Whether you own a woodworking shop as a business or just dabble in the craft occasionally as a hobby or pastime, a good wood lathe is one of those tools that your shop needs to have. With wood lathes, you’ll be able to make anything from drawer pulls, door handles, table legs, wooden bowls, spoons, bangles, pepper mills, or even your own tools that you can either sell or simply gift to your close friends.
There are several companies making these machines, and the number of options can seem overwhelming especially if you are just starting out on the craft. That’s why we’ve done the work for you to come up with this shortlist of the best wood lathes you can buy. Take a peek at our high-quality suggestions in this guide and take your pick.
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If you don't think any of the above tools will do it for you, we’ve covered all the best wood lathes available in 2020 down below in our guide. Take a closer look at the features of each product - which may include advantages as well as disadvantages. At the end of the day, you are the one buying this product to work on your wood, and every person's needs differ.
First of all, it might be confusing to know whether you need a wood lathe, or a mini wood lathe. The reality is, almost every wood lathe you will be looking will be minis. Typically, a mini unit is defined as one with a DBC of less than 20" and a Swing Over Capacity of 12" or less (more on these terms in the section below). There are also midi lathes, a less common, slightly larger wood lathe (anything greater than 20" and 12") but this list focuses on mini lathes, the most common type of lathe available. Of course, you can always buy a bed extension if you find you want to extend the length of your wood product.
When choosing tools, specifically choosing between the best wood lathes on the market, there are several things to remember. What type and width of wood will you be working on? What kind of warranty does the company offer? How big is your budget? How much space in your workshop do you have? What other tools do you need? Consider these as you peruse through the list and pick the best wood lathe for your needs!
Some Quick Terminology
If you're new to wood turning, and have never owned a mini lathe before, you need to know a few things about these tools before continuing. The two most important measurements to know when determining what machine to buy are the Distance Between Centers (DBC) and the Swing Over Bed (SOB). You may often see some variations of these terms.
The DBC dictates how LONG of a project your lathe can manage. So, the maximum length on the above lathe would be 36".
The SOB dictates how WIDE (or the diameter, technically) of a project your lathe can manage. So, the maximum diameter of the above lathe would be 12" (or a 6" radius).
By using these two measurements, you can make sure you don't buy a lathe you'll eventually replace if you can't work on the wood you bought it for in the first place!
Some other sought after features include what the warranty is, the Horsepower (HP) of the motor, as well as the construction of the materials (cast iron is best!), what tools are included, etc. After you spend the time and money buying the lathe, you don't want to have to change it out for a new one later on!
If you are looking for a bigger wood lathe and budget is not an issue, then the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20x35-Inch Wood Lathe is worth a closer look. It has an electronic variable speed control and keeping track of the speed can be done at a glance - thanks to its digital readout. Different wood may require different speeds, which is no problem for this lathe as it is designed for speeds from 250-4000 rotations per minute, and the digital RPM readout makes it even easier. It also offers a reverse setting for those finer detail opportunities. This is probably one of the all out best tools you can get your hands on - if you've got the dough.
A great feature is the powerful 2HP motor to get whatever job you have to do, done. 2HP is plenty of power, and the most power of any lathe on our list. This lathe is versatile enough to tackle a wide range of woodworking projects with its 20" swing capacity, its center-to-center capacity of 34.5 inches and 24 index positions. This lean, mean, yellow machine can manage projects of all sizes, smaller and larger, yet another reason why it's our top pick. It is equipped with its own inverter for a smooth, maintenance-free operation for the user.
One other fancy attribute of the Powermatic can offer is the sliding headstock, something not found in every wood lathe. This makes it extremely easy for the user to make small adjustments. And, the tail stock - also made of cast iron - includes some built in storage, and has a 3/8" hole. The spindle also includes a locking mechanism in the form of a spring loaded button. This lathe is no joke, and is a professional grade choice. If you think you'll be into wood turning for some time, you can skip the beginner models and go straight for this top-end lathe. This is one of the best tools you can get, and won't be disappointed.
