unnecessary movements and excessive vibrations. The WEN 6560 10-Amp 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer with Filter Bag is a good pick. It has a base made of cast iron that makes it durable and stable.

Flexibility is assured when you get this benchtop jointer. It has an adjustable fence that moves up to 45 degrees in either direction. 

With this jointer, you will get straight and precise cuts. The jointer has a 10 Amp that runs a 2-knife cutting blade at 10,000 RPM and a 1/8″ maximum cut depth.

The Summary of Top Features

• It has a substantial 10 AMP motor that will run at 20,000 cuts per minute.
• A sturdy base is made from cast iron to prevent unnecessary movement and excess vibration.
• It has an adjustable fence that moves 45 degrees in either direction.
• It has a dust port and filter bag that encourages you to keep a clean work station.
• It has an extensive and spacious table that accommodates any size of your wood.

Pros

• Cuts straight and with precision.
• Secure fence, which is straight throughout your work time.
• Sharp blades.
• Adjustable fence.
• It has a dust port and a filter bag.
• Full and spacious table.
• Strong base made of cast iron.

Cons

• The adjustment of the fence can take some time and effort.
• The instructions to set up and use are not very clear.

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5. CUTECH 40180H-CT Benchtop Spiral Cutterhead Jointer

The Cutech Bench Top Spiral Cutterhead Jointer is an improved version of the Cutech 40160H 6″ model. It is 49 lbs and has a powerful 10 Amp 120V motor, making it a robust machine that you will enjoy using for your projects.

You can move around with it if you have different workshops as it is lightweight. If you have a smaller studio, the benchtop jointer works best for you. It has this compact size and thus easy to store.

You want an excellent finish and a reduced chip evacuation whenever you are working. The Cutech 40180H-CT 8″ Bench Top Spiral Cutterhead Jointer has 16 HSS inserts that make this possible.

This tool is flexible. It accommodates your various projects by giving you room to adjust the level and tension. It also has a fence that you can tilt; however, you want between 90 to 135 degrees.

The Summary of Top Features

• It has 16 HSS inserts that provide an excellent finish and reduced chip evacuation.
• It is easy to transport to your workplaces.
• The level and the tension are adjustable to accommodate your diverse projects.
• It has a powerful 10 Amp 120V motor that makes it robust and appropriate for seemingly harsh projects.
• It has a design so you can comfortably store it, even if you have a smaller workshop.

Pros

• Straightforward and quick set up time.
• It offers excellent stability.
• Powerful 10 Amp 120V motor.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Adjustable level and tension.
• Reduced chip evacuation.

Cons

• You need to tune the fence to the appropriate degree before use.

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6. Grizzly Industrial G0725, Benchtop Jointer 

Grizzly Industrial G0725 Benchtop Jointer has a cutter head that caps the speed at 10,000 RPM. This kind of range is very suitable for handling all sorts of materials. With such a high speed, the jointer is very stable. It has a weight of 80 pounds that enhances its stability. The physical weight of the jointer also helps in reducing movements and vibrations. The balance of the jointer is also contributed to by its iron cast table.

It would be best if you had a jointer that allows you to clean up easily. The Grizzly Industrial G0725-6″ x 28″ Benchtop Jointer gives you this provision. It has an in-built dust collection system.

The Summary of Top Features

• Built-in dust collection system that helps you maintain a clean working station.
• Its cutter head speed caps at 10,000 RPM, making it appropriate for handling all kinds of materials.
• It has a weight of 80 pounds that keeps it stable with minimum vibrations during work.
• The motor operates at 1-1/2 HP, 110V, single-phase, making it suitable for big jobs.
• 20,000-CPM speed capabilities, which gives it adequate power.
• Cast iron table that keeps the joint stable.

Pros

• 10,000 RPM and 20,000 CPM speed
• Cast iron table.
• Stable.
• Low vibration.
• 2 Cutterhead knives.
• Heavy-duty built.

Cons

• The fence does not tighten enough to stay put
• The table isn’t flat.

7. Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer 

Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer, 6-Inch has a motor that uses 1-1/2 horsepower, 110V, is 12 Amps, and is single-phase. It has a cutter head whose speed goes up to 10,000 RPM providing 20,000 cuts per minute.

