The 10 Best Jointers of 2023

Photo: Porter-Cable

Jointers are considered essential woodworker tools because of the value they create for your projects by flattening and straightening wooden boards and workpieces.

They are considered the starting point of most woodworking projects after acquiring the lumber. A jointer produces flat surfaces on board edges effectively preparing them for butt joints of gluing.

Power, cutting width, and type of cutter head are some of the key features that will determine the jointer you choose.

In our jointer review, we evaluate the tool’s many types and help you pick on that best suits your woodworking demands.

10 Best Jointers – Review

IMAGE	​PRODUCT	​FEATURES
	1. Jet 708457DXK (Best Overall)	Powerful dual-115/230V motor Premium 3-knife steel cutterhead Precision-machined table Adjustable feed tables for accuracy
	2. Porter-Cable PC160JT (Best Budget)	Pocket-friendly price Variable speed for versatility Efficient jackscrew knife leveling Lightweight and portable
	3. Powermatic 1610086K (Best Professional)	Heavy-duty 2 HP motor Superior helical cutterhead Long 73-inch support tables Convenient high-mount switch
	4. Powermatic 1610082 PJ-882HH (Best for Large Workpieces)	Powerful 2 HP motor Extra-long 82-inch table Superior 8-inch cutting capacity High-performance helical cutterhead
	5. Shop Fox W1829 (Best Under $500)	Powerful 12A, 1.5 HP motor Clean-cutting 2-knife head Reliable dust mini-impeller Multi-application jointer
	6. Jet 718250K (Best for Precision Cutting)	Helical cutterhead for precision Strong cast iron infeed/outfeed table Large adjustment handwheels 2-way firm tilting fence
	7. Powermatic 1791317K (Best 6-inch Jointer)	Dual 115V/230V quiet motor Reliable cutterhead with carbide inserts Long 66-inch cast iron tables An efficient debris evacuation system
	8. Delta 37-071 (Stable & Low-Vibration)	Stable low-vibration cast iron build Precision-machined table/fence Adjustable fence with positive stops Fast 20,000 CPM cutting speed
	9. Cutech 40160H-CT (Beginner Benchtop Jointer)	Reliable 10A power output Efficient spiral-type cutterhead Adjustable fence for flexibility Compact benchtop unit
	10. Rikon Power Tools 20-600H (Durable Benchtop Jointer)	Durable all-metal build Reliable 6-row helical cutterhead A spring-loaded safety guard Lightweight at 36 pounds

1. Jet 708457DXK – Best Overall Jointer

Photo: Jet

• Power: 115/230V, 1 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 237 pounds

Offering the perfect blend of performance, reliability, ease of use, and superior cutting accuracy, the Jet 708457DXK easily becomes our best overall jointer.

It features a premium 1 HP motor with dual 115/230V input support, which is a plus for operational flexibility. The motor is fan-cooled (TEFC) to ensure consistent performance.

Performance is further enhanced by the jointer’s steel cutterhead, which supports 3 high-quality knives each with 2 cutting edges for extended knife life. The knives’ height is also adjustable and lockable.

A long cast iron table guarantees cutting accuracy through its precision-machined finish, which ensures a smooth and predictable wood glide. The 55.75-inch-long table offers a decent length for standard workpieces.

You can adjust the infeed and outfeed tables easily using Jet’s exclusive front-mounted handwheels for accurate and easy height adjustments. There’s an automatic limited integrated to the infeed table to prevent making aggressive cuts that run deeper than 1/8-inch.

At 237 pounds, however, the Jet 708457DXK is notably weighty and contributes to the engaging and time-consuming assembly process.

Pros:

• Powerful dual-voltage motor
• High-performance cutterhead
• Precision-machined strong table
• Adjustable infeed/outfeed tables

Cons:

• Intensive assembly process

2. Porter-Cable PC160JT – Best Budget Jointer

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Power: 120V, 10A
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 35 pounds

You can still get decent performance from your jointer without breaking the bank, and the pocket-friendly Porter-Cable PC160JT promises just that.

