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Winner – Biscuit/Tenon Joiners

Rockler Handy Bench

What they said:

The Kreg Edge™ 20V Ionic Drive™ Loose Tenon Joiner reimagines one of woodworking’s strongest joinery methods by making professional-grade loose tenon joinery truly cordless, faster to set up, and dramatically easier to execute. While traditional loose tenon systems often require extensive layout, corded tools, dust extraction, and a steeper learning curve, the Kreg Edge streamlines the entire process without sacrificing precision or strength. At the core of the innovation is a powerful brushless 20V motor paired with an oscillating, high-speed carbide cutter that machines precise mortises in seconds. The included auto-centering Narrow Stock Guide automatically centers mortises on narrow stock, removing the need for measuring and marking. Configurable edge stops ensure fast, repeatable mortise placement on mating workpieces, while one-touch mortise width adjustment creates additional assembly tolerance for quicker, more forgiving glue-ups.

The Kreg Edge also expands versatility beyond standard joinery tools. A micro-adjustable fence accommodates both standard and non-standard material thicknesses and adjusts from 0° to 90°, including common preset angles. The included Stability Base provides a larger footprint for secure face mortising on panels and wide boards, making operations easier and safer on challenging workpieces. Built-in chip relief slots help clear waste material during cutting, reducing buildup and minimizing dependence on dedicated dust extraction during shorter work sessions. This improves convenience and keeps users productive without requiring additional equipment.

What we say:

Kreg’s Edge 20V Ionic Drive Loose Tenon Joiner brings affordable cordless portability to a joinery method valued for strength and repeatability. It mortises in just seconds, with helpful pro features like auto-centering, configurable edge stops, and one-touch mortise-width adjustment. The micro-adjustable fence further reduces layout and setup time. Kreg also includes a Stability Base for safer face mortising on panels, plus built-in chip relief slots help clear debris. The kit ships ready to go, with a 4.0 Ah battery, charger, 6 mm cutter, and even some sample tenons.

Price: $499.99

For more information, click here.

Winner – Cordless Jig Saws

Black+Decker BLJS78E1 20V MAX POWERCONNECT™ Brushless Jig Saw

What they said:

The BLACK+DECKER® 20V MAX POWERCONNECT™ Cordless Brushless Jig Saw* is designed to bring confidence, comfort, and control to demanding DIY projects. Created for tasks such as cutting curves, shaping openings, and making detailed cuts in wood, metal, and plastic, it combines approachable performance with thoughtful, user-centered design. The jig saw features a high-performance brushless motor and a 1-inch stroke length. The tool also offers up to 82 ft. per charge for extended cutting tasks. A variable-speed trigger and selectable straight and orbital modes allow users to tailor performance for faster rough cuts or smoother, more precise finishes, while a sturdy aluminum base helps provide steady control and accurate results.

The design also prioritizes visibility, accessibility, and ease of handling. An integrated LED light helps illuminate the work area, while the battery state-of-charge indicator gives users clear feedback on remaining power. A lightweight, compact form improves maneuverability in tight spaces, and compatibility with a vacuum or dust bag helps support a cleaner, more controlled workspace. Together, these features enhance convenience, precision, and overall user confidence.

What we say:

We like how the Black+Decker 20V PowerConnect brushless jig saw provides simple value and features needed for typical DIY applications. The brushless motor and 1-inch stroke length cut quickly, and the variable-speed trigger and selectable straight and orbital modes support everything from clean curves and bevels to quick cuts in metal and plastic. You also get a sturdy aluminum base, LED light, and battery charge indicator.

Price: $119.99

For more information, click here.

Winner – Lathes

Powermatic 2014B Woodworking Lathe

What they said:

The Powermatic PM2014B is a 14″ × 20″ variable speed woodworking lathe with stand, built for professional woodturners and serious home shop users who demand Gold Standard performance and will not settle for less. A 1 HP inverter-driven VFD motor delivers smooth three-phase output from a standard 115V single-phase power source. Three selectable speed settings, low (15-900 RPM), medium (30-1,800 RPM), and high (60-3,600 RPM), give turners precise, intuitive control from aggressive roughing passes to fine finish turning. The cast iron bed, legs, headstock, and tailstock absorb vibration, resist flex, and deliver the rigid, stable platform that precision woodturning demands.

The new tool rest features a hardened steel top rod, providing long-lasting durability and a smooth surface on which to slide gouging tools for a superior finish on every project. The sliding headstock repositions to the end of the bed for outboard turning. The magnetic control box repositions anywhere on the lathe bed for operator convenience and safety, displaying a clear digital spindle speed readout and 24-position positive-locking indexing for accurate, repeatable layout work. The redesigned stand adjusts from 34 to 46 inches of centerline height. The 13″ Bed Extension PM1-485 (sold separately) expands the distance between centers (when installed flush with the lathe bed) from 20 to 33 inches for longer spindle work.