Customer Earl C Timmons from Amazon wrote:
“Long time wood turner I turn in the neighborhood of 200 bowls a year and many goblets, boxes, bottle stoppers etc. I have had lathes from Jet and Laguna and from 10" to 18". The 3520B has been a long time goal of mine and now that I have it I have no doubt I have purchased my last and best lathe. The purchase process and delivery was a class act that went off without a hitch. I live in Minnesota and when it was delivered we had several feet of snow on the ground. The delivery was on time and the driver saw to it that the lathe was inside the door of my shop despite some very difficult conditions. Thanks Powermatic.”
PROS
Electronic speed control
Easily monitor speed via its digital rpm readout
Very powerful 2HP motor
Capable of handling large wood turning with its 20-inch swing capacity and 34.5 center to center capacity
Comes with 24 indexing positions for easy decorative details such as drilling hole patterns
Easy-to-use makes it great for both professional and beginner woodturners
The JET JWL-1221vs is one of the best wood lathes, and is packed with value. As you can tell by the photo, this thing means business. The beautiful cast iron JET unit is not only attractive but also functional. While you can use it with the stand (pictured) its versatile dimensions makes it ideal for a benchtop lathe in your shop too. JET is a trusted brand of manufacturer of tools, and their wood lathe is no exception.
With a motor that produces 1 horsepower and the digital speed control this JET wood lathe provides power with precision. Variable from 60 rpm to 3600 rpm, the digital rpm module dials in your speed giving you the most control of any lathe on our list. It has a swing over bed of 12 inches and between centers capacity of 21 inches, which you can even extend with the bed extension if you so choose. The tool rest is easily adjustable, not sticky or clunky like some can be. Transition from forward to reverse is effortless too and an often overlooked feature. The JET 1221 has a tool rest that is 9" in length, which is a great size for most folks. Being able to move your cutting tool along 9" of run provides a lot of flexibility in wood size, something the JET offers that not many other lathes do. Others are only around 6" such as the NOVA wood lathe (further down).
The unique belt tension system (patent-pending technology) provides power and precision. The tailstock of the Jet also includes an acme thread, yet another unique trait. Overall, the JET JW-1221vs is a well-designed machine, one of the best wood lathes on the market, great for the hobbyist and professional alike. If you want to learn more about this lathe, you can read our full JET review here. Plus, a five year warranty backs JET products, so you can't go wrong with that!
PROS
Superior and precise variable speed (digital for precision)
Rikon is a known company when it comes to designing and manufacturing woodworking machinery. With the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch, the company offers an easy-to-use wood lathe that is ideal for beginner-level turners with its simple use and durable construction.
One thing that people will love is its easy access speed adjust mechanism that lets the user adjust the speed by choosing one of its 6 speed options which start at 430 rpm until 3900 rpm. It also features a self-ejecting tailstock, a 12-position indexing head for more accuracy with detail work and is very user-friendly. Woodworkers just love the lathe and gave it an average score of 4 out of 5 stars based on 59 customer reviews. The swing over tool rest is sturdy and steady, perfect for detail work, with an 8" length. That's a good middle ground for a wood lathe of this size, good for most projects.
The self-ejecting tail stock is super handy, making it a breeze to remove the center, allowing the user to avoid using the knock-out bar. The tailstock can also be moved along the bed by simply loosening the lock lever and and then re lock in the position you want it. With all of the speed options, the head stock positions, tailstock features, and extension accessories, this is one of the wood lathes on the market you'll be happiest with. RIKON offers a five year warrant to protect its products as well. This wood lathe is often available in limited quantities so if you can find one, we'd say go for it!
