Last Updated on 2021-11-24 by Harry Masterton
In A Hurry? Go straight to the Best Heavy Duty Cordless Planer Reviews By These Brands.
- DEWALT DCP580B Brushless Planer 20V MAX
- Makita XPK02Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Planer
- Makita XPK01Z 18V LXT Cordless Planer
- BOSCH PLH181B 18-Volt Cordless Planer
- Milwaukee 2623-20 M18 Cordless Planer Planer
- Metabo P18DSLQ4 HPT 18V Cordless Planer
In a perfect world, our purchased lumber would be the exact dimensions we need for our project. The timber would also have flat surfaces and not twist. That is why power tools, like the heavy duty cordless planer, are necessary.
Heavy Duty Cordless Planer – FAQ's
What is the best cordless planer able to do for you? It smooth’s out a surface that undulates due to rough sawing at the mill. The power tool is also effective at smoothing end grain on timber.
What is the best handheld power planer able to do that traditional hand planes cannot? A quality heavy duty cordless planer will save you a lot of time as it can take more material off with one pass. It can also take an even amount of material off as you plane, which is difficult for a hand plane to do on rough surfaces.
What is the best cordless planer depth-of-cut you can make? You can make cuts up to 1/8-inch. Taking more material than that will likely damage your work piece and compromise safety with kickbacks.
What is the best handheld power planer capable of doing that a jointer cannot? You can work with timber that is too large or heavy to use safely on a stationary jointer. The power tool can make several passes across board faces, allowing you to smooth out surfaces that are wider than a jointer can handle.
What is the best handheld power planer capable of that a larger bench or full-sized planer cannot? The wood planer uses pillars to hold a cutting head above a support table. That design places a limit on the width of lumber you can run through it, while a hand planer is useful on projects of any width.
Finally, what are the best cordless planer advantages over a model that plugs into an outlet? Todays cordless power tools offer power comparable to corded designs, with technology that improves performance and safety.
That gives you a more portable power tool that uses the latest features, something that will increase your woodworking output and efficiency. Being more productive will make your hobby more enjoyable!
Should I buy an electric hand planer?
Traditional woodworking uses hand tools that operate by muscle alone. The motor provides some distinct advantages between the electric planer vs hand planer.
A heavy duty cordless planer provides you with:
- Improved speed
- Even cuts
- Greater depth
- More versatility
Power tools are faster to use than hand-powered tools. Two or three spinning blades will cut quicker than a single blade pushed across the surface with each pass.
You will notice you can make cuts evenly across boards easily with an electric planer vs hand planer. The spinning blades are more consistent across a face, edge, or end grain.
A greater maximum depth of cut is possible with an electric planer in most cases. Some woodworkers can muscle through a 1/8-inch with hand planes, but most of us would struggle to take that much material off cleanly.
Versatility favors an electric planer vs handheld planer. The benefits previously mentioned here require several hand-powered planers compared to just one electric planer.
Best Heavy Duty Cordless Planer Recommended Buys
DEWALT DCP580B Brushless Planer 20V MAX Tool Only – No Battery
DeWalt's DCP580B measures about 16.0 inches L x 6.94 inches W x 8.0 inches H. It has an approximate weight of 6.8 pounds. Keep in mind the electric motor design when comparing it to other electric planers.
4.8 out of 5.0 starsDEWALT DCP580B – Features
The manufacturer designates the electric motor design with the “XR” on the body. That tells you this electric hand planer uses a brushless motor. It provides a more durable design that runs at a lower temperature and has fewer parts that will break down over time.
A maximum depth of cut reaches 5/64 of an inch is less than other products in the same class. It can create 15,000 Rotations Per Minute under no-load conditions, which will drop slowly as the battery drains.
DeWalt uses a 20V MAX battery pack to power this planer. That will provide you with 18 volts nominally, but the battery can maintain that power output longer than a standard 18-volt Lithium-ion battery pack.
You also get DeWalt's standard 90/1/3 warranty coverage (money-back/free service/limited warranty).
DEWALT DCP580B – Things We Like
- The DeWalt DCP580B provides a good total run time for each battery charge. You can get three to four hours of use at 1/32-inch depth, depending upon other variables like the density of wood grain.
- The handles are ergonomic in design. You can operate the power tool comfortably and also maintain proper control.
- You will find that DeWalt uses its typical impact-resistant plastics and metals for the planer. That makes it a durable heavy duty cordless planer design intended to withstand job site abuse.
