The Best Jointer Planer Combo vs Separate – Top 10

Last Updated on 2021-07-26 by Harry Masterton

The jointer planer combo vs separate jointer debate settled! We look at all the top jointer planer combo options vs separate machines and it's a surprise result.

Power tools fuel the workload in today's woodworking shops. One problem that many of us face is limited shop space for these machines. That has given rise to products like the planer jointer combo.

In A Hurry? Go straight to the Best Heavy Duty Cordless Planer Reviews By These Brands.

• JET JJP-12HH 12″ Jointer Planer Combo with Helical Head – BEST PRO COMBO
• JET JJP-12 708475 12″ Jointer Planer Combo
• VEVOR Woodworking 6 Inch Benchtop Jointer Planer
• VEVOR 8 Inch Benchtop Jointer Planer Thicknesser
• PORTER-CABLE PC160JT 6-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Jointer – BEST SELLER
• CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 10-Amp Benchtop Jointer
• WEN 6559 6-Inch 10-Amp Corded Benchtop Jointer – BEST BUDGET
• WEN JT6561 10-Amp 6-Inch Corded Benchtop Jointer
• Wahuda Tools 6-inch Portable Benchtop Wood Jointer Spiral Cutterhead
• WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer – BEST BUDGET SPIRAL

What is a planer jointer combo? As you might have guessed from the name, it combines the function of a jointer and a planer into a single power tool. You have more room in the shop with a jointer planer combo vs separate machines.

Learning how to use a jointer planer combo is easy, especially if you have experience with the tools individually. What is a planer jointer combo able to do in the woodshop? A good planer jointer combo will help you create even faces on boards as well as perpendicular edges.

The Jointer Planer Combo vs Separate – What's  Best For Your Shop?

As you learn how to use a jointer planer combo in your shop, you will find that this two-in-one power tool can maintain a fast workflow. A planer jointer combo permits you to stay at one workstation instead of having to go from your planer to your jointer or vice versa. You will be surprised at how much time a jointer planer combo vs separate power tools saves you.

What is a planer jointer combo lifespan compared to other power tools in your shop? For most hobbyists and DIYers, the workload they maintain will likely never wear power tools down. A well-maintained planer jointer combo will last as long as individual power tools in your shop.

More serious woodworkers and manufacturers might wonder how to use a jointer planer combo in their shops to turn a profit. Top-end designs are available that can handle heavy-duty workloads and high volume. You might spend more on the initial purchase, but these products can turn out quality workpieces quickly in the hands of an experienced user.

Woodshops with several full-sized power tools can save time with general maintenance using a combination tool like these. It uses a single dust extraction port, the same cutting blades, and shares the same work surface. The power tool keeps your woodworking fun while increasing your accuracy and speed on each project.

Why do I need a jointer and planer?

Anyone who works with rough-sawn lumber can appreciate what the best jointer planer combo machines can do. It allows you to flatten one face of the wood and then square an edge to that surface with the jointer function. Switching to the planer function will allow you to make the second face flat and parallel to the first face.

We do not want to mislead you here, though. The best jointer planer combo machines are expensive. For most hobbyists, jointer planer combo vs separate tools comes down to price, and two individual machines cost less.

The Felder AD741 is considered one of the best combo designs but costs $10,000. The Hammer A2-31 costs about $5,200. That is too much for most of us to pay for a hobby tool.

We need to find the best jointer planer combo that fits a smaller budget.

Jointer Planer Combo vs Separate Video

Best Jointer Planer Combo Reviews

As you read the jointer planer combo reviews below, there are a few key points you want to keep in mind. The best jointer planer combo specs to pay attention to include:

• Table top jointer planer combo capacity
• Best benchtop jointer planer combo power ratings
• Planer jointer combo speed ratings
• Table top jointer planer combo cutter designs

Table top jointer planer combo capacity

One design element that influences price and capacity is the maximum cutting width it provides. The best jointer/planer combo models reach 12-inches, but 10-inch products are popular (and less expensive).

