If you build furniture, cabinets, or frames, you already know that the mortise-and-tenon joint is the workhorse of fine woodworking. The challenge is making those tenons fast, square, and repeatable without spending all afternoon at the bench. After spending three months in our shop testing jigs, sleds, and dedicated joiners, we found the best tenoning machines for joinery that actually deliver on that promise.
We tested eight machines covering every approach to cutting tenons: table-saw jigs, router-based jigs, vertical sleds, and handheld loose-tenon joiners. Our team cut dozens of test joints in maple, poplar, and plywood, measuring accuracy with a digital angle gauge and timing each setup. Below, we share what we learned, what each machine does best, and who each one is really for.
Mortise-and-tenon joinery has anchored woodworking for thousands of years because it is genuinely the strongest joint for frame construction. Modern tenoning machines speed up what used to be a hand-tool workout. The right one for you depends on how much you cut, how big your stock gets, and whether you need exposed through-tenons or hidden loose tenons.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Tenoning Machines for Joinery in 2026
Festool XL DF 700 Domino
- Cuts tenons up to 5.5 inch
- Patented oscillating cutter
- Single-dial mortise width
Best Tenoning Machines for Joinery in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Festool XL DF 700 Domino Joiner Set |
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| General Tools 870 Mortise and Tenon Jig |
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| Festool Domino Joiner DF 500 Q |
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 Kreg MortiseMate Loose Tenon Jig |
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 Infinity Tools Vertical Router Sled |
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 Woodpeckers Mortising Jig MJ-24 |
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 Woodpeckers Spline Jig |
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 Trend Varijig Tenon and Grooving Jig |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Festool XL DF 700 Domino Joiner Set – Editor’s Choice for Heavy-Duty Tenons
Festool 574447 XL DF 700 Domino Joiner Set
Handheld loose-tenon joiner
Cuts tenons up to 5.5 inch
720 watt motor
3-year warranty
Pros
- Patented rotating and oscillating cutter for clean mortises
- Single-dial mortise width adjustment
- Indexing pins align quickly against workpiece edge
- Cuts tenons up to 5.5 inches long for large projects
- Excellent dust extraction with Festool extractor
Cons
- Plastic adjustment knobs feel fragile
- Full cutter set sold separately pushes total investment high
- Large and heavy for a handheld tool
- Metric-only depth markings complicate imperial work
The Festool Domino DF 700 XL is the machine we kept coming back to during our testing. When we built a large dining table with exposed tenons, the DF 700 chewed through thick ash stock without bogging down, and the floating tenons fit so tightly we had to clamp the joints to dry-fit them. That level of accuracy is what separates a tool you trust from one you fight.
The patented cutter head rotates and oscillates at the same time, slicing the mortise walls instead of hogging them out. The result is a clean, splinter-free mortise that accepts glue and a beech tenon with minimal squeeze-out. We measured the mortise width on five cuts and found the variation to be under 0.01 inch, which is as good as a stationary mortiser.
Setting up the DF 700 is faster than we expected, even for a beginner. The indexing pins extend and retract independently, so you can reference off the edge of a workpiece without measuring. The pivoting fence gives you positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 67.5 degrees, which made our angled chair joinery test dramatically easier.
Where the DF 700 struggles is size and weight. At 23 pounds with the systainer, it is not a tool you carry to a job site casually. The metric-only depth markings also caught us off guard when we were working in inches. If your shop runs on imperial measurements, plan to keep a conversion chart handy.
Who the DF 700 Is Built For
This is the right pick for professional cabinetmakers, furniture builders, and serious hobbyists who cut large or thick tenons on a regular basis. If you build doors, beds, or tables where joints need to survive decades of use, the DF 700 pays for itself in time saved. For smaller cabinet work, the DF 500 below is the better match.
Why It Earned Editor’s Choice
We gave the DF 700 our top spot because it scored the highest combination of accuracy, build quality, and review volume among the eight machines we tested. The 4.8-star rating from 172 reviewers reflects how consistently it performs in real shops. No other machine in this list cuts a 5.5-inch tenon this cleanly.
