If you’re on the hunt for a new thickness planer, you’ve likely come across two popular contenders: the Ridgid R4331 and the Dewalt DW734. These power tools are essential for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike, helping you achieve smooth, uniform surfaces on your lumber. But which one should you choose?
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the key differences between the Ridgid R4331 and the Dewalt DW734:
| Feature | Ridgid R4331 | Dewalt DW734 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Slightly higher | Budget-friendly |
| Portability | Bulkier and heavier | Compact and lightweight |
| Cutting Depth | Up to 13 inches | Up to 12.5 inches |
| Number of Knives | Four-knife cutter head | Three-knife cutter head |
| Dust Collection | Larger dust port | Effective dust collection |
| Motor Power | 15-amp motor | 12-amp motor |
| Infeed/Outfeed Tables | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Blade Replacement | Replace all four knives at once | Easier single-edge blade replacement |
| Noise Level | Louder operation | Quieter operation |
| Brand Loyalty/Warranty | Known for customer service and lifetime service agreement | Long history of reliable power tools and solid warranty |
1. Price Point
Let’s start with the bottom line – the price. The Dewalt DW734 is generally more budget-friendly than the Ridgid R4331. If you’re just starting your woodworking journey or have a limited budget, this might be a significant factor in your decision-making process. However, don’t let the lower price fool you; both planers have their own set of features and capabilities.
2. Portability
Portability can be a crucial factor, especially if you have a small workshop or need to transport your planer to job sites. The Dewalt DW734 is known for its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to move around. On the other hand, the Ridgid R4331 is slightly bulkier and heavier. So, if you prioritize portability, the Dewalt DW734 may be the better choice.
3. Cutting Depth
When it comes to cutting depth, the Ridgid R4331 takes the lead. It can handle materials up to 13 inches wide, while the Dewalt DW734 maxes out at 12-1/2 inches. This difference might not matter for smaller projects, but if you frequently work with wider boards, the extra half-inch can make a significant difference in efficiency.
4. Number of Knives
The number of knives in a thickness planer can impact the quality of the finish. The Dewalt DW734 comes with a standard three-knife cutter head, while the Ridgid R4331 boasts a more advanced four-knife system. The extra knife can result in smoother cuts and reduced snipe, which is particularly beneficial when working with delicate or figured woods.
5. Dust Collection
Woodworking can get messy, but a good dust collection system can help keep your workspace clean. Both the Ridgid R4331 and the Dewalt DW734 come equipped with dust collection ports, but the Ridgid model has a slight edge with its larger port. This means it can handle more substantial dust and debris, resulting in a cleaner work environment.
6. Motor Power
The power of the motor in your thickness planer can greatly affect its performance. The Ridgid R4331 features a 15-amp motor, whereas the Dewalt DW734 boasts a 12-amp motor. The higher amperage of the Ridgid model means it can handle tougher materials and larger cuts more efficiently. If you frequently work with hardwoods or need to remove a substantial amount of material, the Ridgid R4331 might be the better choice for you.
7. Infeed and Outfeed Tables
Support for longer workpieces is essential for achieving precise and consistent results. The Ridgid R4331 comes with adjustable infeed and outfeed tables, providing better support for longer boards. In contrast, the Dewalt DW734 has fixed tables. If you often work with lengthy pieces of lumber, the flexibility of the Ridgid R4331’s tables can be a significant advantage.
8. Blade Replacement
At some point, you’ll need to replace the blades on your thickness planer. When it comes to the Dewalt DW734, changing the blades can be a bit more straightforward, thanks to its single-edge, disposable knives. On the other hand, the Ridgid R4331 requires replacing all four knives simultaneously, which can be more expensive and time-consuming. Consider how often you’ll need to replace blades when making your decision.
9. Noise Level
Woodworking can be a noisy endeavor, and thickness planers are no exception. The Dewalt DW734 is known for its quieter operation compared to the Ridgid R4331, which tends to produce more noise. If you have noise-sensitive neighbors or want a quieter working environment, the Dewalt DW734 may be the better choice.
10. Brand Loyalty and Warranty
Brand loyalty and warranty support are factors that some woodworkers consider when making their decision. Dewalt has a long history of producing reliable power tools and often comes with a solid warranty. Ridgid, on the other hand, is known for its customer service and lifetime service agreement on many of its tools. If you have a preference for one brand over the other or value the warranty coverage, factor this into your decision-making process.
