Imagine you’re in your workshop, ready to tackle a big woodworking project. You’ve got stacks of rough lumber, but you need them smooth and perfectly even. Enter the thickness planer, a woodworking marvel that turns rough boards into polished treasures. Today, I’m diving into the nitty-gritty of two heavyweights: the Dewalt 735 vs 735X. Both are excellent, but each has its own unique perks. Having spent time with both, I’m here to help you decide which planer is the ideal companion for your woodworking adventures.
Is Dewalt 735 Good?
Yes, the Dewalt 735 is an exceptional tool, especially if you’re just starting out in woodworking or have a small to moderate workload. I remember the satisfaction of running my first piece of rough timber through this machine. The transformation was remarkable, as if I had turned a caterpillar into a butterfly. The Dewalt 735 truly shines with its straightforward operation and reliable performance, making it a solid choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
In my own workshop, I’ve seen how the Dewalt 735 handles various types of wood with ease. One weekend, I was working on some reclaimed wood for a rustic dining table, and the 735 delivered a smooth, even surface every time. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a go-to planer for those who want to focus more on their craft rather than tinkering with machine settings.
DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor, Corded (DW735)
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What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Powerful 15-amp motor for cutting through hard woods.
- Two-speed gear box allows you to change feed speed to optimize cuts per inch at 96 or 179 CPI.
- Three-knife cutter head delivers 30% longer knife life and makes changing knives faster and easier.
- Fan-assisted chip ejection vacuums chips off of the cutter head and exhausts them out of the machine.
- Calibrated depth crank allows for precise depth adjustment.
- Automatic carriage lock reduces the movement that causes sniping without manual engagement by the user.
- Compact and portable design, great for small workshops.
- Wide base and solid construction for stability during operation.
- Easy-to-use controls and straightforward setup.
- Designed with a strong, robust build for durability.
What I Like
- Consistent performance: Every pass results in smooth and accurate finishes.
- Easy knife changes: Less downtime when the blades need replacing.
- Efficient chip ejection: Keeps the workspace clean.
- Reliable power: Handles hardwoods with ease.
- Portability: Easy to move around the workshop.
What Could Be Better
- Somewhat noisy: Ear protection is recommended during use.
- Limited dust collection: Could benefit from better dust management.
- Heavy: A bit cumbersome to transport frequently.
- Pricey replacement knives: Costs can add up over time.
- Lack of infeed/outfeed tables: These would help with longer boards.
My Recommendation
The Dewalt 735 is perfect if you’re seeking reliability and ease of use in a planer. It’s especially valuable for those who have limited space and need a tool that delivers professional results without complex adjustments. While it’s not the quietest machine, its performance and build quality are hard to beat. If you need a straightforward, powerful machine, this one is worth considering.
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Is Dewalt 735X Good?
Absolutely, the Dewalt 735X is a powerhouse and the upgraded sibling of the Dewalt 735. It’s particularly suited for more demanding projects and professional settings. I’ve used the Dewalt 735X to tackle everything from intricate cabinetry to large-scale furniture builds. Once, while crafting a custom bookshelf, the 735X impressed me with its ability to handle even the toughest hardwoods with the same finesse as softer woods.
The extra set of knives that comes with the 735X is a game-changer, providing that added convenience for those intense planning sessions where you can’t afford to pause. If your projects often push the limits, the 735X will meet your demands and then some.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-inch, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
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What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Includes infeed and outfeed tables for improved material handling and reduced sniping.
- Comes with an extra set of knives for longer use before replacements are needed.
- Same powerful 15-amp motor as the DW735 for consistent performance.
- Two-speed gear box for optimizing cuts per inch at 96 or 179 CPI.
- Innovative chip ejection system keeps your workspace clean.
- Automatic carriage lock for reduced snipe.
- Wide, stable base for wobble-free operation.
- Easy-to-read scale and depth adjustment for precision.
- Robust construction for heavy-duty tasks.
- Enhanced durability with an extra knife set.
What I Like
- Extra accessories included: Comes with additional knives and tables.
- Excellent material support: Handles longer boards smoothly.
- Powerful and stable operation: Delivers professional-grade results.
