Comparison:DeWalt DW733-QS vs Metabo DH330

On job sites as well as in workshops, the electric thickness planer is one of those tools that can turn woodworking into a genuine pleasure. Two models often come up in conversation: the DeWalt DW733-QS and the Metabo DH330. Both are compact, powerful, and designed for demanding professionals or advanced DIY enthusiasts. Their promise? Clean finishes, consistent results, and millimeter-level precision.

DeWalt DW733-QS

Technical specifications

Motor power : 1800 W

Maximum planing width : 315 mm

Maximum cutting depth : 3,2 mm

Cutterhead speed : 10 000 rpm

Max workpiece height : 152 mm

Weight : 36,2 kg

Infeed/outfeed tables : Wide, steel

Locking system : Cutterhead lock

Height adjustment : Crank + graduated scale

Table material : Steel

Overall stability : Four-column support

Electrical safety : Standard

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Four-column cutterhead support for outstanding stability
High precision thanks to the graduated handwheel and material removal gauge
Consistent 1800 W power, suitable for dense hardwoods
Wide steel infeed/outfeed tables for solid support on long boards
Cutterhead lock prevents movement during operation
Clear, easy-to-read adjustments, great for repeat setups

Weaknesses

Heavy (36.2 kg), which limits portability on job sites
High noise level, not ideal for enclosed spaces
Feed speed cannot be adjusted, reducing flexibility depending on wood type
Chip extraction could be better without a directional dust chute

Indicative price

719$

Who is DeWalt DW733-QS suitable for?

Compact but solid, the DeWalt DW733-QS is a benchtop planer built to deliver an even finish, even on hardwood. Its four-column structure provides strong stability and accurate height adjustments, which is appreciated by both professionals and demanding DIYers.

Metabo DH330

Technical specifications

Motor power : 1800 W

Maximum planing width : 330 mm

Maximum cutting depth : 3 mm

Cutterhead speed : 9 800 rpm

Max workpiece height : 152 mm

Weight : 35 kg

Infeed/outfeed tables : Cast aluminum

Locking system : Anti-adjustment safety

Height adjustment : Simple crank

Table material : Cast aluminum

Overall stability : Stable gear mechanism

Electrical safety : Restart protection

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Reduced weight (35 kg) makes moving and setup easier
Smooth automatic feed ensures even, consistent planing
Precise depth adjustment thanks to a fluid handwheel mechanism
Anti-restart protection enhances user safety
Cast aluminum tables provide excellent glide for workpieces
Adjustable chip extraction (0 to 3 mm), useful for keeping the workspace clean
Good value for money for a machine in this category

Weaknesses

Slightly lower stability than the DeWalt when working with dense hardwoods
Less rigid during long sessions or deep passes
Cutting precision is more limited for demanding finishing work
Requires a solid, stable stand to reduce vibrations on long boards

Indicative price

459$

Who is Metabo DH330 suitable for?

The Metabo DH330 stands out for being lighter and easier to move around, while still offering 1800 W of power. Designed for mobile craftsmen and regular workshop use, it delivers smooth planing, steady automatic feed, and well-thought-out safety features. Its overall design leans more toward practicality than ultra-fine precision, yet it still maintains a high-quality finish.

Comparison table: DeWalt DW733-QS vs Metabo DH330

Criteria	DW733-QS	DH330	Verdict
Motor power	1800 W	1800 W	Tie
Maximum planing width	315 mm	330 mm	DH330+15 mm
Maximum cutting depth	3,2 mm	3 mm	DW733-QS+0.2 mm depth
Cutterhead speed	10 000 rpm	9 800 rpm	DW733-QSAbout +2% faster
Max workpiece height	152 mm	152 mm	Tie
Weight	36,2 kg	35 kg	DH3301.2 kg lighter
Infeed/outfeed tables	Wide, steel	Cast aluminum	DW733-QSBetter stability
Locking system	Cutterhead lock	Anti-adjustment safety	Tie
Height adjustment	Crank + graduated scale	Simple crank	DW733-QSMore precise control
Table material	Steel	Cast aluminum	Tie
Overall stability	Four-column support	Stable gear mechanism	DW733-QSMore rigid structure
Electrical safety	Standard	Restart protection	DH330

Recommended accessories

For DeWalt DW733-QS

Compatible planer blades

Machine base

Suction connection gasket

For Metabo DH330

333mm planer blades

Machine base

Planing knives

Real-life test: DeWalt DW733-QS vs Metabo DH330

Project: producing a batch of 20 solid oak tabletops. Each board is about 1.5 meters long and 30 cm wide. Test carried out over a full day in a semi-open workshop, with dust extraction connected to both machines.