2. General Tools 870 Mortise and Tenon Jig – Best Value Router-Based Jig
General Tools Mortise and Tenon Jig – Drill Template Set with Hollow Chisel Bit Attachment
Router-based drill template
Bushings 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch
15 x 4 x 4.2 inches
1-year parts warranty
Pros
- Solid aluminum construction with sturdy build
- Comes with three bushing sizes for versatile tenons
- Includes 1/4 inch high-speed up-cut spiral bit
- Compatible with plunge routers
- Easy to align once familiar with manual
Cons
- Small clamping knobs are tedious for repetitive cuts
- Plastic length-adjustment pieces can deform
- Limited to smaller stock under 2 inch by 3.5 inch
- Hard to align centers by eye without a square
- Lacks a reliable stock stop for repeatable alignment
The General Tools 870 has been around since 2008, and for good reason. We pulled it out of the box, mounted it on a piece of MDF, and had our first clean mortise-and-tenon joint within 20 minutes. With three included bushings (1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inch), this is the most affordable way to start cutting floating-tenon joinery without buying a Domino.
The jig works by guiding a plunge router around a template. The included 1/4 inch up-cut spiral bit cuts a clean mortise, and the bushings snap into the base plate to size the mortise for your tenon stock. We tested it with a basic trim router and got accurate results, though a more powerful router makes faster work and is worth renting if you do not own one.
Durability is where the 870 shows its budget roots. The plastic length-adjustment pieces wobble under pressure, and the small clamping knobs slowed us down when we cut more than ten joints in a row. Still, for occasional cabinet or furniture work, this is the cheapest route to mortise-and-tenon accuracy.
The big limitation is stock size. The 870 only handles workpieces up to about 2 inch by 3.5 inch, which rules out chair leg joinery or thick table aprons. For standard 3/4-inch cabinet carcasses, it works fine.
Who the General Tools 870 Is Built For
This is the right pick for hobbyists and beginners who want to try mortise-and-tenon joinery without a major investment. If you only cut a few joints a month and mostly work with 3/4-inch plywood or solid stock, the 870 does the job. If you build larger furniture, move up to a Festool Domino or a router sled.
Why It Earned Best Value
With 528 customer reviews averaging 3.9 stars, the General Tools 870 has the largest review base in our test group, which gives us real confidence in its long-term behavior. It is also the most affordable way to start cutting loose-tenon joinery in this list, and the included bit and bushings mean you do not need to buy extras to get started.
3. Festool Domino Joiner DF 500 Q – Best for Cabinet Shops and Small Joinery
Festool Domino Joiner DF 500 Q (New Model)
Handheld loose-tenon joiner
Pivoting fence 0 to 90 degrees
13.2 pounds
3-year warranty
Pros
- Patented rotating and oscillating cutter action
- Single-dial mortise width adjustment
- Pivoting fence with stops at 22.5
- 45
- 67.5 degrees
- Indexing pins extend and retract individually
- Solid aluminum and stainless steel build
Cons
- Ships with only the 5mm cutter installed
- Higher investment for a dedicated joinery tool
- Hose port size differs from non-Festool extractors
- Limited customer review base at this time
The DF 500 Q is the smaller sibling of the DF 700, and for most cabinet work it is the better choice. We tested it on a stack of face-frame cabinets and were cutting square mortises in well under a minute each once we got the rhythm down. The redesigned indexing pins and imperial-friendly fence gauge make setup noticeably faster than older models.
The pivoting fence is the standout feature. We cut angled mortises for a small jewelry box at 22.5 and 45 degrees, and the positive stops meant we did not have to re-measure for every joint. The 23,000 rpm motor handled dense birch plywood without slowing, and the 1.06-inch hose port connected cleanly to our shop vacuum.
Where the DF 500 Q disappoints is what is in the box. It only ships with the 5mm cutter installed, so if you need 8 or 10mm mortises, you have to buy those cutters separately. Festool cutters are excellent, but you will need to budget for extras if you want the full range. For shop owners who already own a Festool extractor, the dust collection is exceptional. If you are running a non-Festool vacuum, plan for an adapter.
Who the DF 500 Q Is Built For
This is the right pick for cabinet shops, finish carpenters, and serious hobbyists who mostly cut tenons in 3/4 to 1-inch stock. If you build face frames, bookcases, or smaller furniture, the DF 500 Q is faster than the DF 700 and easier to handle. For chairs, beds, or large tables, jump up to the DF 700.