Its 10A motor ensures that jointer delivers on most of your small home projects, including edging, flattening, and face jointing.

Cutting versatility in another unique feature of this jointer, which it achieves through a variable speed range of 6,000 – 11,000 RPM that can deliver 12,000 – 22,000 cuts per minute.

The variable speed gives you the flexibility of choosing just the right speed for different material sizes and thicknesses.

And when you want to adjust or even replace the tool’s 2 knives, the cutterhead offers a jackscrew leveling arrangement to simplify these processes.

This affordable jointer is surprisingly lightweight at 35 pounds, for this category of power tools. Shifting the unit around the workshop, occasionally, should not be difficult.

An issue you may encounter with the Porter-Cable PC160JT is its grooved fence design, which may not be the most ideal for all materials.

Pros:

• Reasonable price
• Variable speed for flexibility
• Easy knife adjustment
• Lightweight and fairly portable

Cons:

• Sub-optimal fence design

3. Powermatic 1610086K – Best Professional Jointer

Photo: Powermatic

• Power: 230V, 2 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 8 inches
• Weight: 297 pounds

Professionals who demand a heavy-duty jointer with consistent and reliable power, superior tool capacity, and a high-performance cutter bed will feel at home with the Powermatic 1610086K.

This jointer packs top-of-the-range features tailor-made for professional woodworking. It has a powerful 2-horsepower motor that powers through the most demanding cutting tasks flawlessly and continuously.

The tool’s power is complemented by a high-performance helical cutter head with 4-sided inserts that provided smoother, accurate finishes while minimizing vibrations and noise.

Extended workpiece support is offered by the extra-long 73-inch tables that have been mounted on dovetailed ways. And there’s an adjustment lever to offer quick infeed table positioning plus cutting depth fine-tuning.

Ease of use is achieved through the tool’s high-mount switch to provide operator convenience.

A potential issue with the Powermatic 1610086K its support for 230V power input, only. Some users with different power configurations may need to do some modifications to accommodate the jointer.

Pros:

• Powerful and reliable motor
• Premium helical cutterhead
• Long tables for extended workpieces
• Convenient operation

Cons:

• Supports 230V input only

4. Powermatic 1610082 PJ-882HH – Best Jointer for Large Workpieces

Photo: Powermatic

• Power: 230V, 2 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 8 inches
• Weight: 744 pounds

For heavy-duty jointing involving extra-long and wide workpiece, no other jointer gets the job done better than the Powermatic 1610082 PJ-882HH.

This commercial-grade jointer’s features are optimized for the most demanding tasks that other smaller models cannot support. It is the longest table length we’ve recorded at 82-inches, which allows the tool to accommodate extended boards.

The length is complemented by a wide 8-inch cutting capacity, which is the widest on our list. To help maximize on these superior capacities is a powerful 2 HP motor housed in a steel stand to help it power flawlessly through the most demanding tasks.

Its high-performance helical cutter head utilizes individual carbide cutters, each of which has 4 indexed cutting edges for sharpness retention.

All these superior features of the Powermatic 1610082 PJ-882HH make it a very heavy expensive unit.

Also, it is astonishingly heavy at 744 pounds. While it is meant for more permanent installation, the whole process may prove tedious and possibly require some assistance.

Pros:

• Very powerful motor
• Extra-long table for extended workpieces
• Wide cutting capacity
• High-performance cutterhead

Cons:

• Expensive
• Very heavy at 744 pounds

5. Shop Fox W1829 – Best Jointer Under $500

Photo: Shop Fox

• Power: 110V, 12A, 1.5 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 80 pounds

There’s a lot of performance, versatility and low-maintenance value the Shop Fox W1829 offers you for a very affordable price considering how expensive jointers can get.

It is driven by a powerful 12A motor with a 1.5 horsepower output to deliver an impressive cutting speed of 20,000 cuts per minute. This power is channeled through a 2-knife HSS cutterhead that makes very clean cuts.

