The 11 Best Jointers 2023
To be able to generate better carpentry outcomes, you need to have your wooden edges prepared appropriately before joining or fixing them with one another.
You will require a rarely known yet crucial piece of equipment. This is called the jointer, and it is the subject of our conversations below.
11 Best Jointer Reviews
#1: Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
For quick and light tasks, you have this particular jointer for your consideration. It derives its power from mains electricity which makes it really powerful. Its compact size and foldable nature also mean that it is, on the whole, easier to handle and engage.
Four-sided Inserts
It does have some four-sided inserts. These play the role of providing smooth and quiet cutting as well as superior finish. With these features, you are less likely to interfere with those around you. This is not to mention also that you will obtain greater outcomes on the whole.
Extra-long Tables
The jointer’s tables are extra-long in size. For this reason, it has a pretty large capacity which accommodates tasks or materials that are ordinarily way too large for you to handle with the normal kinds of equipment.
Adjustment Lever
Lastly, you will enjoy the rare benefit of being able to sustain the working surface in a flat and stable manner at all times. You will make use of the adjustment leveler to play this role. With this feature, you will also fine-tune the depths of your cut.
Pros
- Pretty more accurate than most other standard jointers
- Possesses unique and user-friendly functionalities
- Contains a high mount switch for your convenience
- Its worm gear system accomplishes the fence tilting for greater reliability
- Operable smoothly by a simple hand-wheel
Cons
- Has to be maintained every now and then
- Too bulky for smoother operations and transportation
- Need for too much attention to handle well
#2: JET 708457DXK JJ-6CSDX 6-Inch 1 HP Jointer
Tackling numerous chores a time is not so mean a feat. It requires the incorporation of a tool such as this which is faster and more efficient. A tool of that kind should also be able to handle numerous loads at a time for the sake of expediting the tasks within the shortest realistic time possible.
High-speed Steel Quick-change Knives
Topping the charts among the list of its most awesome features are some three high-speed steel quick-change knives. These perform the acts of cutting the wood quite rapidly. They also give off superior finishes. You have the pleasure of awesome aesthetics to leverage.
Cast Iron In-feed
Some extra-long and heavy-duty cast iron infeed and outfeed tables also adorn this awesome jointer. It is on these two tables that you place the tasks you are handling to work on. Being strong and heavy-duty, the tables are reliable enough for intense applications and impacts.
1 HP Motor
A powerful 1 horsepower finishes the list of its most outstanding features. The power output of the motor allows for the performance of the toughest jointing tasks at a time. This means you will also not have to wait for too long to derive the desired outcomes.
Pros
- Handles bevel operations conveniently courtesy of the existence of the positive stops
- Provides for easy access thanks to the conveniently-placed industrial push-button controls
- Designed to be an easy-to-operate
- A helpful addition to your shop on the whole
- Has an efficient dust and chip disposal mechanism
Cons
- Low power output
- Cannot handle industrial-scale applications
- Requires too much attention
#3: JET JJP-12 12-Inch Jointer Planer
Lighter do-it-yourself activities need not be done carelessly. Indeed, these tasks to require a fair degree of care which can only be made possible by a specially-designed jointer. Look to no other jointer than this one as it has all that may be needful for such kind of tasks.
Dependable 13-ampere Motor
A dependable 13-ampere motor comes in first among the list of its most awesome and admirable features. The power output of this motor is so impressive as to be able to bring about the most desirable outcomes within the shortest time possible.
Heavy-duty 43-by-6-inch Fence
Next comes the heavy-duty 43-by-6-inch fence. The purpose of this is to handle bevel cuts which reach 45°. Being large and highly versatile, the fence is able to handle larger tasks and in various angles of use. The pleasure of maximum convenience is indeed yours to leverage.
Self-engaging Locks
Some self-engaging locks close the list of its top features. Their roles are mainly to confer safety to your hands while in the process of making use of the jointer. Being self-engaging, you will not have to put in too much effort and attention to have your way at all.