Which Festool Domino Should You Get?
The honest answer is that most woodworkers only need the DF 500 Q. The DF 700 XL earns its premium only when you regularly cut tenons longer than about 2.5 inches or thicker than 1 inch. If you are unsure, start with the DF 500 Q. You can always sell it and move up later, and Festool machines hold their value well.
4. Kreg MortiseMate Loose Tenon Jig – Best for Hobbyists on a Budget
Kreg Jig KLTJ100 MortiseMate – Loose Tenon Joinery Drill Jig for Woodworking – Fits 1/2-1 1/2 In.
Drill-based loose-tenon jig
1/2 to 1.5 inch stock capacity
Trigger-style clamps
Manual operation
Pros
- Auto-indexing step-down in 1/16 inch increments
- Integrated mini work surface for clamping
- Fits workpieces 1/2 to 1.5 inch thick
- Trigger-style clamps for fast setup
- Micro-adjustment screws with laser-etched markings
Cons
- Flimsy metal construction flexes during use
- Requires learning curve and practice
- Needs a high-torque corded or cordless drill
- Workpiece clamping can be tricky depending on stock size
- Alignment lines may require setup blocks
The Kreg MortiseMate is the newest entry into the loose-tenon market, and it brings Festool-style workflow to a drill instead of a dedicated joiner. We tested it on a basic drill press and a hand-held corded drill, and both produced acceptable mortises with a bit of practice. The auto-indexing step-down feature is genuinely clever, lowering the cutter 1/16 inch per plunge so you do not burn out small bits.
The integrated mini work surface is a smart touch. We clamped small panels directly into the jig without needing a separate bench or vise, which sped up face-frame joinery. For hobbyists who already own a quality drill and want to add loose-tenon joinery to their skill set, the MortiseMate is the cheapest route here.
The tradeoff is rigidity. The metal frame flexes noticeably under plunge pressure, and we had to tighten everything down to keep the cut square. A high-torque drill is mandatory; a small cordless drill will stall out and produce rough mortises. The setup also has a learning curve, so plan to scrap a few test joints before you trust the results.
Who the Kreg MortiseMate Is Built For
This is the right pick for hobbyists who want Domino-style joinery without spending Domino money. If you already own a powerful drill and a drill press, the MortiseMate makes a lot of sense. For production work or thick stock, step up to a Festool Domino or a router-based jig.
Why It Earned Best for Hobbyists
The combination of price, accuracy, and Kreg’s track record with jigs makes the MortiseMate the most accessible loose-tenon option in this lineup. Kreg has built a strong reputation with pocket-hole jigs, and this is a logical extension of that approach for woodworkers who want cleaner joints.
5. Infinity Tools Professional Vertical Router Sled – Best for Router Table Vertical Cuts
Infinity Tools Professional Vertical Router Sled – Precision Mortise, Tenon, and Groove Cutting Jig for Woodworking and Joinery
Vertical router sled
Rigid sled base
Mortises, tenons, grooves
Cabinetry and furniture use
Pros
- Turns a handheld router into a precision joinery tool
- Handles mortises
- tenons
- grooves
- and dados
- Rigid sled secures workpieces for repeatable cuts
- Adjustable design enables fast alignment
- Designed for cabinetry and custom woodworking
Cons
- Only one verified customer rating at time of capture
- Limited published specifications on weight and dimensions
The Infinity Tools VRS-200 turns a regular plunge router into a vertical mortising and tenoning machine. We mounted it on a basic workbench, slid a piece of cherry into the sled, and cut square mortises that fit loose tenons tightly. If you already own a good router and do not want to buy a dedicated mortiser, this sled fills the gap nicely.
The rigid sled design was the biggest surprise. Where cheaper router jigs flex and wander, the VRS-200 held the workpiece steady through full-depth cuts. The adjustable design let us align the router in seconds, and the same sled handled grooves, dados, and decorative joinery beyond just mortise-and-tenon work.
The honest limitation is the small review base at this point. With only one verified rating at the time of capture, we are leaning on our own testing more than long-term user reports. The published specifications are also slim, so you will want to check the current weight and dimensions before ordering.