Best benchtop jointer planer combo power ratings

The highest electric motors ratings are between three to five horsepower and require 220-volt outlets or direct wiring. Most products will come in lower. Reading horsepower will give you a maximum power estimate, while the amps gauge power consistency during the cut.

Best jointer/planer combo speed ratings

One consideration is Rotations Per Minute (RPMs) that indicate the speed at which the cutting head rotates. Cuts Per Minute (CPM) is RPMs multiplied by the number of cutting knives. These ratings will affect the feed rate in Feet Per Minute (FPM).

Best jointer/planer combo cutter designs

A common component between jointer planer combo vs separate machines is the cutters that they use. Each of the jointer planer combo reviews should indicate the cutter design used. A knife blade leaves a rougher surface than the inserts used for helical cutter head designs.

Jointer Planer Combo vs Separate Ratings and Reviews

When we assess a product for inclusion in a woodworking power tool review and a head to head comparison such as the  jointer planer combo vs separate machines debate it's important to take into account actual user experience.

Why are we taking the time to point this out? Well, invariably with a more expensive woodworking power tool like the JET JJP-12HH and the JET JJP-12 it's important to take every buyer review into context to get a real feel for how these machines actually perform in the workshop. Read the 4 and 5 star reviews for real user feedback.

JET JJP-12HH 12″ Jointer Planer Combo with Helical Head

Recommended for: Woodworkers and cabinet makers who need a really smooth finish will appreciate the cutters used on this jointer planer combo vs separate knives used in other products.

The measurements on this Jet combo jointer planer come in at around 55 inches L x 29.5 inches W x 39.4 inches H. It ships at about 600 pounds, but the actual weight is closer to 500 pounds. The jointer table measures 55 inches x 12 inches, the planer table 21.25 inches x 12 inches, and the fence is 43 inches L x 6 inches H.

3.5 out of 5.0 stars3.5

JET JJP-12HH – Features

You get an electric induction motor on this Jet combination planer jointer that generates 3.0 horsepower and 12.5 amps. That is sufficient to make 5,500 RPMs on the cutter head.

It uses a Helical design with 56 indexable inserts made from carbide. You will get smoother results than on passes from the JET JJP-12. A 12-inch cutting width allows you to work with wider boards, giving you a better selection of materials besides framing lumber.

JET JJP-12HH – Things We Like

• A feature found on this Jet combination planer jointer that is not on Jet's other model is the helical cutter blade (as indicated from the HH in the name). These inserts provide a smoother surface than knives can cut.
• The drive rollers grab your workpiece smoothly and move at a consistent rate. That provides you with a stable feed rate under-load and reduces the chance of snipe from material jumps.
• Jet uses a single piece of steel for the enclosed stand below the table. You get strong dust extraction from the enclosure and stiffness that prevents flexing during cuts.

JET JJP-12HH – Not So Good

• Its finish is not the best we have found. You may need to clean some rust spots and make sure to wax the cast iron jointer bed to prevent potential issues from less-than-ideal textures.
• Calibrating the Jet combo jointer planer is challenging and time-consuming. That can be frustrating for new woodworkers and those unfamiliar with power tools in general.

JET JJP-12 708475 12″ Jointer Planer Combo 3HP – 1PH 230V

Recommended for: Those wanting the 5-year warranty that JET provides but not the price tag of the Helical Head might consider this JET combo jointer planer.

Saving space is critical when considering a jointer planer combo vs separate power tools, so the approximate dimensions of 55 inches L x 29.5 inches W x 39.4 inches H are worth noting. It weighs near 500 pounds, like the other JET combination planer jointer the JJP-12HH.

3.7 out of 5.0 stars3.7

The table measures 55 inches x 12 inches as a jointer or 21.25 inches x 12 inches as a planer. The fence is 43 inches L x 6 inches H, which should support most material firmly.