Versatility is achieved through the jointer’s ability to perform surface planing, edge jointing, and bevel cuts, with optimal efficiency, with the aid on an adjustable fence capable of 45-degree and 90-degree inward, and 45-degree outward adjustment.

When it comes to ease of maintenance, the tool has a built-in mini impeller that will suck away chips from the cutter head and direct them to the dust port reliably.

There’s not much to complain about the Shop Fox W1829 other than its confusing and rather time-consuming setup process. Luckily, this is not a daily affair.

Pros:

• Powerful and fast motor
• High-performance cutterhead
• Executes multiple cutting styles
• Reliable dust management

Cons:

• The setup process could be easier

6. Jet 718250K – Best Jointer for Precision Cutting

Photo: Jet

• Power: 230V, 2 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 8 inches
• Weight: 397 pounds

Precision is a key priority for all woodworkers, and the Jet 718250K comes fine-tuned to offer just that, alongside reliable all-round performance for the busy workshop.

Superior finishes are made possible by a helical cutter head, which is further equipped with indexable carbide inserts, which not only offers superior finishes but enhances quiet operation as well.

The 2-horsepower motor sails effortlessly through the most demanding tasks. This power combines well with the extra-long heavy-duty cast iron outfeed and infeed tables, which are precision-machined for extra smoothness.

It also offers superior handling performance through the large chrome handwheels and easy-to-reach locks to simplify table adjustment for hassle-free operation.

Then there’s the tall, rigid fence that provides additional support to your boards. You can execute bevel cuts using the fence because it can be tilted at 45-degree and 90-degree stops.

The Jet 718250K is, however, heavy at 397 pounds, and may present some difficulty during the installation process. You will need an extra pair of hands for that.

Pros:

• High-precision cutterhead
• Heavy-duty infeed/outfeed tables
• Easy table adjustments
• Firm adjustable fence

Cons:

• Heavy at 397 pounds

7. Powermatic 1791317K – Best 6-inch Jointer

Photo: Powermatic

• Power: 115/230V, 1 HP
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 328 pounds

In the class of 6-inch jointers, the Powermatic 1791317K reigns supreme with its heavy-duty cutter head setup, quiet operation, high-performance fence system.

This tool’s dual 115V/230V motor has been factor-mounted in the cabinet for quiet operation with vibration reduction. It sits on a special mount that ensures easy belt-tension adjustments.

The cutter head on this tool, like that of many other similar models, is helical for efficiency and precision cutting. It features special machined carbide inserts positioned in spiral-shaped rows for reliable and quiet operation.

Precision-ground cast-iron tables provide adequate support to large and heavy boards. Also, table adjustment is notably easy.

At the tool’s base is a dust collection chute for reliable debris evacuation from underneath the cutter head, ensuring the tables are constantly free of debris. A 4-inch-diameter port is located on the tool’s exterior and pointed towards the floor for efferent debris ejection.

There’s not much to dislike in this tool other than its weight of 328 pounds, which requires an extra hand during the assembly process.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty and quiet motor
• Tough butterhead with carbide inserts
• Precision-ground tables for support
• A reliable dust collection system

Cons:

• Assembly requires some assistance

8. Delta 37-071 – Stable and Low-Vibration Jointer

Photo: Delta

• Power: 120V, 12A
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 76 pounds

Delta 37-071 is designed to provide superior stability and vibration reduction during operation to produce consistent results and reduce material wastage.

It features a cast iron construction that is both strong and durable while increasing the weight of the tool just enough for it to achieve the right degree vibration-reducing stability.

The jointer’s table and fence are precision-machined to support long-term tool accuracy with minimal adjustment to the setup. Accurate jointing is especially supported by a cast-iron fence system.

You can achieve custom cuts with this jointer using its adjustable fence system that supports positive stops at 90 degrees and 45 degrees, in an out.

And the tool manages cuts of up to 1/8-inch depth and delivers them at incredible speeds of 20,000 cuts per minute for accuracy enhancement.

We, however, found that adjusting the fence to a perfect 90 degrees takes a bit of effort and constant monitoring on the Delta 37-071.