DEWALT DCP580B – Not So Good
- It uses the most expensive battery platform (20V MAX) DeWalt pushes. You will be making a hefty initial investment if you require a high amp-hour pack and charger in this range.
- The kickstand is made from a hard plastic that can crack. It will be most vulnerable at the hinge, where movement and weight will cause wear.
Makita XPK02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion AWS Brushless Cordless 3-1/4″ Planer – No Battery
The XPK02Z from Makita takes up approximately 15.32 inches L x 8.07 inches W x 8.07 inches H. It weighs roughly 7.8 pounds with its battery installed. That makes it a standard size for a planer with a cutting width of 3.25-inches.
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Makita XPK02Z – Features
The stand-out feature of this heavy duty cordless planer is the automatic speed change technology. “LXT” indicates a brushless electric motor, and the speed change technology adjusts its power as cutting slows the RPMs. It should provide a more consistent cut across the face of your boards as you remove material.
A rating of 12,000 Rotations Per Minute under no-load conditions will create a slower cutting speed than other models, but it should not affect your workflow unless you are working on lots of lumber.
The 18-volt battery platform can power through cuts 1/8-inch deep. Blue tooth technology can be integrated with this hand planer, allowing you to activate dust collection when the planer is running.
Makita XPK02Z – Things We Like
- Automatic speed change technology is included on this planer. That senses resistance and allows the blades to maintain a consistent cutting speed as you work.
- Auto-start wireless system capable. You can connect the planer to Makita's AWS transmitter for blue tooth control of dust extraction.
- Woodworkers can take advantage of the chip ejection ports that direct debris to the left or right. It allows you to keep a vac hose out of the way as you work.
Makita XPK02Z – Not So Good
- The Rotations Per Minute are noticeably lower when compared to the DeWalt. That will reduce your cutting speed across the face of boards.
- It is a bit surprising that Makita does not include a debris bag with your purchase. The company is known for design features and accessories but does not include this with the tool.
Makita XPK01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 3-1/4-Inch Cordless Planer – Tool Only
Makita's XPK01Z measures about 14.0 inches L x 9.0 inches W x 8.0 inches H. The weight of 7.4 pounds gives you a decent power to weight ratio on this cordless planer. Its side mounting battery pack does not take up extra room, and the power tool feels balanced when you hold it.
4.8 out of 5.0 starsMakita Planer XPK01Z – Features
Star Protection Computer Controls is a feature that adds protection for you and the cordless planer. Information s between the tool and the battery pack in real-time. That prevents over-discharges, overheating, and overloading the system.
Chips and dust can only exit from the right of the power tool, which is not as convenient as the dual-sided ports on Makita's other hand planer. It does not affect performance, though. Left-handed users must plan to keep the vac hose from getting in their way.
The electric motor can generate up to 15,000 Rotations Per Minute, making it faster than other Makita planers. That will generate a faster cutting speed, something you will appreciate with a high volume of boards to smooth. You can get up to a 5/64-inch depth of cut.
Makita XPK01Z – Things We Like
- An increase in RPMs will provide you with a faster cutting speed. It compares to the DeWalt cordless planer in this category.
- The aluminum base has been precisely machined. It provides a flat surface that should last for the life of the power tool.
- An electric brake is included that stops the blades quickly. That improves safety while increasing overall productivity.
Makita XPK01Z – Not So Good
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- The electric motor used in this heavy duty cordless planer employs brushes. That is less efficient than the XPK02Z and may not last as long.
- It has a shallow depth of cut compared to Makita's other cordless planer. You will need more passes to reach the same depth of cut.
Makita Cordless Planer Video
BOSCH PLH181B 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Planer – Bare-Tool
The PLH181B from Bosch comes in at 12.63 inches L x 7.5 inches W x 5.8 inches H. It weighs only 4.5 pounds. Those markers make it compact and lightweight for a hand planer with a cutting width of 3.25 inches.
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
BOSCH PLH181B – Features
It uses a four-pole motor design that provides maximum power output from the 18-volt battery pack. That turns the single blade up to 14,000 times per minute. The RPM speed is comparable to most products in this class, but the single-blade design offers only half the cuts.
You get an edge guide fence with your purchase. That accessory is easy to use and will allow you to butt the guide rail along a perpendicular edge from the cutting surface. It can help keep your passes straight as you work.
The maximum cutting depth is 1/16-inch, which is a bit shallow compared to other products. A shallow depth will keep the single-blade from gouging or creating kickback.