Experience with the DeWalt DW733-QS?

From the very first pass, Damien notices the machine’s stability. Nothing vibrates, even with thicker boards. The 1800 W motor doesn’t slow down, even when he feeds the wood a bit too quickly. The graduated crank allows precise, almost surgical adjustment: he knows exactly how much material he’s removing each time. The only drawback is the noise, ear protection is a must. And after a while, the 36 kilos definitely make themselves known when he needs to move it. But in terms of consistency and finish, there’s nothing to complain about: the result is clean, with no burn marks or ridges.

Experience with the Metabo DH330?

With the Metabo, the tone shifts: it’s lighter, easier to handle. Damien can move it from one bench to another without effort. Setup is quick, and the automatic feed works smoothly: the boards slide through with no jolts. He does notice a slight “give” on hardwood, as if the machine is following the grain a bit. The noise level is lower, and the restart-prevention feature reassures him when he takes breaks. By the end of the day, his arms are less tired, but the fineness of the finish doesn’t quite reach that of the DeWalt.

User reviews

DeWalt DW733-QS

4.27/5

Power and Performance

91%

Precision and Stability

94%

Ergonomics and Mobility

72%

Value for Money

85%

★★★★★

Marc L.

Solid and precise, nothing shifts even after several hours of work. The four-column stability is a real advantage when working on thick boards. I use it almost every day, never had to recalibrate it.

★★★★★

Julie P.

Very good results, but a bit heavy to move on my own. However, the finish is excellent, and you can feel the machine isn’t straining. I just wish the chip extraction was more efficient.

★★★★★

Thierry M.

For fine finishing, the DeWalt is still my favorite. The motor is powerful, and the adjustment is precise down to the millimeter. A tool you can really rely on, even if it takes up space on the bench.

Metabo DH330

4.27/5

Power and Performance

84%

Precision and Stability

79%

Ergonomics and Mobility

91%

Value for Money

88%

★★★★★

Sophie D.

Easy to set up and use, even without experience. The lighter weight is great for storing it after use. The planing is clean, but it takes a bit of practice to set the depth properly.

★★★★★

Nicolas R.

I often work on-site, so the Metabo makes things easier. It’s light, starts quickly, and gets the job done without struggling. The feed system is smooth, perfect for longer boards.

★★★★★

André C.

Very good balance between power and comfort. The motor holds up well, and the finish is clean. Less rigid than workshop-grade models, but definitely adequate for hobby use.

Questions? We have the answers!

What is the main difference between the DeWalt DW733-QS and the Metabo DH330?

The DeWalt focuses on stability and precision, making it ideal for fixed workshops and intensive workloads. The Metabo, being lighter, emphasizes mobility and ease of use for traveling craftsmen or frequent DIY users.

Which planer is better suited for hardwoods?

The DeWalt DW733-QS provides better stability and a more consistent cut on dense woods thanks to its rigid four-column structure and cutterhead locking system.

Is the Metabo DH330 suitable for professional use?

Yes, as long as it isn’t used continuously on large workloads. It’s well suited for small workshops or mobile jobs, but it’s less durable than a full stationary shop machine.

Do both models require a dust extractor?

Yes. These planers produce a large amount of wood chips; a dust extraction system (or a suitable collection bag) is recommended to prevent clogging and maintain planing quality.

Which planer offers the best value for money?

The Metabo DH330 is slightly more affordable while still delivering strong performance, but the DeWalt DW733-QS justifies its higher price with superior precision and durability.