Buyer Roger L. Wilson wrote this Amazon review:
“After taking a pen turning class I was bitten by the turning bug, did a lot of research and decided this lathe offered everything I was looking for. Set up was a breeze and everything lined up perfectly. Runs quiet, no vibration, changing speeds by adjusting belt is piece of cake. Very satisfied with my decision. Anxious to start turning some projects.”
PROS
Ideal for beginner-level woodturners
Allows the user easily change spindle speed
Very user-friendly
Versatile with customization options
One of the largest mini-turners available on the market
DBC: 16.5 inch (expandable to 41 inch w/ accessory)
Material: Cast Iron
Motor: 3/4HP
Speed Range: 250 rpm to 4000 rpm
Grinding Wheel: 6″ x 3/4″ Whitestone Wheel
Warranty: 1 year for motor and controllers, 2 years for mechanical and parts
If you are looking for one of the top picks, packed with all the useful features you need to get a job done but is compact enough to fit in a smaller working area, then the NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed is an option you might want to consider.
Most owners of this machine praise it for its versatility – its 6″ x 3/4″ Whitestone grinding wheel can be operated within a wide variable speed range between 250 rpm to 4000 rpm which makes the lathe suitable for use even in bigger detailing. It also comes with a tool rest (standard) and and an eye safety shield for the wheel. It's easy to transition from forward to reverse which is great for finishing. Just another reason this value-packed lathe offers you flexibility and control. The head has 12 index positions which is great for furniture making. And, the self-ejecting tailstock making it easy for any user.
It is powered by a ¾ variable speed motor and there is a 3 Step Pulley System that allows you to quickly switch to different speed ranges, with quick and easy access. It has a swing over bed of 12 inches and DBC capacity of 16.5 inches, which you can even extend to as far as 41 inches with the additional purchase of the bed extension accessory. With its impressive flexibility, it’s no surprise that it is a bestseller in Amazon’s in Power Wood Lathe category with an average score of 3.9 stars based on 65 customer reviews. This wood lathe only includes a single 6" tool rest, but that's fairly standard. if you are working on larger projects you may want to consider another tool on the list with a larger tool rest, something 10-12 inches in length.
In his Amazon review titled “Top notch machine,” buyer Phillip M. wrote:
“I'd been using a cheap Harbor Freight lathe for years until I was able to save for this. It's worth every penny.
Zero vibration without being bolted down. No tools needed for belt changes. Live centers. Perfect alignment. Quiet. Loads of available accessories. The variable speed works like a charm. Larger clearance than most comparable models.
I've been using it almost every day for months and it performs perfectly. Can't ask for anything else.”
PROS
One of the fastest most powerful mini lathes in the market
Variable speed makes it a very versatile machine that can handle different types of woodworking
Bed extension accessory allows you to tackle longer pieces of wood that other lathes cannot
Sturdy and heavy-duty construction
Self ejecting tail stock
CONS
At only 1 year, many owners feel that the warranty for the motor and controllers is too short
Speed Ranges: 3 ranges, 250-700, 600-1,800 and 1,350-4,000 RPM
Warranty: 5 years
At 12 ½ inches, the Delta Industrial 46-460 Variable-Speed Midi Lathe is said to have the largest swing over bed in its class. This allows you to work even on wider materials that any other benchtop wood lathe just can't manage, as some of them only have a swing of 9.25 inches. This makes it great for bowls plates or various other creative endeavours.
The Delta Industrial 46-460 also features a 1HP motor which is more powerful compared to other products in its class. It has a variable speed which can go as low as 250 rpm or as high as 4000 rpm. The speed changes are facilitated using three different pulley systems. The three ranges are from 250-700, 600-1800 and 1350-4000 RPM. The versatility of this many speed changes can't be stressed enough!
The 16.5 inch DBC isn't the largest you can get, but it's still a great length and makes the Delta Industrial 46-460 a versatile lathe you won't be disappointed with. It's reliable, affordable and won't let you down. One more often overlooked feature of this wood lathe: both a 6" and 12" included tool rest, giving you flexibility and stability of use during different projects. And, a 5 year warranty protects Delta Industrial products over a greater period of time compared to other brands.
