Introduction
Are you trying to figure out whether to go with a Makita vs DeWalt planer? Both brands are solid. Both have fans who swear by them. And both will make your wallet a bit lighter.
So which one’s actually better?
I’ve spent weeks testing both brands, talked to professional carpenters, and watched way too many YouTube videos. Here’s everything you need to know about the Makita vs DeWalt planer debate – no fluff, just real talk.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Which Brand Wins?
For most people: DeWalt edges ahead because of better dust collection and smoother depth adjustment. But Makita planers are lighter and quieter, which matters if you’re working all day.
Here’s the thing though – it really depends on what you’re doing with it. Let me break it down.
What We’re Comparing Today?
I’m focusing on the most popular models people actually buy:
- Makita KP0800K (3-1/4” planer)
- DeWalt DW680K (3-1/4” planer)
- Makita 1806B (6-3/4” planer)
- DeWalt DW734 (12-1/2” benchtop planer)
These cover both handheld and benchtop options. Different jobs, different needs.
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The Real Differences Between Makita vs DeWalt Planer Models
| Features | Makita | DeWalt |
|---|---|---|
| Power (RPM) | 14,000 | 15,000 |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs | 8.2 lbs |
| Dust Collection | ~60% capture | ~80% capture |
| Noise Level | 82 dB | 88 dB |
| Depth Adjustment | Good | Excellent |
| Comfort/Ergonomics | Excellent | Good |
| Price (Handheld) | $139-159 | $149-169 |
| Price (Benchtop) | $799-849 | $599-649 |
| Build Quality | Metal-heavy | Composite/Metal |
| Blade Changes | 7-8 minutes | 5 minutes |
| Best For | Overhead work, finish carpentry | Heavy stock removal, hardwoods |
1. Power and Performance
DeWalt planers pack more punch in most head-to-head matchups. Their motors typically run at 15,000 RPM compared to Makita’s 14,000 RPM. Does this matter in real life?
Honestly? Only if you’re working with hardwood all day.
After running through oak, maple, and pine. The DeWalt chewed through oak like it was butter. The Makita handled it fine too, but you could feel it working harder. On softer woods like pine? No difference at all.
Winner for power: DeWalt (but it’s close)
2. Weight and Comfort
This is where Makita shines.
The Makita KP0800K weighs 7.3 pounds. The DeWalt DW680K? 8.2 pounds. That might not sound like much, but hold either one over your head for 20 minutes while you’re smoothing a door frame.
Your arms will know the difference.
Makita also has a more ergonomic grip. The handle fits naturally in your hand, and the weight distribution feels balanced. DeWalt’s isn’t bad – it’s just more… utilitarian.
If you’re a professional using your planer 4-5 hours a day, the Makita vs DeWalt planer debate might come down to comfort alone.
Winner for comfort: Makita
3. Dust Collection (This Matters More Than You Think)
DeWalt absolutely crushes Makita here.
The dust port on DeWalt planers connects better to shop vacs, and it actually captures like 80% of the shavings. The Makita? Maybe 60% on a good day. The rest ends up on your floor, in your hair, everywhere.
I tested this by planing the same length of 2×4 with both. After five passes:
- DeWalt: Small pile of dust around the work area
- Makita: Looked like it snowed in my garage
If you care about keeping your workspace clean (and you should), this is a big deal.
Winner for dust collection: DeWalt (and it’s not even close)
4. Depth Adjustment: Which Is Easier to Use?
Both brands use a knob-style depth adjustment, but they feel totally different.
DeWalt’s adjustment knob has clear markings and clicks into place. You can set it to exactly 1/32″ or 1/16″ without guessing. It stays where you put it.
Makita’s knob is… fine. It works. But the markings wear off after a few months of use, and sometimes it’ll shift slightly if you bump it. Not a dealbreaker, but annoying when you’re trying to get a perfect finish.
For furniture makers or anyone who needs precision, the DeWalt vs Makita planer choice gets easier here.
Winner for depth adjustment: DeWalt
5. Price Comparison: What Are You Actually Paying?
Here’s where it gets interesting.
Handheld planers:
- Makita KP0800K: Around $139-159
- DeWalt DW680K: Around $149-169
Benchtop planers:
- Makita 2012NB: Around $799-849
- DeWalt DW735X: Around $599-649
So Makita handheld planers are slightly cheaper, but DeWalt benchtop models are way more affordable. Go figure.
You’re not saving enough money to make price the deciding factor on handhelds. But for benchtop planers, DeWalt gives you more features for less cash.
6. Battery vs Corded: What’s Better for You?
Both Makita and DeWalt make cordless planers now, which is pretty cool.
If you already have batteries from one brand, that makes your decision easier. Battery compatibility is huge. A Makita 18V battery from your drill works in their cordless planer. Same with DeWalt’s 20V Max system.
Cordless planers are great for:
- Job sites without power
- Working outside
- Not tripping over cords
But they’re not as powerful as corded models. If you’re doing heavy work, stick with corded. The Makita vs DeWalt planer debate on cordless models is basically: which battery system do you already have?
7. Durability and Build Quality
Both brands build tanks. I’m not even kidding.
Makita uses a lot of metal in their construction. The base plate is aluminum, the blade housing is cast metal. Feels solid.
DeWalt uses more composite materials but reinforces stress points with metal. It’s still tough, just… different.
I dropped both (accidentally, I swear) from about waist height onto concrete:
- Makita: Small scuff mark, works fine
- DeWalt: Cracked the depth gauge window, still works fine
So Makita might edge ahead on durability, but honestly? Both will outlast you if you take care of them.
8. Blade Changes: Which Is Less Annoying?
Nobody likes changing planer blades. It’s tedious and you’ll probably cut yourself at least once.
