The Best Wood Lathes |Pre-Purchase Guide

A wood lathe is an essential tool in any woodworking shop, as it allows you to turn larger pieces of wood into smaller, more manageable pieces that are easier to work within your project. This can be as simple as turning a larger chunk of wood into smaller bowls and plates, or it can be the basis of an entirely new project like building furniture or small sculptures and figurines.

However, buying a wood lathe is not quite an easy task. There are many types and varieties, so deciding on the best wood lathe for your needs is quite an uphill task. We have considered this factor and conducted thorough research on wood lathes.

Whether you’re just getting started with woodworking or are looking to expand your toolkit, we’ve rounded up our top 5 list of wood lathes below, perfect for any budget and skill level! Check out these great finds that will surely make your next project turn out even better than expected!

 The best wood lathes – our top picks

•  WEN 3421 3.2-Amp 8″ by 12″ Variable Speed Mini– Overall Best Wood Lathe
•  SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe– Best Benchtop
• Grizzly Industrial G0462-16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe– Best full size
• Laguna Tools Revo Lathe 220v 2HP 18″/36.” – Best new product
• The Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe– the most versatile

The selection criteria that we used

Here are a few of our top criteria when making these selections:

Affordability: At first glance, some may assume that all wood lathes are expensive and out of reach for hobbyists and beginners. However, we believe there’s a great range of price points from which to choose. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to get a fantastic machine for your workshop or home.

Quality: The quality differences between budget-friendly options and high-end machines can be significant. Some companies specialize in cheaper materials with low-quality standards, while others are focused on durability and longevity. In our guide, we have chosen wood lathes that are of high-quality standard and at the same time are budget-friendly.

Our goal is to give you as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision about what will work best for you. Some people want a more basic option at a lower cost point, while others are looking for versatility and features. Keep in mind, that one person’s idea of basics might not match yours, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for before buying. Regardless of your needs, we hope this list has given you an idea of where to start shopping! Happy hunting!

Now onto the reviews…

Best Wood Lathes under $500

1.  WEN 3421 3.2-Amp 8″ by 12″ Variable Speed Mini– Overall Best Wood Lathe

This machine will be an excellent addition to your workshop’s power tools. It is intended for minor projects that require less energy. You may use this lathe to make cups, bowls, pens, chess pieces, and coffee table legs. It can also be used for broad applications as well as precise cuts. With a very attractive price tag, this is our best wood lathe under 500.

The Key Features

• It has a 12-inch DBC (the distance between the headstock and the tailstock) and an 8-inch SOB (the measurement used to estimate a piece of wood’s maximum diameter before you can no longer turn on a wood lathe) and weighs only 45 pounds.
• It has a 3.2 amp motor that provides over 50% more power than each lathe for your projects
• it has a variable knob for adjusting the speed motor from 750-3200 rpm.
• It’s light, so it’s easy to store when not in use, and is suitable for small working areas.
• The base is made of solid cast iron, which is necessary when working because it reduces vibrations.
• It is equipped with two rest of four and a half inches and seven inches.
• It also has a faceplate for working on non-spindle things like mugs and bowls. In addition, the wood lathe can be used for general tasks or to make accurate cuts.

The weaknesses

• Several customers, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with the lathe’s locking mechanism, which becomes loose after a few uses, as well as the lack of mounting holes to secure it to any surface permanently.
• It also shakes if the surface is not completely straight.

The Overal Performance

The machine is over 50% more productive than others in its class. As a result, although being designed to handle smaller projects, it does a great job of ensuring the results are perfect and it is, therefore, our overall best wood lathe.

2.  SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe

If you’re looking for something a little more advanced than your average beginner’s lathe, then this may be the right choice for you.

This mini wood lathe is ideal for little tasks and fits on your workstation.

Key Features

• It has a full cast-iron structure that reduces vibrations and increases stability as you work.
• It weighs only 52 pounds.
• The ⅓ horsepower motor powers the tiny wood lathe, which has a 5¾-inch faceplate.
• It has two tool rests, one of which is seven inches long and the other four and a half inches long.
• It allows you to select any speed between 700 and 3,200 rounds per minute, which means that you can use it on different projects such as pens, cups, and chess pieces.
• The capacity of this machine is 12 inches DBC and 8 inches SOB.
• It includes a large paddle safety switch that aid in controlling the on and off function and is easily accessible in case of an emergency.

The Weaknesses

• Some customers have stated that setting up the lathe is difficult. They find it time-consuming to adjust and align the headstock for the first time and that it does not line up with the first try.
•  It also demands regular monitoring of the alignment, as the first alignment may not stay long.
• Also, the bolts that attach the locking plate to the bed get loose easily and must be tightened regularly.

