5 Top Benchtop Jointers: A Comparative Review

Hey there! Looking to upgrade your woodworking game with a benchtop jointer? You’ve come to the right place. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at five top-notch options to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, having a reliable jointer can make all the difference in achieving smooth, precise edges for your projects. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect one for you!

Benchtop jointers have been a staple in woodworking shops for decades. These compact machines are designed to straighten and flatten the edges of rough lumber, making them essential for creating smooth and accurate joints. Before the advent of jointers, woodworkers relied on hand planes or table saws with jigs to achieve similar results. However, benchtop jointers save time and effort, allowing for more efficient and precise woodwork.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these fantastic benchtop jointers to see which one fits your needs and preferences the best. We’ll be examining the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, the WEN JT630H Spiral Benchtop Jointer, the WEN JT833H Spiral Benchtop Jointer with an Extendable Table, the Shop Fox W1876 Benchtop Jointer, and the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer with a Helical Cutterhead. With features like variable speed control, spiral-style cutterheads, and helical cutterheads, these jointers offer a range of options to suit various woodworking projects. So, let’s get started and help you find the perfect benchtop jointer for your workshop!

PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer Variable Speed 6-Inch PC160JT #CommissionsEarned

The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) is designed for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. It is perfectly suited for tasks such as edging, flattening, and face jointing various types of wood.

There are several reasons why we think the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer is a top choice for woodworking projects.

Firstly, its variable speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM ensures that you have the right cutting speed for different materials. Whether you are working with softwood or hardwood, this jointer can easily adapt to your needs.

Additionally, the two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement provides easy replacement and adjustment of knives. This feature allows for precise and accurate cuts, ensuring professional results every time.

We also appreciate the built-in cutter head lock, which facilitates knife replacement and adjustment. This makes the maintenance of the jointer hassle-free and time-saving.

Lastly, the extra large table of the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer provides ample work support. With its capacity to surface stock up to a full 6″ wide, you can tackle a wide range of woodworking projects with ease.

The purpose of the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer is to help you achieve clean and straight edges, flat surfaces, and perfect angles in your woodworking projects. It ensures that your pieces fit together seamlessly and enhances the overall quality of your work.

Key features of this benchtop jointer include the variable speed range, the two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement, the built-in cutter head lock, and the extra large table for ample work support.

The variable speed range allows you to adapt to different materials, while the knife leveling arrangement ensures precise cuts. The cutter head lock simplifies maintenance, and the large table provides stability and support for your workpieces.

When it comes to quality, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer does not disappoint. It is built with durability in mind, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of heavy-duty woodworking projects. The sturdy construction and high-quality materials ensure that this jointer will last for years to come.

• Variable speed range for versatile cutting

• Two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling for precise cuts

• Built-in cutter head lock for easy maintenance

• Extra large table for ample work support

• Sturdy and durable construction

• Some users may find it difficult to adjust the knives initially

• The jointer may produce some noise during operation

The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) is a top-notch tool for any woodworking enthusiast or professional. Its variable speed range, precision cutting capabilities, and durable construction make it an excellent investment for your woodworking projects. With this jointer, you can achieve professional-grade results and take your woodworking skills to the next level.

WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer #CommissionsEarned

The WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a fantastic tool for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re working on a home improvement project or crafting intricate furniture pieces, this benchtop jointer is designed to help you achieve clean, straight, and smooth edges on your woodwork.

There are several reasons why we love the WEN JT630H Spiral Benchtop Jointer. First and foremost, its spiral cutterhead system utilizes 12 staggered HSS blades. These blades work together to provide an ultra-fine finish on your wood, resulting in a polished and professional look.

Another feature we appreciate is the spacious 30-by-6-inch table. This generous surface area allows you to work on larger projects with ease, minimizing the need for constant readjustments and maximizing your productivity. Moreover, the table can be tilted to various angles, thanks to the adjustable fence bevels that can go up to 45 degrees.

