The DEWALT cordless planer brought a huge transformation to my woodworking. It handles 30,000 cuts every minute and runs much quieter than I expected. At just 6.7 pounds, I find it easy to use and it became the tool I rely on for planing at job sites. Its brushless motor runs at 15,000 RPM, which gives it great efficiency. The depth adjustments allow changes as small as 1/256″ giving me the level of control I need for precise work.
Affiliate Disclosure
Hi, everyone; this is a heads-up about affiliate links you might see here. Our only purpose in including them is to help you find products easily if you are interested. There is no pressure to buy from these links, but also note that if you buy the products from these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your trust is important to us!
Learn more by reading our Full Disclosure.
Price Disclaimer
If we mention prices on Tool Tested, please keep in mind that prices can go up or down based on factors such as location, store policies, and whether the purchase is online or from a physical store. Each seller may have their own pricing structure.
Another important factor to consider is that the price we mention is based on the date of our review. It is possible that we purchased the tool long before that date, or that you are reading this review a long time after it was published, meaning the price may have changed.
A Word from the Tool Tested Team
We’re thrilled to share this in-depth review of the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Planer, brought to you by Titus, a dedicated woodworker based in Kenya. Titus reached out to share his hands-on experience with this tool, and after reviewing his insights, we felt his perspective would be valuable to our community here at Tool Tested. You can connect with Titus via the link in his author byline.
The opinions, experiences, and detailed observations you’ll read in this review are entirely Titus’s, reflecting his time spent putting the DEWALT DCP580B through its paces on his own projects. Our goal is always to bring you practical, real-world information, and Titus’s contribution helps us do just that.
Regarding the images included in this review: these have been provided by Titus to help illustrate his points and showcase the planer in various contexts. While we’ve verified Titus’s woodworking background and the authenticity of his written review, we haven’t independently verified the original source of each image beyond their submission by him. They are presented here to complement his written experiences.
We hope you find Titus’s review as informative and helpful as we did. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge you need to make the best choices for your workshop.
After testing the DEWALT DCP580B , I found its two-blade setup and well-placed ergonomic handle stood out. It works with DEWALT’s 20V battery lineup, which is super handy if you already own their tools. The built-in storage for extra blades and the Allen wrench means you can swap blades without searching everywhere for tools. This planer also comes with solid warranty terms. It includes three years of limited coverage, one year of free servicing, and a 90-day money-back offer. In this review, I’ll share what you should know if you’re considering adding this cordless planer to your collection.
DEWALT DCP580B Cordless Planer: Features and Package Details
Take a closer look at the specs of the DEWALT DCP580B cordless planer. After years of handling various power tools, I believe knowing the specs is key to deciding if a tool works for your projects.
Motor: 20V MAX Brushless, 15,000 RPM
The DEWALT DCP580B uses a strong 20V MAX brushless motor that spins at 15,000 RPM. It can make around 30,000 cuts every minute because of its dual-blade system. The brushless design makes this motor stand out by lasting longer and running for a longer time. While planing hardwood like maple and oak, I noticed any drop in power even with denser pieces of wood.
The brushless motor uses smart power control by pulling just the amount of power needed for the job. This setup helps the battery last longer when shaving off thin layers from softwoods. The motor also runs at a steady speed even when working with tougher wood, which is key when dealing with different wood types during one project.
Blade Width: 3-1/4 inch Twin Blade Drum
The 3-1/4 inch cutting width hits a sweet spot between covering more area and staying easy to handle. The twin-blade drum does a better job at giving smooth finishes than single-blade setups. The reversible carbide blades hold up way longer than regular high-speed steel ones.
When working on edges, the blade’s full width works well for cutting most dimensional lumber in a single pass. While it’s broader than some compact options, the width is still easy to handle and allows great control on detailed tasks. The drum spins at a speed that prevents tear-out, an issue that often happens with lower-quality planers.
Depth Adjustment: Up to 5/64 inch
The DEWALT planer excels in precision. The depth adjustment system lets you cut as deep as 5/64 inch, or 2 millimeters, in one go. What stood out to me was how you can adjust it. Every click of the knob adjusts the depth by 1/256 inch giving incredible accuracy when finishing.
