Woodworking is a full-time profession for some and a casual hobby for others.
Yet, regardless of how often or intensively one participates in the endeavor, it is important to always use the best jointer planer combo on the market for safety as well as productivity. Jointers and planers are no exception.
Jointers are invaluable tools in helping to make sure all the edges of your project are smooth and will be joined together properly, while planers ensure that all the components of your project are the correct thickness.
When using rough, unfinished wood it is usually imperative that it be corrected with a jointer before becoming a component of a larger project.
On the other hand, planers are the perfect tool for the job if a project requires two parallel pieces of wood such as a window frame or a chair.
While the two tools are very similar, they both complete distinct tasks that enhance the work of a wide range of wood-based projects. The best woodworkers have both these helpful tools in their arsenals.
However, many beginner or financially-conscious woodworkers struggle to decide whether to get a jointer or a planer if they do not have the funding or space for both.
This does not have to be a concern if carpenters invest in a jointer planer combo machine that does the work of both.
Jointer Planer Combo Comparison Table
We’ve reviewed some of the best jointer planer combo machines available, to help you find the right one. We go over each one in detail below, but for those in a hurry here is a quick feature comparison:
Once you have made the decision that a jointer planer combo will be the best addition to your tool collection, you will now have to decide which model will best fit your needs.
To help you with this, we’ve compiled reviews for the top five machines currently on the market. These models come from the best suppliers in the industry that have been helping carpenters enhance their production outputs for years.
The models described here come in three distinct types in terms of the capacity of boards they can handle: 12”, 10”, and 8”.
If you are doing industrial work and need to handle even the largest of projects, then you may want to consider the 12” options first. Whereas, if you need a machine that is at least somewhat portable, or you don’t envision yourself ever dealing with 12” boards then you should consider the 10” or 8” models. These smaller models are less expensive and better options for smaller projects and people on the move.
1. JET JJP-12 12-Inch Jointer Planer
JET JJP-12 Overview: Coming in at a little under $2,800, this machine is the most expensive of the ones in this list but is also the largest at 600 pounds, containing the most bells and whistles. It has consistently been ranked very highly by many different experts throughout the industry.
JET JJP-12 Features: This device has a 3 horsepower, 230volt, 12.5amp, 1Ph totally enclosed fan cooled motor in addition to a three-knife cutterhead.
JET JJP-12 Advantages: The 12” jointing capacity is unprecedented allowing woodworkers to tackle even the largest of projects. The ingenious magnetic on/off switch dramatically improves the machine’s safety. Additionally, the process of switching from jointer to planer is a breeze with both modes operating much more quietly than other models. With a quick assembly process, this massive machine can be put to work for you in a matter of minutes.
At 600 pounds, this sturdy, easy-to-maintain machine will not be going anywhere anytime soon and can be expected to work effectively for a number of years.
- RAPID CUTS: Three, high-speed, steel knife cutter head provides rapid cutting and a superior finish.
- ADAPTABLE: Extrmemly quick changeover between jointing and planing functions. Fence does not need to be removed.
- STABILITY: Heavy-duty, one-piece steel closed stand (includes mounting tabs).
- EFFICIENCY: Built-in dust chute with 4" dust port is used for both jointing and planing operations.
- ACCURACY: Heavy-duty cast iron tables with a machined finish ensures accuracy and flatness.
2. Grizzly G0675 Jointer/Planer Combo
Grizzly G0675 Overview: This 10” machine will not break the bank or your back as much as the option above weighing 350 pounds and costing around $1500.
Grizzly G0675 Features: Made in the United States, this piece features fully adjustable gab plates and quality craftsmanship.
Grizzly G0675 Advantages: The 2-1/2 HP engine gets the job done quickly and effectively with a simple conversion process from jointer to planer. This machine is a great value as it can still handle large projects at its 10” size, but it is not nearly as expensive as some of its counterparts.
With easy set-up, minimal vibrations, and a sleek look, the grizzly jointer planer combo accomplishes tasks with methodical precision.
- Head sliding rails feature fully adjustable gab plates
- Quality product from the manufacturer
- Made in United States
3. RIKON Power Tools 25-210H 12-Inch Planer/Jointer with Helical Head
RIKON 25-210H Overview: This machine can handle the same size projects as the first on the list, but it is nearly $100 cheaper and 20 pounds lighter.
RIKON 25-210H Features: With a powerful 3HP, 220V motor this device can power through projects with 3400RPM, a feed rate of 23 feet per minute and 14,400 cuts per minute. Its 4-row helical cutterhead creates a smooth finish that is unmatched by its competitors.
RIKON 25-210H Advantages: With a smooth transition from jointer to planer, this machine will be ready to work on whatever project the carpenter needs in a matter of moments. This sturdy piece of machinery will help carpenters to get through their projects quickly and efficiently with superb power and cut quality.