At its core, the WEN JT630H Spiral Benchtop Jointer is designed to help you achieve accurate and precise edge-jointing on your woodwork. It can remove 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass, ensuring that you have full control over the desired depth. Whether you’re working on cabinets, doors, or furniture, this jointer will help you create seamless joints that are essential for a high-quality finished product.

Furthermore, the 10-Amp motor of this jointer provides ample power to tackle any project you throw its way. From softwoods to hardwoods, this tool can effortlessly handle it all. Its sturdy construction and durable materials ensure that it will stand the test of time, even with frequent and heavy use.

When it comes to the overall quality of the WEN JT630H Spiral Benchtop Jointer, it certainly does not disappoint. The combination of its robust construction, reliable performance, and user-friendly features make it an excellent addition to any woodworking workshop. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, you can be confident that this jointer will consistently deliver exceptional results.

• Ultra-fine finish with the spiral cutterhead system

• Spacious table for larger projects

• Adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees

• Can remove 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass

• Powerful 10-Amp motor for versatile use

• May require some initial setup and adjustments

• Slightly heavier compared to other benchtop jointers

The WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a top-notch tool that will elevate your woodworking projects to the next level. With its impressive features, reliable performance, and exceptional build quality, it is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve precise and professional-looking edges on their woodwork. So, why wait? Invest in the WEN JT630H and experience the joy of working with a high-quality benchtop jointer.

WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table #CommissionsEarned

The WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is a versatile tool designed to create smooth and even surfaces on rough lumber. It is commonly used by woodworkers, carpenters, and DIY enthusiasts to flatten, straighten, and square the edges and faces of boards.

At Top Benchtop Jointers, we have reviewed several models, and the WEN JT833H stands out for several reasons. Its extendable table sets it apart from many other jointers, allowing you to work with longer and wider pieces with ease. This feature offers convenience and flexibility when working on various projects.

The WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is designed to give you precise and accurate results while reducing the risk of tear-out or snipe. With its spiral cutterhead, it provides smooth cuts and outstanding finish quality. The spiral design also helps minimize noise and vibration during operation, ensuring a comfortable working experience.

This jointer features a powerful 10-amp motor that delivers enough power to handle most types of hardwoods and softwoods. The motor operates at a speed of 12,000 RPM, allowing you to swiftly and efficiently create flat surfaces on your lumber.

With an 8-inch width capacity and a 2.5-inch depth capacity, this jointer can handle a wide range of board sizes. The extendable table extends up to 33.9 inches, providing ample support for long workpieces. The adjustable fence allows you to make precise angle adjustments for beveling or chamfering edges.

The overall quality of the WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer is impressive. Constructed with a solid and durable cast iron base, this jointer offers stability and longevity. It is designed to withstand heavy-duty use without compromising performance.

The spiral cutterhead, made of high-quality steel, ensures clean and tear-free cuts, enhancing the overall finish of your work. Additionally, the extendable table operates smoothly, making it effortless to maneuver longer pieces while maintaining accuracy.

Pros:

• Extendable table for working with longer and wider pieces
• Spiral cutterhead provides smooth and tear-free cuts
• Powerful 10-amp motor tackles hardwoods and softwoods efficiently
• Adjustable fence allows for precise angle adjustments
• Durable cast iron base offers stability and longevity

Cons:

• Some users may find the jointer a bit heavy to move around
• Limited to an 8-inch width capacity, making it unsuitable for larger projects

The WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table is a reliable and user-friendly tool for achieving professional results. Its extendable table, powerful motor, and spiral cutterhead make it an excellent choice for woodworkers of all skill levels. Although it may be a bit heavy for some, its overall performance and quality make it a top contender in the benchtop jointer market.

Shop Fox W1876 6inch Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead #CommissionsEarned

If you are a woodworking enthusiast looking for a reliable and efficient benchtop jointer, then the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead is an excellent choice. This benchtop jointer is designed to help you achieve precise and smooth edges on your woodwork projects.

