DeWALT DW735X Benchtop Planer Review 2024

Homeowners, professional craftsmen, and DIY enthusiasts are always on the hunt for tools that offer unrivaled performance, precision, and power. Among the many top-tier tools available in the market, the DeWALT DW735X Planer undoubtedly stands out, adding a new dimension to woodworking. This comprehensive review dives deep into the features, performance, and value of this impressive planer, shedding light on what makes it a fantastic addition to any workshop.

What’s Included

When considering the Dewalt dw735x, I would strongly suggest it over the dw735. The dw735x package comes with the basic planer assembly, both infeed and outfeed support tables, as well as an additional pair of reversible blades. This basic planer assembly, consistent in both the dw735 and dw735x models, is equipped with a set of reversible blades by default. The planer is also equipped with a dust port adapter, compatible with either a 2.5” or 4” hose. For upkeep and blade replacements, Dewalt thoughtfully provides a hex wrench. This tool is uniquely designed with magnetic handles, making blade handling considerably easier.

Features of DeWALT DW735X Planer

The DeWALT DW735X is not your average planer; it’s a state-of-the-art tool loaded with features that enhance precision, efficiency, and convenience in woodworking.

1. Three-Knife Cutter Head: One of the most distinctive features of the DW735X is its three-knife cutter head. This feature allows for a smoother, more seamless finish, reducing the need for sanding.
2. Two-Speed Gear Box: To accommodate a variety of wood types and finishes, DeWALT equipped the DW735X with a two-speed gearbox. This feature enables users to adjust feed speed to either 96 or 179 CPI for optimal performance.
3. Fan-Assisted Chip Ejection System: Woodworking can be messy, but DeWALT’s DW735X takes care of that with its fan-assisted chip ejection system. This mechanism removes chips and sawdust from the cutter head, directing it to the included dust shroud.
4. Extra-Large Turret Depth Stop: For quick, accurate settings and better control over the thickness of the material, the DW735X features an extra-large turret depth stop. This feature ensures consistent, repeatable cuts, significantly improving efficiency.
5. Material Removal Gauge: This unique feature provides users with a real-time measure of the amount of material being removed per pass, offering unprecedented precision and consistency in woodworking tasks.

Personal Experience

From the moment I first powered on the DeWALT DW735X Planer, I knew this tool was going to be a game-changer in my woodworking projects. The sturdy build, smooth operation, and overall design instantly struck me as indicative of the high-quality craftsmanship that DeWALT is known for.

Operating the DW735X was a breeze, thanks to its intuitive controls and ergonomic design. Its 15-amp motor handled hardwoods like oak and mahogany with ease, and the two-speed gearbox allowed me to adjust the planning speed based on my needs. I was particularly impressed with the three-knife cutter head, which provided an immaculate, smooth finish every time. This made my work not only easier but also quicker as it reduced the amount of post-planing sanding I needed to do.

One feature that genuinely won me over was the material removal gauge. It provided real-time feedback on the depth of the cut, helping me to avoid guesswork and minimize wood wastage. I also found the extra-large turret depth stop particularly useful when I had to make multiple identical cuts.

The fan-assisted chip ejection system is another feature I have grown to appreciate. It efficiently managed wood chips and sawdust, keeping my workspace clean and ensuring the longevity of the cutter head.

Despite the numerous advantages, I did find a couple of aspects that could be improved. The weight of the DW735X is substantial, and moving it around my workshop required a bit of effort. Also, the noise level was quite high during operation, making it necessary to use ear protection. I must say though, the excellent performance of the planer outweighed these minor inconveniences.

When it comes to durability, the DW735X has proven to be a real workhorse. I’ve put it through extensive use over the past few months, and it’s stood up to the task brilliantly. The knives are still sharp, showing little signs of wear, even after several weeks of intense use.

In conclusion, my experience with the DeWALT DW735X Planer has been overwhelmingly positive. It has not only elevated the quality of my woodworking projects but also made the process more efficient and enjoyable. Yes, it does require a significant initial investment, but the return in terms of performance, precision, and durability is worth every penny. It’s not just a tool; it’s a trusty companion in my woodworking journey.

Add-Ons and Considerations

With the Dewalt dw735, several accessory options can enhance your experience. Foremost among these is the folding outfeed and infeed tables, a standard inclusion with the dw735x model. While these extensions aren’t mandatory, they’ve proven invaluable for handling longer boards in my experience. However, these tables may need occasional recalibration. Particularly with heavier boards, I’ve observed that the tables can sag over time, possibly due to the set screws’ insufficient strength—a minor oversight in its design.

A notable drawback of the dw735x is its substantial weight at 92 pounds. This makes it more apt as a fixed planer than a portable benchtop one. To address this, I opted for the Dewalt planer stand featuring an integrated mobile base, which, though a tad on the expensive side, offers both stability and convenience, fitting the planer just right.

For those keen on precision, consider upgrading the planer’s scale with the Wixey WR510 Digital Readout Kit. While not essential, it allows for meticulous thickness adjustments, especially for boards that don’t fit the standard 1/4-inch increments. I have this installed on my planer—it functions as expected, though I seldom require its advanced features.

Lastly, if you’re set on acquiring the dw735 or dw735x, investing in quality ear protection is advisable given the planer’s noise levels. My top recommendation is the 3M Worktunes. I’ve experimented with various others, but none matched its efficacy. Plus, its Bluetooth feature certainly makes workshop hours more enjoyable.

Expanded Performance Analysis

The DeWALT brand has long been associated with top-tier performance, and the DW735X Planer exemplifies this with unparalleled power and precision. At its heart lies a potent 15-amp motor that delivers exceptional force, making large, deep cuts in hardwoods a breeze. This powerful motor can deliver speeds of up to 20,000 RPM under no-load conditions, a feature that is integral to the efficiency of any woodworking project.