- Powerful 220V 3 HP, 3400 RPM Motor Easily Cuts at full capacity
- 4 Row Helical Cutter Head Produces an ultra smooth finish
- 56, 4 Sided Indexible Carbide Inserts Change easily
- Feed rate speed of 23 feet per minute
4. Jet JJP-10BTOS 10-Inch Bench-Top Jointer/Planer
Jet JJP-10BTOS Overview: This 10” combo comes in under $700 and weighs a mere 84 pounds.
Jet JJP-10BTOS Features: It boasts a cutting speed of 18,000 cuts per minute due to its 13amp motor and two high-speed steel blades. In addition, it boasts precision adjustment knobs, a large dust port, and a telescoping blade guard.
Jet JJP-10BTOS Advantages: This versatile machine can be adjusted for bench work or floor work depending on the carpenter’s preferences or needs. The locked planing and jointing tables enable the woodworker to not have to concern themselves with constantly checking precision. The ergonomic knobs allow adjustments to be made quickly and easily, which makes the machine remarkably safe. The surprisingly long outfeed table can handle materials of a variety of lengths easily. It is much more portable than many other models without losing power or performance, which can be invaluable for carpenters who need to finish projects on location.
- Compact Design: Combination benchtop jointer and planer provides a 2-in-1 machine with a space-saving footprint.
- Simple Mobility: With an integrated cord wrap, and weighing just 74 lbs. (with stand), this compact machine is easy to relocate.
- Precision Cutting: Planing and joining tables are adjustable with a removable handle and locking knobs.
- Added Safety: Telescoping blade guard.
- Ideal Uses: Small shop environments (not commercial grade) and limited space.
5. Jet JJP-8BT 8
Jet JJP-8BT Overview: Ranking as the cheapest on the list, this $450, 67-pound machine is small but mighty.
Jet JJP-8BT Features: With a 3HP motor, this little appliance matches the power of its much larger cousins at a fraction of the size and price. The two high-speed steel knives help this model to produce exquisite cuts despite its stature. It also features an integrated cord wrap and convenient bench-top design.
Jet JJP-8BT Advantages: This model contains many of the same features of the 10” model, but it is even smaller and more portable: perfect for working in very tight workshops or even out of the back of a truck. Its small size and inexpensive price make this a great option for beginners, hobbyists, or woodworkers who have tight working spaces. The integrated cord wrap and bench-top configuration lend this machine enhanced versatility and portability.
- COMPACT: Combination benchtop jointer and planer provides a 2-in-1 machine to maximize work space.
- PRECISION: Large aluminum-extruded fence makes joining stable and precise.
- POWERFUL: Heavy-duty 13-amp motor for various cutting applications.
- PORTABLE: Integrated cord wrap makes transporting easy and ensures workshop safety.
- COMFORTABLE: Oversized, ergonomic knobs provide ease of use and maximum control.
The Takeaway
It is important that woodworkers are equipped with the latest technology if they want to keep up with commercial enterprises. Devices like the jointer planer combo can greatly help in this endeavor and assist individual carpenters with efficiency, accuracy, and precision. Without a great tool like this, carpenters would have to work much harder for their work to be of a comparable quality.
After carefully considering each device on the list, hopefully, you will be able to find the one that best fits your needs, preferences, and budget. Woodworking is a wonderful activity to engage in that becomes all the more enjoyable, profitable, and productive when you have the best possible tools at your disposal. If you’re torn between purchasing a planer and a jointer, then relieve yourself of having to make a tough decision and invest in a device that can do both.
Jointer Planer Combo Buying Guide
Selecting and buying a jointer planer machine can be confusing for the beginner and often more of an adventure than we bargain for when we start searching for woodworking tools.
The task seems simple enough; find a machine that will meet our needs and not break the bank. There is some truth to this statement but, as with most things in life, it is not that simple.
The fact of the matter is that a good machine that will meet our needs does not have to be an expensive one. But on the other hand there are many reasons why we might want to pay more and get a better machine.
A good machine costs money; we cannot simply buy the first jointer we come across and expect it to do everything we need or want, especially if we’re not experienced woodworkers.
We like to believe that there is such a thing as an all-round woodworking tool but our experience tells us that this is not true.
Machines are designed with specific purposes in mind and, if we want to work efficiently and safely, it’s up to us to make sure our machines meet the requirements of the jobs we need to do.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at some important factors you should consider when buying a jointer and planer.
Size
Size of jointer planers is an important factor, there’s no question about that. The size of our shop and the space we have to store it in will determine what size machines we can buy. However, as important as this factor is, for most of us it is not the ultimate determining factor.
Instead we need to look at the types of projects we have in mind and try to figure out how big a machine will need to be if we’re going to make those projects.