Pros
- Switches tool-free from the jointer to the planer mode
- Provides rapid cutting outcomes by reason of possessing the high-speed knife cutter heads
- Exudes some superior finishes as well
- Allows for quick adjustments and calibrations when needed
- Does not require the removal of the fences during the operations
Cons
- Has a shorter lifespan on the whole
- Cannot withstand intense pressure and abuse
- Unsuitable for industrial-scale applications
#4: PORTER-CABLE PC160JT Variable Speed 6″ Jointer
Working materials of different thicknesses and weights is ideally performed by a versatile kind of machine. Perhaps no other machine may guarantee you this level of reliability than the one under this consideration. Its variable speed is by far the most outstanding of these.
Built-in Cutter Head Lock
At its head is a built-in cutter lock. With this lock, you will comfortably and simply replace and adjust the knives. You will also enjoy maximum safety as you will not at all have to suffer the consequences that come along with a breach of security.
Center-mounted Fence
Next comes a center-mounted fence which provides exceptional support throughout the cutting process. In light of this, the machine brings about accurate edge jointing outcomes which are almost unachievable by other kinds of equipment.
Variable Speeds
Generally speaking, you will be able to vary the cutting speeds from 6,000 to 11,000 revolutions per minute. This allows you to choose the most desirable speed for the specific size and the hardness of the material you are working on at any given time.
Pros
- Performs many chores at a time like face jointing, flattening and edging
- Provides ample work support and space
- Able to handle loads that are as large as 6 inches wide
- Possesses great multi-tasking ability
- Able to withstand intense pressure and high impacts reliably
Cons
- Not for a starter or novice
- Cannot operate optimally in a remote location
- Takes longer to perform a typical task
#5: Delta Power Tools 37-071 6 Inch MIDI-Bench Jointer
Do you have a lot of work to do at a time? You might try your hand on this specific jointer if you answered this question in the affirmative. It is pretty fast and also accommodates numerous loads at a time. These make it qualified to come to your rescue.
Higher Cuts-per-minute
In all, this jointer can generate a comparatively high number of cuts per minute. It has the ability to deliver a whopping 20,000 cuts-per-minute! With this awesome speed and power, you may be sure that the largest number of chores may be handled with much ease.
Fence Positive Stops
Some positive stops occupy strategic portions of the jointer. These stops are at the 90˚ and 45˚ marks respectively. They also impact both the in-feed and the out-feed segments of the jointers, respectively. You have your safety and maximum precision well taken care of by virtue of them.
Awesome Power Output
On the whole, the machine exudes awesome power output of around 1.5 horsepower. This power output is sufficient enough to handle the chores yet moderate enough as not to inflict any unrealistic utility bills.
Pros
- Generates awesome white finish
- Comes in a pre-finished shelf for your convenience
- Ready to install and requires no assembly before use
- Great for your garages, bedrooms, and workshops
- Larger cut widths of 6 inches
Cons
- May not yield many benefits for smaller tasks
- Imposes too many expenses on you
- A bit too clumsy to handle with relative convenience
#6: Cutech 40160H-CT 6″ Bench Top Spiral Cutterhead Jointer
Your worksite ought not to be too cluttered or dirty. Indeed, it is possible to perform the most daunting chores but in a clean environment. You can only do this by bringing in a specially designed jointer for the job like this one.
Adjustable Cutterhead Guard Spring Tension
Its cutter head possesses a guard spring tension which is highly adjustable. This means you will be comfortable and convenient while engaging the various aspects and parameters of the jointer at any given time. The chances of accidents arising will also be reduced to an absolute minimum.
2 ½-inch Dust Port
A 2 and-a-half-inch dust port also accompanies this jointer. It basically evacuates the chips better than what most other jointers are able to do. It is this particular feature which prevents the accumulation of dirt and debris in your workplace.
Re-designed Spiral-type Cutterhead
Lastly, comes the newly re-designed spiral-type cutter head. This features twelve two-sided inserts. They jointly work hand-in-hand to generate awesome finishes for you. It, therefore, follows that you will also enjoy great aesthetic outcomes while engaging this jointer.
