10 Best Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

The WEN 34035 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe is a versatile and user-friendly tool suitable for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. With a swing over bed of 14 inches and a distance between centers of 20 inches, it provides ample working space for various projects. The powerful 6-amp motor and variable speed control ranging from 250 to 3550 RPM allow for precise adjustments based on the material and desired outcome.

This flexibility is particularly beneficial for tasks that require different speeds, such as turning bowls or detailed carvings. The lathe includes an MT2 tailstock and headstock, making it compatible with a wide range of lathe accessories, which enhances its versatility. The 8-inch tool rest provides stable support while working, and the onboard accessory holder keeps tools organized and within reach.

The lathe's size might be limiting for larger projects, and users might need to purchase additional accessories separately for specific tasks. While the 6-amp motor is adequate for most small to medium projects, it might struggle with more demanding tasks. Despite these drawbacks, the WEN 34035 is a solid choice for hobbyists and those looking for a reliable benchtop wood lathe with variable speed control and compatibility with various accessories.

The JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe is a strong contender in the woodworking lathe category, especially for hobbyists and semi-professional woodworkers. Its key strength lies in its electronic infinitely-variable speed, ranging from 40 to 3200 RPM, which offers a great deal of versatility for various turning tasks. This feature allows users to tailor the speed to the material and complexity of the project, which is essential for achieving quality finishes. Additionally, the lathe is built from cast iron and steel, providing a sturdy base that helps reduce vibrations during operation, enhancing precision.

The lathe also boasts a user-friendly design with an extended spindle nose for better handling, and an improved tailstock quill locking mechanism that prevents rotation during usage. The non-marring locking system for the banjo is particularly beneficial for maintaining the integrity of your tools, ensuring they stay securely in place.

There are a few drawbacks worth noting. Weighing 377 pounds, the lathe may be cumbersome to move or adjust, making it less ideal for users with limited shop space. Also, while the warranty is generous at 5 years for non-commercial use, it drops to 2 years for commercial applications, which may concern professional users seeking longevity and support for their investment.

The RIKON Power Tools VSR MIDI Lathe (RIK-70-150VSR) boasts a powerful 1HP DC motor that effectively handles various turning tasks, making it a strong choice for both hobbyists and more serious woodworkers. Its electronic variable speed controls and digital RPM readout are user-friendly features that provide precise control over the lathe's speed. This is particularly useful for different types of wood and turning projects, enhancing its versatility. The pivoting belt cover makes speed changes more convenient by allowing easy access, which can save time and effort during operation.

Additionally, the ball-bearing construction ensures smooth and precise spindle movements, contributing to the high quality of the finished workpieces. With dimensions of 39 x 13 x 15 inches and weighing 95 pounds, this lathe is solid yet compact enough to fit in most workshops. However, the weight might make it less portable for those who need to move it frequently.

The RIKON VSR MIDI Lathe is well-suited for users seeking a robust, reliable, and versatile wood lathe with advanced features for precise and varied turning tasks.