10 Best Mini Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

The WEN 34035 wood lathe is a solid choice if you need a benchtop lathe for small to medium woodworking projects. It offers a swing over bed of 14 inches and can handle workpieces up to 20 inches long, which fits well for hobbyists or those making bowls, cups, or small furniture parts. Its 6-amp motor provides enough power for smooth operation without being too heavy or difficult to manage.

The variable speed control, ranging from 250 to 3550 RPM, gives good flexibility to work on different types of wood and projects, letting you adjust speed easily for precision or rough shaping. The included 8-inch tool rest is a practical size, giving you comfortable control over your tools during turning. The lathe also comes with useful accessories like a 4-inch faceplate and both MT2 spur and live centers, supporting various attachments and expanding what you can create.

Build quality is decent for its price; it’s sturdy enough to stay stable during use, though it’s not designed for heavy industrial use. Some users might find it a bit bulky at 138 pounds for a benchtop model, which could affect portability. It suits beginners and intermediate woodworkers well, while those looking for longer distances between centers or heavier-duty motors might need to consider bigger models. The lathe balances performance and features well for its size and price, making it a reliable option if your projects fit within its size limits.

The Delta Industrial 46-460 MIDI Lathe stands out with a swing over bed of 12-1/2 inches and a distance between centers of 16-1/2 inches, extendable to 42 inches, providing versatility for different-sized projects. Its 1 HP motor is quite powerful for a mini lathe, and the electronic variable speed with three pulley speed ranges (250-700, 600-1,800, and 1,350-4,000 RPM) allows for precise control without frequent belt manipulations. This is beneficial for achieving smooth and accurate results on various wood types.

The lathe includes both a 6-inch and a 10-inch tool rest, although users working with longer pieces might find the need to constantly adjust the shorter tool rest inconvenient. The all cast-iron construction ensures robust build quality and stability, reducing vibrations during operations. One notable feature is the patented belt tensioning system which simplifies speed changes and maintains consistent tension, enhancing power transfer and extending the tool's life.

On the downside, it is corded electric, which might limit placement flexibility in a workshop. Also, the weight and size, while contributing to stability, might make it less portable. This lathe is ideal for hobbyists and small shop professionals seeking a sturdy, reliable, and versatile machine capable of handling a wide range of turning projects.

The WEN LA3424 mini-wood-lathe is designed for small to medium woodturning projects, offering a swing over bed of 12 inches and a distance between centers of 18 inches. It stands out with its 4.5-amp motor, providing sufficient power for various tasks. The lathe offers five different speed settings (520, 900, 1400, 2150, and 3400 RPM), allowing users to adjust according to the specific needs of their project.

This flexibility is a significant advantage, especially for those who work on diverse pieces like bowls and cups, facilitated by the included 3-1/8 inch faceplate. Compatibility with a wide range of accessories is ensured by the MT2 tailstock and headstock tapers, making this lathe versatile for different woodturning tools and attachments. The 8-inch tool rest provides a stable surface for tool maneuvering, contributing to precision and ease of use.

Build quality appears robust, with sturdy construction supporting long-term use. However, at 78.9 pounds, it might be considered bulky for some users looking for a more portable option. Additionally, some may find the setup slightly challenging or the speed range less suitable for very intricate work. This lathe is ideal for hobbyists or small-scale woodworkers who need a versatile and powerful tool within a reasonable price range.