Pros
- Allows you to level both the in-feed and the out-feed tables while engaging the jointer
- Operable by both the novices and the professional workmen
- Cheaper to afford and make use of
- Tough and easy to transport the job site if necessary
- Tilts from 90° to 135° with no constraints at all
Cons
- Requires plenty of mounting space
- Demands too much attention on your part
- Slightly complicated to a beginner or inexperienced user
#7: Grizzly G0725 6 by 28-Inch Benchtop Jointer
Is your workstation a shop with limited space? Do you sometimes work off-site and in remote locations? Well, you have this particular jointer for your consideration. It is foldable and generally compact in size. As such, it is more likely to come to your rescue if you have this need in mind.
45° Bevel Adjustment
The machine allows you to tilt its worktop at an impressive angle of around 45°. This adjustment allows you to work at a posture which you deem convenient to your case. You are hence less likely to hurt or injure your spine at all.
Center-mounted Cast Iron Fence
To enable you to guide the stock through the blades, the jointer comes along with a center-mounted cast iron fence. Being strategically located, the fence allows for easy access and engagement. This eliminates any strains and inconveniences which ordinarily arise in times of use.
1-1/2-HP Motor
Its awesome power output is generated by the equally powerful 1-1/2-horsepower motor. Its power output is large enough to produce the required energy yet low enough to spare you the hefty utility bills. You have the dual pleasures of low operating expenses and higher output.
Pros
- Its knives are easier to adjust
- Has an excellent built-in dust collection system
- The worktop comes in the form of the cast iron table
- Tough enough to handle big jobs with ease
- Generates the impressive 10,000 revolutions per minute
Cons
- Higher power consumption levels
- Inflicts higher levels of utility bills
- Has a smaller worktop
#8: Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer with helical cutter head
Frequent and long-term applications do have the tendency to wear out the machines considerably. To be able to guarantee awesome performance without any hitch, you have to lay your hand on a machine which is strong and durable enough such as this.
Four-inch Radius Inserts
Some four-inch radius inserts do form a vital part and parcel of this jointer. They are mounted in such a way as to let you approach the wood at a comfortable angle of around 14°. This guarantees your comfort at any given time leading to great outcomes.
Dust Collection Chute
A dust collection chute also accompanies this jointer. It is this chute which collects the dust which originates from underneath the cutter head. Courtesy of this chute, you will experience a very clean work surface and spare yourself from any respiratory issues.
Durable Carbide
It does have a durable carbide which forms the bedrock against which the entire system is housed. This combines with shear-cutting and low-impact actions. With these qualities at hand, the entire system has a prolonged lifespan indeed.
Pros
- Prevents tipping and other kinds of accidents
- Performs quieter operations compared to the conventional cutter heads
- The 6-inch long adjustable in-feed and out-feed tables jointly confer more working space
- Shields you from much of the impacts which are typical of this task
- Provides finer finish than most conventional systems
Cons
- Only for professional applications
- Not for the starters or the less experienced users
- Requires you to dig too deep in your pocket to afford
#9: RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head
Those chores which are extremely tough such as industrial applications require powerful tools for jobs. This is where the Rikon Power tools come in. These tools are optimized for power and professional applications such as those of the industrial scale and magnitude.
Rigid All-metal Construction
In its entirety, this tool comes in the form a rigid all-metal construction. This being the case, the tool is powerful, tough and extremely durable. It is hence able to withstand extreme impacts and ensure repeated cycles of use.
Adjustable Fence
With this particular jointer, it is easier to guide the stocks through the blades. This stems from the adjustable nature of the fences. They may tilt between the angles of 90° to 45° quickly, easily, and accurately. This also allows you to enjoy your work with ease.
2-edge Insert Cutters
To cut through wood or other materials, this jointer gives you the benefit of some two-edge insert cutters. They perform supper cutting action faster and more effectively. You will not feel unnecessarily fatigued or bored as you engage the tool at any given time no matter how long you take.