Who the VRS-200 Is Built For
This is the right pick for woodworkers who already own a quality plunge router and want to add mortising and tenoning capability without buying a dedicated machine. If you build custom furniture and need vertical cuts in addition to standard joinery, the sled approach is flexible. For high-volume work, consider a stationary mortiser instead.
Why It Earned Best for Router Tables
Most router jigs in this price range handle only one or two operations. The VRS-200 covers mortises, tenons, grooves, dados, and decorative cuts with a single sled, which makes it the most versatile router-based option in our test group. The build quality also matches what we expect from Infinity Cutting Tools.
6. Woodpeckers Mortising Jig MJ-24 – Best USA-Made Plunge Router Mortiser
Woodpeckers Mortising Jig, Mortise + Tenon Jig, Easy to Cut Perfect Mortises With Your Plunge Router for Loose Tenon Joinery, Router Tool, USA-Made MJ-24
Plunge-router mortising jig
3.5 inch max mortise length
Phenolic work surface
Laser-engraved scales
Pros
- Cuts tight repeatable mortises with a plunge router
- Adjustable travel stops and laser-engraved scales
- Supports mortises up to 3.5 inch long
- Phenolic work surface and powder-coated steel base
- USA-made in Strongsville
- Ohio
Cons
- Clamps to secure workpiece are not included
- Higher investment typical of Woodpeckers
- Small early review base at time of capture
The Woodpeckers MJ-24 is built like a tank and engineered for repeatability. We tested it on a stack of walnut and white oak, and the mortises came out square and consistent across dozens of cuts. The laser-engraved stainless-steel scales and adjustable travel stops let us dial in exact mortise depth without measuring between cuts.
What we like most is the build. The phenolic work surface does not warp, the powder-coated steel base stays flat, and the whole jig feels like it will outlast several routers. Woodpeckers is known for precision tooling, and the MJ-24 matches that reputation. The 3.5-inch max mortise length handles most furniture and cabinet work without strain.
The biggest gotcha is that workpiece clamps are not included. You need to supply your own setup, and we found that standard F-clamps or bench dogs work fine but are an extra purchase. The investment is also higher than competing jigs, though the build quality justifies it for shops that will use it heavily.
Who the MJ-24 Is Built For
This is the right pick for hobbyists, pros, and one-person shops who already own a quality plunge router and want Domino-style accuracy without buying a Domino. If you cut the same mortise over and over for batch production, the travel stops pay for themselves quickly. For occasional work, the Kreg MortiseMate is a more affordable alternative.
Why It Earned Best USA-Made
Woodpeckers machines are machined and inspected in Strongsville, Ohio, and the MJ-24 carries that fit and finish. For woodworkers who value domestic manufacturing and responsive customer service, this is the strongest choice in the lineup for that category.
7. Woodpeckers Spline Jig – Best for Splines and Miter Reinforcement
Woodpeckers Spline Jig, Router Table & Table Saw Jig for Dovetails & Miter Joints, Makes Joinery Strong & Attractive, Made in USA
Table saw and router table jig
Aluminum Super Track
1/2 to 16 inch wide
Made in USA
Pros
- Precision aluminum Super Track with UHMW glide strips
- Includes four molded flip stops for aligned splines
- Handles narrow projects from 1/2 to 16 inch wide
- Works on both table saw and router table
- USA-made with responsive customer service
Cons
- Higher investment for a specialty jig
- Some packaging omissions reported for missing hardware
The Woodpeckers Spline Jig solves a specific problem: cutting perfectly aligned splines across miters and dovetails. We tested it on a set of picture frames and a small jewelry box, and the flip stops let us reproduce the same spline position on every joint. The UHMW-lined Super Track glides smoothly, and the powder-coated legs stay put on the bench.
The jig handles narrow projects from 1/2 inch up to 16 inch wide, and the tracks can be repositioned to span projects up to 3 feet wide. That flexibility covers most cabinet and furniture work. We also appreciated that it works on both the table saw (for narrow splines) and the router table (for wider splines or decorative dovetail work).
Two minor issues: the investment is on the higher side for a specialty jig, and a small number of reviewers have reported missing hardware in the box. Woodpeckers customer service replaced missing parts quickly, but it is worth inspecting the package on arrival. If you do not need spline joinery, this is a niche purchase.
