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 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.