Pros
- Produces some flat surfacing outcomes
- Provides you unmatched machined aluminum work tables
- Comes along with a quick depth-setting mechanism that is also scaled
- Possesses a spring-loaded safety guard for your safety
- The front safety on/off switch confers added safety to you
Cons
- Imposes too much clutter to your workshop
- A bit heavy to carry around with ease
- Calls for some expertise to handle effectively
#10: Shop Fox W1829 Benchtop Jointer, 6-Inch
If you are that kind of a person who changes locations every quite often, you want a compact and lighter jointer like this one. Being compact and light in weight, you will find this particular machine quite convenient to carry around as the need may so dictate.
Built-in Mini Impeller
After you are through with your cutting process, you will engage the built-in mini impeller to suck the dirt away. This impeller is smaller and compact in size. With regards to this, it is also comparatively simpler to engage and is thus convenient.
Quick-adjustment Knife Design
Its knife comes in the form of the quick-adjustment design. Being quick, you will spend less time to have your way and obtain the desired outcomes within the shortest realistic time possible. This means you will have plenty of time at your disposal to perform other chores that equally matter.
Rugged Cast-iron Construction
A rugged cast-iron construction closes the list of its most attractive features. With regards to this construction, the machine is strong, tough, and durable. This lets you perform numerous operational cycles without having to repair and maintain the machine every now and then.
Pros
- Requires no time-consuming and frustrating knife setting jigs
- Blows out the dust port for cleaner outcomes
- Provides comparatively cleaner cuts and work outcomes
- Its fully-adjustable Aluminum fence with stops enhance your security
- Keeps other things and accessories neat and tidy
Cons
- Potentially injurious to handle
- Requires hefty operational and maintenance costs
- Performs fewer operational cycles
#11: Festool 574447 XL DF 700 Domino Joiner Set
Do you want to enjoy the benefits of stationary machines like the hollow chisel and slot mortises? If you answered this question in the affirmative, you have this particular jointer for your consideration. It incorporates those features yet is smaller and cheaper to come by.
Unique Patented Cutting Actions
Its cutting actions are unlike any other. This is because they are unique and patented. You will not find any other tool which possesses such kind of action. They also oscillate and rotate in such a way as to leave behind repeatable, clean, and perfect mortises each time.
Adjustable Mortise
An adjustable mortise also forms a vital part of this machine. It is combined with some awesome width adjustments. These allow you to align the panels under operations easily with the turn of a dial. The dual pleasures of higher accuracy and maximum precision are yours to leverage.
Indexing Pins
To align your projects on the worktop, you have the indexing pins for your use. They make it possible for you to quickly align the edge of the workpiece for the sake of more accurate placements. You will thus eliminate any guesswork in the course of making your way out.
Pros
- Cheaper to afford compared to other mortises
- Requires no prior setup and maintenance
- Operable from a remote location
- Occupies less amount of floor space in your shop
- Amazingly simpler to use, faster and more accurate
Cons
- Cannot operate in remote or off-site locations
- Brings about limited value for money
- Cannot accommodate numerous accessories
What is a Jointer?
This is basically a special kind of a plane. It is used to prepare the wooden edges for the subsequent roles of joining or fixing them to one another.
The machine is also used to generate flat surfaces along the lengths of the boards. It operates on the narrow edges of the boards to prepare them for utilization as gluing into panels or butt joints.
Types Of Jointers
#1: Jointer-Planers
These are machines which embody the traits of jointers and planers at the same time. They allow you to switch between these two modes and perform both roles ‘under one roof.’ This kind of jointer is more convenient to use and is thus cost-effective.
#2: Benchtop Jointers
As the name suggests, this kind of jointers is mountable atop the bench. They are hence usable in an upright standing position. This is the kind of jointer to look up to if yours are smaller projects. It cannot work well for larger projects though.
#3: Open Stand Jointers
If you are cash-strapped, you have this open stand jointer for your consideration. It is less expensive and is also easier to move around. The jointer is, however, noisier and is thus not so useful in environments that are sensitive to noise.
#4: Closed-stand Jointers
The closed-stand jointers are by far the most common kinds of jointers you will find on the market. It is available in four main sizes namely the 6, 8, 12, and 16 respectively. The jointer comes in an enclosed base which keeps the motor and shields it from dust.
