10 Best Wood Turning Lathe 2025 in the United States

The Powermatic 20" x 35" Woodworking Lathe (Model 3520C) is a robust choice for wood-turning enthusiasts. With a swing over bed of 20 inches and a distance between centers of 35 inches, it offers ample space for various projects. It boasts a powerful 2 HP motor and operates on 220V, delivering reliable performance. The speed range is a noteworthy feature as it can maintain speeds as low as 15 RPM, ideal for detailed woodwork.

The bed is constructed from cast iron, ensuring durability and stability during operation. The tailstock and headstock are designed to enhance precision, with a digital indexing readout and extended spindle nose for better access to the workpiece. Additionally, the lathe includes adjustable riser blocks for comfort and a magnetic-backed control box for customization and safety.

However, it's quite heavy at 726 pounds, which could be a drawback in terms of portability. This lathe is best suited for serious woodworkers looking for precision, durability, and customization options.

The JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe is a solid choice for wood-turning enthusiasts and professionals. It offers a generous swing over bed of 16 inches, making it suitable for larger projects. The distance between centers is 40 inches, providing ample space for longer workpieces. With a powerful 1-1/2 HP motor, it ensures consistent performance even with demanding tasks.

One of the key features is its electronic infinitely-variable speed ranging from 40 to 3200 RPM, giving flexibility for various turning applications, from delicate finishing to heavy roughing cuts. The bed construction is sturdy, enhancing stability during operations. The improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with an anti-rotation key is a noteworthy addition, promoting precision and ease of use. Additionally, the extended spindle nose with dual headstock spindle bearings ensures durability and better support.

The banjo uses a non-marring wedge system for secure tool post holding, which is beneficial for maintaining tool integrity. Other helpful features include a spindle lock latch for hands-free setup and 36 integrated indexing positions for detailed work. The inverter enclosure adds an extra layer of protection. The lathe’s robust features and flexibility make it suitable for a wide range of wood-turning projects.

The Powermatic 14" x 20" Woodworking Lathe (Model 2014) offers a solid choice for both amateur and professional woodworkers. With a swing over bed of 14 inches and a distance between centers of 20 inches, it provides ample space for various turning projects. The 1 HP motor runs on 120V and offers variable speed control, making it versatile for different tasks and wood types.

The cast iron bed construction significantly reduces vibration, leading to smoother and quieter operation while enhancing precision. The magnetic control box with a digital display is a user-friendly feature, allowing flexibility in operation. Additionally, the ergonomic handwheels enhance comfort during use. The lathe includes practical accessories like a tool caddy, toolrest, face plate, and centers, making it a comprehensive package. The 24-position indexing simplifies tasks that require accurate positioning.

At 238 pounds, the lathe is sturdy but can be disassembled for portability, which is a plus for those needing to transport it. However, the lathe’s weight and size (52 x 24 x 36 inches) may be a consideration for those with limited space. The 5-year warranty offers peace of mind regarding durability. One notable drawback is the potentially high sound level of 75 dB, which could be noisy in a small workshop. The Powermatic 2014 lathe is a robust, versatile tool well-suited for serious woodworkers looking for precision and stability, though it may be less ideal for those with limited space or sensitivity to noise.