The depth adjustment wheel includes clear and easy-to-read markings that stay visible even in dim lighting. Unlike models with unclear settings, this tool offers precise control to take away guesswork and cut down on wasted materials. To match existing surfaces during restoration work, this adjustment becomes useful.
Weight: 6.7 lbs (bare tool)
Weighing 6.7 pounds without the battery, the DCP580B strikes a good balance between power and portability. Adding the battery, which weighs around 1 to 1.5 pounds depending on its size, keeps the tool light enough to use during long overhead tasks.
The weight balance stands out as a key feature. DEWALT designed this planer to distribute weight , which helps reduce arm strain when working on vertical surfaces. While many corded tools weigh over 8 pounds, this model is lighter and allows users to handle it with one hand making quick edge work easier.
What’s Included: Bare Tool, Wrench, Guide Fence
The DCP580B comes as a bare tool and includes the following:
- The planer itself
- A 10mm wrench to change the blade
- A parallel guide fence with hardware for mounting
- A manual with instructions on maintenance
A battery, charger, and dust collection bag don’t come with the package, so you’ll need to buy them on your own. On the other hand, the guide fence that comes included is very useful to create chamfers and edge jointing. Its precision-machined design lets it attach and stay at a perfect right angle to the sole plate helping to get accurate edges every time.
You can keep the included wrench on the tool, along with a spot to hold extra blades. Keep in mind, blades aren’t part of the package and have to be purchased . This onboard storage setup keeps everything important close by rather than getting lost somewhere in the workshop.
Design and Ergonomics: Made to Feel Right on the Job
After trying out a lot of different planers over long hours, I’ve realized that comfort plays a big role when you’re using one for a long time. The DEWALT DCP580B focuses on this and includes smart design features to solve common problems on the job.
Handle Grip and Balance
The grip on the DEWALT 20V planer stands out the moment you hold it. DEWALT seems to have nailed their overmolded grip technology creating a handle that feels very natural to hold. While working on several projects, I noticed my hands didn’t feel as tired compared to other planers I’ve tried.
What stood out to me about the DCP580B was how well the weight is spread out. The placement of the offset handle works with the rear-loading battery to keep it balanced. This setup makes it easier on the wrists during longer planing tasks. After using it on hardwood trim for about an hour without stopping, my hands still felt steady and didn’t feel tired.
The grip’s non-slip surface also deserves some credit. It keeps a strong hold no matter the weather or if your hands are sweaty. This feature turned out to be helpful when I was working outside on a sticky humid day. I never felt like the grip would slip, which kept things both controlled and comfortable.
Trigger Safety and Dual-Side Lock
The DEWALT cordless planer includes easy-to-use safety features that keep you protected while still allowing the job to flow . When I used it, the trigger felt accurate and gave smooth starts. This prevented sudden jerks that might damage the material I worked on.
Left-handed users will appreciate its dual-sided dust extraction option. You can move the dust port to whichever side works best for your position or the space you are in. This flexibility helps a lot when working in tight spaces where moving the tool around can be hard.
You can operate the DCP580B with one hand. This comes in handy when you need your other hand to steady the material you are working on. Being able to use it like this often means you don’t need to clamp the material down every time. That can save time and make you work faster.
Kickstand and Base Protection
One really useful thing about this DEWALT cordless hand planer is its built-in kickstand. This simple feature handles a big issue. It lets you put the planer down even when the blade is still spinning without risking damage to your project or the blades.
The kickstand flips down lifting the cutter head off the surface. This keeps both the tool and your work safe. I noticed this comes in handy when you’re making multiple passes on something like cabinet sides. You don’t have to wait for the blade to stop or hunt for another spot to set the tool.
, the kickstand design shows DEWALT’s grasp of how tools get used on actual worksites. This kickstand feels solid, unlike what you find on some other brands, so it can handle rough jobsite conditions. You can place the planer down between cuts without stressing about it damaging the surface.
The base plate has a machined surface that slides over different materials cutting down on friction and helping to maintain steady results. This easy sliding lowers the effort needed to move the tool forward, which makes long planing jobs less tiring for the user.
The DEWALT DCP580B shows a solid grasp of what woodworkers need through its design. Its ergonomic grip built-in safety options, and smart protective features work together to make this cordless planer not strong but also easy to use during tough workdays.
