Top 5 Best Benchtop Jointers

Top 5 Best Benchtop Jointers 2020 – Top Picks, Reviews & Guide

The jointers are electric power tools used by woodworkers or carpenters to flatten the faces of a distorted, bent, twisted or curved pieces of wood. The machine has a flat surface top with a broad base to effectively straightening wood. Both hobbyists and professionals find the jointers valuable as smoothening wood into a uniform shape increases its durability and appearance. There are also different types, sharing the same functions. Our review and guide will focus on the benchtop models.

The design of the benchtop jointers allows it to stay stable on a workbench and function in small work areas. There are also several of these tools of different qualities available in today’s market. It is crucial to be sure you are buying a good benchtop jointer before purchasing with your hard-earned money.

Top 5 Best Benchtop Jointers

OUR TOP PICK

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

The Porter-Cable is an amazing jointer guaranteed of excellent performance. It comes in great color contrasting models of red and silver.

However, it offers more than just good appearances. You have a wide range of speed selection to choose from in case you need to adjust to the right speed performance. The machine can move up to 6000 RPM and then to 11000 RPM with the two knife cutters at each end of the jointers.

With the sharp knives and jackscrew leveling, you can easily adjust the placement and angles for outright precision. But after prolonged usage and they get blunt or wear out, they are easily replaceable.

When you have to, you can adjust and lock the cutter on your desired position. And also, the adjusting lock system works for both knives.

The 6 inches table is long and significant for the spacious jointer, which is enough for a work surface and also gives out a lot of space to hold up a whole batch of wood.

The cutter of the jointer is at the center where it is placed into the device and can stay rest assured that it will not come out while you are working. The fence of the PC160JT is fixed in the center position, where it provides support to curve out edges at accurate angles.

Pros

  • Creates quick joinery
  • Great tool for commercial application of joinery
  • It is stronger than the average biscuit joiner
  • 100% rotation proof tenons.
  • The tool produces flawless mortises

Cons

  • It is quite expensive
  • Requires proprietary tenons
  • No vacuum
  • Tenons box needs to be purchased.

EDITORS CHOICE

Festool 574432 Domino Joiner DF 500 Q Set

For a taste of the latest technology, the Festool 5744332 Domino Joiner set is the choice you need to make. It can effectively further your woodworking passion and skills to the next level. The ability of this tool to cut deep mortises for the strongest tenons and joinery can ignite your level of experience and interest in woodworking.

More than the average biscuit joiners, the Festool 574432 stands out as an excellent fit for projects that require stronger joints. It comes with an index pin to easily align and accurately place the workpiece.

The tool can create a range of mortises for angles ranging from 0 to 90° with positive stops for angles 22.5°, 45°, and 67.5°. If you want to adjust the mortise, you have the option to do so with a turn of the dial. The tools support easy alignment for joining panels.

It offers a wide range of tenons and cutters to produce mortises ranging from 4×20 mm to 10×50 mm. The adjustable cutter and retractable stop features help to achieve precise positioning. The design of this Festool joining set is to offer maximum accuracy and speed to the slow and tedious joining task.

Pros

  • Creates quick joinery
  • Great tool for commercial application of joinery
  • It is stronger than the average biscuit joiner
  • 100% rotation proof tenons.
  • The tool produces flawless mortises

Cons

  • It is quite expensive
  • Requires proprietary tenons
  • No vacuum
  • Tenons box needs to be purchased.

BEST VALUE

Pro-Tec Ace Water, Matte Black, XS

The first striking thing you notice about this 37-071 from Delta is the buildup. Of course, there are smaller jointers fashioned from aluminum; this one is made from cast iron. The molded body design allows it to dampen down vibrations that make working arduous for the operator. The benchtop jointer has a straightforward operation, even though the instructions could have been a bit clearer.

Most 6-inch benchtop jointer models use a single horsepower motor. However, the 37-071 is equipped with a 1.5HP spinning the cutterhead at 10,000RPM. It has a heavyweight of about 76 pounds, which offers stability but would not be easily moved around like other lighter models.

The 6-inch jointer shows the widest timbers you can cut with the too. But achieving a cut at a depth of 1/8 inches with a rapid rate of 20,000 cuts per minute shows how surprisingly efficient this small Delta jointer is.

The 37-071 has straight knives and may require you to devote more time to finishing since it tends to mark more than a spiral variant, but this is not even a deal-breaker for the price range.

The design of the fence supports your workpiece and makes it easy to adjust. Also, it is user-friendly, and with two positive stops at 45° and 90°, you can join precisely and flexibly.

Pros

  • Outstanding cast iron construct promises quality and longevity
  • Great value for money without compromise on performance
  • Powerful 1.5HP motor
  • Cuts up to 6 inches wide and 1/8 inch deep
  • Two straight easy to replace knives that spin at 10,000RPM
  • Supportive features stop at 45° and 90° both in and out
  • Integrated dust blower
  • Safe with two push blocks

Cons

  • The dust port is not so substantial
  • Straight knives rather than the spiral ones
  • Quite heavy
  • Takes time to square the fence

RUNNER UP

Triple Eight Gotham Water Helmet for Wakeboard and Waterskiing, Gun Matte, Small

The Triple Eight Gotham Water Helmet is one that doesn’t compromise between comfort and protection. With its high-density ABS outer shell and its foam-padded three-layer water liner, with this helmet, we can assure you that you will get the best of both worlds.