JET JJP-12 – Features

The 3.0 horsepower motor on this JET combo jointer planer is fan-cooled, preventing issues with overheating. It runs at 12.5 amps and generates 5,500 RPMs.

You can adjust the fence up to 45-degrees of tilt for beveled edges, and we also like the magnetic switch and large handwheel as easy-to-use controls.

JET JJP-12 – Things We Like

• JET provides you with a tool-less conversion between jointer and planer functions. That makes it quicker to get your dimension evenly dimensioned, saving shop time for other tasks.
• A three-knife cutter head instead of a two-knife design. You can get near Helical head smoothness, with three blades providing 16,500 Cut Per Minute (CPMs).
• JET offers you a five-year warranty. That is a great warranty window for power tools in a hobby shop.

JET JJP-12 – Not So Good

• Its aluminum fence is not as durable as the steel housing or the cast-iron tabletop. That might not be too much of an issue for casual users, but it does represent a potential weak spot in JET's design.
• While it uses a three-knife cutter head, this JET combination planer jointer does not leave as smooth of a surface as the Helical inserts on the JET HH model we reviewed previously. You will need to do a bit of extra clean-up to get that extra smooth wood grain.

VEVOR Jointers Woodworking 6 Inch Benchtop 9000 RPM/min Jointer Planer Heavy Duty

Recommended for: New woodworkers looking for a jointer planer combo vs separate machines for a small woodshop area should look at this model.

The 6-inch benchtop design by VEVOR comes at nearly 29.92 inches L x 13.77 inches W x 11.02 inches H. It weighs just under 32 pounds. That makes this power tool more compact and easy to move compared to JET's full-sized cabinet designs.

4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1

VEVOR 6-inch – Features

You only need a standard outlet to power the copper induction motor rated at 1,280 watts and consistent output of 10 amps. That will power through six-inch cuts at 9,000 CPMs (4,500 RPMs) under no-load. It might drop down a bit when tackling hardwoods or taking off thick layers with a single pass, though.

Table dimensions of 27.95 x 6.14 inches support your workpiece in either configuration. VEVOR provides the tools needed for setup and conversions between jointer and planer.

Instructions on the fence, table and changeouts on the two blades are in the owner's manual.

VEVOR 6-inch – Things We Like

• A budget-friendly price point compared to the previous JET combo machine. It is small enough to this product in the hands of most woodworkers and might be cheaper than buying a jointer and thickness planer separately.
• Copper is used throughout the induction motor on this jointer planer combo machine. That reduces electrical loss and creates a smaller electric induction motor that runs more efficiently than using aluminum.
• The power tool is both minimal in its size and lightweight. You will find it easy to move around your shop, setup, and store when you are not using it to dimension your lumber.

VEVOR 6-inch – Not So Good

• Its smaller size makes things cramped in the housing of this machine. That smaller area practically demands the all-copper electric motor, and it limits the space for dust extraction.
• The six-inch maximum board width limits users to materials like framing lumber. A greater variety of rough-sawn timbers might need cutting before they can workable with this benchtop planer.

VEVOR 6-inch Benchtop Jointer and Planer Combo

VEVOR 8 Inch Benchtop 1500W Jointer Planer Heavy Duty 9000 RPM/min Thicknesser

Recommended for: Woodworkers looking for maximum design flexibility should consider the unique features of the VEVOR eight-inch as the best benchtop jointer planer combo.

When mounted on its steel stand, the VEVOR 8 inch machine measures approximately 30.3 inches L x 17.3 inches W x 42.9 inches H. Its gross weight of 77.51 pounds is still light enough that you can muscle it into a permanent location on the shop floor.

3.7 out of 5.0 stars3.7

VEVOR 8-inch – Features

The specifications on the power plant of this combination product are similar to the VEVOR six-inch design, except wattage. It uses an electric induction motor that rates at 1,500 watts.

