DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734 Review Powerful 15 Amp Motor and Precision Cuts

Description

Powerful Performance and Cutting Precision

Using the DEWALT Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch, 3-Knife Cutter, 20,000 RPM, Corded (DW734) felt like having a professional woodworker’s tool right in my garage. The 15 amp motor really packs a punch, managing large, deep cuts in hardwood with surprising ease. The cutter head spins at a blazing 20,000 RPM, delivering 96 cuts per inch thanks to its three-knife design. This means the finish is incredibly smooth—far better than what I expected from a portable planer. Every piece of wood I ran through came out with a finish that would make any amateur look like a pro.

Highlights of the Design and Usability

The design of this planer is quite robust and thoughtfully engineered. It weighs nearly 80 pounds, which makes it stable during operation but not impossible to move when necessary. The extra-long infeed and outfeed tables, measuring a total of 33-1/2 inches, were a lifesaver on longer boards, providing excellent material support and reducing the chance of any frustrating kickback or uneven cuts.

The four-column carriage lock impressed me by drastically reducing the snipe effect—a common issue where the start or end of a board is unevenly planed. This lock system really keeps the board steady, and I noticed a huge difference compared to other planers I’ve used before.

Positive Features That Stand Out

• Reversible knives: These disposable blades not only make knife changes fast but also extend the life of each blade by about 30%. That’s a significant cost saver over time.
• Material removal gauge: This handy feature, along with the extra-large thickness scale, allowed me to dial in accurate cuts quickly without second-guessing.
• Turret depth stop: I could easily switch back to my most used thickness settings, which sped up repetitive tasks and avoided constant fiddling.

Downsides and Areas for Improvement

Despite the many strong points, I did notice a few downsides that could be deal-breakers for some users:

• The planer is quite heavy and bulky, so it requires a sturdy workbench or dedicated space in the workshop. It’s not exactly portable for quick jobs around the house.
• The noise level is on the louder side, which might be a concern if you live in a shared space or have neighbors close by. Ear protection is a must, in my opinion.
• Dust collection is decent with the included hood, but it’s not perfect. I found that fine dust still escapes, so an external dust extractor or shop vacuum connection helps keep the workspace cleaner.
• The price point reflects its professional-grade build and performance, so it might be a stretch if you’re a casual hobbyist on a budget.

Comparing to Popular Competitors

I’ve had experience with several other benchtop planers, and this one holds its own against big names like the Makita 2012NB and the Ryobi 22-530. The DEWALT model stands out with its superior motor power and the precision provided by the three-knife cutter head. Compared to the Makita, the DW734 feels more solid and stable during use, especially on tougher hardwoods. The Ryobi, while more affordable, lacks the same build quality and consistent finish.

On the flip side, the Makita wins slightly on noise reduction and dust collection, which means if those factors are your priority, it might be worth considering. The DEWALT edges ahead in terms of knife life and ease of blade replacement, which is a big plus for anyone dealing with frequent use.

Value Proposition and Cost Efficiency

Evaluating the cost versus its features, this planer offers solid value for money if you need a reliable, heavy-duty machine. The durability and precision it delivers justify the investment, especially for professionals or serious woodworking enthusiasts. The three-year limited warranty also adds peace of mind, covering defects without hassle.

For casual users or beginners, the price might feel steep, but if you plan to work on hardwoods or larger projects regularly, it’s a tool that won’t disappoint. The investment pays off through the quality of cuts and time saved on sanding or fixing rough surfaces afterward.

Features and Settings Explored

Delving deeper into the settings, the turret depth stop was a game-changer for me. It allowed me to quickly return to preferred thicknesses without re-measuring every time. The material removal gauge is precise, letting me make detailed adjustments in small increments. This level of control is rare in benchtop planers and proved useful on varied projects ranging from furniture legs to door panels.

The three-knife cutter head is removable and reversible, and changing the knives is straightforward once you get the hang of it. The blades themselves maintain sharpness longer than standard single-knife designs, reducing downtime. The feed tables provide a smooth transition in and out of the planer, minimizing tear-out on softer woods.

Practical Experience and User Feedback

My coworkers and family members who saw this planer in action were genuinely impressed by the smoothness of the finishes and the ease of use. A friend who recently started woodworking found the controls intuitive after a quick demonstration. My kids, who enjoy helping with small projects, appreciated how the planer handled delicate cuts without splintering.

Of course, the heft of the machine means it’s not something you just grab for a quick fix, but once set up, it’s a reliable workhorse. The noise did raise some eyebrows, but that’s par for the course with powerful motors. I made sure to have good ear protection on hand, which is a small price to pay for performance like that.

This planer feels like it’s built to last and to tackle tough jobs that lesser machines would struggle with. It’s clear that DEWALT engineered this benchtop model with both power and precision in mind, making it a worthy addition to any serious woodshop.

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