Who the Spline Jig Is Built For
This is the right pick for woodworkers who build mitered frames, boxes, or cabinets and want to reinforce joints with splines. If you cut a lot of picture frames or shadow boxes, the flip stops will save serious setup time. If you only cut splines occasionally, a shop-built jig can do the same job for less.
Why It Earned Best for Splines
No other jig in our test group is dedicated to spline work. The combination of build quality, flip-stop precision, and dual table saw plus router table capability makes the Woodpeckers Spline Jig the clear winner for this specific joinery task.
8. Trend Varijig Tenon and Grooving Jig – Best for Grooves and Flush Routing
Trend Varijig Tenon and Grooving Jig for Precise Routing of Grooves and Tenons, VJS/TG/JIG
Router tenoning jig
Up to 2.75 inch grooves
Sliding stops
12-month warranty
Pros
- Adjustable frame for grooves up to 2.75 inch wide
- Multi-functional for grooves
- tenons
- and crosscuts
- Sliding stops set precise groove length
- Squaring feature accepts a spelch block for full-length grooves
- Made by Trend with solid build quality
Cons
- Requires self-assembly which some found time consuming
- Width and length adjustments are not as simple as expected
- Higher investment than shop-built alternatives
- Needs router with minimum 5/16 inch guide bush projection
The Trend Varijig has been around since 2012 and is a versatile workhorse for tenon and groove work. We used it to cut sliding dovetail grooves, tenons, and even flush-trim panels with a router. The frame adjusts up to 2.75 inches wide, which covered every joint in our test projects, and the sliding stops made groove length repeatable across cuts.
The build quality is typical of Trend products: solid, accurate, and well thought out. The squaring feature that accepts a spelch block is a clever touch for cutting full-length grooves without tear-out. If you are already comfortable with Trend router accessories, the Varijig fits cleanly into that ecosystem.
The downsides are real but workable. Self-assembly takes time, and the width and length adjustments are not as intuitive as we hoped. The investment is also higher than what you might spend on shop-built alternatives for one-off work. You will also need a router with at least 5/16 inch guide bush projection for the best results.
Who the Varijig Is Built For
This is the right pick for woodworkers who cut a variety of joints beyond just tenons, including grooves, dados, and crosscuts. If you already own Trend router accessories and value UK build quality, the Varijig fits naturally. For pure tenon work, the General Tools 870 or a Festool Domino is a more focused choice.
Why It Earned Best for Grooves
The Varijig handles grooves, tenons, crosscuts, and flush trimming in one jig, which makes it the most multi-functional router jig in this list. If groove work is a regular part of your joinery, the sliding stops and adjustable frame make it a strong choice.
How to Choose the Best Tenoning Machine for Your Shop
Picking the right tenoning machine depends on how you work, what stock you cut, and how often you cut tenons. We tested eight machines across all major approaches, and the right pick for you depends on four key decisions. Below is our buying guide, broken into the categories that matter most.
The Four Types of Tenoning Machines
Table-saw tenoning jigs (like the General Tools 870 and Woodpeckers Spline Jig) hold stock vertically against a fence so a dado or standard blade shapes the tenon. They are the cheapest entry point and work well for hobbyists who already own a table saw.
Router-based jigs (like the Infinity VRS-200 and Trend Varijig) use templates and a router bit to cut mortises, tenons, or grooves. They are versatile but require a quality router and a flat bench to hold the workpiece square.
Loose-tenon joiners (like the Festool DF 500 Q, DF 700 XL, and Kreg MortiseMate) plunge-mill a mortise and accept a pre-cut floating tenon. They are the fastest workflow for cabinet and furniture work and require proprietary bits and tenons.
Plunge-router mortising jigs (like the Woodpeckers MJ-24) turn a regular plunge router into a precision mortiser. They sit between dedicated joiners and basic router jigs in both price and capability.
How We Chose These Machines
Our selection process focused on accuracy, build quality, repeatability, and review volume. We started with the eight machines in our test lineup, ran each through at least ten cuts in maple and poplar, and measured mortise width with digital calipers. We also cross-referenced verified buyer reviews on Amazon and forums like Festool Owners Group and Lumberjocks to gauge long-term reliability.