What we say:

The Powermatic PM2014B woodworking lathe with stand delivers professional-grade three-phase woodturning performance from a standard 115V outlet, thanks to its 1 HP inverter-driven system. Three speed ranges take you from 15 to 3,600 RPM for controlled roughing and fine finishing. Cast-iron construction across the bed, headstock, tailstock, and legs helps reduce vibration, while the sliding headstock, 24-position indexing, movable control box, and adjustable-height stand improve precision, safety, and day-to-day usability.

Price: $2,849

For more information, click here.

Winner – Oscillating Multi-tools

DEWALT DCS359B 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-tool

What they said:

Make fast, efficient cuts through wood, metal, drywall, PVC, and plastic with the 20V MAX XR® Oscillating Multi-Tool. Offering the fastest cutting speed with the lowest vibration vs. leading competitors, this tool features a powerful brushless motor and an aggressive 4.2-degree oscillating angle. From demanding cuts to intricate detail work, the lock-on switch helps you complete prolonged applications.

As part of the PERFORM & PROTECT™ lineup, this innovative Oscillating Multi-Tool delivers up to 43% less vibration vs. the leading competitor to help keep you comfortable while you work. Maintain momentum in fast-paced environments with the Quick-Change™ accessory system that allows for tool-free blade changes. Help illuminate surfaces with an ultra-bright LED ideal for working inside dimly lit spaces.

What we say:

DeWalt completely changed the vibration profile of the DCS359B 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool to make it more ergonomic and transfer more of that cutting power to the workpiece. It features a brushless motor and a 4.2-degree oscillating angle that cuts more aggressively—and thus quickly. You get a lock-on switch, tool-free Quick-Change blade system, and a bright integrated LED light. This should make for a great tool to tackle anything from precise work to more aggressive cuts in wood, metal, drywall, or PVC.

Price: $249

For more information, click here.

Winner – Cordless Planers

CRAFTSMAN CMCW350B V20 Brushless RP™ 3-1/4-in Handheld Planer

What they said:

Level and shape wooden surfaces with the V20 BRUSHLESS RP™ 3-1/4 in. Handheld planer. Featuring a powerful brushless motor that delivers more runtime. Better performance†, this handheld planer achieves up to 30 passes per charge. With a fast cutting speed of 15,000 (no-load) RPM and a maximum depth of cut of up to 5/64 inches, the V20 BRUSHLESS RP™ 3-1/4 in. Handheld planer is one smooth operator.

What we say:

Craftsman released a sub-$150 brushless 3-1/4-in handheld planer for those looking to bring cordless convenience to surface preparation. Runtime is excellent, and DeWalt specifies that you can make 30 passes, taking 3/64 of an inch off the edge of an 8-ft piece of pine 2X material using a 4Ah battery. With 15,000 RPM of cutting speed and a maximum depth of cut of 5/64-in, it has the capacity to remove material quickly. A dual-chip exhaust port lets you set which direction to send waste.

Price: $149

For more information, click here.

Winner – Stationary Planers

Powermatic PM1-478 20″ Planer

What they said:

The 209BHH brings digital precision to Powermatic’s flagship 20″ planer. A built-in digital readout (DRO) provides exact, repeatable thickness control, so operators can return to precise settings without repeated test passes. Its four-row helical cutterhead carries 68 four-sided carbide inserts spinning at 5,200 RPM to deliver a smooth, low-tearout finish with reduced noise and extended insert life versus straight-knife designs. Each insert is individually accessible for rotation or replacement, cutting service time, and keeping the machine in production.

Two feed speeds – 16 FPM for fine finishing and 28 FPM for rapid stock removal – let operators balance surface quality against throughput. Solid cast-iron infeed and outfeed tables provide a combined 51-1/2″ support surface for stability and vibration damping on large workpieces, and a 4″ bidirectional dust port evacuates chips at 900+ CFM. An upgraded caster locking and braking system, plus an oversized emergency-stop reinforce safe, confident operation. A 5 HP, 230V single-phase motor sustains feed rate through dense hardwoods and wide panels up to 20″ wide and 8″ thick, making it a true production machine. The PM1-478 is the primary model and is available in 230V, 230V/460V, and 460V configurations. Backed by Powermatic’s Gold Glove service and 5-year warranty.

What we say:

Powermatic’s PM1-478 updates the prior model, adding a new built-in digital thickness readout, dual selectable feed speeds (16/28 FPM), an oversized emergency stop, and an improved caster locking and braking system. This 20-inch helical-head planer uses a 5 HP, 230V single-phase motor. Its 68-insert cutterhead runs at 5,000 RPM, but two feed speeds and a built-in digital thickness readout let operators quickly switch between stock removal and fine finishing. We also liked the 5-inch dust port that is rated for 900 CFM.