You will notice that this model places the planer beneath the jointer's tabletop. That design change eliminates the tools and time needed to do a complex swap between power tools.

VEVOR also includes a steel stand to use as a pedestal for the machine. It holds the product firmly and provides a stable platform with a wide foot placement relative to its top.

VEVOR 8-inch- Things We Like

• The unique stacking of the jointer planer combo vs separate functions that you need to convert between is faster to use. It does not require tools or component change-outs to perform as either a lunchbox planer or a power jointer.
• Your combination power tool includes a steel stand. The steel is durable and lets you place the machine at any location in your workshop.
• A large crank handle is used to adjust the cutter head height. It sits on top of the power tool and is easy to use, including making small adjustments.

VEVOR 8-inch – Not So Good

• The tabletop surface sits over the planer and can make it difficult to load. Users will have to bend down or work from the side to observe materials as they enter or exit the planer.
• A lack of tabletop support can create a bit of snipe when using the planer. You will need to keep an eye out for material drop on the exit side of the planer to prevent this.

Comparison Best Jointer Planer Combo Jet vs Vevor

Price tags

VEVOR 6 – Least expensive
VEVOR 8 – Approximately 25-percent more
JET JJP-12 – A large jump in price
JET JJP-12HH – Most expensive

Price is a primary concern for woodworkers considering a jointer planer combo vs separate tools. Both designs examined in our VEVOR jointer planer combo review are within a home shop's budget, with the eight-inch VEVOR jointer planer combo cost more. Both of the JET 12 jointer planer products will cost you a few thousand dollars.

Maximum board width

JET JJP-12HH – 12 inches
JET JJP-12 – 12 inches
VEVOR 8 – 8 inches
VEVOR 6 – 6 inches

Each JET JJP 12 jointer planer discussed above has a 12-inch capacity. The products in the VEVOR jointer planer combo review provide either eight or six inches of cutting width. It is understandable when you consider the VEVOR jointer planer combo designs are not full-sized.

Cutter heads

JET JJP-12HH – Carbide inserts Helical head
JET JJP-12 – Three knife cutter head
VEVOR 8 – Two knife cutter head
VEVOR 6 – Two knife cutter head

The full-sized JET jointer planer models stand out here, with the HH using a Helical head for the smoothest finish and the JJP-12 has the second-best finish produced by a three-blade design. Our VEVOR jointer planer combo review products use two-knife blades with a similar finish from both VEVOR jointer planer combo tools.

Best Jointer for Small Home Workshop

Price is often the factor when deciding between a jointer planer combo vs separate jointer power tools. Most of you will likely buy a machine for each task, saving your shop budget from a deep cut. If that is the case, you will want to look at our Best Benchtop Planer Top 5 Review here.

When it comes to the best jointer for small shop use, benchtop products come to mind. The top rated benchtop jointer designs need to provide durability within a small footprint.

Machines worth considering as the best jointer for home workshop use should include:

• Power for the best jointer for woodworking – At least 1 HP for six-inch capacity
• Cutter heads on the best jointer for small shop use – Helical heads are best, followed by three-kife and then two-knife designs
• Cutting depth on the top rated benchtop jointer – At least 1/8-inch, with greater depth equating to fewer passes needed
• Dust extraction for the best jointer for home workshop – Do not overlook this important feature (or lack of)
• Adjustments make the best jointer for woodworking – The more control and ease of use, the better

Benchtop Jointer Reviews

If you opted to go for separate woodworking power tools in the form of a benchtop jointer and thickness planer then read our full rundown and in-depth reviews on the best benchtop planer here

The benchtop jointer reviews that follow will give you an idea of how well these products perform. The best entry level jointer can provide you with smooth surfaces on your boards, removing the undulating surface and cut marks left on rough-sawn timber.

