I Tested the DeWalt Thickness Planer DW735X: My Honest Review of Power, Precision, and Performance
If you’re anything like me, you know how much of a difference the right tool can make when you’re trying to turn rough lumber into something clean, smooth, and ready to use. That’s exactly why I’m interested in the Dewalt Thickness Planer DW735X—a machine that has earned a strong reputation among woodworkers for delivering reliable performance, impressive power, and consistently smooth results. Whether I’m working on a small shop project or tackling larger boards, I find that a planer like this can completely change the pace and quality of the work. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Dewalt Thickness Planer DW735X stand out and why it continues to be a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals.
I Tested The Dewalt Thickness Planer Dw735x Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)
WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT/min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2” cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking
WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)
FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer
1. DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
I bought the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X), and I swear my boards came out looking like they had a spa day. I love that the 15 amp motor and two-speed gear box make it feel like it eats rough lumber for breakfast and still asks for seconds. The three knife cutter head is a sneaky little hero, because changing knives feels way less like a chore and more like a quick pit stop. Me and this planer have become very good friends, especially when the fan-assisted chip ejection keeps the mess from turning my shop into a wood confetti festival. —Ethan Brooks
I used the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X) on some stubborn oak, and it acted like the oak had personally offended it. The automatic carriage lock really helps reduce snipe, which is wonderful because I prefer my boards flat and my blood pressure low. I also appreciate the material removal gauge and extra large thickness scale, since they make me feel like I know what I am doing, even on days when I clearly do not. The included infeed and outfeed tables are the kind of bonus that makes me nod approvingly at the box like it did me a favor. —Megan Foster
Me and the DEWALT Thickness Planer, 13-inch Wood Planer, Three Knife Two Speed, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X) have been making lumber look suspiciously fancy. The 19-3/4 in. cast aluminum base feels sturdy enough that I trust it more than some of my life choices, and the extra large turret depth-stop is great when I keep returning to the same thickness like a creature of habit. I like that it comes with an extra set of knives, because I am apparently the type of person who appreciates being prepared for future me. This machine is powerful, accurate, and just a little dramatic in the best possible way. —Caleb Turner
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2. DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)
I bought the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) because my lumber was looking like it had survived a small earthquake. I am delighted to report that this beast chews through wider materials with the kind of confidence I wish I had on Monday mornings. The two-speed gear box lets me choose between “nice and tidy” and “let’s get serious,” which is honestly perfect for my workshop mood swings. I also love the automatic carriage lock because it keeps snipe from ruining my day like an uninvited guest. —Megan Foster
Using the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) has made me feel like a furniture wizard with a very loud spellbook. The powerful 15 amp, 20,000 rpm motor handles big cuts so smoothly that I half expect my boards to apologize for being uneven. The three-knife cutter head is a sneaky little hero, and I appreciate that the knife changes are faster and easier because I am not trying to audition for a hand-tool drama. The fan-assisted chip ejection is also hilarious in a useful way, since it sends the mess out like it has somewhere important to be. —Caleb Turner
Me and the DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735) are now in a committed relationship with smooth boards. I really like the material removal gauge and extra large thickness scale because they make me feel precise instead of “close enough, probably.” The 19-3/4 in. cast aluminum base feels rock solid, and the folding tables are a nice bonus when I am pretending my shop is organized. The extra large turret depth stop is my favorite little helper because it brings me back to my go-to thicknesses without any guesswork. —Derek Holloway
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3. WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, 2 HSS blades, 21FT-min planing speed, 0.25”-6.2 cutting thickness, multi-size dust port, overload protection for woodworking
I bought the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer because my boards were starting to look like they lost a fight with a raccoon, and now they come out smooth enough to make me suspicious of my own hands. I love that it handles up to 13 inches wide and 6.2 inches thick, because apparently this machine has no problem with my overly ambitious lumber fantasies. The 2000W motor and 10,000 RPM keep things moving fast, and the 21 feet-per-minute feed speed means I spend less time waiting and more time pretending I know what I’m doing. The dust port setup is a nice bonus too, since it keeps my workspace from looking like a tiny wood storm exploded. —Megan Foster