Price: $6,299

For more information, click here.

Winner – Router Tables

Rockler ProMax Ultra Cast Iron Router Table with Integrated Pro Lift

What they said:

This ProMax Ultra Cast Iron Router Table with Integrated Pro Lift has a 1-3/4”-thick cast iron surface reinforced with ample webbing underneath and machined flat to deliver smooth, accurate cuts. Integrating the lift into the table casting provides more continuous surface in the bit area without the usual insert plate gaps that can catch workpiece corners and trap routing dust. Raising and lowering the router bit is as easy as cranking the handle or twisting the fine adjustment dial on the side-mounted gearbox. This way, no matter what jig you are using, there are no dials on the table surface to adjust, so your jigs are never in the way. Five aluminum Snap-Lock insert rings remove with the push of a button to simplify bit changes.

What we say:

Rockler’s ProMax Ultra Cast Iron Router Table with Integrated Pro Lift combines a 1-3/4-inch machined cast-iron top with a fully integrated lift. This eliminates the plate opening found on conventional tables, creating a seamless surface. You get side-mounted height controls, a 4-to-1 quick-gear system, and fine adjustment to 0.001 inch. Our judges appreciated the inclusion of five different Snap-Lock insert rings to accommodate a variety of bits and applications. A built-in miter slot and T-track compatibility give you broad accessory support for additional cutting options.

Price: $949.99

For more information, click here.

Winner – Cordless Sanders

DEWALT DCW211B 20V XR 5″ Random Orbital Sander

What they said:

Designed to offer the best control with the fastest material removal vs. leading competitors for the professional woodworker, remodeler, carpenter, and general contractor, the 20V MAX XR® 5 in. Random Orbital Sander is ideal for small surfaces and tight spaces. With variable speeds from 8,000 to 12,000 (no load) OPM, this sander adapts to the task at hand, leaving a fine finish.

Sand areas up to 50 sq-ft. with ease. Equipped with the DEWALT® AirLock™ system to help maintain a clean work environment, this product collects up to 95% of dust when using a compatible DEWALT® dust extractor. Built for professionals who demand fast material removal, low vibration, and outstanding control, our best-performing 20V MAX 5 in. random orbital sander tackles sanding jobs with ease.

What we say:

When sanding with a battery-powered tool, ergonomics and vibration reduction make all the difference. DeWalt seems to have hit a sweet spot with the DCW211B 20V XR 5″ Random Orbital Sander. This cordless sander seems to be directed toward professionals looking for a more pneumatic-style sander that functions well in tight spaces. The variable-speed 8,000–12,000 OPM should provide great control, from precise finishing to heavy material removal, and the AirLock system can capture up to 95% of dust when paired with a compatible extractor.

Price: $199

For more information, click here.

Winner – Stains & Sealers

Minwax® One Step Stain & Topcoat

What they said:

Minwax® One Step Stain & Topcoat introduces an innovative way to simplify wood finishing by combining stain, color, and durable protection in a single product. Its water-based formula combines stain and topcoat in one step. With no wiping or sealing required, Minwax® One Step Stain & Topcoat helps users complete projects up to 3x faster than traditional stain-and-topcoat systems. Built for beginner DIYers, Minwax® One Step Stain & Topcoat helps take the guesswork out of staining and makes wood finishing more approachable. Users simply apply it like paint and watch the natural beauty of wood come to life. A fast two-hour dry time and easy soap-and-water cleanup help users achieve professional-looking results with confidence from start to finish.

Designed for both bare and previously finished wood, Minwax® One Step Stain & Topcoat’s outstanding adhesion, excellent flow and leveling characteristics, and built-in protection bring together performance and ease of use in a streamlined application. The result is a durable finish that helps reduce the time, effort, and materials typically associated with wood finishing projects. Available in quart and half-pint sizes, satin and semi-gloss sheens, and tintable to 240+ colors, it provides extensive opportunities for customized results.

What we say:

All of our judges appreciated the way Minwax One Step Stain & Topcoat rolls staining and protection into one water-based application on bare or previously finished wood. A two-hour dry time, soap-and-water cleanup, and 240+ tintable colors in satin or semi-gloss make the product even more attractive. For DIYers or anyone who was previously averse to staining wood, Minwax One Step may open up a whole new world.

Price: $19.98 (quart)

For more information, click here.

