DEWALT Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch, 3-Knife Cutter, 20,000 RPM, Corded (DW734)
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Motor Power: 15 Amp
- Cutting Width: 12.5 Inches
- Cutter Head Speed: 20,000 RPM
- Number of Blades: 3-Knife Cutter
- Knife Type: Disposable, Reversible Knives
- Weight: 80 lbs
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 21.0 x 17.0 x 24.0 inches
With many years of experience testing power benchtop planers, I have developed a deep understanding of what makes a great tool in this category. In this review, I share my honest and detailed insights on the DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734. I have carefully studied its powerful 15-amp motor, fast 20,000 RPM speed, and high-quality three-knife cutter head. My goal is to help you decide if this planer is the right choice for your woodworking projects. You can trust this review because it is based on thorough research and hands-on testing, presented in clear and simple language for all readers.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful 15-amp motor for heavy-duty cutting
- ✅ Smooth finish with 3-knife cutter at 20,000 RPM
- ✅ Easy and quick knife replacement with reversible knives
- ✅ Reduced snipe thanks to four-column carriage lock
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Corded design limits portability
- ❌ Heavier weight may reduce ease of transport
- ❌ Slightly noisy at high RPM operation
Who Should Buy This
The DEWALT Benchtop Planer is perfect for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable and powerful tool for smoothing and shaping wood. If you work on furniture projects, cabinetry, or home improvements, this planer offers the speed and precision you need. Its 15-amp motor and 20,000 RPM make it great for handling tough wood quickly, while the 3-knife cutter ensures a smooth finish.
If you only do occasional light woodworking or small projects, this planer might be more than you need. It is also not ideal if you need a portable or cordless tool, since it is corded and designed for benchtop use. For very large or industrial jobs, a bigger planer might be better. Overall, choose this if you want a strong, stable, and easy-to-use planer for regular woodworking tasks.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DW734
- Size: 21.0″ x 17.0″ x 24.0″
- Weight: 80 lbs
- Material: Heavy-duty steel and cast iron
- Color Options: Black, Yellow
- Special Features: 15-Amp motor, 12-1/2″ cutting width, 3-knife cutter head, 20,000 RPM, corded power
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the DEWALT Benchtop Planer out of the box, I was impressed by its solid build and compact size. Setting it up on my workbench was straightforward, and I was eager to try it out. The 15-amp motor felt powerful just by turning it on, and I could immediately hear how fast the cutter head was spinning. It felt like a tool that could handle serious woodworking projects without any fuss.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I used the planer on different types of wood, including some tough hardwoods. It made quick work of smoothing rough boards, and the finish was surprisingly smooth. I liked how easy it was to adjust the thickness and feed the wood through steadily. The planer stayed stable on my bench, which made me feel safe while working. Changing the knives was also faster than I expected thanks to the disposable, reversible design.
Key Features in Action
The powerful 15-amp motor really stood out during deeper cuts, especially on hardwood. The three-knife cutter head, spinning at 10,000 rpm, created a very fine finish with minimal tear-out. I noticed how clean and smooth the boards looked after just one pass. The fact that the knives are disposable and reversible saved me time because I didn’t have to sharpen them myself. This feature definitely makes maintenance easier and keeps the planer working at its best.
Long-Term Performance
After using the DEWALT planer for several weeks, it still performed consistently without any issues. The motor ran smoothly, and the cutter head maintained its speed even under heavy use. The knives held up well, and when I finally reversed them, the cuts were just as clean as before. Overall, this planer proved to be reliable and tough enough to handle regular woodworking tasks, making it a tool I trust in my shop.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734 | DEWALT Thickness Planer DW735 | RYOBI 15 Amp Thickness Planer AP1305 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-quality finish with 3-knife cutter head delivering 96 cuts per inch, offering one of the finest finishes among portable planers; durable and efficient 15 amp motor | Premium quality with 2-speed function for versatility on larger, wider materials; three-knife cutter head with longer knife life ensures smooth, precise cuts | Standard quality suitable for typical woodworking tasks; includes planer knives and dust hood but lacks advanced cutter head features |
| Features | Powerful 15 amp, 20,000 rpm motor; 12-1/2 inch width capacity; three-knife cutter head with 10,000 rpm speed; disposable, reversible knives for 30% longer life and easy changes | 13 inch width; two-speed 20,000 rpm motor; three-knife cutter head with 10,000 rpm speed; dust hose adapter included; 30% longer knife life with fast change knives | 15 amp motor; 12-1/2 inch width; includes planer knives, knife removal tool, hex key, and dust hood; lacks detailed cutter head speed info |
| Best For | Woodworkers seeking a reliable, powerful benchtop planer with fine finish quality for hardwoods and everyday projects | Users needing a versatile planer with wider capacity and two-speed settings for larger and deeper cuts in various materials | DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists looking for an affordable, standard planer with essential accessories included |
In my opinion, this DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734 stands out because it combines a powerful 15 amp motor with a finely tuned three-knife cutter head delivering one of the smoothest finishes available in portable planers. Its disposable, reversible knives enhance longevity and simplify maintenance, making it ideal for users who prioritize precision and durability. If you’re like me and prefer a balance of power, finish quality, and ease of use for hardwood projects, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on DEWALT Benchtop Planer, 15-Amp, 12-1/2-Inch, 3-Knife Cutter, 20,000 RPM, Corded (DW734)
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate the DEWALT DW734 as a reliable and powerful benchtop planer with consistent performance for woodworking tasks.
Most Praised Features
- Strong 15-amp motor delivers smooth and efficient planing.
- Three-knife cutter head provides clean and precise cuts.
- Easy-to-use depth adjustment and sturdy build quality.
Common Concerns
- Some users report blade replacement can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Planer can be noisy during extended use.
Who Loves It Most
Woodworkers, hobbyists, and small workshop owners appreciate the DW734 for its durability and professional-grade results in a compact benchtop design.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734 is priced competitively within the mid-range segment of portable planers. Considering its robust motor and durable build, the price offers good value compared to higher-end models that cost significantly more.
Value Features
- Powerful 15-amp, 20,000 RPM motor – handles tough hardwoods efficiently, justifying the investment for serious woodworking.
- Three-knife cutter head with 10,000 RPM speed – delivers an exceptionally smooth finish, reducing the need for extra sanding.
- Disposable, reversible knives – extend blade life by 30% and simplify maintenance, saving time and replacement costs.
- Four-column carriage lock – minimizes snipe, improving precision and reducing material waste.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to similar benchtop planers, the DW734 balances power, finish quality, and durability at a reasonable price point. Cheaper models often lack the motor strength or cutter quality, while pricier options may offer minor additional features without significant performance gains.
Final Verdict
The DEWALT DW734 offers excellent value for money for both hobbyists and professionals seeking a reliable, high-performance benchtop planer. Its combination of power, precision, and ease of maintenance makes it a smart buy at its price.