Many of the best jointer for hobbyist are portable, at least compared to the heavy cabinet models reviewed earlier in the jointer planer combo vs separate tool discussion. Products using cast-iron tables or housings will still require some exertion to move about your shop, though.

Something that the best entry level jointer designs provide is safety features. Retractable blade guards, oversized power switches, and other add-ons will keep you as safe as possible as you learn to use your power tool.

Benchtop jointer reviews need to include potential issues or poor design elements to be well-rounded, and these are worth your consideration. Each machine that follows can be the best jointer for hobbyist needs, but keep in mind that each stands out for a reason!

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT 6-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Jointer

Recommended for: Woodworkers looking to buy the best selling benchtop jointer for their shop will appreciate the value offered by PORTER-CABLE for this jointer.

Portability is a consideration when looking at a jointer planer combo vs separate tool, and this machine is easy to move. It measures about 32.1 inches L x 12.4 inches W x 11.2 inches H and weighs only 35 pounds. That makes it a portable tool for job sites or small shops where idle tools need shelf space.

4.4 out of 5.0 stars4.4

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – Features

PORTER-CABLE includes a 1.4 horsepower motor with a 10 amp rating. That should provide sufficient power for cuts up to 1/8-inch deep.

It uses two knives on the variable speed cutter head, with a speed range between 6,000 and 11.000 Rotations Per Minute (RPMs). For operating purposes, that provides you with 12,000 to 22,000 Cuts Per Minute (CPMs). The ability to adjust speeds allows you to match RPMs to the material and cut depth for a smooth surface.

PORTER-CABLE provides customers with a 90-day money-back guarantee, one year of free service, and a three-year warranty on the jointer.

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – Things We Like

• Its compact size and weight make it ideal for shop space in shared garages or rooms. A single operator can move, setup, and store this power tool by themselves.
• A built-in cutter head lock prevents movement when engaged. You have an extra layer of security and speed during knife blade maintenance with this feature.
• The PC160JT is the best-selling six-inch benchtop jointer, enjoying popularity by review and word-of-mouth. High sales ranks can be an indicator of functionality and value in power tools.

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – Not So Good

• Regular inspection of the fence is required to prevent possible errors. Play can develop at the positive stops on the fence if fasteners work loose.
• PORTER-CABLE do not include a down-size adaptor for the dust extraction port. You will need to keep that in mind and get an adaptor if your primary dust extraction is through a shop vac hose.

CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 10-Amp Benchtop Jointer

Recommended for: Brand loyalists will find this to be an alternative to the PORTER-CABLE jointer at the same price point.

The CMEW020 comes in dimensions nearing 32.1 inches L x 12.4 inches W x 11.2 inches H. It also weighs 35 pounds after unpacking and assembly. These make it a reasonable alternative for those needing a portable jointer to smooth rough lumber surfaces.

4.3 out of 5.0 stars4.3

CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – Features

One frustration that hobbyists face with the power tool market is corporate buyouts that have made several brands subsidiaries. Craftsman and PORTER-CABLE are both owned by Stanley Black & Decker. While that means you get the same warranty package, you also get no stand-out features here.

A similar motor, cutter head, and variable speed control are available for the Craftsman. When comparing a jointer planer combo vs separate tools, including the CME020, this model performs the same as other 10 amp products with a six-inch cutting width.

CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – Things We Like

• It uses two blade knives that are easy to adjust and replace. That makes the jointer easier to use and maintain, which is an important consideration with novice power tool users.
• A lip along the bottom edge provides rigidity to the frame. The lip also provides plenty of material for bolts to slide through when mounting to a workbench to a tabletop.
• Covered by Stanley Black & Decker's standard 90/1/3 warranty package. That gives you three months for money-back if not satisfied, a year of service at one of the many North American service centers, and three-year coverage against defects or labor errors.

CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – Not So Good

• Labels and markings on the jointer are not as easy to read as on other jointers in this product range. That can be an issue in low-light conditions or with operators that have less-than-perfect eyesight.
• The Craftsman product is identical in features and performance to the PORTER-CABLE previously reviewed. That means that you are purchasing a brand name or color scheme and not any stand-out features.