In his customer review, buyer NETX Woodworker wrote:
“Best. Investment. Ever. Love everything about this lathe. The 12.5” swing is more than I’ll ever need, the reverse switch is a fantastic addition to ANY lathe. Great for sanding and even turning if the piece calls for a different angle of attack. No problems whatsoever. Comes with a 3” faceplate. Spur drive, and live center in the tailstock. Great addition to my shop!”
PROS
Large swing capacity of 12 ½ inches allows you to work on bigger pieces
Extendable Center to Center capacity up to 42 inches that can accommodate longer pieces
Powerful 1HP motor provides enough power when you need it
Live center tailstock
Variable speed gives you the flexibility to go as low as 250 RPM or as high as 4000 RPM depending on the project you are working on
If you’re looking for something smaller, check out the SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe. It is specifically designed for smaller woodworking with its swing over bed size of only 8 inches and center-to-center capacity of 13 inches. It is also lighter compared to the other best wood lathes at just 45.5 pounds and has a smaller 1/3HP motor which should suffice for smaller items such as a pen. There is not only a tool rest included, but with two sizes: 4.5 and 7" to add to the value of this wood lathe.
Nevertheless, it is a very capable piece of machinery with a variable speed that can be as low as 700 rpm to as high as 3200 rpm, which is easy to access to make speed changes. It is ruggedly built with its cast iron construction and, in addition, buyers have that added peace of mind because it is covered by a 2-year warranty.
One nice included accessory is the 5-3/4" faceplate, which threads right onto the headstock for non-spindle turning. This is incredibly useful for items such as a bowl that cannot be supported by the tailstock. Although it's smaller and lighter, it's sturdy and stable on a bench and will be great for whatever wood you are turning!
A nice blend of price and quality, it is a choice product for the wood lathe category with a rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars 140 customer reviews. You can read our full review of the Shop Fox W1704 here.
Jessie J, who bought the lathe, wrote:
“I got this for my son and we couldn't be happier. It's solid, balanced and works great. He picked right up on how to run it and hasn't stopped since he got it. You can't beat the price for the high quality.”
PROS
Great value for its price
Variable speed rpm motor
Tough and well-built with its cast iron construction
Speed Range: Two belt tension system, positions for 500 RPM tp 2000 RPM or 1500 RPM to 3600 RPM
Variable speed or manual speed (cheaper)
Warranty: 3 years
Next on our list is the PSI Woodworking wood lathe, that we've chosen as our best pick for woodturning bigger wood with. This is mostly because of the 12" bed, which allows for large items and greater flexibility with your project sizes. They do actually make a 10" model, which is a little cheaper, if you don't need the extra size.
The PSI Woodworking lathe has a two belt tension system, allowing for two different speed ranges, which is another great characteristic. The first position gives a speed range of 500 RPM to 2000 RPM and the second position gives a range of 1500 RPM to 3600 RPM.
It has a headstock thread of 1" x 8tpi, and a #2RMT headstock/tailstock taper. The tail stock is a 60 degree, live center which offers the user a lot of flexibility and adaptability to create a variety of wood artwork. This wood lathe also includes both a 6" and 12" tool rest adding to the versatility of this tool.
This can be adjusted and viewed on the digital readout which is definitely preferred, however if you are on a budget, the manual speed version is a little more affordable, just harder to access while working. It also comes with a bunch of included tools and accessories which is awesome!
This isn't the most heavy-duty machine, with just the base of the lathe made from cast iron. As well, some buyers have experienced frustrations with shipping damage. PSIs customer service is top notch, though, if you have any issues. Overall this is a great affordable lathe with great features you shouldn't be disappointed with.