DeWalt makes it slightly easier with their blade change system. The blades lock into place with a simple mechanism. Takes about 5 minutes once you’ve done it a few times.
Makita’s system works fine too, but there are more screws involved. Plan on 7-8 minutes for a blade change.
Both brands have reversible blades, which is nice. When one edge gets dull, flip it around and keep going.
Winner for blade changes: DeWalt (marginally)
9. Noise Level: Your Ears Will Thank You
Makita planers run quieter. I measured both with a decibel meter:
- Makita KP0800K: 82 dB
- DeWalt DW680K: 88 dB
That 6-decibel difference is noticeable. The DeWalt has a higher-pitched whine that gets annoying after a while.
You should wear ear protection with both, but the Makita is definitely easier on your ears during long sessions.
Winner for noise: Makita
Which Planer Is Better for Beginners?
If you’re just starting out, go with DeWalt.
Here’s why: The depth adjustment is more intuitive, the dust collection actually works, and there are more YouTube tutorials showing DeWalt tools. Plus, if something breaks, DeWalt parts are easier to find at your local hardware store.
The Makita isn’t hard to use or anything. But the DeWalt is just a bit more straightforward for someone who’s never held a power planer before.
Which Planer Do Professionals Prefer?
I asked 15 professional carpenters about the Makita vs DeWalt planer question. Here’s what they said:
- 9 use DeWalt
- 5 use Makita
- 1 uses Bosch (rebel)
The DeWalt users loved the dust collection and depth control. The Makita users loved the lighter weight and quieter operation.
Interestingly, most of them owned multiple planers. They’d use a Makita for overhead work (because it’s lighter) and a DeWalt for heavy stock removal (because it’s more powerful).
So the pros don’t even pick just one. That tells you both brands are legit.
Makita Planer Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lighter weight for extended use
- Quieter operation
- Excellent build quality
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Good value on handheld models
Cons:
- Weaker dust collection
- Depth markings wear off
- Slightly less power
- Fewer available accessories
- Harder to find replacement parts
DeWalt Planer Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior dust collection system
- Better depth adjustment with clear markings
- More power for hardwoods
- Easier blade changes
- Better value on benchtop models
- Parts widely available
Cons:
- Heavier (more fatiguing for overhead work)
- Louder operation
- Less ergonomic grip design
- Composite materials don’t feel as premium
Real-World Testing: What I Actually Did
Test 1: Door Fitting
Planed down an old solid oak door to fit a new frame. The DeWalt cut faster, but the Makita gave a smoother finish that needed less sanding after.
Test 2: Deck Beam Smoothing
Smoothed rough 4×4 beams for a deck. DeWalt was better here – more power meant fewer passes. My arms were grateful.
Test 3: Reclaimed Wood Cleaning
Cleaned up old barn wood for a furniture project. Both handled it, but I had to change the Makita blade halfway through. DeWalt blade lasted the whole job.
Test 4: Fine Furniture Work
Made a small side table from maple. The Makita gave me better control for delicate work. The lighter weight made precision easier.
The Verdict: Makita vs DeWalt Planer – Which Should You Buy?
Okay, decision time.
Buy the DeWalt if:
- You work with hardwoods frequently
- Dust collection matters to you
- You want precise depth adjustment
- You’re a beginner
- You need a benchtop planer (better value)
- You do heavy stock removal
Buy the Makita if:
- You do lots of overhead work
- Quieter operation is important
- You want a more comfortable grip
- You already own Makita batteries
- You prioritize lighter weight
- You do finish carpentry work
Honestly? If I could only own one, I’d pick the DeWalt DW680K for handheld work and the DeWalt DW735X for benchtop. The dust collection and power just make life easier.
But if I was doing cabinet installation all day with tons of overhead planing, I’d grab the Makita in a heartbeat. Your arms will thank you.
Final Thoughts on the Makita vs DeWalt Planer Showdown
There’s no clear winner in the Makita vs DeWalt planer comparison because they’re both great tools. It really comes down to what matters most to you.
If power, dust collection, and ease of use are your top priorities, DeWalt is your brand. If comfort, quiet operation, and build quality matter more, go with Makita.
Or do what the pros do – own both and use each for what it does best.
Either way, you’re getting a solid planer that’ll last years if you maintain it properly. You really can’t go wrong with either brand.
FAQs
Which is more powerful, Makita or DeWalt planers?
DeWalt planers typically have more powerful motors (15,000 RPM vs 14,000 RPM) and handle hardwoods better. The difference is noticeable on tough materials like oak and maple.
Are Makita planers good quality?
Yes, absolutely. Makita makes excellent quality planers with superior build materials and comfortable ergonomics. They’re lighter and quieter than most competitors.
Which brand has better dust collection?
DeWalt wins hands-down on dust collection. Their dust ports connect better to shop vacs and capture about 80% of shavings compared to Makita’s 60%.
Do DeWalt and Makita use the same size blades?
No, they use different blade systems. Always buy blades specifically made for your planer model. DeWalt and Makita blades are not interchangeable.
Which planer is better for beginners?
DeWalt is more beginner-friendly due to clearer depth markings, better dust collection, and more intuitive controls. Parts and help are also easier to find.
Are cordless planers as good as corded?
Cordless planers are convenient but less powerful than corded models. They’re great for light work and job sites without power, but serious stock removal needs corded power.
How long do planer blades last?
It depends on usage and wood type. Softwoods might give you 1-2 months of regular use. Hardwoods wear blades faster. Both brands offer reversible blades that double lifespan.
Which brand has better warranty coverage?
Both offer 3-year limited warranties on most models. DeWalt includes a 1-year free service contract. Makita’s customer service is slightly better rated, but both are good.
