The DeWalt DW735 Thickness Planer has built a near-legendary reputation among woodworkers, from hobbyists to serious shop owners. Its popularity isn’t accidental — it’s the result of a rare combination of power, precision and thoughtful design that consistently delivers professional-level results in a portable format.

Here’s a deep dive into why this planer continues to dominate its category.

Superior Finish Quality

One of the biggest reasons woodworkers love this planer is the finish it produces.

The DW735 uses a three-knife cutter head, which produces smoother surfaces, extends blade life by up to 30% and makes blade changes faster and easier.

This flexibility is something many competing planers simply don’t offer — and it’s a major reason the DW735 stands out.

Industry-Leading Chip Ejection System

Dust collection is a constant frustration with planers, but not here.

The DW735 includes a fan-assisted chip ejection system that actively blows chips out of the machine. This means less clogging, better airflow even without a dust collector and cleaner work environment.

For small shops or DIY users without full dust collection setups, this feature alone can be a game changer.

Built for Accuracy and Repeatability

Precision is everything in woodworking, and the DW735 delivers with several smart features:

• Automatic carriage lock to reduce snipe
• Material removal gauge for controlled cuts
• Extra-large thickness scale for easy reading
• Turret depth stop for repeatable thickness settings

These features make it easier to get consistent, professional results — even if you’re not an expert.

Heavy-Duty Construction

Unlike many lightweight benchtop planers, the DW735 is built with durability in mind.

It features a cast aluminum base that’s significantly more rigid than standard designs, helping reduce vibration and improve cut quality.

The tradeoff? It’s heavier, but that added weight contributes to stability and performance.

Excellent Value for the Performance

While not the cheapest option, the DW735 hits a sweet spot:

• More powerful and precise than entry-level planers
• Far more affordable than industrial floor models
• Backed by a strong warranty and wide parts availability

For many woodworkers, it’s the closest thing to “professional performance without a professional price.”

Additionally, the name DeWalt is one of the most trusted in the industry and that comes with better customer support and more people that have the same product you can talk to when your planer is having issues.

That ecosystem makes ownership easier and adds long-term value.

The DeWalt DW735 isn’t just popular, it’s widely considered a benchmark in the benchtop planer category.

Its combination of:

• High power
• Exceptional finish quality
• Smart, user-focused features
• Durability and reliability

Which makes it a go-to choice for anyone serious about woodworking.