- Reduced snipe: Thanks to the additional material handling tables.
- Smooth and quiet operation: Relative to its power.
What Could Be Better
- Hefty price tag: Comes at a premium over the DW735.
- Large footprint: Requires more space in the workshop.
- Weight: It’s heavier, making it less portable.
- Noise level: Still quite loud, like its sibling.
- Initial setup: Takes a bit more time to assemble due to additional components.
My Recommendation
For those comparing the Dewalt 735 vs 735X, the 735X is your go-to if you’re looking to push your projects further. Its additional features, like the infeed/outfeed tables and extra knives, make it worth the investment if you frequently work with larger or tougher materials. If space and budget allow, the 735X is a powerful, comprehensive solution.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-inch, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
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Dewalt 735 vs 735X: Side-by-Side Test
When it comes to selecting the right planer, the Dewalt 735 vs 735X comparison is crucial. I’ve tested both to give you a clear picture of how they stack up.
Power and Performance: Which Packs More Punch?
Both planers are equipped with a 15-amp motor and deliver impressive power for hardwoods and softwoods alike.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 15-amp | 15-amp |
| Speed Settings | 2 | 2 |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 9/10 | Dewalt 735X – 9/10
The performance is identical; it’s a tie in terms of power and efficiency.
Material Support: Handling the Length
The 735X comes with additional infeed/outfeed tables, enhancing its ability to manage longer boards.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Material Handling Tables | Not Included | Included |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 7/10 | Dewalt 735X – 9/10
The 735X has an edge here with better material support.
Ease of Use: Getting Started
Both models are straightforward, but the 735X’s extra features require a bit more setup time.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Simplicity | Easy | Moderate |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 9/10 | Dewalt 735X – 8/10
The basic setup of the 735 makes it slightly easier for beginners.
Noise Level: Which Is Quieter?
Neither of these units is particularly quiet, but they’re manageable with proper ear protection.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | Loud | Loud |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 6/10 | Dewalt 735X – 6/10
Both are equally loud, so there’s no winner here.
Versatility: Which Adapts Better?
The 735X offers more versatility with its added components and extra knife set.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Versatility | Moderate | High |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 8/10 | Dewalt 735X – 9/10
The 735X wins for those who need more adaptability.
Overall Value: Which Offers More Bang for Your Buck?
With the added accessories, the 735X might justify its higher price for frequent users.
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Price Value | Good | Excellent |
Rating: Dewalt 735 – 8/10 | Dewalt 735X – 9/10
The 735X offers better value for those who will utilize its extras.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
In the Dewalt 735 vs 735X debate, both planers have their merits. If you’re just starting out or need a reliable machine for occasional use, the Dewalt 735 is an excellent choice. It offers simplicity and solid performance without unnecessary frills. On the other hand, if you’re a more seasoned woodworker or have demanding projects, the Dewalt 735X is the winner. Its additional features, like infeed/outfeed tables and an extra set of knives, make it a powerhouse worthy of the investment.
Below is a quick summary to help you decide:
| Feature | Dewalt 735 | Dewalt 735X |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Beginners, Hobbyists | Professionals, Frequent Users |
| Skill Level | Beginner-Intermediate | Intermediate-Advanced |
| Overall Score | 8/10 | 9/10 |
Ultimately, whichever you choose, both the Dewalt 735 and 735X are solid investments that can elevate your woodworking projects to a professional level.
FAQs Of Dewalt 735 vs 735X
What is the main difference between Dewalt 735 and 735X?
The primary difference lies in the accessories. The 735X comes with infeed/outfeed tables and an extra set of knives, which provide better material handling and longer usage before needing replacements.
Is Dewalt 735X worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you frequently work with larger boards or need the convenience of additional knives and tables, the 735X is a worthy investment. It offers more versatility and efficiency for robust projects.
Can both planers handle hardwoods effectively?
Absolutely, both the Dewalt 735 and 735X feature powerful 15-amp motors that can easily tackle hardwoods and softwoods, ensuring a smooth and accurate finish.
In conclusion, whether you choose the Dewalt 735 or 735X, each offers great features tailored to different needs. Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific project requirements and personal preferences.