10 Best Mini Lathes 2026 in the United States

The Grizzly Industrial G0769 is a versatile combination lathe and mill, making it an excellent option for hobbyists and small workshop owners who want a compact but powerful tool. With an 8-1/4” swing over the bed and a distance between centers of 16”, it provides a good working space for various projects. The 600W motor offers enough power for most tasks, while the variable spindle speed from 50 to 2000 RPM allows for flexibility in handling different materials and applications.

One of the standout features is its dual functionality; you can switch between lathe and milling operations, which helps save space and money if you're looking to complete a variety of machining tasks. The 4-5/8” cross slide provides decent control, which is important for precision work.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the machine is robust at 296 pounds, it may be a challenge to move or reposition in a smaller workspace. Additionally, the size and weight could limit portability for users who need to transport their equipment frequently. The lathe's swing might also feel a bit constrained for larger workpieces, which could frustrate those looking to work with bigger stock.

The WEN LA3424 mini-lathe is a solid choice for hobbyists and beginners who want to work on small to medium wood projects. It can handle workpieces up to 12 inches wide and 18 inches long, which is typical for a benchtop lathe in this category. Its 4.5-amp motor provides enough power for most light to moderate turning tasks, and the five available spindle speeds (ranging from 520 to 3400 RPM) offer versatility for different types of wood and project requirements. The inclusion of both a faceplate and MT2 tapered centers in the headstock and tailstock increases compatibility with various accessories, which is great for expanding your options over time. The bed is solid enough to provide stability during operation, and the 8-inch tool rest is a comfortable size for maneuvering your tools.

One downside is that while the lathe covers the basics well, users looking for heavier-duty or professional-grade performance might find the motor power and size limiting. The onboard accessory holder is a nice touch for keeping tools handy, but the lathe’s weight and footprint mean it requires a sturdy workbench. This WEN mini-lathe is a practical and user-friendly machine for woodturners focused on smaller projects or just getting started with lathe work.

The CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe 8"×16" offers a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshop users who need a reliable machine for metal turning tasks. It has a good swing over the bed at 8.3 inches and a 16-inch distance between centers, which allows for handling moderately sized workpieces. The 1100W (1.5HP) brushless motor provides enough power to work through various metals while maintaining consistent performance. The spindle speed is adjustable from 50 to 2250 RPM, giving you flexibility to match the speed to the material and task, and the digital display makes speed monitoring straightforward.

The bed and tailstock are made from all-metal construction, contributing to durability and stability, which is key for precision work. The 5-inch 3-jaw chuck is versatile, securing both round and square objects, and the 4-way tool post allows for multiple tool setups, improving workflow efficiency. Safety is also considered with a transparent chuck guard that helps protect against debris without sacrificing visibility.

This lathe is on the heavier side (about 174 pounds), which can make it less portable. While it is well-suited for precision tasks like threading and drilling, beginners might face a learning curve with setup and operation. This mini lathe is a sturdy, capable machine ideal for those who want a balance of power, precision, and safety in a compact size.