Pros:

• Stable with vibration reduction
• Strong and durable construction
• Precision-enhancing table
• Adjustable fence system

Cons:

• 90-degree fence adjustment could be better

9. Cutech 40160H-CT – Beginner Benchtop Jointer

Photo: Cutech

• Power: 120V, 10A
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 40 pounds

If you’re just getting started with jointers, that Cutech 40160H-CT is just the right fit for you with its good balance of performance, ease of use, and flexibility.

Its 10A motor produces enough power to cut through much of the materials you will be using. Optimal cutting performance is supported by the spiral-type cutter head equipped with 12 double-sided inserts.

The tool offers a 4-3/8-inch by 19-5/8-inch fence that you can easily tilt between 90 and 135 degrees to create custom cuts on your workpieces.

Also, its 30-inch total table length is a good fit for the tool’s size and comes in handy when working with similar-sized boards. The length helps with enhancing workpiece stability and leveling.

Because of its compact 32 x 12.25 x 11-inch size, you can place the tool on a benchtop and it won’t take up a lot of your precious workshop real estate.

We did notice, however, that table alignment is a hit-or-miss affair. Sometimes leveling them to desired specifications can prove tedious.

Pros:

• Reliable power output
• Efficient spiral-type cutterhead
• Adjustable fence with positive stops
• Compact and space-saving

Cons:

• Table alignment can be inconsistent

10. Rikon Power Tools 20-600H – Durable Benchtop Jointer

Photo: Rikon Power Tools

• Power: 120V, 10A
• Cutting Capacity: 6 inches
• Weight: 36 pounds

Durability is where the Rikon Power Tools 20-600H excels the most, alongside its high-precision cutter head setup.

The tool boasts of an all-steel constriction, and machined aluminum tables to enhance the jointer’s durability and extend its life.

Cutting performance is top-notch thanks to the tool’s 6-row helical-style cutter head that accepts 12 HSS 2-insert cutters that perform consistently well in delivering smooth finishes.

It offers quick and easy depth adjustments through the simplified depth setting mechanism that has a clear scale. Complementing this system is an adjustable fence that tilts from 90 degrees to 45 degrees while maintaining high accuracy degrees.

For operator safety, the tool offers a spring-loaded safety guard and front on/off switch to protect from accidental triggers.

This jointer is notably lightweight, at only 36 pounds. It is easy to set it up and even occasionally shift it around the workshop.

An issue we noted with the Rikon Power Tools 20-600H its non-standard dust port, which may present problems when you want to hook up the jointer to a shop vac.

Pros:

• Durable metal construction
• High-performance cutter head
• Simplified depth adjustment
• Lightweight and fairly portable

Cons:

• Non-standard dust port

How to Buy the Best Jointer

Photo: Jet

1. Types of Jointer

There are many types of jointers, but these are the 4 most common ones:

Closed-Stand

These are the most common jointers in the market today. It comes in a variety of sizes, including 6, 8, 12, and 16 inches.

Its base is enclosed, and houses the delicate motor, effectively protecting git from dust and debris. This design also helps in reducing tool vibration and noise.

Open-Stand

As opposed to closed-stand jointers, an open-stand one has its motor exposed. This exposure increases the tool’s noise production.

However, open-stand jointers tend to be less expensive than closed-stand ones, and are even easier to transport because of their reduced weight and components.

Tabletop

Tabletop jointers are the most popular when it comes to flattening of heavy boards that benchtop jointers often struggle to handle. They work well with thicker and wider wood.

The shortcoming of most tabletop jointers is their poor portability. They tend to be heavy and are best left fixed in desired sections of your workshop.

Benchtop

These jointers are table-top versions that rest on a workbench. Their design ensures the tools are conservative of space, making them ideal for woodworkers with limited workspaces.

They are also fairly portable because they weigh significantly less than closed-stand jointers. That said, their compact size should not throw you off. They are very powerful tools regardless of size.

2. Power

Jointers can prove to be power-intensive tools, especially the heavy-duty models designed to handle different materials and run continuously.