The jointer has a two knife HSS cutter head that gives you clean cuts and a fully adjustable aluminum fence with stops. With this feature, you will do an excellent job on your projects because flexibility and precise cuts are big deals.

You will not be worried about keeping your workspace neat and tidy because the jointer has a 2-1/2-inch dust port to keep the work area clear of dust. Other features that help keep the workspace clean include the built-in mini impeller-driven dust collection fan and collection bag.

The Summary of Top Features

• Very solid as you use it and will not move even if you do not bolt it down.
• It has an automatic dust port that is good in handling waste and does not get clogged up.
• Two knife HSS cutter head that provides clean cuts.
• Fully adjustable aluminum fence for flexibility.
• A motor that uses 1-1/2 horsepower, 110V, is 12 Amps and is single-phase, making it durable and robust.

Pros

• Very solid when you use it.
• Provides clean cuts
• Expedient dust control system.
• Powerful motor. 
• Heavy-duty construction.

Cons

• The tables are not flat.
• The fence is sometimes tough to get square.

8. JET JJP-8BT 8″ JOINTER/PLANER COMBO

Jet JJP-8BT 8″ Jointer/Planer Combo is a combination of a benchtop jointer and planer that provides you with a 2 in 1 machine. This feature is great because you can maximize your workspace. It has ergonomic knobs that you use to gain maximum control of the jointer as you are using it. The jointer also has this compact benchtop design that makes it very suitable for your small shop.

As a woodworker, you work on materials of different pieces. The Jet JJP-8BT 8″ jointer has a sheet metal outfeed table with height adjustments to work on slightly more extended pieces efficiently.

Precision is a priority for you. This jointer comes with two hi9gbh speed steel knives and a precision-machined tabletop that gives smooth and straight cuts.

The Summary of Top Features

• Ergonomic knobs that provide ease of use and maximum control as you use the jointer.
• It has an integrated cord wrap that makes transportation and easy and assures you of safety as you work.
• It has a heavy-duty 13 AMP motor that is useful in various cutting jobs.
• Compact benchtop convenient for small shops.
• Sheet metal outfeed table with height adjustments to accommodate long pieces of work and reducing snipe.
• Two high-speed steel knives and precision machined table for straight and smooth cuts.

Pros

• 13-amp motor that makes it powerful.
• Combo jointer and planer.
• 8″ board size.
• Compact benchtop.
• Integrated cord wrap.

Cons

• Tables don’t line up correctly.
• Dust collector cracks from pressure.

9. RIKON POWER TOOLS 20-600H 6″ BENCHTOP JOINTER WITH HELICAL CUTTER HEAD

Rikon Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is a benchtop jointer with a 6-row helical style cutter head with 12 HSS, 2-insert cutters. These features make it suitable for super cutting action.

It has an impressive steel construction. The jointer consists of rigid, all-metal structure, machined aluminum tables. It has a quick depth setting mechanism with scale and an adjustable fence that tilts from 90 degrees to 45 degrees very quickly and accurately.

The jointer features high-speed steel insert knives and a 30″ x 6-3/16″ table, which is very impressive for your cutting jobs. It also has a powerful 10 AMP motor.

The Summary of Top Features

• A large fence that tilts 90 to 135 degrees for flexibility and convenience.
• Safety on and off switch that prevents accidents when you are working.
• Two adjustable push blocks that make work quick and safe.
• The manufacturer has made it with metal machined aluminum tables forming a rigid and sturdy structure.
• It has a helical cutter head characterized 12 two-sided inserts for super cutting action.

Pros

• Dependable work life.
• Safety on and off switch.
• Adjustable push blocks.
• Made of metal with machined aluminum tables.
• It has a large fence that tilts 90 to 135 degrees.

Cons 

• Locking the fence takes it out of square.
• If you don’t use a vacuum, shavings will clog the hole.

10. Steele ST1010 Jointer With Mobile 

Steelex ST1010 Jointer with Mobile Base, 6″ is an ideal jointer for your small workshop. It has a mobile base and is small in size, which is very convenient. The jointer may be more modest than others, but it has a 1 HP, 120V, single-phase, 13A motor that makes it a sturdy and robust jointer.

