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Best Benchtop Jointers
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
#2
WEN
WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table
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#3
WEN
WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer
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#4
Shop Fox
Shop Fox W1876 6" Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead
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#5
WEN
WEN JT3062 10-Amp 6-Inch 2-Blade Benchtop Jointer, Black
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Buying Guide for the Best Benchtop Jointers
Choosing the right benchtop jointer can make a big difference in the quality and ease of your woodworking projects. A jointer is used to flatten and straighten wood, preparing it for further processing or assembly. When shopping for a benchtop jointer, it's important to understand the key features and how they relate to your specific needs, such as the size of wood you plan to work with, your available workspace, and your experience level. By focusing on the main specifications, you can find a jointer that fits your projects and helps you achieve smooth, accurate results.Cutterhead WidthCutterhead width refers to the maximum width of wood the jointer can handle in a single pass. This is important because it determines the size of boards you can flatten or straighten without needing multiple passes. Benchtop jointers typically range from 6 to 8 inches in width. A 6-inch jointer is suitable for most hobbyists and small projects, while an 8-inch jointer is better for those who work with wider boards or want more flexibility. Consider the typical size of wood you use; if you often work with boards wider than 6 inches, a wider cutterhead will save you time and effort.
Cutterhead TypeThe cutterhead is the part of the jointer that holds the blades and does the actual cutting. There are two main types: straight knife and helical (or spiral) cutterheads. Straight knife cutterheads use a few long blades and are common in entry-level models, offering good performance for basic tasks. Helical cutterheads use multiple small, square inserts arranged in a spiral, providing a smoother finish, quieter operation, and easier blade changes. If you value smoother results and less maintenance, a helical cutterhead is a good choice, but for occasional or light use, a straight knife cutterhead may be sufficient.
Motor PowerMotor power, usually measured in amps or horsepower, affects how easily the jointer can handle tough or large pieces of wood. More powerful motors can cut through harder woods and larger boards without bogging down. Benchtop jointers typically have motors ranging from about 1 to 2 horsepower. If you plan to work with hardwoods or larger pieces, a higher-powered motor will make the job easier and more efficient. For lighter, occasional use with softwoods, a lower-powered motor may be adequate.
Fence Quality and AdjustabilityThe fence is the vertical guide that helps you keep your wood at the correct angle while jointing. A sturdy, easily adjustable fence is important for accuracy and safety. Some fences are fixed at 90 degrees, while others can tilt to allow for bevel cuts. Look for a fence that locks securely and is easy to adjust, especially if you plan to do angled cuts. If you mostly need straight edges, a simple, solid fence will do, but if you want to experiment with angles, choose a jointer with a tilting fence.
Table LengthThe table is the flat surface that supports your wood as you feed it through the jointer. Longer tables provide better support for longer boards, helping you achieve straighter, more accurate results. Benchtop jointers have shorter tables than floor models, but there is still variation. If you often work with long boards, look for a jointer with the longest table you can fit in your workspace. For smaller projects or limited space, a shorter table may be sufficient.
Dust CollectionJointers create a lot of wood shavings and dust, so having a good dust collection system is important for keeping your workspace clean and safe. Some benchtop jointers come with built-in dust ports that can be connected to a shop vacuum or dust collector. Check the size and placement of the dust port to make sure it fits your setup. If you work indoors or want to minimize cleanup, prioritize a jointer with effective dust collection features.