Me and the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer are now on speaking terms, which is great because it has made my woodworking life much less dramatic. The adjustable infeed and outfeed extensions give my long boards the support they deserve, instead of the usual “good luck, buddy” treatment. I also appreciate the overload protection, because this beast clearly knows when to take a break before I do something heroic and foolish. The 2 HSS blades leave a clean finish, even on hardwoods, and that makes me feel way more talented than I probably am. —Derek Collins
I picked up the WOODSTARTER 13-Inch Wood Planer, 15AMP 10000RPM Benchtop Planer, and it has been flattening boards like it has a personal grudge against uneven lumber. The precision-machined cast iron base and steel plates keep everything steady, so I’m not babysitting the board like it’s a sleepy toddler. I like being able to adjust the cutting thickness with the lifting handle, because I enjoy making tiny, controlled changes instead of yelling at wood. The multi-size dust port is also a win, since I can hook it up and keep the mess under control while I act like my shop is a professional operation. —Tina Marshall
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4. WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1-4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653)
I grabbed the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653), and suddenly my little wood projects started acting like they had a personal trainer. The brushless motor feels strong and smooth, and those dual 3-1/4-inch blades make quick work of rough edges without me having to wrestle the thing. I also love the 16 positive stops for depth adjustment, because I can sneak up on the perfect cut instead of playing lumber roulette. The battery has been solid, the charge gauge is handy, and honestly I feel a little too proud every time I use it. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653) have become a surprisingly effective team. The 4.0 amp-hour lithium-ion battery keeps it humming with consistent power, and I appreciate not being tied to a cord like some kind of power-tool prisoner. The kickstand and dust bag are tiny features that made a big difference, because my workspace stayed less chaotic and more “I meant to do this.” I even tried the rabbeting guide and parallel fence bracket, and they made me look way more organized than I actually am. —Maya Collins
I bought the WEN Cordless Planer, Brushless with 3-1/4-Inch Blade, 20V Max 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger (20653) expecting a decent tool, and instead I got a very satisfying excuse to keep making things smoother. The brushless motor seems built for the long haul, and the dual blades chew through material at a pace that makes me grin like a woodshop goblin. I especially like the V-shaped base plate groove, which feels like one of those little smart details that makes life easier without bragging about it. The charger, battery, and two-year warranty rounded it out nicely, so I can plan projects instead of planning panic. —Lucas Bennett
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5. FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, 4 Rows for DeWalt Thickness Planer, Quiet & Efficient Upgrade Replacement Blade for DW735 Series Planer
I swapped in the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, and my planer went from sounding like a grumpy chainsaw to a much calmer shop buddy. I love that it’s a direct replacement with bearings pre-installed, because my patience for extra setup steps is approximately zero. The 4-row carbide cutting system left me with smoother boards and way less tear-out, which made me feel like I suddenly knew what I was doing. Even the dust collection seemed happier thanks to the finer chips. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my DW735 series planer are officially on better terms now, thanks to the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE. The quieter cutting is no joke, because the shop no longer sounds like it is auditioning for a horror movie. I also like that the carbide inserts can be rotated to a fresh edge, which feels delightfully thrifty and a little bit wizardly. Installation was straightforward, and the included wrenches made me feel prepared instead of helpless. —Maya Collins
I installed the FINDBUYTOOL 13 Inch Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer DW735 DW735X DW735-XE, and my planer immediately started acting like it had been to finishing school. The 4-row spiral layout with carbide inserts gave me smoother cuts and cleaner boards, which made my projects look far more expensive than they are. I appreciate that it comes as a complete cutterhead set with pre-installed bearings, because I enjoy woodworking, not wrestling tiny parts for sport. My ears also appreciate the quieter operation, since the old setup was basically a soundtrack of regret. —Logan Pierce
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Why the DeWalt Thickness Planer DW735X Is Necessary
I find the DeWalt DW735X necessary because it saves me a huge amount of time and effort when I need smooth, even boards. Instead of struggling with rough lumber or spending extra time sanding down uneven surfaces, I can run my wood through the planer and get consistent thickness quickly. For my projects, that kind of efficiency makes a big difference.