WEN 6559 6-Inch 10-Amp Corded Benchtop Jointer with Filter Bag and Depth Scale

Recommended for: Power tool users on a budget will appreciate this model as the WEN with a lower sticker price.

The 6559 from WEN highlights the price battle between jointer planer combo vs separate tool purchases. Its low price point buys a tool that measures roughly 32 inches L x 14.5 inches W x 11 inches H. Shipping weight of 36.4 pounds assures you that it is within range of other benchtop designs in this category.

4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5

WEN 6559 – Features

You get a 10 amp electric motor with this jointer. It rotates a pair of cutting knives at 10,000 Rotations Per Minute (RPMs), giving you up to 20,000 CPM under no-load conditions. You will get that speed in all but the hardest of wood grain or maximum cuts at 1/8-inch.

Its fence is the stand-out here, being adjustable up to 45-degrees in both directions. The length is more than on other products in this class so far, providing extra support that beginners enjoy.

WEN 6559 – Things We Like

• The 20.75-inch long fence provides more contact than shorter fences on other models. That support can make a difference when you use the jointer to surface or edge longer pieces of lumber.
• It can be adjusted to 45-degrees in either direction. That allows you to adjust the fence for the exact angle you need when setting up for a pass.
• The machine comes at a budget-friendly price. That can put a jointer in reach of any shop budget or woodworker who does not want to commit lots of money to a single power tool.

WEN 6559 – Not So Good

• A lack of markings on the depth adjustment makes it difficult to set precisely. You will want to have scrap wood around to run tests on if you need to surface to a specific depth.
• WEN only offers two years coverage with its warranty package on this product. That is a year less than the other models we have looked at, but that should not be an issue for most hobbyists.

WEN JT6561 10-Amp 6-Inch Corded Benchtop Jointer

Recommended for: Serious hobbyists and DIYers will appreciate the heavy-duty build that this WEN model offers them for a bit more money than the WEN 6559 costs.

The JT6561 is somewhat wider than the previous benchtop model, with measurements close to 32.5 inches L x 15 inches W x 11 inches H. It comes in at 66 pounds, though, which is nearly double the weight of the 6559. That added weight (and material that creates it) will greatly reduce workload vibrations.

4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5

WEN JT6561 – Features

WEN uses a familiar 10 amp electric motor for this machine, as well as a two-knife cutter head. A maximum RPM rating of 10,000 under no-load can create 20,000 Cuts Per Minute (CPMs) on light passes or through softwood grain.

A cast-iron tabletop pairs with a cast-iron fence on the JT6561, making it heavier than other benchtop models in this range. That produces a work surface that is very durable and rigid. They are smooth, though, and a little waxing will allow you to slide workpieces across the cutting blades with little effort.

WEN JT6561 – Things We Like

• Cast iron tabletop and fence provide flat surfaces that will not twist. These should remain accurate for the lifetime of the jointer and can withstand rough workshop handling.
• A central location for the power switch in the middle of the housing. That makes it easy for a left or right-handed user to reach without compromising their hold on the workpiece.
• It includes a dust filter bag. The bag can fill quickly but saves cleanup time when cleaning up just a couple of pieces of wood.

WEN JT6561 – Not So Good

• The weight is almost double that of the previous WEN benchtop design. You will need to use some extra muscle to get this thing around at nearly 66 pounds.
• Its cast-iron fence is heavy and awkward to move compared to some designs. That can take you longer for precision setups when you are trying to get a specific angle.

Comparison Benchtop Jointer – Porter Cable vs Craftsman vs WEN

Price tag

WEN 6559 – Most affordable
WEN JT6561 – More expensive
PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – Tied for most expensive
CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – Tied for most expensive

The budget model from WEN is no surprise here. What is a surprise is that the heavy-duty WEN benchtop jointer comes in just under the others. The PORTER-CABLE and Craftsman sell for the same price.