For its price, the Grizzly H8259 Bench-Top Wood Lathe gives you a surprising set of features. It has a 10-inch swing and 18-inch between centers capacities which makes it better for small-scale woodturning. For its price and ease-of-use, this is also the choice machine for those still starting on woodturning.
This Grizzly lathe has a 5-spindle speed setting which should be able to appease most users. However, this discreet speed control might not satisfy those who want to have a total control of their wood on the spindle. Like most models, tool rests are included.
Similar to most wood lathes, the Grizzly includes a MT#2 spindle and tailstock taper. As well, a 1" x 8tpi headstock (again, fairly standard). One thing to consider is that some folks have had issues with the tailstock slipping, not becoming perfectly tight. Just important to check it often - and of course, you don't want to overtighten the quill either or you can bend the mandrel. Overall, this Grizzly lathe is a good budget option for those starting out with wood turning, and not wanting to spend too much money.
PROS
Very Affordable
Great value for its price
Lightweight enough and can be moved around if necessary
Reputable brand in Grizzly
CONS
1 Year Warranty
Some people report vibrations due to smaller size and weight
Before you purchase, here are some factors that might be useful to ensure that you will end up buying the best machine for your needs. Take a quick look at these points and make sure the lathe you’ve chosen meets the requirements for your wood working.
Size of your woodworking projects
If you plan to work only on small things, door handles or bangles, you don’t really need a giant machine in your workshop. In fact, we suggest that you don’t buy an overly sized lathe for simple tasks as you will just be wasting money and won’t really be using the bigger lathe to its full capacity. Remember that generally, the bigger the wood lathe is, the higher the price.
For smaller woodworking projects, a mini would suffice. Of course, if you plan to do bigger projects in the future, you’ll need a more powerful machine, one that also has a bigger center-to-center and swing capacities so it can handle big pieces of wood.
If you're looking for some inspiration on your first project, we've put together some great beginner woodturning projects for you! Happy turning!
The available space in your workshop
You might really want a bigger lathe but make sure it fits the available space in your workshop at home. Do the necessary measurements and make sure to make allowances for your movement around the machine? We find most hobby woodworkers work from home shops and don't have as much space as they'd like!
Ease of use
Some lathes are geared for professional woodworkers while others can be used even by woodturning newcomers. Make sure that the machine that you will buy is appropriate for your skill level. If you're just getting started with wood working, you want to buy a lathe that's user friendly.
Spindle Speed
Woodturners use different speeds to handle different types of projects. With this factored in, the perfect wood lathe is one that is capable of a wide range of speed so you’ll be able to use it for a variety of woodturning projects. In addition to speed, the ability to go forward and reverse is crucial for certain wood work like table legs.
Weight of the lathe
The weight of the lathe will matter if you tend to rearrange your workshop equipment often, or ever need to move it. Getting a heavy machine will make rearranging your workspace a bit difficult for you. If you really value portability and do only small woodturning, a smaller wood lathe will be a better option for you.
Type of Chuck
You may have realized by now that there are a few different types of chuck you can use with a lathe. 3-jaw, 4-jaw, even 6-jaw! What's the difference? Which one is better? There's more to unpack on this subject than we can do here, so we wrote up a full guide around lathe chucks and everything you need to know about them.
Other Accessories You May Need
In addition to a chuck, there's a few other things you may need or want for your projects to make sure you're set up for your next project. This may include a different (or backup) faceplate or chuck than is included with the lathe, a center finder, gouges, and more. For more information about lathe accessories, check out this article.
Final Thoughts
While we have already offered you our suggestions, you may not totally agree with our choices. And that's okay since as the buyer and woodworker yourself, it will ultimately be your decision to decide for yourself which is the best wood lathe for you as it will have to take into account your personal needs and preferences. Of course, feel free to contact us if you have any more questions at all.
Hopefully, this buying guide has armed you with sufficient knowledge to make a well-informed buying decision on your own. Happy wood turning!
