Best Jointer For Small Shop This Year – Power Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Jointer For Small Shop this year are:
BEST OVERALL
JET JJP-8BT 8-Inch Jointer/Planer Combo
- 8-inch cutting width
- 1.5 HP motor
- Combination jointer/planer
- Compact and portable design
- Integrated dust collection system
Introduction
Choosing the right jointer for your small shop can make all the difference in the quality of your woodworking projects. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to know which one is best suited for your needs. In this article, we will review the best jointers for small shops and provide you with a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional woodworker, the right jointer will help you achieve smooth, straight edges and perfect flat surfaces on your wooden pieces. Read on to discover our top picks and learn what to consider when buying a jointer for your small shop.
Reviews & Comparisons
1. JET JJP-8BT 8-Inch Jointer/Planer Combo
The JET JJP-8BT is a versatile 8-inch jointer/planer combo that is perfect for small shops. It combines two essential woodworking tools in one compact unit.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JJP-8BT for its versatility and space-saving design. It offers both jointing and planing functions, making it an excellent choice for small workshops.
Features
- 8-inch cutting width
- 1.5 HP motor
- Combination jointer/planer
- Compact and portable design
- Integrated dust collection system
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Versatile functionality
- Powerful motor
- Easy to use
- Good dust collection
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited bed length
- Setup can be tricky
- Heavier than other models
- Requires regular maintenance
Our Verdict
The JET JJP-8BT is an excellent choice for woodworkers who need both a jointer and a planer in a compact unit. Its powerful motor and versatile functionality make it a worthwhile investment for small shops.
2. WEN 6560T 10-Amp 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer
The WEN 6560T is a 6-inch benchtop jointer with a 10-amp motor, making it an affordable and efficient option for small workshops.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the WEN 6560T for its affordability and efficiency. It provides reliable performance without taking up too much space.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- 10-amp motor
- Benchtop design
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Affordable price
- Compact size
- Easy to set up
- Good performance
- Adjustable fence
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use
- Plastic components
- Shorter bed length
- Dust collection could be better
Our Verdict
The WEN 6560T is a great choice for hobbyists and small shop owners looking for an affordable and efficient jointer. Its compact size and reliable performance make it a practical option.
3. Delta Power Tools 37-071 6 Inch MIDI-Bench Jointer
The Delta Power Tools 37-071 is a 6-inch MIDI-bench jointer designed for precision and ease of use. It features a powerful motor and a durable build.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Delta 37-071 for its precision and durability. It offers excellent performance and is built to last, making it a reliable choice for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- 1 HP motor
- Cast iron construction
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust collection
Pros
- Durable construction
- Precise cutting
- Powerful motor
- Easy adjustments
- Effective dust collection
Cons
- Higher price
- Heavy
- Limited cutting width
- Requires regular maintenance
- Setup can be time-consuming
Our Verdict
The Delta 37-071 is a top choice for woodworkers who value precision and durability. Its powerful motor and effective dust collection make it a solid investment for small shops.
4. PORTER-CABLE PC160JT Variable Speed 6-Inch Jointer
The PORTER-CABLE PC160JT is a variable speed 6-inch jointer that offers flexibility and control for various woodworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the PORTER-CABLE PC160JT for its variable speed control, which allows users to adjust the speed for different types of wood. This feature makes it a versatile addition to any small shop.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- Variable speed control
- 1.5 HP motor
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Variable speed control
- Powerful motor
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Plastic components
- Shorter bed length
- Dust collection could be better
- Requires regular maintenance
Our Verdict
The PORTER-CABLE PC160JT is a versatile and affordable jointer that offers variable speed control for different woodworking tasks. Its compact design makes it a great fit for small shops.
5. Cutech 40160H-CT 6-Inch Bench Top Spiral Cutterhead Jointer
The Cutech 40160H-CT is a 6-inch bench top jointer with a spiral cutterhead, providing smooth and precise cuts for small woodworking projects.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Cutech 40160H-CT for its spiral cutterhead, which ensures smooth and precise cuts. Its compact size and powerful motor make it ideal for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- Spiral cutterhead
- 10-amp motor
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Smooth and precise cuts
- Compact design
- Powerful motor
- Easy to use
- Good dust collection
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Higher price
- Plastic components
- Shorter bed length
- Requires regular maintenance
Our Verdict
The Cutech 40160H-CT is an excellent choice for woodworkers who need smooth and precise cuts. Its spiral cutterhead and compact design make it a valuable addition to any small shop.
6. RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6” Benchtop Jointer
The RIKON 20-600H is a 6-inch benchtop jointer with a helical cutterhead, providing efficient and smooth cutting performance.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIKON 20-600H for its helical cutterhead, which ensures efficient and smooth cuts. Its compact design and powerful motor make it a great option for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- Helical cutterhead
- 10-amp motor
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Efficient cutting
- Smooth performance
- Compact size
- Powerful motor
- Good dust collection
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Higher price
- Plastic components
- Shorter bed length
- Requires regular maintenance
Our Verdict
The RIKON 20-600H is a great choice for woodworkers who need efficient and smooth cuts. Its helical cutterhead and compact design make it a valuable tool for small workshops.