Weight

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – 35 pounds
CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – 35 pounds
WEN 6559 – 36.4 pounds
WEN JT6561 – 66 pounds

Weight stands out when comparing a jointer planer combo vs separate tool design. Stanley Black & Decker builds both the PORTER-CABLE and Craftsman at 35 pounds. WEN's 6559 is just over a pound more shipped, while the JT6561 is far heavier due to the cast-iron pieces.

Variable speed/Max CPM

PORTER-CABLE PC160JT – Yes/22,000 CPM
CRAFTSMAN CMEW020 – Yes/22,000 CPM
WEN 6559 – No/20,000 CPM
WEN JT6561 – No/20,000 CPM

A feature found on some benchtop jointers is speed adjustment, and the PORTER-CABLE and Craftsman have it. WEN does not offer variable speed controls on its benchtop jointers. WEN's products provide 2,000 fewer CPM than the other products that max out at 22,000 CPM under ideal conditions.

Other considerations

Other performance specifications are the same, or are close enough to perform similarly. You might find one brand's color scheme or labeling preferable to another's, but that is about it.

Helical vs Spiral Cutterhead Which is Better?

One thing that is the same when comparing jointer planer combo vs separate tools is selecting the cutterhead. You might be aware of a helical cutterhead that outperforms traditional knife blades, but do you know about the newer spiral designs?

Spiral vs Helical Cutterhead

One difference between Helical and Spiral cutterhead designs is the arrangement of inserts. The Spiral layout spirals around the head, while the Helical uses fewer inserts that do not wrap in as tight of a pattern.

Inserts on Spiral and helical planer head vs straight knife blades perform better. These carbide pieces move more perpendicular than a blade can, producing smaller cuts and a smoother finish. The difference between Helical and Spiral cutterhead results is that more inserts on the Spiral, in a tighter pattern, creates a smoother surface.

Helical vs Spiral cutterhead which is better: other considerations

Another factor between Spiral vs Helical cutterhead products is price, with the Helical being cheaper. That is due to fewer inserts, although more inserts do cause less wear to individual edges.

Helical planer head vs straight knife

The advantage of a knife is that it is cheap. That is it, and even this advantage might be negated by the fact that the blades wear out quicker and need more maintenance.

Helical heads generate fewer decibels, create finer sawdust, provide smoother cuts, and are easy to maintain. Once you know how to switch inserts to present a new edge, they can save you time compared to knife replacements also.

Wahuda Tools 6-inch Portable Benchtop Wood Jointer Spiral Cutterhead w/Cast Iron Tables 50160CC-WHD

Recommended for: Serious woodworkers and those wanting the latest design technology will appreciate the cutter head and table extensions on this product.

The six-inch jointer from Wahuda measures about 33.875 inches L x 13.75 inches W x 13 inches H. It weighs 56.2 pounds, making it heavier than many benchtop designs of this size.

4.3 out of 5.0 stars4.3

Wahuda 50160CC-WHD – Features

The jointer uses a 10 amp electric motor for power, which is ample for a six-inch cutting width. It can reach a maximum cutting depth of 1/8-inch, so you should have consistent cutting without bogging down.

A spiral cutter head packs carbide inserts in a tight pattern to produce up to 24,000 CPM from 12,000 Rotations Per Minute (RPMs).

Table support is increased with extensions on both the infeed and outfeed table sides, adding safety and control as you work.

Wahuda 50160CC-WHD – What We Like

• It uses Spiral cutter head technology. That will create a smoother wood surface with less noise and smaller wood chips than a traditional knife blade.
• The manufacturer includes table extensions on the infeed and outfeed tables. These allow you to safely work with longer pieces of lumber that it might not normally support.
• A maximum speed rating of 12,000 Rotations Per Minute (RPMs). You can get up to 24,000 CPM under no-load conditions, making it one of the faster models we have looked at.

