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10 Best Benchtop Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe, 1-1/2 HP, 115V 1Ph (Model JWL-1640EVS)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Motor Power
Tailstock and Headstock
Tool Rest

Most important from
84 reviews

Motor Power
The 1.5 hp DC motor is incredibly smooth and quiet, even at 3200 RPM you can listen to music comfortably.
Tailstock and Headstock
Tailstock quill travel of 4 inches with laser-etched increments enhances precision.
Tool Rest
Heavy, solid construction with tool rest tighteners that work flawlessly.

The JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe is a versatile option for woodworking enthusiasts. It boasts an electronic infinitely-variable speed ranging from 40 to 3200 RPM, allowing for precise control over your projects. The extended spindle nose with dual headstock spindle bearings ensures stability and smooth operation, while the improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with an anti-rotation key enhances accuracy and ease of use.

The tool rest is securely held in place by the non-marring, positive locking wedge system in the banjo, which helps maintain the integrity of your tools and workpiece. Additionally, the spindle lock latch provides convenience by freeing up both hands during adjustments, and the lathe includes 36 integrated indexing positions for detailed work. The enclosed inverter adds a layer of protection to the machine's components, ensuring durability.

Some users might find the motor power of 1-1/2 HP sufficient but not overly powerful for heavy-duty tasks. The swing over bed of 16 inches and distance between centers of 40 inches offer ample space for various project sizes. This lathe is well-suited for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a reliable and flexible woodworking tool.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Motor Power
Tailstock and Headstock
Tool Rest

Most important from
84 reviews

Motor Power
The 1.5 hp DC motor is incredibly smooth and quiet, even at 3200 RPM you can listen to music comfortably.
Tailstock and Headstock
Tailstock quill travel of 4 inches with laser-etched increments enhances precision.
Tool Rest
Heavy, solid construction with tool rest tighteners that work flawlessly.
#3

RIKON 70-1420VSR MIDI Lathe with 1.5 HP DC Motor

The RIKON 70-1420VSR MIDI Lathe is a versatile and powerful option for woodworking enthusiasts. Its 1.5 HP DC motor stands out as a significant strength, providing ample power for a range of tasks. This motor allows for a variable speed range, typically essential for working with different types of wood and achieving various finishes.

The swing over bed is another critical feature, expected to be sufficient for most small to medium-sized projects given the 'MIDI' classification. The bed construction is fundamental for stability and precision; assuming RIKON's reputation, this lathe likely features a robust and stable bed that minimizes vibrations. RIKON typically ensures the tailstock and headstock components are well-machined for reliability.

The tool rest is a critical component for user safety and ease of use, and RIKON generally includes adjustable and durable tool rests. This lathe is well-suited for those looking for a powerful, versatile machine for a variety of woodworking tasks.

Buying Guide for the Best Benchtop Wood Lathes

Choosing the right benchtop wood lathe can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your woodworking projects. A wood lathe is a versatile tool used to shape wood by rotating it against various cutting tools. When selecting a benchtop wood lathe, it's essential to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your woodworking experience. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and choose a lathe that aligns with your project requirements and skill level.
Swing Over BedThe swing over bed is the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be turned on the lathe. This spec is crucial because it determines the size of the projects you can work on. If you plan to turn larger bowls or platters, you'll need a lathe with a larger swing over bed. Typically, a swing over bed of 10-12 inches is suitable for small to medium projects, while 14 inches or more is ideal for larger pieces. Assess the typical size of your projects to choose the right swing over bed for your needs.
Distance Between CentersThe distance between centers is the maximum length of the workpiece that can be mounted on the lathe. This spec is important for turning long items like table legs or spindles. A distance of 12-18 inches is generally sufficient for smaller projects, while 20 inches or more is better for longer pieces. Consider the length of the items you plan to turn to determine the appropriate distance between centers for your lathe.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in horsepower (HP), affects the lathe's ability to handle different types of wood and the size of the workpieces. A more powerful motor can handle larger and harder wood without bogging down. For most hobbyists, a motor with 1/2 to 1 HP is adequate. If you plan to work with larger or denser wood, consider a motor with 1 HP or more. Match the motor power to the type and size of wood you typically work with.
Speed RangeThe speed range of a lathe, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), determines how fast the workpiece rotates. Different projects require different speeds; for example, roughing out a blank requires a lower speed, while finishing and detailing need higher speeds. A lathe with a wide speed range (e.g., 500-3000 RPM) offers more versatility. Look for a lathe with variable speed control to easily adjust the speed to suit your project needs.
Bed ConstructionThe bed construction refers to the material and build quality of the lathe's bed, which affects its stability and durability. Cast iron beds are preferred for their stability and vibration dampening properties, making them ideal for precise work. Steel beds are lighter and more portable but may not offer the same level of stability. Choose a bed construction that balances stability and portability based on your workspace and project requirements.
Tailstock and HeadstockThe tailstock and headstock are critical components that hold and support the workpiece. The tailstock should be easily adjustable and lock securely in place, while the headstock should have a reliable spindle lock and indexing capabilities for detailed work. Ensure that both components are robust and well-aligned to maintain accuracy during turning. Evaluate the ease of use and sturdiness of these parts to ensure they meet your project needs.
Tool RestThe tool rest supports the cutting tools and should be adjustable to different positions for various turning operations. A sturdy and easily adjustable tool rest enhances control and precision. Look for a tool rest that can be quickly repositioned and locked securely. Consider the types of turning you do most often and ensure the tool rest can accommodate those needs comfortably.

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