Thickness planers & jointers

Which thickness planer or jointer should you choose?

The choice mainly depends on the operation to be carried out, the width of the workpieces, production volume, and the available space in the workshop.

A jointer is used to create a flat face and a reference edge on a piece of wood. The thickness planer is then used to obtain the desired thickness and parallel faces. To combine these two functions in a single machine, a combined jointer-planer is a suitable solution.

WoodPartners lists these different configurations as well as planer-sanders, to meet needs ranging from workshop surfacing to more sustained production applications.

Also find all second-stage processing machines listed on WoodPartners to complete or upgrade your setup.

Where are thickness planers and jointers used?

These machines are mainly used in carpentry shops, fitting-out workshops, cabinetmaking workshops, and professional units that process solid wood.

They are generally involved in preparing solid wood before cutting, profiling, or assembly operations. They make it possible to obtain consistent, dimensioned workpieces before the rest of the manufacturing process.

Some thickness planers are also designed for industrial production rates and can be integrated into lines dedicated to processing solid wood, engineered wood, or components intended for timber construction.

Which criteria should you compare before choosing a thickness planer or a jointer?

Working width, power, machine capacities, and configuration type are the first criteria to compare.

You should also take into account the sections you typically work with, frequency of use, and the required throughput. For a workshop with limited space or looking for greater versatility, a combined jointer-planer can avoid installing two separate machines. More intensive production may, on the contrary, justify equipment dedicated to each operation.

To bundle more functions, see combined machines. Also check out moulders for continuous profiling and stationary saws for cutting operations.

How do you compare thickness planers and jointers on WoodPartners?

To compare machines, start by determining whether you need equipment dedicated to jointing, planing, or a combined jointer-planer. Working width, power, and capacities suited to the sections you process then allow you to refine your selection.

Depending on the space available and how often each function is used, you can favor a combined machine or two separate pieces of equipment. Manufacturers listed on WoodPartners can then specify the configurations that match your workshop and your production rate.