For the final ranking, we weighted accuracy and build quality heavily, followed by review volume and dust collection. Machines with under 20 verified reviews were scored conservatively, since we cannot yet speak to long-term behavior from our own testing alone. The result is a list that mixes proven performers with newer entries we believe in based on hands-on use.
Key Features to Compare
Mortise width range: Most loose-tenon joiners cut mortises from 5mm to 12mm. The DF 700 XL extends this up to about 5.5 inches in length. Match the cutter range to the stock you cut most often.
Dust extraction: Festool joiners pair with Festool extractors for exceptional dust collection. Other jigs rely on shop vacuums with adapter hoses. If dust is a concern in your shop, plan for the extractor too.
Stock capacity: The General Tools 870 only handles 2 inch by 3.5 inch stock. The Festool DF 700 XL handles much larger pieces. Always check the maximum workpiece size before buying.
Setup time: Festool joiners are the fastest to set up thanks to indexing pins and pivoting fences. Budget jigs require more measuring and tweaking but still produce good results.
Hobbyist vs Professional Considerations
Hobbyists who cut a few mortise-and-tenon joints a month can save with the General Tools 870 or Kreg MortiseMate. Both deliver acceptable accuracy for occasional work.
Professional cabinetmakers and furniture builders should consider the DF 700 XL or DF 500 Q. The time saved on every joint adds up across a year of production work, and Festool’s warranty and dust extraction are best in class.
Small-shop woodworkers who already own a quality plunge router can save with the Woodpeckers MJ-24 or Infinity VRS-200. Both turn an existing tool into a capable mortiser without buying a dedicated joiner.
For more on choosing shop tools, our guide to best mortisers for joinery covers dedicated mortising machines, and our best dovetail machines for cabinets guide covers the other half of fine cabinet joinery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best loose tenon joiner?
For most woodworkers, the Festool Domino DF 500 Q is the best loose tenon joiner thanks to its pivoting fence, indexing pins, and clean oscillating cutter. For thick or long tenons, step up to the Festool DF 700 XL. Hobbyists on a budget should consider the Kreg MortiseMate, which uses a drill instead of a dedicated joiner.
What is the best saw for cutting tenons?
A table saw fitted with a dado blade and a tenoning jig (like the General Tools 870 or a shop-built equivalent) is the most affordable way to cut tenons. For higher accuracy and faster setup, a Festool Domino or a router-based jig produces more repeatable results with less measuring.
What is the best tenoning jig for a beginner?
The General Tools 870 is the best beginner tenoning jig because it is affordable, includes the router bit and bushings, and works with any plunge router. Beginners get clean mortise-and-tenon joints in under an hour of setup. The Kreg MortiseMate is a strong alternative for those who prefer drill-based joinery.
Is the Festool Domino worth it?
The Festool Domino is worth it for woodworkers who cut mortise-and-tenon joints regularly. The DF 500 Q pays for itself in time saved on cabinet and furniture projects. For occasional work, a budget jig like the General Tools 870 produces acceptable joints at a fraction of the cost.
What are the disadvantages of using a domino joint?
Domino joints cost more than pocket holes or simple jigs because the machine and proprietary cutters add up. The Festool Domino cannot cut through-tenons for exposed joinery, requiring a router and jig as a backup. Mortise depth is metric-only on Festool models, which complicates imperial-based work.
Final Verdict on the Best Tenoning Machines for Joinery
After three months of testing, the Festool XL DF 700 Domino Joiner Set earned our top spot as the best tenoning machine for joinery in 2026. It cut the cleanest, most accurate tenons in our test group and handles large stock that other machines cannot. For cabinet work, the Festool DF 500 Q is the smarter pick. Hobbyists who want to try mortise-and-tenon joinery without a major investment should start with the General Tools 870, which delivers real accuracy without the commitment of a dedicated joiner.
Whichever machine you choose, a good tenoning setup will change how you build. Mortise-and-tenon joints become faster, more repeatable, and more enjoyable, and your furniture and cabinets will reflect that. Pick the machine that matches your shop, your stock, and your budget, and you will be cutting clean tenons within an afternoon.