The woodworking community is often divided when it comes to choosing the perfect tool for the job. Among the myriad options available, the Dewalt DW735 and the DW735X stand out for their excellent performance and features. But have you ever wondered what exactly sets these two machines apart? This article dives deep into the nuances of both planers, helping you understand their specifications, features, and real-world performance. If you’re weighing your options between the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X, read on to discover which one suits your needs better!
Understanding the Basics of Wood Planers
Before we dive into the specifics of the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X, it’s crucial to understand what wood planers do. A wood planer, also known as a thickness planer, is a vital tool for any woodworker, whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional. Its primary function is to smooth down rough lumber, ensuring uniform thickness and a fine finish.
Several factors come into play when choosing a wood planer, including:
- Power and motor strength
- Cutting capacity and width
- Dust collection features
- Weight and portability
- Price and value
With these factors in mind, let’s closely examine the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X.
Dewalt DW735: A Closer Look
The Dewalt DW735 is a robust, dual-blade thickness planer that promises to deliver high performance in a user-friendly package. Here are some of its notable features:
Key Specifications
- Motor Power: The DW735 is powered by a 15-amp motor, delivering a staggering 20,000 RPM. This means it can easily handle different types of hardwoods.
- Planing Width and Depth: It offers a maximum cutting width of 13 inches and a maximum depth of 6 inches, making it versatile for various woodworking projects.
- Cutting Speed: This planer can achieve a smooth finish and a ⅛ inch depth of cut at 28 feet per minute, ideal for quick jobs.
- Weight: Weighing in at around 92 pounds, it strikes a balance between stability while working and portability when stored.
Features that Make DW735 Stand Out
- Three-blade cutter head: One of the standout features is its three-blade cutter head, which provides a smooth finish and enhances cutting efficiency.
- Changeable blades: The ability to easily change blades is a bonus for those who frequently work with different materials.
- Dust Port: The 4-inch dust port helps keep your workspace clean, facilitating easy cleanup post-work.
Dewalt DW735X: Evolution of the Classic
The Dewalt DW735X is an upgraded version of the DW735. It incorporates many of the same features but adds several enhancements that significantly boost its performance and usability.
Key Specifications
- Motor Power: Like the DW735, the DW735X has a 15-amp motor that supports intensive tasks.
- Planing Width and Depth: Retaining the same cutting capacity of 13 inches and depth of 6 inches, it excels in versatility.
- Cutting Speed: At 28 feet per minute, the cutting speed remains consistent with its predecessor, ensuring an excellent finish.
Features Enhancing the DW735X
- Extra Blades: The DW735X usually comes with an additional set of carbide blades, allowing you to work longer without needing to replace your tools frequently.
- Dewalt’s Automated Feed System: This feature ensures a more consistent feed rate, which significantly contributes to better surface finishes and less tear-out.
- Integrated Dust Collection System: Slight modifications enhance the dust collector’s efficiency, ensuring your workspace remains tidy.
Comparative Analysis: DW735 vs DW735X
Now that we’ve broken down each machine individually, let’s compare them side by side to understand their differences and help you make an informed decision.
Table: Spec Comparison
| Feature | Dewalt DW735 | Dewalt DW735X |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 15 Amps | 15 Amps |
| Planing Width | 13 inches | 13 inches |
| Planing Depth | 6 inches | 6 inches |
| Cutting Speed | 28 FPM | 28 FPM |
| Additional Blades | No | Yes (comes with extra carbide blades) |
| Dust Collection | Standard | Enhanced |
Performance Comparison
While both models offer impressive performance, the DW735X edges out with added features that improve usability for seasoned woodworkers. The automated feed system and additional blades make it less labor-intensive, allowing for longer work sessions with less downtime for maintenance.
Both models are excellent choices for achieving a smooth finish, but if you’re dealing with extensive projects that require significant wood processing, the DW735X could be a more efficient option due to its enhanced features.
Pricing and Value
When evaluating tools, cost plays a significant role. While the DW735 is generally priced lower than the DW735X, it still offers tremendous value for anyone looking to invest in a solid wood planer. The DW735X, while slightly more expensive, covers that difference by providing additional features and accessories that make it a more efficient choice.
Which Should You Choose? Factors to Consider
Choosing between the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X comes down to your specific needs and budget constraints. Here are a few considerations to guide your decision:
1. Experience Level
If you are new to woodworking, the DW735 is a great starting point. It’s user-friendly and efficient enough for most tasks without overwhelming a beginner.
2. Project Size
If you plan on taking on larger, more intricate projects, consider the DW735X for its enhanced features that promote productivity.