The overall performance

The majority of those who tried and tested the efficiency of these wood lathes were especially pleased with their effectiveness in turning pens and other small projects. It is great for people who are beginning to make their way into woodworking, as most suggested. It is compact and durable, though smaller in size.

3. Grizzly Industrial G0462-16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe

 If you want to work on larger projects and have enough space to fit in a full-size wood lathe, then this 354-pound machine is ideal for you.

Key features

• The lathe has a digital readout system essential when selecting the best speed for your specified project. The speed is important for large projects, ranging between 600 and 2,400 rounds per minute.
• The entire body of the lathe is made of cast iron, ensuring stability and reduction of vibration as you work on your project.
• The machine also has a 2-horsepower motor that helps drive the wood through the cutting blades without skips.
• Additionally, the machine has a huge wood capacity of 16-inch SOB and 43-inch DBC and a tool rest extension to help you access more extensive materials from different angles when working.

Some of its weaknesses

•  when it comes to large projects, this product comes up short. Some customers have reported poor outcomes when working on massive projects.

The overall performance

The machine is friendly for beginners as long as they have someone experienced with them for first-time use. Some of the functions of this machine have been higher than entry-level and should be explained by someone with experience.

4. Laguna Tools Revo Lathe 220v 2HP 18″/36.”

If you’re looking for something a little more advanced than your average beginner’s lathe, then this may be the right choice for you.

The Key Features

• It features an anodized aluminum control panel that is properly positioned.
• It has a blue color that complements the control knob’s rubber grip signals, making it a special model.
• Its bed is made of steel, which allows the cast iron headstock to move smoothly. Steel is ideal for this application due to its primary properties, which include strength and durability.
• Because it features a VFD that helps convert a single-phase input to a three-phase output, you obtain the greatest results even when operating at a low speed with this machine. You can adjust the rounds per minute digitally.
• Furthermore, the tailstock and headstock are positioned in such a manner that they do not interrupt you when working. 

It’s worth mentioning that this item costs about twice as much as a standard full-size wood lathe. However, the price is reasonable because the device has additional features that make your work easier and more efficient.

Some of its weaknesses

• There have been some complaints regarding the power system being defective since the Delta power converter may, in some situations, blow up, requiring the user to wait for a professional to repair it.

Overall performance

It generates a lot of power with amazing precision and various functions, such as moving from high-speed to the low-speed range to work on many different types of projects.

5. The Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe

The Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe is a great option for those looking to get their feet wet in DIY projects. If you are dealing with more significant projects, like a sculpture or even smaller tasks like a bowl then, this tool is what you need because it is one of the most reliable lathes on the market.

it is a mini lathe that comes with so much power and versatility

Key Features

• It’s constructed with a cast iron base that makes it last longer.
• It has an adjustable speed setting ranging from 250 rpm to 1725 rpm, making it suitable for larger projects requiring high speed.
• It has a large 12-1/2inch swing capacity that allows for a large wood blank to fit in the lathe.
• It has an electronic variable speed with three-pulley speed ranges that provide the necessary speeds to turn a project without changing the belt position.
• This lathe has a powerful 1horsepower max motor that spins at 1725 RPM, which helps keep your tools from overheating.
• This lathe, unlike others, allows the turner to achieve an outstanding finish thanks to its forward-reverse function.
• Tons of safety features make it great for kids or beginners who don’t have much experience in wood carving or furniture making.
• The Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe has a tool rest that can be used vertically or horizontally, which comes in handy when you need to switch tasks.
• Plus, there are tons of accessories available for purchase as well if you want to get creative.

The weakness

The only downside is that this machine doesn’t come with a power cord, so you will need an extension cord if there isn’t one near where you plan to use it.

Overall performance

That being said, the Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe is easily one of the best values out there when it comes to wood lathes and will serve as a great introduction to woodcarving and other DIY projects. Even if you don’t end up using it too often, the versatility and ease of use that this lathe offers make it worth the price.

Combined with a large work area and plenty of available speeds, this lathe provides excellent value for anyone who needs a versatile model they can use in just about any situation. For anyone who wants something simple yet effective, look no further than the Delta 46-460 12 Wood Lathe.

Are you looking to learn to carve? we have an easy-to-follow guide on Carving, check it out!

 Before purchasing a wood lathe, you have to consider the power output you require, the working space you have, and the type of project you will be undertaking. If your working area is small, you will need a benchtop or mini wood lathe.

Shopping for the best wood lathes – Guide

Types of Wood Lathes

There are three essential types of wood lathes, with the general difference being the size (benchtop/mini, midi, and full size. Additionally, a drill press can be used as a wood lathe attachment to help you turn your wood vertically. If you’re new to wood lathes read this article on how wood lathes work

Benchtop/Mini Wood Lathes

When a lathe is considered a benchtop or mini, it usually has a 20-inch or less distance between the centers. Additionally, the swing over the bed is 12 inches or less. The distance between centers is the highest length of wood that the lathe can use. On the other hand, the swing over the bed is the highest diameter of the wood capable of rotating on the lathe.

A mini wood lathe is the smallest in the three primary categories, making it a viable option if you have a small working area. When working on little and detailed products or adding an attractive feature to a larger object, the tool is generally effective. The mini lathe is the most affordable and viable option if you are a beginner.

Midi Lathe

A midi lathe is not the smallest, and neither is it the biggest. This is also true not only in size but also in power. This mid-sized lathe has been designed to have the same size as a benchtop wood lathe but has the power that is almost the same as a full-size lathe.

With this tool, you can take on large projects without using a large working area in your workshop. Since the midi wood lathe is larger than the mini-lathe, the price is also slightly higher, but not as high as the full-size wood lathe.

Full-Size Wood Lathe

A full-size wood lathe is the largest of the three and takes up a large space in your workshop. A typical full-size lathe stands alone and measures about four feet high. The distance between centers can range from 45 inches, and the swing over the bed measures more than 15 inches in diameter, making it ideal for large projects.

With the full-size lathe, you can take on a wide range of projects, including making baseball bats. However, the price of this type of lathe is much higher than the mini and midi lathes.

8 Things to Consider When Buying a Wood Lathe

Wood lathes are incredibly useful when it comes to crafting your own furniture and more. But not all wood lathes are created equal—there are a few things you should consider before purchasing a machine Before you start shopping around, consider these eight factors that will have a big impact on your decision:

1. Weight and Size

When looking for a wood lathe, you should consider the amount of workspace you have in your workshop.

It is important to note that wood lathes are power tools with a significant weight, so you cannot move the lathe from one location to another regularly. The weight is necessary because it prevents the wood from being thrown to the ground while you work. As such, you need to have your lathe in a stationary position, even if it is a midi or mini type.

Full-size lathe measures about four feet from the ground, so you will not have to worry about lifting the heavy machinery to a benchtop. However, if you use this type of lathe, you must know that it is essential to have enough working space as the wood you will be using may be longer than usual.

Consider the size of your workshop and compare it to the three categories before purchasing a wood lathe. As a result, even if your lathe is a midi or mini model, you must keep it stable.

2. Base

It would be best if you also thought about the base of the wood lathe you want to acquire. While you’re working, the base will give a stable platform that absorbs vibrations. It’s important to remember that even the least vibration can cause flaws in your project. It might also pose a risk to one’s safety.

To help prevent the problem and ensure your wood is steady as you work, you should consider purchasing a wood lathe with a cast-iron base. This material is dense and heavy, which helps ensure that the machinery is stable and the vibrations from operation do not affect your work. Mini wood lathes also have a cast iron base, ensuring that your project is not affected by the vibrations.

3. Tailstock and Headstock

The headstock of a wood lathe contains the power converter heading to the motor. The speed control is also located in the same area. The machine also has a headstock spindle, a small piece of metal extending from the headstock to the middle of the lathe. The metal is designed to pierce the wood and provide the required rotation when in operation.

The tailstock is adjustable and helps in fitting the length of the wood being placed on the machine. After the wood is in position, you will use the tailstock to lock it in place and prevent it from moving horizontally or vertically while the lathe rotates it. The grip attained by the tailstock and headstock helps ensure your project is flawless. However, you have to practice often to ensure your projects are excellent.

4. Speed and Power

The average output of a wood lathe is measured in horsepower.

The typical light-dory mini-lathe should have a ¾ horsepower output, while a full-sized wood lathe will have an average of 2 horsepower. The potential speed of the machine is increased by the power output, which allows you to work faster if you have a full-size lathe compared to having a mini or midi wood lathe.

The speed of a lathe is measured in RPM, with the slowest being 250 and the highest 4,000 rounds per minute. The speed of the rotations is not too crucial since small pieces should rotate faster than large pieces, which helps ensure that each cut is controlled while the cutting instrument is moving through the piece of wood.

You should also note the machine’s voltage to ensure it works effectively with the power outlet installed on your workstation. The location of your power source may not fully affect your operation, but you should be aware not to place the machine where the power cable may interfere with your work as it may be a safety hazard.

5. Capacity 

The SOB and DBC determine the capacity of wood lathes.

The DBC is the distance between the tailstock and the headstock, determining the maximum wood length you can use with the machine. The smallest piece of wood you can work on using a wood lathe is 12 inches, and the longest is around 40 inches.