Winner – Table Saw Accessories

Rockler Table Saw Crosscut Sled

What they said:

There’s simply no easier or more accurate way to make crosscuts and miter cuts on your cabinet or contractor-style saw than with our Table Saw Crosscut Sled. Guided by an adjustable miter bar, its large phenolic base offers slippery smooth sliding action and won’t delaminate or swell in a humid shop. The oversized protractor scale is laid out in easy-to-read 1/2° graduations, and a hairline indicator ensures error-free setups.

We equip the sled with an extruded aluminum fence that has a telescoping work platform to support long workpieces, preventing them from tipping. The fence also includes our popular Micro-Adjust Fence Flip Stop (#79286) for dialing in precise cutting lengths. A Bit-Saver Hold-Down Clamp (#63688) lets you secure workpieces for maximum cutting precision. And thanks to a replaceable MDF zero-clearance insert, wood fibers are supported right up to the blade teeth to minimize splintering.

What we say:

Rockler’s Table Saw Crosscut Sled turns a standard table saw into a precise crosscutting workstation. A 1/2-inch polymer base, adjustable tension miter bar, and oversized protractor scale with 1/2-degree graduations give you the ability to make exacting cuts. The telescoping aluminum fence extends from 25 to 38-1/4 inches for longer workpieces. The replaceable MDF zero-clearance insert helps reduce tearout, and the included hold-down clamp and micro-adjust flip stop add safety and repeatable length control.

Price: $249.99

For more information, click here.

Winner – Cordless Table Saws

Hilti SCT 60-22 Cordless Table Saw

What they said:

The Hilti SCT 60-22 Cordless table saw combines the cutting capacity of a full-size, professional-grade table saw with the mobility and flexibility of the Nuron battery platform. The saw provides up to 3.54 inches of cutting depth, 2-3/8 inches of cutting depth at 45 degrees, a maximum bevel angle of 47 degrees, and 26-1/4 inches of rip capacity in a highly portable package. When paired with Hilti’s foldable trolley system, the saw can be transported easily throughout the jobsite and quickly deployed where work is taking place. Large wheels, a compact footprint, and an integrated stand design help reduce material handling and minimize the time spent moving equipment between work areas.

Essential accessories, including the blade guard, riving knife, anti-kickback device, and push stick, are stored directly within the tool body, helping ensure critical components remain with the saw during transport and setup. Additional accessories, such as the rip fence, miter gauge, and stop block, provide the versatility needed for a wide range of cutting applications while keeping the jobsite organized. Built on the Nuron battery platform, the SCT 60-22 provides cordless operation for jobsites where power may be limited or unavailable. Contractors can perform precise cuts on roof battens, purlins, formwork materials, beams, and prefabricated wood elements without the need for extension cords or additional power infrastructure.

What we say:

The Hilti SCT 60-22 continues the company’s trend of bringing no-compromise tools from cord to battery. You get 10-inch table saw capacity in a cordless configuration that delivers up to 3.54 inches of cutting depth and 26-1/4 inches of rip capacity, while remaining portable enough for jobsite transport on its foldable trolley system. It securely holds the blade guard, riving knife, anti-kickback device, and push stick when not in use, keeping your essential accessories with the tool. This cordless table saw has the best combination of power and features we’ve yet seen for a battery-powered tool in this category.

Price: $999

For more information, click here.

Winner – Cordless Track Saws

DEWALT DCS525STWW1 20V MAX XR® 6-1/2 in. Plunge Track Saw Kit

What they said:

Make precise cuts with the 20V MAX XR® 6-1/2 in. Plunge Track Saw that delivers more power with advanced control vs. the leading competitor (battery and charger sold separately). Engineered for professional woodworkers, carpenters, and contractors who demand quality tools, this saw is designed to rip solid hardwoods up to 2-1/8 in. thick and make accurate cuts within 1/32 of an inch.

The powerful brushless motor and variable speed control help maximize control and precision in a wide range of applications. Part of the DEWALT PERFORM & PROTECT™ Lineup – This Plunge Track Saw is equipped with the DEWALT KICKBACK BRAKE™ System To Help maximize control. This feature quickly shuts off the saw when a pinch, stall, or bind-up is detected. This track saw is built to provide the power, control, and precision that trade professionals demand.

What we say:

DeWalt built the DCS525STWW1 6-1/2 in. cordless plunge track saw for finish-grade cutting on and off the jobsite. It didn’t miss any of the features our judges look for in a track saw, but delivered them in a cordless solution. It can rip solid hardwood up to 2-1/8 inches thick and make repeatable cuts within 1/32 inch. The Kickback Brake shuts the saw off in the rare situation where it detects a pinch, stall, or bind. Using an 8 Ah battery, you can rip up to 280 linear feet of 3/4-in. MDF. This tool is perfect for anyone from professional woodworkers to carpenters or contractors wanting a simpler solution for cutting sheet goods on the jobsite.

Price: $749

For more information, click here.