BOSCH PLH181B – Things We Like
- A single blade design includes electronic counter-balance. That helps with rotational performance, maintaining the RPM speed, and reducing drag on the spindle.
- It includes an edge guide fence that is easy to adjust and use. The accessory will allow you to keep a straight pass along the board as the fence stays in contact with the workpiece.
- We found this to be the most highly rated compact heavy duty cordless planer compared to several models, including those reviewed here. Such high customer ratings are worth noting in a cordless tool design.
BOSCH PLH181B – Not So Good
- It uses a single blade for cutting into wood surfaces. That will not be as effective as a two-blade design and will wear out the blade much faster.
- Noise levels are a bit high on this hand planer. Several verified owners mentioned this across the internet, and it is worth noting here.
Milwaukee 2623-20 M18 Cordless Planer 3 1-4″ Planer – Bare Tool Only
Milwaukee's 2623-20 measures 12.38 inches L x 6.17 inches W x 6.97 inches H. It weighs in at 6.15 pounds. These represent a smaller footprint and weight compared to some products we have reviewed.
4.6 out of 5.0 starsMilwaukee 2623-20 – Features
Surprisingly, we were unable to locate a reliable RPM rating on this power tool. Retail sites, Milwaukee's website, and the owner's manual do not list Rotations Per Minute. That might be an area of concern when it comes to overall performance.
That said, the hand planer can cut up to 5/64-inches deep with each pass. The width on each cut is 3.25-inches, using two blades.
For us, Milwaukee's five-year limited warranty provides consumer confidence. That is far greater than the likes of DeWalt or Makita, the former being a standard-bearer for warranties on power tools.
Some customers note that Milwaukee does not offer replacement blades for this product. It is worth noting that it can accept standard Bosch or Makita blades available at big-box stores like Home Depot.
Milwaukee 2623-20 – Things We Like
- Its deep dial offers you 20 lock settings ranging between 0 and 5/64-inch depth of cut. That provides accurate cutting depths at several intervals.
- A fuel gauge on the battery provides a visual aid in determining battery pack life. That can help to prevent running out of power in the middle of a pass on your work piece.
- The Milwaukee 2630-20 is covered by a five-year limited warranty. That is one of the longer coverage packages offered on a heavy duty cordless planer.
Milwaukee 2623-20 – Not So Good
- The M18 battery platform used to power this hand planer does not last as long as extended batteries or 20V MAX platforms. That means more downtime unless you have multiple packs for this tool-only purchase.
- You may find the machined stainless steel plate to be rough along the edges. Milwaukee's tolerances may not be as strict with its Chinese plants that produce this model.
Metabo P18DSLQ4 HPT 3-1/4-Inc 18V Cordless Planer Tool Only – No Battery
4.9 out of 5.0 stars
The Metabo cordless planer is a rebranded Hitachi P18DSLP4 measuring 13.15 inches L x 6.97 inches W x 7.48 inches H. It weighs 7.3 pounds. The higher handle position provides a natural grip that includes ergonomic rubber gripping.
Metabo P18DSLQ4 – Features
The electric motor on this heavy duty cordless planer can generate RPMs up to 16,000 under no-load conditions. That is a maximum of 32,000 cuts each minute with the two-blade design.
Metabo HPT is attempting to break into the North American market using a lifetime power tool warranty. The company is legendary for its grinder designs, and consumers should feel comfortable trusting the former Hitachi brand.
A 3.25-inch cutting path can be as deep as 5/64-inches. The base offers users a unique opportunity to cut rabbet joinery using the cordless planer. You can make rabbets as deep as 11/32-inches. A battery indicator displays the charge left on the battery pack at all times.
Metabo P18DSLQ4 – Things We Like
- Metabo HPT's Lifetime Lithium Ion Tool Warranty. Few manufacturers are willing to guarantee a power tool with such coverage.
- A maximum Rotations Per Minute of 16,000. That is faster than any of the other hand planers we have looked at, and it should provide a fast cutting speed through most materials.
- You can cut rabbets up to 11/32-inches deep on your workpiece. That can save you lots of time with joinery.
Metabo P18DSLQ4 – Not So Good
- It has a safety stand made from cheaper materials. The accessory is susceptible to breaking if you are rough.
- Metabo HPT cordless planer has been rebranded from Hitachi, making it difficult for you to find verified owners to receive feedback. That might be an issue with some but keep in mind the lifetime tool warranty on this heavy duty cordless planer.
