When choosing a jointer, you’ll often see two main designs: parallelogram and dovetail. Both have their advantages, but they work a little differently. Here’s what you need to know:

Parallelogram Jointers

• Easy to Fine-Tune:
  Parallelogram jointers use eccentric cams at each corner of both tables. This design makes it simple to adjust the table height and alignment without using shims.
• Precise Adjustments:
  You can make very accurate changes to the infeed and outfeed tables for perfect cuts.
• Replaceable Tables:
  Each table can be replaced individually if needed, which makes long-term maintenance easier.
• Ideal for Frequent Adjustments:
  If you work with different types of wood and need to change settings often, a parallelogram jointer is a great choice.

Dovetail Jointers

• Less Adjustable:
  Dovetail jointers use a sliding dovetail design for the tables. This means fewer adjustment points compared to a parallelogram jointer.
• Stable Over Time:
  Because of the way they’re built, dovetail jointers usually need fewer adjustments during their lifetime.
• Matched Table Set:
  Grizzly dovetail jointer tables are ground flat as a matched set while mounted to the base. This ensures accuracy but makes replacing a single table impractical.
• Wear Adjustments:
  If adjustments are needed due to wear, they are done by shimming the dovetail ways, which can take more time and effort.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Parallelogram jointers are best if you want easy, precise adjustments and flexibility.
• Dovetail jointers are great for long-term stability and lower maintenance needs.

Both designs produce excellent results when properly set up. Your choice depends on how often you adjust your machine and your preference for convenience versus simplicity.