The jointer has a Maximum width of cut of 6″, maximum depth of cut of 1/8″, the maximum rabbeting capacity of 1/2″ and a cutter head diameter: 2-1/2″. These features present you with a great jointer that you are confident will provide accurate cuts.

The Summary of Top Features

• A mobile base and small size are suitable for smaller workshops.
• A fence with three positive stops for convenience and flexibility.
• An in built-in dust collection hood that allows you to maintain a clean working space.
• A mounted switch that will enable you to operate the jointer efficiently.
• Has a 1 HP, 120V, single-phase, 13A motor that makes it compelling.

Pros

• Mobile base and small size.
• Fully adjustable fence with three positive stops.
• Built-in dust collection system.
• Mounted switch 

Cons

• The dust collection system may get clogged up.

BEST BENCHTOP JOINTERS BUYER’S GUIDE

Your woodworking needs will inform the decision on the benchtop jointer you will purchase. You need to be aware of some of the critical factors that you should consider as you look to shop for a jointer that will meet all your requirement and the types and size of projects you shall handle with your tool.

In this part, I’ve looked at some of the essential things about benchtop jointer that you should pay close attention to get the best value for your money. These tools do not come cheap, and that’s why you should ensure that you get the very best in the market.

Some of these aspects include:

• Fence

The fence is a critical part of the Jointer. It is the part that sits 90 degrees from the table. A fence needs to be sturdy and made from a durable and robust material. You will be persistently exerting pressure on it as you feed the piece of wood through that is why you should be keen on the fence. The fence needs to be adjustable to different angles to allow convenience and flexibility.

• Power

The power of a jointer varies from one to another. However, the ideal motor should be running at 1 HP and above. If you settle for a lower horsepower, you may encounter some wood that you cannot cut. For a better experience, please consider getting a jointer running at least 1 HP because you will not worry about the pieces of wood that you are cutting.

• Size of the Jointer

The size of the Jointer you are going to get will always depend on the size of the material. The jointer size refers to how long the bed and the knives are. It is important to note that a jointer can handle wood that is up to twice the length of the bed. 

Mostly, we categorize the jointers according to their inches;

● 6-Inch – These are the smallest jointers and work well for home woodworkers. Most jointers of this size are user-friendly and affordable. For a piece that is more than 6 inches, you will have to rip it down first.

● 8-Inch – These jointers have longer knives and a more massive bed. This Jointer is heavier, costs more, and allows you to work with larger lumber pieces.

● 16-Inch – These are industrial-sized jointers with very long knives. They are suitable for all sorts of projects.

• The Cutting depth

Depending on the efficiency and speed you want, choosing a jointer with the most suitable cutting depth is critical. You need to select a benchtop jointer that works for you. Although most of the jointers that we have will give you an option to adjust your blade however you want, some will not. 

A jointer that offers a wide range of cutting depths will suit you more so that you can use it for different purposes. The cutting depth is essential because the more significant the cutting depth, the fewer passes the blade will need to cut through your piece of wood. This aspect of the Jointer will even save you much time.

• Dust Collection

After your woodworking session, you should clean up the workspace. Using a jointer will create a lot of dust and debris that you will make your workstation messy. You will avoid this problem when you get a jointer that comes with a dust collector or one that you will connect to a shop vac. This feature helps the Jointer suck up any shavings and dust, which gives you a comfortable time cleaning up after work.

• Table

When using a jointer to create a flat surface, the table needs to be entirely flat and parallel to the knives. A more extended table will create a straighter joint, but you need not worry about having a long table if you are working on small pieces.

• Bench Type

The benchtop jointer of your choice should be most appropriate for your project. The three most popular types are closed stand, open stand, and benchtop. You will pick one depending on how often you plan on transporting the Jointer and if you are using it for simple or complicated wood cutting.

Conclusion

A jointer that will serve you well offers you convenience and flexibility as you work as well as one that is sturdy and durable. You are therefore encouraged to pick the best benchtop Jointer that will provide you with these privileges.

My overall best benchtop jointer is PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT). It is a machine that has everything you need for a jointer and will serve you well whether you are a hobbyist of a professional.

Did you find this post helpful in your quest to shop for the best benchtop jointer? If so, feel free to share your thoughts, opinions, or suggestions in the comment section below. Meanwhile, happy shopping!