7. Grizzly G0725 6 by 28-Inch Benchtop Jointer
The Grizzly G0725 is a 6-inch benchtop jointer with a 1.5 HP motor, offering reliable and powerful performance for small woodworking shops.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly G0725 for its powerful motor and durable construction. It provides reliable performance and is built to last, making it a solid choice for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- 1.5 HP motor
- Benchtop design
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Durable construction
- Reliable performance
- Easy adjustments
- Effective dust collection
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Higher price
- Heavy
- Requires regular maintenance
- Setup can be time-consuming
Our Verdict
The Grizzly G0725 is a reliable and powerful jointer that offers excellent performance for small woodworking shops. Its durable construction makes it a worthwhile investment.
8. Shop Fox W1829 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer
The Shop Fox W1829 is a 6-inch benchtop jointer with a 1.5 HP motor, designed for precision and ease of use in small woodworking shops.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Shop Fox W1829 for its precision and ease of use. It offers reliable performance and is built to last, making it a great choice for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- 1.5 HP motor
- Benchtop design
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Precise cutting
- Powerful motor
- Durable construction
- Easy adjustments
- Effective dust collection
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Higher price
- Heavy
- Requires regular maintenance
- Setup can be time-consuming
Our Verdict
The Shop Fox W1829 is a reliable and precise jointer that offers excellent performance for small woodworking shops. Its durable construction makes it a worthwhile investment.
9. Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer with helical cutterhead
The Powermatic 54HH is a 6-inch jointer with a helical cutterhead, designed for smooth and precise cutting performance in small woodworking shops.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Powermatic 54HH for its helical cutterhead, which ensures smooth and precise cuts. Its powerful motor and durable construction make it a top choice for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- Helical cutterhead
- 1 HP motor
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Smooth and precise cuts
- Powerful motor
- Durable construction
- Easy adjustments
- Effective dust collection
Cons
- Higher price
- Limited cutting width
- Heavy
- Requires regular maintenance
- Setup can be time-consuming
Our Verdict
The Powermatic 54HH is a top choice for woodworkers who need smooth and precise cuts. Its helical cutterhead and powerful motor make it a valuable addition to any small shop.
10. Craftsman CMEW020 10 Amp Benchtop Jointer
The Craftsman CMEW020 is a 10-amp benchtop jointer with a 6-inch cutting width, offering reliable performance for small woodworking shops.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Craftsman CMEW020 for its reliable performance and compact design. It provides smooth and precise cuts, making it a practical choice for small shops.
Features
- 6-inch cutting width
- 10-amp motor
- Benchtop design
- Adjustable fence
- Built-in dust port
Pros
- Reliable performance
- Smooth and precise cuts
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Plastic components
- Shorter bed length
- Dust collection could be better
- Requires regular maintenance
Our Verdict
The Craftsman CMEW020 is a reliable and affordable jointer that offers smooth and precise cuts. Its compact design makes it a great fit for small woodworking shops.
Buying Guide
<ul> <li><strong>Size and Footprint:</strong> In a small shop, space is at a premium. Look for a jointer that fits comfortably in your available space. Bench-top models are ideal for smaller workspaces. For more information on jointer sizes, visit <a href='https://www.woodmagazine.com/woodworking-tips/techniques/joinery/jointer-basics'>Wood Magazine</a> and <a href='https://www.popularwoodworking.com/tools/buying-jointer'>Popular Woodworking</a>.</li> <li><strong>Cutting Width:</strong> The cutting width determines the maximum width of the board you can joint. For small shops, a 6-inch jointer is generally sufficient, but 8-inch models offer more versatility.</li> <li><strong>Motor Power:</strong> Motor power affects the jointer's ability to handle different types of wood. Look for a motor with at least 1 HP for sufficient power in a small shop setting.</li> <li><strong>Bed Length:</strong> A longer bed provides better support for longer boards. However, for a small shop, a shorter bed length can save space while still offering adequate functionality.</li> <li><strong>Dust Collection:</strong> Effective dust collection is crucial for maintaining a clean shop and preventing health issues. Ensure the jointer has a dust port compatible with your dust collection system.</li> </ul>FAQs
What is a jointer used for?
A jointer is used to create flat surfaces on wood. It helps straighten edges and flatten faces, making it easier to join pieces of wood together for various woodworking projects.
What size jointer do I need for my small shop?
For most small shops, a 6-inch jointer is sufficient. However, if you frequently work with wider boards, you might consider an 8-inch model for added versatility.
How important is motor power in a jointer?
Motor power is crucial as it determines the jointer’s ability to handle different types of wood. A motor with at least 1 HP is recommended for small shop settings to ensure efficient performance.
Can I use a jointer for edge jointing?
Yes, a jointer is ideal for edge jointing. It allows you to create perfectly straight and smooth edges, making it easier to join boards together for panels or other woodworking projects.
Why is dust collection important in a jointer?
Effective dust collection helps maintain a clean shop environment and prevents health issues caused by wood dust. Ensure your jointer has a dust port compatible with your dust collection system.
Conclusion
Choosing the right jointer for your small shop is essential for achieving high-quality woodworking results. Consider factors like size, cutting width, motor power, bed length, and dust collection when making your decision. Our top picks offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Investing in a reliable jointer will make your woodworking projects smoother and more enjoyable.