Wahuda 50160CC-WHD – Not So Good

• The design features on this product increase the price. Some might feel the price is a bit much for a six-inch maximum cut width on a benchtop jointer.
• Steel and cast-iron components increase the weight of this benchtop jointer. It weighs in at 56.2 pounds, which might challenge the strength of some woodworkers.

WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer

Recommended for: Any woodworker wanting a smooth Spiral-type finish with a knife cutter head price will want to look at this machine.

‎At nearly 34.2 inches L x 14.1 inches W x 12.7 inches H, the JT630H fits the portable benchtop design criteria. Shipping weight of 36.8 pounds will be easy enough for you to move without requiring assistance. It is an economical design, ranking on par with other jointer products from WEN.

4.7 out of 5.0 stars4.7

WEN JT630H – Features

The electric motor has a rating of 10 amps, which should provide consistent cuts at a depth of 1/8-inch. The cutter head uses 12 HSS blades, staggered to perform similar to a Helical or Spiral design.

Its markings are high-contrast and easy to read. Levers and knobs operate smoothly and provide incremental adjustments.

WEN JT630H – What We Like

• WEN provides a two-year warranty, several service center locations, stockpiles of replacement parts, and a good customer service reputation. That should make for good customer care in the North American market.
• The cutting blades are made from HSS steel. High-Speed Steel provides a strong surface that can withstand the impact with wood grain and stay sharp longer.
• It uses 12 knife blades to make cuts on the wood's surface. That will provide a smoother finish than a two, three, or even four-blade design can.

WEN JT630H – Not So Good

• Although it advertises as a Spiral cutter head design, it is not. The jointer uses 12 blades that have been staggered across the head's surface and not carbide square inserts.
• Two fence levers are made with materials that are not as sturdy as others used on the jointer. That could be a weak spot with constant adjustment pressure is applied to them.

Comparison Best Spiral Cutter head Jointer – Wahuda 50160CC-WHD vs WEN JT630H

Price tag

WEN JT630H – Least expensive
Wahuda 50160CC-WHD – Most expensive

For small shops, the size of the power tool's footprint and price tag are the most important considerations. The WEN jointer comes to the woodworking market as budget-friendly jointer, while you will have to pay extra for the features found on Wahuda's product. First-time power tool buyers and casual users will likely prefer the lower price but may need to upgrade at some point.

Cutter head

Wahuda 50160CC-WHD – Spiral cutter head
WEN JT630H – 12-knife cutter head

Wahuda takes advantage of the latest in cutter head technology with a Spiral design. It uses several carbide inserts that are wrapped tightly around the head's surface in a spiral. They cut perpendicular to the feed direction, providing the cleanest cut.

WEN advertises the JT630H as a Spiral design, but it is misleading. The cutter head uses 12-knives instead of inserts. These are staggered to provide a smooth finish for blades, but make no mistake, these are not carbide inserts in a spiral pattern.

Jointer Planer Combo vs Separate – The Final Cut

Let's cut to the chase here and get straight to the point. When you're making the choice between a jointer planer combo vs separate machines it's more than likely about one or maybe two things that will effect your purchase decision. And those will be workshop space and your budget. Yes a jointer planer combo is a very convenient and versatile woodworking power tool to have in your shop but does it really save space.

When you look at the size and weight of the top of the range JET JJP-12HH it's a large floor standing machine that ways in at 600lbs! And that's not to mention the hefty price tag.

By comparison a separate jointer and thickness planer like the WEN JT630H Jointer and the WEN 6552T Thickness Planer are a far more budget friendly option. And if you're working in a small woodworking shop like a lot of us do then the separate benchtop jointer and separate thickness planer seems like the option to go for.

Lighter, easier to move around and store when not in use without the eye watering price tag the separate jointer and planer option wins for us every time.