There are several reasons why we highly recommend the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer. First and foremost, its spiral-style cutterhead sets it apart from other jointers in terms of performance. The spiral-style cutterhead consists of multiple small knives that slice through the wood grain effortlessly, resulting in cleaner and smoother cuts. This innovative feature reduces tear-out and eliminates the need for frequent blade changes, saving you time and effort.

Another reason to love the Shop Fox W1876 is its compact and portable design. With its small footprint, this benchtop jointer is perfect for small workshops or for woodworking enthusiasts who prefer to work on projects in different locations. It is easy to assemble and disassemble, allowing you to take it wherever you need to work.

The primary purpose of the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer is to provide woodworkers with a tool that can effectively flatten and square the edges of their boards. By removing any imperfections or inconsistencies, this benchtop jointer ensures that your woodwork projects turn out precisely as planned.

Key features of the Shop Fox W1876 include a 6-inch width capacity, which allows you to handle boards of various sizes. It also has an adjustable infeed table that allows you to control the depth of the cut, ensuring accuracy and precision. The spiral-style cutterhead with its 12 small, sharp knives produces smooth and clean cuts, allowing you to achieve professional-level results.

When it comes to the overall quality of the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer, it does not disappoint. This jointer is made with sturdy materials that ensure durability and long-lasting performance. The spiral-style cutterhead is built to withstand continuous and heavy-duty use, providing you with consistent and reliable results.

• The spiral-style cutterhead ensures clean and precise cuts with reduced tear-out.

• Compact and portable design makes it suitable for small workshops or on-the-go woodworking projects.

• Easy assembly and disassembly for convenience and flexibility.

• Adjustable infeed table allows for accurate depth control.

• The 6-inch width capacity may not be sufficient for larger projects.

• Some users may find the initial setup instructions challenging to follow.

The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead is an outstanding choice for woodworking enthusiasts seeking a reliable and efficient benchtop jointer. Its spiral-style cutterhead, portable design, and overall quality make it a top contender in the market. With this jointer, you can achieve professional-level results and take your woodworking projects to the next level.

Shop Fox W1876 6inch Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead #CommissionsEarned

If you are someone who frequently works with wood and requires precise and smooth edges, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is the perfect tool for you. This benchtop jointer is specifically designed to help you achieve perfectly flat and straight surfaces on the edges of your wood pieces, making it ideal for woodworking projects such as furniture making, cabinetry, and more.

There are several reasons why we love the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head. Firstly, its helical cutter head sets it apart from other jointers in the market. The helical cutter head contains multiple small blades arranged in a spiral pattern, allowing for smoother and quieter operation compared to traditional jointers with straight knives. This feature greatly reduces the chances of tear-out and provides a superior finish on your wood pieces.

Another feature that distinguishes this benchtop jointer is its compact and portable design. With its benchtop size, you can easily fit it into your workshop or garage without taking up too much space. Additionally, its compact design makes it convenient to transport and store, allowing you to take it with you to job sites or woodworking classes if needed.

The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is specifically designed to help you achieve precision and accuracy in your woodworking projects. Its primary purpose is to flatten and straighten the edges of your wood pieces, ensuring that they fit together seamlessly and creating a professional finish.

Some of the key features of this benchtop jointer include:

• Helical cutter head: Provides smoother operation and reduces tear-out.
• Compact size: Easily fits into any workshop or garage and is portable for convenience.
• Powerful motor: The 1 HP motor ensures efficient and consistent cutting performance.
• Adjustable fence: Allows for precise and angled cuts.
• Dust collection port: Helps keep your workspace clean and free of debris.

When it comes to the overall quality, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head does not disappoint. It is built with durability and longevity in mind, so you can expect it to withstand the demands of regular use without compromising on performance.

The helical cutter head, in particular, is made from high-quality materials, ensuring that it maintains sharpness for an extended period. Additionally, the sturdy construction of the jointer ensures stability during operation, minimizing vibrations and providing a smooth and precise cutting experience.