Best Heavy Duty Cordless Planers Reviewed – A Comparison
All six cordless planers offer you a cutting width of 3.25 inches. That said, there are several points of difference in the models we reviewed.
Maximum Depth Of Cut
- Thinnest – Bosch PLH181B
- Deepest – Makita XPK02Z
The DeWalt DCP580B, Makita XPK01Z, Milwaukee 2623-20, and the Metabo P18DSLQ4 have a maximum depth of cut of 5/64-inches. Makita's XPK02Z reaches 1/8-inch, while the Bosch PLH181B only reaches a depth of 1/16-inch.
Rotations Per Minute (RPMS) Under No-Load
- Slowest – Makita Tool XPK02Z
- Fastest – Metabo P18DSLQ4
- Unrated – Milwaukee 2623-20
You might find Milwaukee's lack of an RPM rating concerning, as we did. Makita's XPK02Z is the next lowest RPM rating at 12,000, while the Bosch reached 14,000 under no-load. The DeWalt and Makita XPK01Z can generate up to 15,000 RPMs, while the Metabo tops the list at 16,000 Rotations Per Minute.
Battery Power Review Ratings
- Lowest – M18 battery pack on the Milwaukee 2623-20 reviewed poorly compared to the others
- Highest – 20V MAX battery packs on the DeWalt DCP580B received many high marks compared to the others
All cordless hand planers use 18-volt battery packs. That includes the 20V MAX designs, which label the battery's maximum potential (instead of the nominal rating of 18-volts like the others). The two products above stood out as many users indicated poor or high marks on the battery packs.
What Are Users Saying About Their Heavy Duty Power Hand Planes?
We looked at the user feedback on all of the cordless power hand planers reviewed here and found that the Makita XPK01Z and XPK02Z consistently rank the highest in customer satisfaction.
Both heavy duty cordless planer designs use the latest performance technology, which is something cordless power tool users are looking at when they make a purchase.
Features like the automatic speed change technology on the XPK02Z or Star Protection Computer Controls on the XPK01Z improve the performance of both the power tool and the woodworker.
Are You A Brand Fan Or Do You Already Own Specific Cordless Power Tool Battery Platforms?
Your decision will be affected by the battery platforms you already have in your woodshop. If you own other 20V MAX products from DeWalt, it makes sense to consider the DeWalt DCP580B. Someone who owns Milwaukee M18 products is likely to purchase the Milwaukee 2623-20 to save money.
Also, don't underestimate your brand loyalty. If you own other cordless products from a particular manufacturer, and you liked them, it is reasonable to consider buying a cordless hand planer from that company.
Bench Planer
The benchtop planer or thickness planer should also be considered as an alternative to an electric handheld planer or if you have the space to bring additional versatility with generally greater planing depth
Best Heavy Duty Cordless Planer – The Final Cut
What is the best cordless planer? Several designs use one or two blades that cut up to 3.25-inches wide. The slight difference each manufacturer offers on their heavy duty cordless planer models is what makes the best power tool for you.
Electric Hand Plane – Corded Planer vs Cordless Electric Hand Planer
The modern electric plane when it's combined with up to date battery technology is easily a match for a similar corded model and has all the go anywhere versatility of a manual hand planer. The only reason these days to use a corded planer is when you may be considering the 6 3/4″ Makita 1806b for its tremendous power and cutting width
Power Hand Planes – Features To Look For
- Depth adjustment via a well calibrated depth adjustment knob
- A replaceable carbide blade with preference for double edge carbide blades for fast planer blades change
- Ergonomic rubberized soft grips for extended workshop sessions
- Dust extractor
- Spring loaded stand to protect the planer blades
Outside of price and battery systems you already own, cutting blade speed and maximum cutting depth will be the differences that matter for most woodworkers. RPMs will affect your cutting speed, and the cutting depth will influence the number of passes you have to make.
For more Electric Hand Planer Content Check Our Comprehensive Reviews Here – Power Hand Planes and How To Use An Electric Hand Planer
Extra features will make the difference when comparing similar heavy duty cordless planer models. Brushless motors do not increase the cost by much, but they perform better and will last longer in your shop. Two-sided dust extraction can be a consideration, especially for left-handed users.
The cordless power tool market is highly competitive, which is advantageous for those on the customer side. Manufacturers look to offer longer-lasting products that make woodworking easier. Most computer controls, battery interfaces, and safety components help achieve this.
The trick for you is to take the information we have provided and match it to the lumber you most often use in your woodshop. That will help to pair your needs to a cordless planer that you will use to produce some fine woodworking projects.
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