The ideal power output of your jointer, typically measured in ampere (A) and/or horsepower (HP), will depend on the nature of tasks, intensity, and frequency of operation.

For light-to-medium-duty tasks, a 6A – 10A jointer is more than sufficient, but for more intensive woodworking, you may want to consider a jointer with over 10A (and 2 HP) power output.

3. Bed Size

The bed size of your jointer is an important consideration because it determines the tool’s capacity. Size is measured in bed length and width.

If you work with extended (long) boards, regularly, consider getting a jointer with a long bed, such as the Powermatic 1610082 PJ-882HH, which has and 80-inch-long bed.

As for width, the same principle applies. Jointers with large widths (typically of up to 8 inches) accommodate wider boards than smaller-width ones (of up to 6 inches).

4. Cutting Depth

The cutting depth of your jointer refers determines how much stock is cut off from the wood during the straightening action.

Typically, jointers will offer a depth of less than 1 inch to ensure the least amount of material is shaved off the board. If the depth was large, then there’s the risk of material wastage, especially with multiple passes.

The most common maximum depth capacity for jointers is 1/8-inch. You can get more cutting versatility from a jointer with adjustable depth.

5. Dust collection

Dust collection systems are integral components of jointers, especially given the large about of wood chippings the tool generates, which can build up incredibly fast to prove hard to clean.

The ideal jointer should have, at least, a dust port that allows hooking of vacuuming systems such as shop vacs to help with the evacuation of chips and other debris.

Some jointers, such as the Shop Fox W1829 come with built-in impellers that help draw the chips aware from the bed and redirect them to the dust port. Such mechanisms enhance dust collection even more.

6. Budget

The price you pay for a jointer is one of the greatest determinants of the model you will ultimately choose.

If you are on a tight budget, you can consider some pocket-friendly models that go for less than $500. Most of the low-priced jointers are benchtop ones, which may come with slightly scaled-down features compared to pricier and larger ones.

Heavy-duty jointers tend to cost more, often in the excess of $1,000, and that’s because they offer more power, larger capacities, and more advanced cutting heads for intensive tasks.

How to Use a Jointer

Photo: Powermatic

1. Ensure Tables are Coplanar

The tuning of your jointer’s infeed and outfeed tables is critical to the success of the flattening process.

You can use a straight edge to ensure both tables are as parallel (coplanar) as possible. You can always jump back to your user manual to guide you with this process.

2. Square the Jointer Fence

In this stage, you can utilize a digital angle square or a machinist square to help level the fence to a perfect square.

It’s important that you get this process right so that the jointer delivers accurately on its purposes and prevents material wastage.

3. Understand Tool Limits

Limits involve bed length and cutting capacity (width). Because jointers come in a variety of sizes, understand how much material your model can accommodate for it to work optimally.

Your jointer’s manual is a valuable resource in helping you determine how much board the tool can accommodate.

4. Set Cutting Depth

Adjust the cutting depth to the desired setting. It’s best to choose smaller depths even though they may require several passes, so as not to overwhelm the motor.

A depth of 1/32-inch, for instance, is considered ideal. It may require only 2 passes to achieve perfect straightening.

5. Feed the Board Properly

Finally, feed the board to the cutting head in the most efficient way, which is by placing it against the fence, and double-checking that it sits flat against it.

Use your left hand to drive the board’s front edge, and the right hand to provide gentle rear pressure. Ensure a smooth transition between the 2 feed tables.

Remember that pressure equalization is critical to successful feeding. You can practice this with waste boards to get it right.

Conclusion

Our jointer review demonstrates the value these tools contribute to your woodworking projects, whether you’re a professional, beginner, or hobbyist.

Pick Jet 708457DXK if you want the best of them all. It is a high-performance tool that will deliver on the most demanding tasks.

If you’re on a tight budget, Porter-Cable PC160JT offers some decent and reliable performance for less than $400.

For professionals looking to increase productivity in the workshop, Powermatic 1610086K is a heavy-duty, and superior-capacity tool that supports intensive and extensive cutting.