The DW735X isn’t just about raw power, though; it’s engineered for precision that ensures every cut is spot-on. The three-knife cutter head, a standout feature, helps achieve ultra-smooth finishes, reducing the need for extensive sanding post-planing. The planer’s material removal gauge – a real-time indicator of the amount of material being removed per pass – ensures accuracy, reducing guesswork and material wastage. Thus, the DW735X guarantees precise cuts, time after time, upholding the DeWALT promise of performance and reliability.

Pros and Cons

Benefits:

1. Powerful Performance: The planer’s robust 15-amp motor is capable of handling even the most challenging hardwoods, ensuring optimal efficiency and speed across a variety of projects.
2. Unparalleled Precision: Thanks to the three-knife cutter head and the material removal gauge, every cut is accurate to the millimeter, which helps to eliminate guesswork and reduce material wastage.
3. Superior Durability: Built with high-quality materials, the DeWALT DW735X Planer is designed for longevity. Moreover, its knives last 30% longer than traditional disposable knives, leading to less frequent changes and increased productivity.
4. Ease of Use: The user-friendly design, with easy-to-access controls and a comfortable grip, makes it a suitable tool for both seasoned professionals and beginners.
5. Great Value: Despite its higher price tag, the DW735X offers superior value in the long run, thanks to its unparalleled features, performance, and durability.

Drawbacks:

1. Weight and Portability: Weighing in at 92 lbs., the DW735X is quite heavy. This might affect portability, especially for those who need to move their planer around regularly.
2. Noise Level: Like many powerful woodworking tools, the DW735X can be quite loud during operation. This may require users to use ear protection, especially during prolonged use.
3. Price Point: The initial cost of the DeWALT DW735X Planer is higher than some other planers in the market. Despite its long-term value, the upfront investment might be a deterrent for some potential users.

Enhanced Durability and User-Friendly Design

Durability is a core value in DeWALT’s product design philosophy, and the DW735X Planer effortlessly exemplifies this. Built with high-grade materials, the tool is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty woodworking. Its robust design not only ensures longevity but also promotes stability during operation, thus reducing the possibility of errors or accidents.

The planer’s knives deserve a special mention, as they last 30% longer than traditional disposable knives. This leads to less frequent changes, thereby minimizing downtime, enhancing productivity, and reducing long-term operational costs.

But the DW735X doesn’t compromise user experience for durability. It boasts an ergonomic design that emphasizes user comfort and accessibility. The machine’s controls are intuitive and easy to reach, making operation seamless even for beginners. The comfortable grip minimizes user fatigue, making the DW735X an excellent tool for extended use.

Unparalleled Value

While the DeWALT DW735X Planer comes at a premium compared to some other models, the value it offers is truly unparalleled. Its superior features, exceptional performance, and outstanding durability make this planer more than just a tool – it’s an investment that reaps significant dividends in terms of productivity and the quality of work produced.

Conclusion

The DeWALT DW735X Planer is an embodiment of precision, power, and performance, standing as a testament to DeWALT’s commitment to excellence. Its top-tier features and exceptional performance make it an indispensable addition to any woodworking arsenal, regardless of whether you’re a professional craftsman or a DIY enthusiast.

Ultimately, the DeWALT DW735X Planer isn’t just a planer; it’s a commitment to quality, efficiency, and precision. It’s a tool that promises to transform your woodworking experience and elevate your craft, making it an essential piece of equipment for anyone serious about woodworking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of motor does the DeWALT DW735X have?
   The DeWALT DW735X Planer is powered by a 15-amp motor capable of a no-load speed of up to 20,000 RPM.
2. Does the DeWALT DW735X come with a warranty?
   Yes, the DeWALT DW735X comes with a three-year limited warranty, a one-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
3. What is the maximum depth of cut for the DW735X?
   The DW735X can make a maximum depth cut of 1/8 inch.
4. What is the weight of the DeWALT DW735X Planer?
   The DeWALT DW735X Planer weighs approximately 92 lbs.
5. How long do the knives on the DeWALT DW735X last?
   The knives on the DW735X last approximately 30% longer than traditional disposable knives. However, the exact lifespan can vary based on usage and the type of material being planned.
6. What materials can the DeWALT DW735X Planer handle?
   The DeWALT DW735X is designed to handle a wide variety of woods, including hardwoods like oak and mahogany.
7. What is the significance of the two-speed gearbox on the DeWALT DW735X Planer?
   The two-speed gearbox allows users to optimize cuts per inch (CPI). It offers speeds of 96 or 179 CPI, which is useful for adjusting the finish based on the type of material.
8. Does the DeWALT DW735X have a dust collection feature?
   Yes, the DeWALT DW735X features a fan-assisted chip ejection system that vacuums chips off the cutter head and exhausts them out of the machine, which can be directed to a dust-collection system or the included dust shroud.
9. What is the maximum width of material that the DeWALT DW735X can accommodate?
   The DeWALT DW735X Planer can accommodate materials up to 13 inches in width.
10. Can the DeWALT DW735X be used by beginners?
    Absolutely, the DeWALT DW735X has an intuitive, user-friendly design, making it a great tool for both seasoned professionals and beginners in woodworking.

Your voice matters! Engage with us by sharing your personal experiences and thoughts about the DeWALT DW735X Benchtop Planer in the comments section below. Your insights hold the potential to guide fellow woodworking enthusiasts who are considering this benchtop planer. By contributing your viewpoint, you’re shaping a community of knowledge that empowers others to make well-informed choices. Let’s build a collective wellspring of expertise—your input is highly valued!