There is no point buying a 12-inch wide machine if our biggest project calls for 4/4 stock or thicker. In the end it is always better to buy the largest machine available as long as the rest of the criteria are met.
Size can also be an important factor if you do plan on moving your machines around.
Moving a 20-inch wide, 8 foot long machine can be a real challenge and you need to make sure there is sufficient space for it as well as room to put the supports under the machine.
Weight
While buying a new jointer planer combo, don’t forget to consider its weight. A heavy tool always means that your projects will be difficult with it and you have to face many difficulties while moving the machine around the workshop.
So, if you are working on some large-scale projects then it is wise enough for buying a light machine so that your projects will be easier and you can work with ease.
Table Size
The next important factor that is to be considered while buying a new jointer planer combo tool is the table size of the product. It means that you have to check whether the size of the table in your desired machine is just appropriate for your projects or not.
If you are working on some large-scale woodworking projects then make sure that the table size of the jointer planer combo is at least 27” in length and 12 1/8” in width so that your projects can be easier for you.
The size of the jointer tables you require varies depending on your woodworking projects. If you are working on small projects, then a 13” table will do. However, if you are working on larger woodworking projects, then consider buying machines with longer tables.
Power Source
Another important factor that should be considered while buying a new jointer planer is the power source. Check whether your desired machine runs on electricity or not.
Be mindful that you should always opt for a machine that has an electric motor so that you can easily use it for your projects without any hassle. Or else, if you want to buy a more traditional option then it is wise enough to go for a machine that runs on gasoline engine.
Infeed and outfeed table
The next important factor that should be considered while buying a new jointer planer is the infeed and outfeed tables of the product.
To work with ease, always go for a model whose infeed and outfeed tables are easy to adjust so that you can easily make them work for your projects.
Also, make sure that the rollers of the infeed and outfeed tables are precisely aligned with each other so that you can easily move your wood materials in and out of the machine without any hassle.
Power Consumption
One important thing that you should always consider while buying a new jointer planer is the power consumption of the jointer planer combo.
Be mindful that if your machine is consuming a lot of electricity then it means you will have to spend more on the power bills as well as you cannot use it for long hours.
So, if you are working on some large-scale projects then always go for a machine that consumes less power and can give you a smooth planning or surface finishing.
Versatility
While buying a new jointer planer, check that the machine is versatile enough to be used for both tasks i.e. joinery and surfacing. The more versatile the jointer planer you have in your workshop then it means you can use it for different purposes.
Motor power
Last but not the least, check that the motor of your desired machine is powerful enough to give you smooth and accurate results. Also, make sure that you are buying a jointer planer whose motor has good overload protection mechanism so that the machine can stop working in case it heats up due to excess power consumption or workload.
Standard Equipment
While buying a new jointer planer, check that the machine has all the standard equipment in it. It means that you should look for a machine whose tables are adjustable, infeed and outfeed tables are made up of cast iron so that they can easily give you desired results without any hassle.
Also, it is wise to buy a jointer planer whose knives are replaceable so that you can easily change the blades according to your requirements and get smooth and accurate results all the time.
Jointer mode
When choosing a joint planner, the jointer mode should be one of the functions that you should check. This mode allows users to complete basic jointing tasks and prepare the edges for other woodworking joints.
The planer mode is very useful for surfacing flat surfaces. Some woodworkers find it easier to work with only the planer mode instead of both modes. This can be beneficial in some cases depending on your woodworking projects.
So, what do you think of these factors? By considering all the above factors carefully, you will be able to buy a perfect new jointer planer for yourself.
Why a Jointer Planer Combo?
Both jointers and planers are helpful tools on their own, but their usefulness doubles when they are combined into a single machine.
Jointer planer combos are especially smart choices for hobbyists who may not have the workshop space that a professional possesses. The planer jointer combo machines take up much less space than purchasing each product individually would.
Generally, jointer planer combos are helpful in completing bigger projects because the larger planer cutterhead is used for jointing as well.
This helps woodworkers to joint larger pieces of wood than a singular jointer device would allow. Additionally, because there is just one cutterhead, there is much less maintenance required for the combo machine.
Jointer planer combos also tend to be cheaper than purchasing each machine separately. There is also great variability in price among the different jointer planer models, so there is sure to be one that comfortably fits into even the tightest of budgets.
If you require a portable jointer or planer, jointer planer combos can satisfy this need as well. The portability doubles because you only need to worry about moving one device as opposed to two if both services were required for a particular project.
The main downside to purchasing a jointer planer combo is that it takes a few minutes to switch the machine from one task to the other.
Occasionally some combo machines also lose alignment while transitioning from jointer to planer or vice versa. This could potentially lead to slight delays in churning out work.
Jointer Planer Combo Video
If you have never used a jointer planer combo machine before, here is a good YouTube video giving an overview of how one of the top models works:
