10 Best Wood Lathes 2026 in the United States

The JET 14" x 40" Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe (Model JWL-1440VS) offers some impressive features tailored for serious woodworkers. The lathe's swing over bed is 14 inches, which is quite versatile for a range of projects, including bowls and spindles. The distance between centers is 40 inches, providing ample space for longer pieces, and this can be extended to 60 inches with an optional bed extension, which is a big plus for anyone needing extra length for larger projects.

The 1 HP motor is robust enough, and the variable speed range from 400 to 3,000 RPM allows for precise control depending on the material and the type of work you're doing. This makes it suitable for both roughing and finishing tasks. The sliding headstock that pivots 360 degrees with 7 positive locking positions adds a level of flexibility and ease when positioning the workpiece.

The positive locking tool rest and the improved tailstock quill locking with an anti-rotation key ensure stability and accuracy during use. Additionally, the easy-to-read RPM display helps in maintaining consistent speeds. However, there are some areas that could be seen as drawbacks. The lathe requires a power supply of 115/230V, which might not be compatible with all home workshops without modifications. Despite these minor issues, the JET 14" x 40" Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe appears well-suited for both hobbyists and professional woodworkers looking for a versatile and powerful tool.

The JET 18" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe (Model JWL-1840EVS) is a versatile and powerful tool designed for serious woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. One of its standout features is the electronic infinitely-variable speed, which ranges from 40 to 3200 RPM, allowing for precise control over the turning speed to accommodate different types of wood and project requirements.

The smooth transition from forward to reverse is another advantage, ensuring consistent and efficient operations without unnecessary downtime. Additionally, the improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with an anti-rotation key enhances stability and accuracy during use. The remote emergency stop button is a valuable safety feature, providing easy access along the lathe bed, which is crucial for preventing accidents.

The banjo's non-marring, positive locking wedge system securely holds the tool post in place, making adjustments easy and reliable. The extended spindle nose with dual headstock spindle bearings offers added support and smooth operation, while the spindle lock latch frees up both hands, making it easier to change accessories or adjust the setup. On the downside, the lathe requires a 230V power supply, which may not be convenient for all users. Additionally, its relatively large size might not be suitable for those with limited workshop space. However, for those who have the space and access to the required power supply, this lathe provides robust motor power, excellent bed construction, and reliable tailstock and headstock features, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of woodworking projects.

The Laguna Tools Revo Lathe is a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshop woodturners who need a reliable machine with decent power and flexibility. It offers 1.5 horsepower with a 110-volt induction motor that runs at a steady 1725 RPM and includes a variable frequency drive for speed control, making it easier to handle different wood types and turning styles. Its steel bed, made from durable ASTM A36 alloy steel, ensures stability during use, which is crucial for smooth and accurate turning.

The lathe supports a maximum swing over the bed of 18 inches and a distance between centers of 36 inches, giving you enough space for medium-sized projects like bowls or table legs. The tool rest and the spring-loaded spindle lock add some convenience and safety for the user. One drawback is that the swing over the banjo is only 13.5 inches, which limits turning larger diameter pieces off-center. Also, while the motor is powerful enough for most home uses, professionals working with very large or dense wood might find it less suitable.

The lathe is relatively heavy at nearly 500 pounds, so it’s best suited for a dedicated workspace rather than easy portability. With a 2-year warranty and positive user ratings, this lathe balances performance and value well for woodturners looking for a dependable machine without stepping into high-end industrial models.