You don’t have to be a professional to find out the real deal between the DeWALT DW734 vs. DW735. Or between any other benchtop planers!
The primary reason why such planers are ideal is that they don’t require a lot of storage space. At the same time, these things are not ridiculously expensive. So you can buy either the DeWALT DW735 or DW734 if you only wish to use the planer for your DIY projects.
But choosing between the two can get a little confusing. Both are equally awesome. And they might even be equally suitable for your requirements. After all, these types of benchtop planers have managed to find the middle ground between cabinet-style and handheld thickness planers.
They provide a perfect finish when working with medium and short sized boards. Plus, the little beasts also offer extra bonus points in the form of portability.
Enough with that though, let’s get to the point right away!
DeWALT DW734 vs. DW735: Reviews
The company manufactures the best power tools. There’s absolutely no doubt about that! The DW series of DeWALTconsists of three different planers. These include DW734, DW735, and DW735X. But we are concerned with only the first two. Since they are the most popular ones!
Variations in terms of features, size, and cutting ability are only minor. Nevertheless, let’s study each model separately before getting to the comparison part.
Planer Name | Our Rating | Cuts Per Inch (CPI) | Carriage Lock | Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | 96 and 179 CPI | Automatic | 92 pounds | |
#2 | Only 96 CPI | Manual | 80 pounds |
Now that the DeWALT DW734 review is out there, it’s time to talk about the slightly larger and more recent DW735.
Another significant difference takes the form of a fan-operated chip removal system.
The DeWALT DW734 only features a dust hood for dust collection. But the DW735 has both. That means the machine eliminates the chips by blowing them into the shroud. You can attach a vacuum to this shroud for a mess-free experience.
Yet another notable distinction is the automatic carriage lock feature.
The DW734 requires manual intervention, right? Something that tends to add more time to the planning process! So, in that context, the DW735 speeds up the completion of your projects.
Weight-wise, the DeWALT DW735 Thickness Planer is 92 pounds. 12 pounds heavier than its older sibling! You can see that either as extra stability or poor portability.
You don’t have to worry about figuring out the answer to “What came first, the DW734 or DW735?” Clearly, it’s the former that came first. Unlike the egg!
Let me point out that this extra length is very useful for supporting the boards during application. In my experience, they even reduce the likelihood of sniping.
The manufacturer decided to add manually operated carriage locks. These four locks prevent the board from moving during the cutting process. And that also helps in reducing snipe.
As for the weight, the DeWALT DW734 Benchtop Planer is 80 pounds heavy. But that just means it won’t budge on your table or benchtop.
DeWALT DW734 vs. DW735: Comparison

To be honest, the ultimate decision boils down to how much you’re willing to spend. Cause the DeWALT DW735 Thickness Planer is relatively more expensive. But only if you wish to invest in the extra blades and tables. In that sense, it’s almost twice the price of the DeWALT DW734 Benchtop Planer.
In terms of performance, the DeWALT DW735 can work with a 13-inch width. Not a lot different than the 12.5 inches of the DeWALT DW734. But the ability to change the number of cuts/inch is an advantage that only the former provides. Thanks to its 2-speed gearbox. So the DeWALT DW735 Thickness Planer scores higher points for versatility.
Likewise, it features an automatic carriage lock. As opposed to the manual version of the DeWALT DW734 Benchtop Planer. (How to use a benchtop wood planer?)
The difference of 12 pounds in weight is also another deciding factor. The DW734 is lighter than the DW735. So if you’re worried about portability, then you don’t require me to tell you what’s better.
To sum it up, here’s what you need to know:
DEWALT Perform & Protect Tools
The End
Wood planers help you achieve a smooth finish for all woodworking applications. But that’s not why the majority of people buy planers. Most DIY enthusiasts and even professionals purchase such a product is because they want to save money. Otherwise, you end up spending huge dollars on the best pre-surfaced lumber.
If you’re into woodworking, then buying a DeWALT planer is an excellent choice. The units the company manufactures are compact enough to be placed in your garage. Plus, their remarkable thickness customization capacities are worth the investment. So it’s an added bonus that they are comparatively lower priced than the others.
With that in mind, go for the DeWALT DW734 Benchtop Planer. It’s an affordable option with all the right features.
But if you want the operation to be more convenient and versatile, select the DeWALT DW735 Thickness Planer. Now doesn’t that settle the debate between DeWALT DW734 vs. DW735?
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