Benefits Of Using Jointer
Cleans Wood
The jointers play a crucial role in cleaning the wood. In particular, they get rid of the twists and cups out of the wood conveniently. With regards to this, they make your carpentry tasks quite clean and very efficient indeed.
Simplifies the Joining Process
Due to the fact that they are specially designed for the very purpose of joining wood, the jointers simplify the joining process considerably. They negate the need to acquire numerous tools and equipment separately and are thus cheaper.
Minimizes Injuries
They are definitely packed with numerous safety features. These safeguard you from all kinds of possible injuries such as abrasion, blisters, lacerations, and pricks. You may use them with the utmost confidence as you go along your business.
Higher Precision Outcomes
Due to the fact that the jointers may be set and calibrated appropriately, they generate higher precise outcomes. This is handy for those applications that are professional in nature such as industrial-scale tasks.
Mass Production
You can never hope to work on numerous projects and generate uniform outcomes at the same time without engaging the use of this jointer. This is because it may be tricky to transfer the exact same dimensions and generate the same outcomes.
Jointers Vs. Planer
A typical woodwork chore requires the use of both the planer and the jointer. These tools are largely the same in times of their construction and appearance. They, however, differ in two main regards namely:
Applications
The jointer flattens one face and the squares up the other edge. The planer, on the other hand, makes a second face flat and another one parallel to the first.
Blade or Knife Position
In the jointer, the blades are fixed in the table. By reason of this design, the knives will cut from below the load. The blades of the planer are however mounted above the workpiece. This means they cut from above, rather than below.
Why You Need A Jointer Instead Of A Planer?
Inasmuch as these two tools are interchangeable for a large part, they are however distinct in their functionality. Below are the strong reasons why you would rather make use of a jointer instead of a planer:
Great for Flattening Edges
Of the two tools, the jointer is by far the better suited for flattening edges. It makes the lumber boards flatter, removes the warps and twists to bring about square shapes which are desirable for your projects.
Adjustable for Different Angles
Jointers generally come along with adjustable fences which enable you to alter the angles of the cuts appropriately. With regards to this, the jointer allows you to make 45° or 90° cuts. It is subsequently great for molding pieces.
Straightens the Boards
Other than flattening the surfaces of your limber, the jointers also straighten the pieces and shape them to be perpendicular. It performs these two roles concurrently to save you a great deal of time.
Duplicates not Board Defects
Unlike the planer, the jointer does not duplicate the defects of the boards which they work on. This is why you would rather use them if you ever hope to achieve impeccable outcomes.
No Need for Multiple Passes
Lastly, you will not have to pass a surface at a time several times. This saves you a great deal of effort and time in generating the desired outcomes. The same may not be said of the planer as it requires numerous passes to yield any meaningful outcomes.
What Does a Jointer Do?
A jointer is a multipurpose tool which can help you a great deal in a typical carpentry workshop. Below are but a few of the roles it can and indeed plays well:
Generates Even Cuts
The jointer generates more uniform cuts. This is because it retains the set dimensions and easily duplicates them on the new surfaces where they are to be utilized. The end results are quite breathtaking to behold indeed.
Holds Boards Vertically
By their sheer construction and structure, the jointers are well capable of holding the boards in a stable and upright position throughout the process of operations. This allows for seamless preparations as it also wards off any fidgeting.
Squares the Boards
They are reliable for squaring other boards. With regards to this, the jointer allows you to select one side and use it as a reference for the others to be squared. This means uniform outcomes as well.
Flattens Surfaces
As has been stated numerous times, the jointer also flattens crooked surfaces. It eliminates warps, sups, and twists on the otherwise flat surfaces. This gives rise to smooth and uniform surfaces which are devoid of any issues.
How To Use A Jointer
Align The Blades With The Out-Feed Table
Start off by aligning the blade with the out-feed table. Set them at just the same heights or within a range of one to two-thousandths of an inch. Make use of a straight edge to do this.