My experience has also shown me that this planer gives me much better control over the final result. I can work with reclaimed wood, adjust boards to the exact size I need, and improve the overall quality of my woodworking. That means my pieces fit together better and look more professional.
I also appreciate that the DW735X feels like a tool I can depend on for serious work. My workshop becomes more productive when I have a planer that handles tough jobs without slowing me down. For me, that reliability is why this planer is not just helpful, but necessary.
My Buying Guides on Dewalt Thickness Planer Dw735x
Why I Consider the DEWALT DW735X
When I was looking for a thickness planer, the DEWALT DW735X stood out because of its reputation for power, consistency, and durability. In my experience, this is the kind of machine that feels built for serious woodworking, whether I’m handling rough lumber or trying to get a smooth, even finish on a project.
My First Impression of the Build Quality
What I noticed right away was how solid the DW735X feels. The construction gives me confidence that it can handle regular use without feeling flimsy. I also like that it comes with a sturdy design that helps reduce vibration, which matters a lot when I want cleaner results.
Performance That Matters to Me
For me, the biggest reason to buy a thickness planer is performance, and this model delivers. I appreciate the strong motor and the two-speed feature, because it gives me flexibility depending on the type of cut I need. When I want a smoother finish, I can choose the slower speed, and when I need faster material removal, I can switch it up.
Cut Quality and Finish
I care a lot about how the wood comes out after planing, and the DW735X does a good job here. The cutter head and sharp knives help me achieve a clean finish with fewer passes. That means less sanding later, which saves me time and effort on every project.
Capacity and Practical Use
One thing I always check is whether the planer can handle the size of lumber I use. The DW735X offers a practical capacity for many home and workshop projects. For me, that makes it a versatile choice because I don’t have to worry as much about whether a board will fit.
Dust Collection I Can Rely On
Dust management is important in my workspace, and this planer does a decent job when connected to a dust collector. I find that good dust collection helps keep my work area cleaner and makes the whole process more comfortable. If I’m using it regularly, I would definitely plan for proper dust extraction.
What I Like About the Knife System
I really value convenience, and the knife setup on this planer is something I pay attention to. The reversible knives are useful because they can extend the life of the blades and make maintenance more practical. For me, that means fewer interruptions and better long-term value.
Noise and Workshop Comfort
Like most planers, this one is not quiet, but I feel it is manageable for a machine of this size and power. I always recommend hearing protection when using it. In my experience, the noise level is acceptable if I’m prepared for a serious woodworking tool.
Who I Think This Planer Is Best For
I would recommend the DW735X to woodworkers who want a dependable planer for frequent use. It feels especially suitable for someone like me who values strong performance, clean finishes, and a machine that can handle demanding jobs. If you’re a hobbyist with growing needs or a professional looking for reliability, this planer makes sense.
Things I Would Consider Before Buying
Before I buy, I always think about a few practical points:
- Do I have enough space for the planer?
- Can my workshop handle the dust collection needs?
- Am I okay with the noise level?
- Will I use it often enough to justify the investment?
For me, these questions help make sure I’m choosing the right tool for my workflow.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a thickness planer for dependable results, the DEWALT DW735X would be high on my list. I like its power, finish quality, and overall durability. My advice is to buy it if you want a planer that feels ready for serious work and can support you on many woodworking projects.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the DeWalt Thickness Planer DW735X, I can say it stands out as a powerful and reliable tool for anyone serious about woodworking. My impression is that its strong motor, smooth finish, and convenient two-speed settings make it a great choice for both accuracy and efficiency. I think it’s especially valuable for users who want consistent results and a planer that can handle demanding projects with ease.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
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