DeWalt DW734 Thickness Planer vs DW735 vs DW735X
Updated: Sep 29
Are you in the market for a lunchbox-style thickness planer and wondering whether the DeWalt DW735 is worth the extra investment compared to its predecessor, the DW734? If so, you're in the right place!
In this blog post, I'll be comparing these two models and taking a closer look at their features, performance, and price points to help you make an informed decision. So, let's dive in and explore the similarities and differences between the DeWalt DW734 and DW735 thickness planers!
Wood Planer
Though a thickness planer typically isn't the hobbyist's first purchase, it will make a welcome addition to any woodworking shop. It can turn rough, uneven pieces of wood into smooth, parallel boards.
Even if you're just a hobbyist, a thickness planer can help take your woodworking skills to the next level. And don't worry if you don't have a lot of shop space - they come in a range of sizes, from the small "lunchbox style" models to larger floor models for more spacious workshops.
DeWalt Planer
DeWalt makes a few "lunchbox" style thickness planers at affordable prices that will last several years of heavy use: The entry-level DW734 and the suped-up DW735 and DW735X models.
Compare Wood Planers
Â
The DW734 is a fine machine, but the updates made to it with the DW735(X) model make up for the additional cost. See below for specs comparison and pros/cons of each model.
DeWalt Planer Price Comparison
The older DW734 is the most affordable option and can usually be purchased for about $200 less than the DW735. For about $150 more, you can upgrade further to the DW735x which gives you the same DW735 plus infeed/outfeed tables and an extra set (3) of blades.
For a limited time, get a $75 coupon off the DW735!
Â
DeWalt DW734 vs DW735
The DeWalt 735 and DeWalt 734 are both benchtop thickness planers, but they have some differences in terms of their features and capabilities.
The DeWalt 735 is a more powerful and heavier duty machine than the 734. It has a 15-amp motor that produces up to 20,000 RPM, making it capable of tackling even the toughest woodworking tasks. It also has a three-knife cutter head with disposable, reversible knives that can be changed quickly and easily, allowing for more efficient and accurate planing.
The 735 has a maximum cutting width of 13 inches and a maximum cutting depth of 6 inches, and it can handle stock up to 13 inches wide and 6-1/8 inches thick.
The DeWalt 734, on the other hand, has a 10-amp motor that produces up to 10,000 RPM. It has a two-knife cutter head with disposable, reversible knives, and it has a maximum cutting width of 12-1/2 inches and a maximum cutting depth of 6 inches. It can handle stock up to 12-1/2 inches wide and 6 inches thick.
Overall, the DeWalt 735 is a more powerful and capable machine than the 734, and it is better suited for heavy-duty woodworking tasks. However, the 734 is still a good choice for those who need a reliable, efficient planer for lighter-duty tasks, or for those who don't need the extra power and capacity of the 735.
As far as benchtop planers go, the DeWalt DW734 and DW735 are both great machines with their own set of pros and cons. In short, the DW735 is the updated thickness planer model of the DW734. These machines can be quite loud, but there are ways to reduce this noise.
DeWalt DW734 Thickness Planer
DeWalt DW735 Thickness Planer
Â
Looking for discounts on woodworking tools? Our Facebook group is a community of woodworking enthusiasts who share and discover amazing deals on tools woodworkers use. Join us to connect with like-minded individuals and find savings and discounts while building out your shop. We can’t wait to have you as part of our community!
Don't have facebook? That's OK, we post the best deals right here!
Â
Difference Between DW734 and DW735
Selecting between the two comes down to a couple things. The newer DW735 improves upon the DW734 with 1/2" more width capacity, added chip extraction and 2 cutting speeds enhancing the quality of cut.
DW734 & DW735 Planer Capacity
The DW735 and DW735X have 1/2" more board width capacity compared to the DW734.
DeWalt DW734: 12-1/2"
DeWalt DW735: 13"
Both machines can be fed with stock up to 6" thick.
DW734 & DW735 Planer Infeed/Outfeed Tables
DW734: Includes infeed/outfeed tables, providing 33-1/2 inches of board support
DW735: None - without some form of in/outfeed support, snipe will be an issue
DW735X: Includes infeed/outfeed tables, providing 33-1/2 inches of board support
Even with the infeed and outfeed tables, long stock still requires support to prevent (who am I kidding....reduce) snipe. A cheap roller stand provides enough support to reduce snipe.
DeWalt Planer Dust and Chip Extraction
The DW735 has its own built-in chip extraction blower fan. This thing rocks! There is no need to hook up a vacuum to remove dust and chips. The blower is so powerful that it is actually recommended by the manufacturer to not hook it up to a shop vacuum.
Chip extraction is the shortcoming of the DW734. It does not have a built-in blower fan, so this model requires being connected to a dust collection machine or shop vacuum.
No matter the model, you'll need a good chip collection setup to prevent dust, wood debris and fine particles from entering your shop air.
Price Difference Between DW734 and DW735
DeWalt runs deals often, so the price is always fluctuating. However, the DW735 is typically about $100 more than the DW734.
Does the DW735 Cut Better than DW734
Yes! With a dual-speed gearbox, DW735 users can select the feed speed to cut at 96 cuts per inch (CPI) or sped up to 179 CPI. The more affordable DW734 is limited to one speed: 96 CPI.
Helical Cutterhead for DeWalt Planer
Both the DW735 and DW734 planers' cut quality can significantly be improved with a helical cutterhead.
Smoother finish: and less tear-out even on highly figured hardwoods.
Sound Reduction: The DW735 and DW734 are quite noisy with the factory flat blades. Up to 50% of that noise is removed when equipped with a helical cutterhead.
Improved life-span: carbide inserts can be rotated to reveal a fresh, sharp edge. If you hit a nail or staple, simply rotate the few impacted inserts and you are good to go. With the straight knife setup, all three blades now have a knick that will produce a "bump" on the surface of your work piece.
On the downside, helical heads are quite expensive - often as expensive as the machine itself. However, there are affordable options, though typically come with fewer carbide inserts in the head.
Top of the Line: Shelix by Byrd
Low-cost option: FindBuyTool Helical Head
Â
Difference Between DeWalt 735 and 735x Planer
The DW735 is the same wood planer as the DW735X. The DW735X comes with infeed/outfeed tables and an extra set of blades. That's it!
DeWalt and Amazon run deals on these machines often. Be sure to check the price of the DW735X before purchasing the DW735. In some cases, the DW735X with the infeed/outfeed tables is cheaper than the one without!
In other cases, you can buy the DW735 and buy the infeed/outfeed tables and an extra set of blades for cheaper than the 735X.
Â
DeWalt Thickness Planer Comparison
Though all three models are great machines, there are distinct differences between them.
Depending on your budget and your capacity requirements, you can find the right planer for your shop.
DeWalt Planer Stand
DeWalt makes a high quality, compact stand (Amazon) to fit all three of their planer models.
It comes with casters to easily tuck it away when not in use. A single foot pedal locks it in place for storage or while in use.
A good thickness planer is a significant investment but one that improves upon your woodworking capabilities. The DeWalt DW734 and DW735 are both excellent options to consider, with each offering unique features and capabilities to suit your needs. While the DW735 is a more powerful machine with added features, the DW734 is a reliable, efficient planer for lighter-duty tasks. So, consider your woodworking needs and budget when making your decision. Don't forget to check for deals and discounts on these machines from DeWalt and Amazon. Have you used either of these planers before? Share your experience in the comments below!
Â
Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.