Place The Straight Edge On The Outfeed Table And Then Rotate The Drum
The knives should be able to brush the edge while the blade passes and slides the straight edge. Be sure to set the blade height at 1/8 inches for this to happen.
Align The Fence So That It Is At Right Angles To The Feed Tables
Use an engineer’s square to do this alignment. Place the square strategically right next to the fence. Adjust appropriately until such a time that you cannot see any light.
Set The In-Feed Table
Set the in-feed table in such a manner as to allow for the generation of cuts that are 1/16 inches. Use the gauge which lies on the jointer to perform this role.
Inspect The Lumber You Intend To Work On
Inspect the lumber you intend to work on moments before you embark on the exercise. It the lumber is cupped, place its concave side downwards and take note of the direction.
Commence The Cutting Process
Now proceed to cut the lumber. Place the piece of lumber to be worked on in the jointer cutting along the direction of the grain. This is to minimize the emergence of any tear-outs on the surface. Mark the surfaces you intend to cut using chalk or pencil.
Make The Passes
With these calibrations, you now need to make as many passes as may be necessary to yield the final desired outcome. Do this until all the marks are completely gone.
Safety Considerations
Just like every other tool, the jointers too are potentially harmful and must, therefore, be handled with care. The following are some of the safety precautions you want to adhere to in the course of its use:
Pay keen attention to the blades and the drums. They generally spin too fast and may cut you if you are not careful.
Keep your hands at a comfortable distance from the spinning knives. You do not want to sustain any cuts, incisions, or other unnecessary injuries
Use eye and ear protection to shield these two sensitive parts of your body from any harms or damages. You might have to spend too much to restore them to their original proper working condition later.
Never put on loose clothing or anything around your neck such as a dangling pair of spectacles as you operate the jointer.
Always utilize the push blocks and push sticks to engage the jointer. Bare hands might normally be prone to injuries and damages.
Never leave the drum spinning unattended to. This might jeopardize others and predispose them to some injuries.
What Should I Look When Choosing A Jointer?
Size
These jointers come in diverse sizes and dimensions. These variations determine to a great extent the manner in which the jointers may be handled and the amount of space to be set aside. You should, therefore, pay keen attention to the size for maximum compatibility.
Type
Other than the size, they also differ in their respective types. These types are optimized for different kinds of purposes. It is yet again in your best interest to look for one which best suits your intended purpose or role at a time.
How You Work
You must also consider the manner in which you work. Are you a left or right-handed person? Do you like smaller or larger tools? Do you get tired easily? By answering these questions, it may be possible to arrive at the best kind of tool for your job.
Space Availability
How much space do you have in your custody? If yours is a small and cramped up space, you might want to look for a tool which is compact in size or foldable. You do not want to squeeze yourself unnecessarily as you engage the services of this wonderful tool.
How Deep Your Pockets Are
Lastly, you also want to consider how deep your pockets are. Set a comfortable budget space and then proceed to look for a jointer which fits well within that particular budget space. This is to spare you unnecessary strains and difficulties which ordinarily arise at such times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it possible to use a planer as a jointer?
This might be the case but under some exceptional circumstances though. You may use the planer to square up the edge of your wood piece but cautiously to prevent any damages of whichever kind.
Q2. What is the ideal price range for a good jointer?
Most good jointers cost an average of around $300. Some premium and heavy-duty versions can go all the way to $1,000.
Q3. Is a jointer really necessary?
YES, it is! Without it, you might not be able to create smooth and flat surfaces along the four main edges of the pieces of wood. Perhaps no other alternative may yield the same degree of outcomes.
Q4. What role does a cable jointer play?
It repairs and makes joints in the insulated power supply and control cables. These are often installed in underground pipes, overhead systems, and trenches.
Q5. What are jointer-planers and what are their roles?
These are devices which combine the traits of both the jointer and the planer. They hence play the dual roles of planning and jointing surfaces at a time.
Our Favorite……….
Our FAVORITE is Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer with helical cutter head.
Sources
The Team That Worked On This Review
Elena
Senior Editor
Eric
Web Researcher
Kathy
Writer
Albert
Writer
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