Like any product, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head has its pros and cons:

Pros:

• Smoother operation with reduced tear-out due to helical cutter head.
• Portable and compact design for easy transportation and storage.
• Adjustable fence allows for precise and angled cuts.
• Dust collection port helps to maintain a clean workspace.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for heavier, industrial-scale woodworking projects.
• Some users may find the price point slightly higher compared to other options on the market.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall performance and quality of the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head make it an excellent investment for any woodworker looking to achieve professional results.

So if you’re in need of a benchtop jointer that combines precision, durability, and ease of use, look no further than the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head. Its helical cutter head, compact size, and overall quality make it a top choice for woodworking enthusiasts like yourself.

Comparison of Benchtop Jointers

PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)

• Speed range: 6,000 to 11,000 RPM
• Two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement
• Built-in cutter head lock
• Extra large table for ample work support
• Can surface stock up to a full 6″ wide

WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer

• Spiral cutterhead system with 12 staggered HSS blades
• Spacious 30-by-6-inch table
• Removes 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass
• Adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees

WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table

• Spiral cutterhead system with 12 staggered HSS blades
• Extendable table for extra work support
• Removes 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass
• Adjustable fence bevels up to 45 degrees

Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead

• Spiral-style cutterhead
• Compact 6″ design
• Adjustable fence
• Sturdy construction

RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

• Helical cutterhead
• 6″ width capacity
• Adjustable infeed and outfeed tables
• Sturdy construction

The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer (PC160JT) offers a variable speed range and an extra large table, making it suitable for a wide range of materials. The WEN JT630H and JT833H jointers both feature a spiral cutterhead system with a spacious table, allowing for precise and efficient material removal. The Shop Fox W1876 offers a compact design with a spiral-style cutterhead, while the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H features a helical cutterhead and adjustable infeed and outfeed tables. Choose the jointer that best suits your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: A Summary of the Reviews

After reviewing five different benchtop jointers, including the PORTER-CABLE PC160JT, WEN JT630H, WEN JT833H, Shop Fox W1876, and RIKON Power Tools 20-600H, we have gathered valuable insights about each product. Let’s summarize the findings and address any drawbacks.

PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)

The PORTER-CABLE PC160JT offers variable speed control, allowing you to customize your woodworking projects. It has a 6-inch width capacity, which is suitable for most applications. Additionally, its compact size makes it easy to store and transport. The main drawback reported by users is the lack of a dust collection system.

WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer

The WEN JT630H is equipped with a 10-amp motor, providing sufficient power for various woodworking tasks. Its spiral cutterhead design reduces noise and produces smoother cuts. Users praised its accuracy and ease of use. However, some customers noticed minor alignment issues with the tables.

WEN JT833H 10-Amp 8-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table

With its larger 8-inch width capacity and extendable table feature, the WEN JT833H accommodates broader workpieces. The spiral cutterhead ensures improved cutting performance and reduced tear-out. Customers appreciated the precision and build quality of this jointer. Nevertheless, the weight of the machine was slightly heavy for some users.

Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead

The Shop Fox W1876 is equipped with a spiral-style cutterhead, ensuring clean and precise cuts. Its 6-inch width capacity is suitable for most woodworking projects. Users were particularly impressed with its build quality and stability. However, some individuals found the adjustment process a bit challenging.

RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H stands out with its helical cutterhead that produces smooth, tear-free cuts. Its compact size and sturdy construction make it a reliable choice for both hobbyists and professionals. While some users mentioned minor fence alignment issues, overall, this jointer received favorable feedback.

Recommendation

Based on the review of these products, we recommend the WEN JT630H 10-Amp 6-Inch Spiral Benchtop Jointer. It offers a good balance of power and performance, with the spiral cutterhead providing smoother cuts and reduced noise. The accuracy and ease of use were praised by users, and the alignment issues reported were minor. This jointer is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile tool.

Remember to consider personal preferences and specific project requirements before making your final decision. Happy woodworking!