SOB determines the maximum diameter of the piece of wood to be used on a specified wood lathe. The SOB of a mini wood lathe is about 6 inches, while the SOB of a typical full-size wood lathe may go beyond 15 inches.

6. Tool Rest

A wood lathe may also include a feature known as a tool rest, which helps in ensuring the machine is safe for use and convenient. The tool rest is usually a horizontal piece of metal that provides you with an area where you can place your cutting tools, and they remain stable as you work on the rotting wood. However, you have to be precise when setting the tool rest because putting it too far will prevent you from getting the best results.

Standard midi and mini wood lathes have tool rest that easily fastens directly to the machine, which allows you to work on small projects. A full-size wood lathe is used when working with larger wood pieces, and so it comes with an extending tool rest that folds out from the machine for better positioning when working on a wood piece with a large diameter.

7. Accessories

Every wood lathe you purchase comes with various accessories to help you work on your projects effectively. Some of the accessories you will get from the retailer include hones, gouges, spring calipers, and chisels.

When using a wood lathe, you will need a good quality chisel to help you finish your project. At first, the flat edge of the chisel may seem daunting since it has a higher chance of skipping while you work as compared to a double-edged gouge. However, if you correctly use the chisel, it will make your project seem better as it will leave the surface smoother, the same way sandpaper would.

Gouges are forms of chisel, but they come in different cut profiles and sizes. You can use them to make fine, broad, or medium cuts. For example, roughing gouges are used when you are beginning your project, and they remove any surface that you will not need. On the other hand, spindle gouges are used to make precision cuts and develop designs.

Spring calipers are neither used for cutting nor sanding. They are used for measuring the diameter of your wood while you are working on it. The tools help you know when you reach your desired depth of cut.

Additionally, the lathe comes with hones, which are essential in removing metal burrs from the machine and the cutting tools. The Burrs usually occur when you operate the lathe, so there is no way to avoid them. Nonetheless, you can easily remove them using a hone.

8. Safety

A wood lathe is a powerful machine with the potential to be a dangerous tool. Therefore, you should be careful when working with it. A simple mistake may lead to a severe accident and injury. For instance, you should not wear loose-fitting clothes or jewelry when working with a wood lathe as you will be risking getting caught in the rotation, which will instantly pull you towards the rotting wood and the cutting tools.

It would be best if you also considered having your protective equipment when working with a lathe. One of the essentials is a face shield, as it will protect your eyes, nose, and mouth from wood chips flying from the machine.

It would be best if you also considered using gloves to protect your hands while barely interfering with your project. Earplugs are also essential while working with a wood lathe because it produces distorting noise that may damage your ears.

FAQs About wood lathe

What is the best wood-turning lathe for a beginner?

The best lathe for beginners would be one with simple speed controls, a lightweight yet sturdy design, and a compact size. The mini wood lathe is the one that is best for beginners. They are inexpensive and provide excellent service on small projects that beginners should begin with.

How much HP does a wood lathe need?

For a small lathe, a 1/2 hp motor is adequate to do most of your small projects at a high speed.

For larger lathes, a 1Hp motor will get most of the work done with ease.

The motor provides power for spinning and sanding your workpiece. Larger motors produce less vibration which is important if you’re doing delicate finishing touches on smaller pieces. In this case, a high-quality, heavy-duty lathe will come in handy.

What tools do I need for woodturning?

A chisel, rubber mallet, and round nose pliers are good basics to have handy when working with wood turnings. These three items will allow you to work on most projects from start to finish.

As always, you’ll also need some form of lubricant (wax or oil) for your workpiece and appropriate safety gear like eye protection and hearing protection.

Can I use my wood lathe to carve bowls?

Yes, but you may need a steady hand. When using your wood lathe for carving bowls, make sure the power switch is at the back so it can’t easily be turned off during operation. Be aware that a lighter lathe will have more vibration than a heavy-duty model.

Conclusion

Wood lathes are essential when you want to design wood products and give them a touch of class. However, before you purchase a wood lathe, you have to consider certain factors, including the space you will be using for your project, the kind of projects you will be undertaking, and the amount you are willing to spend on such a machine.

Although the WEN 3421 is considered the best wood lathe in the market right now, you should consider that the locking mechanism may fail your expectations as you have to tighten the wood now and then.

The Shop Fox W1704 is an essential benchtop lathe, but the alignment will most probably frustrate you. Grizzly Industrial G0462-16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe is a good product, but you have to ensure you only use it to tackle small projects. Finally, the Laguna Tools Revo Lathe is the newest kid on the block. Although the product has an insane price tag, it will serve you effectively and make you happy.