Created with medium to high impact water sports in mind, this model is highly commended in the water sports market for its flexibility and adaptability.

Available in four sizes and fitted with adjustable straps, the helmet is suitable for a wide range of people. The suction-like cushioned fit and the snug-fitting straps mean that you wouldn’t have to worry about the helmet moving around your head or coming off with the water.

The Velcro sweat-absorbing halo can be easily removed and washed which is not something that you are typically able to do with protective headwear.

Designed exclusively for water, this helmet not only meets the water sport safety standards but consists of several specific features that have the comfort and safety of surfers like you, in mind.

Overall, if comfort is something that you are particularly drawn to, we suggest you have a good look at this helmet when weighing up your options.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Super comfy
  • Reasonably priced
  • Stylish, expensive look
  • A removable, washable inside layer

Cons

  • Sizing seems to be on the smaller side so be careful when ordering
Triple Eight Gotham Water Helmet for Wakeboard and Waterskiing, Gun Matte, Small
  • Super comfy Sweat saver halo water liner constructed with three foam layers wrapped in plush fabric
  • Velcro removable Sweat saver halo for easy washing Care
  • Dual-density closed cell EVA foam headliner and top crown
  • High-density ABS outer shell
  • Meets CE EN 1385-2012 water sport standard

RUNNER UP

Pro-Tec - Ace Wake Helmet, Gloss Red, XS

This helmet is another amazing option for you to consider in your search. The Pro-Tec Ace has absolutely everything you need when it comes to protective headgear which is why is it no surprise that it is such a popular choice amongst surfing enthusiasts of all levels.

With a high-density injection-molded ABS shell and a dual-density waterproof EVA liner, this helmet is highly equipped to keep your head safe from all sorts of impacts in a wide variety of water sports.

As a surfer, I’m sure you will appreciate the helmet’s 15 open ventilation holes and the highly effective drainage system. Not only that, but its soft, thick cushioned padding and adjustable rear-fit makes for optimum comfort and practicality.

This layer provides an additional level of protection to the highly durable outer shell, allowing for maximum safety and reliability. The helmet also boasts removable cupping ear guards which can be essential to a surfer that is traveling at a high speed amongst the water.

If it’s style that you’re looking for, this helmet is great as it comes in a range of colors at both a matte and gloss finish. If you’re undecided, we think that the matte black option is particularly sleek, unless you want something brighter.

Tried and tested in all kinds of water-based elements and circumstances, this helmet is proven to protect within a range of dangerous conditions.

Pros

  • Stylish appearance
  • Durable
  • Proficient ventilation system
  • Extra protection with the deep padding
  • True to size

Cons

  • Reviews state some issues with the ear coverings
Pro-Tec - Ace Wake Helmet, Gloss Red, XS
  • High Density Injection Molded ABS Shell with Dual Density Waterproof EVA Liner
  • Multi-use Rear Mount Strap (Goggles, Head Light, Camera etc.)
  • 15 Open Vents for Ventilation and Drainage
  • Full Surround Interior Protection with our "Head Lock" adjustable rear fit system
  • Removable cupping ear guards with water channels

Best Benchtop Jointers Buying Guide

Item Weight, Dimensions

When selecting your desired jointer, you must keep in mind the measurements, sizes, and weight. Measures like the cutting depth, width, length of jointer bed, and the dimensions of your workspace should be considered. In most cases, the weight of the jointer also increases the stability of the tool.

Material

The material used in the buildup of the machine determines how smooth the operation will go. Ensure the materials are of the right quality to suit your needs. For instance, the table and the fence.

Included Components

Some benchtop jointers come with some additional components like a dust collector. You will prefer to go for one integrated with it, or just hook up machine up with a shop vac.

Key Feature

Asides from a powerful motor, some of the key features you look for in your benchtop jointer is an adjustable fence, guard and table to allow for adjustability and precision. Also, get one with a tilting table for large woods.

Purpose

Just like other power tools, the reason for the purchase should not be omitted all through the purchase process.

Maintenance

A properly maintained machine promises a longer serving time. Get one that is easy to maintain.

Warranty

Power tools with a better warranty period are proof of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to use a power jointer?

Using the power joiner follows a simple process that begins with safety. You need to wear a goggle and gloves while working. The next thing is to ensure the table and fence are perpendicular to each other.

Then set up the right angle and power up the machine and plane the wood. Ensure that it is off before leaving it.

What does a power jointer do?

The purpose of the power jointer is to flatten the face of a length of wood. They make fine wood finishes and can square the edges of warped, rough, or even oversized lumbers.

What is a power jointer?

A power jointer is a machine that cuts different lengths or timber. There are different types, some are expensive, and some are cheaper. It all comes down to the one that works for you.

Do power jointer join wood together?

The power jointer can make the edges of wood join perfectly. It may not be the needed glue to keep them together, but it makes the surfaces of the woods mate.

Should I buy a benchtop jointer, long bed jointer, or closed stand jointer?

The benchtop jointer is a good suggestion for woodworkers that want to conserve space in their workshops. Long bed jointers need a stand and will take up more room.

The closed stand jointer is stationary, quite pricey, and they take up a lot of space. So, in the end, it is about what you want to do.

What are the components of a jointer?

The jointers have the cutterheads or blades, table extensions, mobile base, and push blocks.

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