10 Best Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

The Powermatic 3520C Woodworking Lathe is a robust and versatile machine designed for serious woodworking enthusiasts. One of its main strengths is its powerful 2 HP motor, which runs on 220V and provides a broad speed range, maintaining speeds as low as 15 RPM for detailed work. The swing over bed is 20 inches, and the distance between centers is 35 inches, offering ample space for larger projects.

The lathe is equipped with a digital indexing readout for precise work and a magnetic-backed control box that can be moved for convenience and safety. The adjustable riser blocks allow for a 4-inch height adjustment, ensuring user comfort during operation. The bed construction is solid cast iron, enhancing stability and reducing vibrations during use.

The upgraded banjo with a non-marring, pinch-style clamp ensures secure tool rest placement, which is essential for accuracy and safety. Additionally, the extended spindle nose provides better access to the workpiece, and the fully enclosed Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) offers increased user protection. However, at 726 pounds, the lathe is quite heavy, which might be a drawback for those with limited space or needing to move the machine frequently. The price point may also be a consideration for hobbyists due to its higher cost. This lathe is best suited for users who require a high level of precision and versatility in their woodworking projects.

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 Powermatic 14" x 20" Woodworking Lathe is a solid choice for both amateur and professional woodworkers who require reliable performance and precision. One of its key strengths is the 1 HP motor, which provides sufficient power for various turning tasks, making it versatile for different projects. With a swing over the bed of 14 inches and a distance between centers of 20 inches, it accommodates a good range of workpieces, ideal for larger projects. The variable speed feature allows you to adjust the lathe's speed easily, giving you control over various materials and techniques.

The cast iron bed is another highlight, as it effectively minimizes motor vibration, leading to quieter operation and enhanced accuracy—important qualities for any wood lathe. The ergonomic handwheels and the magnetic control box with a digital display make for a user-friendly experience, allowing for smooth adjustments and easy monitoring of settings.

It's important to note that while the Powermatic lathe is portable, its weight of 238 pounds can be a drawback for those who need to move it frequently. Additionally, the 75 dB sound level might be considered somewhat noisy, especially in quieter workspaces. The warranty period of five years provides peace of mind, but potential buyers should also consider the product's price point, as it may be on the higher end compared to other options available.