Breaking Down Features: Blades, Storage, and Dust Control
Power and comfort matter, but the lasting usefulness of any planer comes down to its practical features. The DEWALT DCP580B stands out in a few key areas that boost its performance on job sites.
Blade System: Reversible Carbide Blades
This cordless planer uses a twin blade drum equipped with TCT blades known as tungsten carbide tipped ones. The reversible carbide blades (DW6654 model) last twice as long as blades that cannot be reversed. Each blade comes with both edges pre-sharpened giving you an extra cutting edge without needing a separate spare.
Swapping out blades takes some effort but stays pretty straightforward. You need to take out three star head screws using the T25 key that comes with the tool to open the drum cover. Once you’ve removed the blade carrier and guide bar setup, you can take out the carbide blade. To align it , the kit comes with a gage plate, and this helps keep your cuts even every time. I think this step alone improves the tool’s consistency.
Built-In Blade and Tool Storage
One handy detail about the DEWALT 20V planer is its storage for tools and blades. The DCP580B has storage spots for the T25 key and spare blades right onboard so you don’t have to search for them mid-job. This little addition might not seem a big deal, but also it can save a lot of problems when working far from your workshop or switching blades between tasks.
The compartment for storing blades keeps spare blades safe and ready to use. It protects their edges so they stay sharp. There’s also a spot for storing the wrench on the tool making it easy to grab when you need to work on the blades. These built-in storage spaces help you save time and stay productive while working.
Dust Port Compatibility and Tips for Cleanup
Managing dust is important when using any planer because they create a lot of debris. The DCP580B comes with a dust port that works with DEWALT’s universal dust connection system. However, unlike some rival models, this cordless planer doesn’t come with a dust bag included. If you want one, you’ll need to get the DWV9390 .
To get the best dust removal, connect a shop vacuum instead of just using a dust bag. Experts who study dust collection say that setting up a good system helps tools work better and keeps you healthier. If you go with a shop vacuum here are a few tips you should keep in mind:
- Add a cyclonic separator to stop wood chips from clogging your vacuum.
- Place the reducer close to the planer instead of near the vacuum.
- Keep your hose straight as much as you can to maintain better airflow.
The planer has two-side extraction, which lets you move shavings either away from where you’re working or out of your view. This feature boosts precision and makes working safer. If you skip proper dust collection, you’ll end up with a big mess to clean. Spending a little extra on dust collection tools is worth it.
Real-World Use: Tried on Wood PVC, and Beyond
You see what a power tool is worth when it’s tackling actual tasks. I tested the DEWALT DCP580B cordless planer and saw it work great with different materials and jobs.
Flattening Deck Beams and Framing
I first tried the DEWALT 20V planer on a deck project using a triple-wide pressure-treated beam assembly. One side of the beam had 2″x12″ boards fitted flush, but the other side was still a bit uneven. After clamping the flush edge with metal anchors, I ran the cordless planer over the uneven part a few times. The planer flattened the surface quickly and never got stuck even on the treated wood.
To frame, this tool comes in handy. While using it on rough C16 timber, it turned splintery uneven wood into smooth surfaces that were shiny, and I didn’t have to work hard to do it. During my tests on framing materials, the brushless motor kept up its speed without slowing down, whether the wood was dense or damp.
Door Trimming and Cabinet Fitting
The DCP580B works great when trimming things like door edges. I set it to a 5-degree bevel using the adjustable fence and got doors that closed without the front edge hitting the jamb. Its design made it easy to carve out door casings so they sat tight against the wall and jamb.
Scribing cabinets to uneven walls stood out as a highlight. By planing along the scribe line and tilting the tool just a bit, I shaped filler boards that fit and covered any gaps between the cabinets and bumpy walls.
Tapering Oak and Pine Trim
I tested a 42-inch piece of pre-finished oak by tapering it from half an inch on one side to three-eighths of an inch on the other. Even with oak being quite tough, the planer kept up its power through the entire cut. Adjusting the depth was simple using the front knob. This made it easy to get accurate tapers without any chipping or tearout.
When working with pine trim, the planer delivered smooth results. The cuts were clean and didn’t splinter like they might with weaker planers. It handled PVC material, including AZEK just as well. Thanks to its steady power, the PVC planed without trouble.