3. Frequency of Use
For those who plan to use the planer frequently, investing in the DW735X might offer long-term benefits that outweigh the initial investment. The added durability and efficiency can save you time and hassle in the long run.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, both the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X are exceptional tools designed to help you achieve a beautiful wood finish. The differences between the two may seem subtle, but they can drastically influence your woodworking experience.
If you’re after a reliable, mid-range thickness planer that meets essential woodworking needs, the Dewalt DW735 is a fantastic choice. However, if you desire more comprehensive features and are prepared to invest a bit more for enhanced performance, then the Dewalt DW735X will likely serve you better in the long term.
Choosing the right tool is crucial for achieving professional results in your woodworking projects. By considering your unique needs and preferences, you can confidently select either model and embark on your woodworking journey, crafting beautiful, smooth surfaces in all your projects.
What are the key differences between the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X wood planers?
The key differences between the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X primarily lie in their features and included accessories. The DW735 model comes equipped with two-speed options, allowing users to choose between a faster feed rate for quicker work or a slower speed for a finer finish. On the other hand, the DW735X includes additional features such as extra blades, which can provide a more comprehensive package for users who require more extensive applications.
Another notable difference is the price point. The DW735X is slightly more expensive because of the additional accessories included. While the DW735 model offers superb performance on its own, the extras in the DW735X may represent better value for users who anticipate needing to change blades frequently or require additional components out of the box.
Which model is better suited for professional woodworkers?
For professional woodworkers, the Dewalt DW735X may be the better option due to the additional blades and accessories that come with it. These extra tools can save time and money on replacements, which is particularly beneficial for professionals who rely on their equipment daily. The advanced features of the DW735X, such as the more comprehensive package, make it a reliable choice for heavier usage and diverse projects.
That said, the DW735 is also an excellent choice for professionals who prefer a straightforward, robust planer without the extra cost of additional blades and accessories. The DW735’s high-performance capabilities and durable build still offer exceptional value, making it a reliable choice if the user does not need the added versatility provided by the DW735X.
Is it easy to switch blades on the DW735 and DW735X?
Yes, both the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X feature a user-friendly design that makes switching blades a straightforward process. The knives are reversible and can be easily installed or removed without requiring specialized tools. This design helps minimize downtime, allowing users to focus more on their woodworking projects instead of blade maintenance.
In practice, the ease of switching blades not only improves productivity but also has a significant impact on the overall versatility of both models. Woodworkers can quickly switch between different blade types depending on the surface finish required, further enhancing the user experience with both the DW735 and DW735X.
Can both planers handle hardwoods effectively?
Absolutely, both the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X are designed to handle hardwoods effectively. They are equipped with powerful motors that deliver high cutting speeds, making them suitable for dense materials like oak, maple, and cherry. Users can expect smooth and even finishes without much effort, thanks to their robust construction and advanced engineering.
While both models perform admirably with hardwoods, the DW735X’s additional features may give it an edge during prolonged use or in projects involving diverse wood types. However, either model would serve well for woodworkers tackling a range of hardwood applications, ensuring crisp and clean results.
Which model is more portable?
Both the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X are designed with portability in mind, featuring lightweight and compact designs that make them easy to transport to different job sites. They come with sturdy handles, which facilitate easier lifting and moving. Despite being solidly built for durability, their weights are manageable for most users.
When considering portability, there is not a significant difference between the two models. Both planers can fit nicely into workshops or be taken on location without hassle. Depending on the user’s specific needs, either model will allow for easy mobility, making them practical choices for woodworkers who require flexibility in their working environment.
What is the price difference between the DW735 and DW735X?
The price difference between the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X can vary slightly depending on retailers and any ongoing promotions. Generally, the DW735 is priced lower than the DW735X, reflecting the latter’s additional accessories and features. The price difference can be justified by the extra blades and functionality included in the DW735X model, especially for those who frequently require replacements.
However, if budget is a significant consideration, the more basic DW735 still provides excellent performance at a more accessible price point. This difference ensures that users have options depending on their financial constraints and operational needs while still selecting a reliable wood planer from the Dewalt brand.
Are there any notable user complaints about either model?
While both the Dewalt DW735 and DW735X are generally well-received by users, some complaints do emerge. Common issues include frustration regarding the noise level during operation, as both models can be quite loud, especially under heavy loads. Users often recommend wearing hearing protection when using either planer to mitigate this noise issue.
Another point of contention is the dust collection features. While both models come with a dust port that can improve cleanliness during use, some users find that the dust collection isn’t as efficient as they would prefer. Investing in a more robust external dust collection system might be recommended for those working on larger projects, regardless of the model chosen.