Battery Life Using 2.0Ah and 5.0Ah Packs
Battery performance changes a lot depending on capacity. With lighter use, a 5.0Ah battery powers through an entire day. The brushless motor boosts runtime by a big margin when compared to brushed ones.
A handy feature lets you check the battery charge straight from the tool without taking it off—so you don’t waste time. If you’re just trimming for a short time, the 2.0Ah battery handles the job well enough. But for longer, all-day tasks, the 5.0Ah battery gives you more hours to work.
What Could Be Improved: Missing Kit and Dust Bag
Even though the DEWALT DCP580B offers great performance, it has some missing features that buyers might want to think about before getting it. These gaps could affect your decision if you’re not already using DEWALT tools.
Lacks Battery and Charger
The DEWALT cordless planer is sold as a tool-only package meaning it doesn’t come with a battery or charger. If you’re just starting out with DEWALT’s 20V MAX lineup, you’ll need to pay extra to get those essentials. During my experience with it, I saw that using a 5.0Ah battery works well for longer projects, while a 2.0Ah battery performs better for smaller jobs. However, neither is included when you buy it.
New DEWALT buyers need to plan to spend about $100 to $150 to get a starter battery and charger combo. People who already own tools from the DEWALT 20V MAX line will find it helpful to reuse the batteries they already have for different tools. On the other hand, the tool does include some basic accessories like the guide fence and a wrench so you won’t be starting out empty-handed.
Dust Collection Accessory Not Included
Another thing you’ll need to buy is the dust collection system. DEWALT, unlike brands like Ryobi that include dust bags with even their cheaper planers, sells its dust bag . The DWV9390 dust bag designed for the DCP580B, connects to the chip deflector with a twist-lock system to make emptying easier and works with AirLock.
From what I’ve seen, this dust bag feels almost necessary to use. Without something to handle the dust, the planer causes a huge mess that takes a lot of effort to clean. , the dust bag does its job well once you get it. Many customers say it gets rid of most of the sawdust. One excited reviewer shared, “I popped this onto my planer, and there was any sawdust. It was amazing.”
Why Offering a Kit Could Be Beneficial
Skipping a kit option at launch feels like a strange choice. Right now, buyers need to gather the setup themselves by buying each part :
- DEWALT DCP580B tool without extras
- A 20V MAX battery that works with it
- A charger for the battery
- The DWV9390 dust collection bag
Providing a full kit would make it easier to buy everything at once and might save money by bundling items together. It also ensures users can start projects right away instead of waiting for multiple orders to arrive.
It seems this “bare tool ” setup has surprised some buyers considering the cost of the planer and their belief that a full set would come with it. Forum chatter mentions that markets abroad sometimes offer kits with batteries and chargers included. This makes the US market’s decision to stick with the bare-tool-only option feel even more confusing.
- Brushless Motor provides power and runtime
- 30,000 cuts per minute achieve a fast removal rate
- 5/64 in. (2 mm.) maximum depth of cut
Conclusion
The DEWALT DCP580B 20V MAX cordless planer works great and earns its spot as a must-have for woodworkers. I tested it a lot and found it lightweight but strong. It handled hardwood, softwood, and PVC while offering precise depth settings. Its design feels balanced, and the kickstand adds convenience. Using it for a long time feels easier because of how well it is built.
Even though the planer comes without a battery, charger, or dust bag, its usefulness and strong performance make up for those extra costs. The brushless motor has great efficiency offering longer use and steady power. The carbide blades last a long time and are worth the price since they can be reversed. If you already use tools from the DEWALT 20V MAX line, this planer fits in well.
The planer works best on precise tasks such as trimming doors scribing cabinets, and leveling beams. These are jobs where control and accuracy are most important. Some competitors offer more accessories upfront, but not many can match the DEWALT’s mix of power, comfort, and precision. Its dual-sided dust extraction system when combined with the optional collection setup sold , handles the large amounts of waste that planing produces.
What makes this cordless planer stand out is how dependable it is when used in tough situations. After working on many projects with all kinds of materials, the DCP580B has shown that it is a serious tool made to last on job sites. So, woodworkers who want a cordless planer with strong power and exact performance should consider the DEWALT 20V MAX. It is a tool that offers reliable quality every time.
