Best Lathes

For woodturners ready to make the jump from small projects to heavy-duty turning, the Powermatic is a manageable monster of a wood lathe - and it's the best on the market.

2 HP motor is “the difference between a Chevy Cobalt and a locomotive,” one user commented. Digital display and variable speed motor with easy adjustment between high and low range. Setup is relatively easy for a nearly 700-lb. lathe.

Variable Speed Wood Lathe, 12x 21 Inch

Head unit threads are 1-¼ inches, not 1 inch. Standard unit is a bit short for some woodworkers, who opted for the manufacturer’s 18-inch extension. Tool rest is a bit small. And get ready to bring in an electrician, as this requires 220-volt power.

Best Bang for the Buck

JET

A great lathe for woodturners just starting out – one that is solid and versatile enough for more complex jobs. Users will likely upgrade in time, but they’ll keep this one around.

Wide speed range, with a 24-setting digital variable speed control that removes the need to change or adjust belts. Solid and heavy at 160 lbs., it must be mounted on a sturdy surface, and runs smoothly for woodwork.

Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe, 12x16 1/2 Inch

Length is just 21 inches, but a 42-inch bed extension is available. Drive center and tail stock center arrived out of alignment on some units, possibly due to damage in shipping, but a skilled user can correct. Tool rests aren’t smooth, and spindles are occasionally reported out of alignment.

NOVA

A small, easy-to-use woodworking lathe with a few limitations typical for smaller lathes. Its minor flaws are balanced by a customer service department that backs this product well.

Fast shipping and good packaging were important plusses for many users. The unit is a step up from starter lathes with variable speed selection. Good customer service, with defective parts replaced quickly.

1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe

Limited in the size of items that can be turned on the lathe. Tool rest is just 6 inches. Tailstock doesn’t move smoothly. Plastic locking levers seem frail. Some misalignment in the spindle reported.

SHOP FOX

For small beginner-level wood turning projects like pens and small ornaments, this is a decent lathe. But it won’t tolerate larger wood projects, and users shouldn’t test its limits.

Very reliable wood-turning lathe for the price. Low vibration and solid weight means some users didn’t even have to bolt the lathe to a solid surface.

Small size limits the type of work that can be done on this lathe. Some parts are plastic, and replacement can take months.

Rikon

Mini Lathe, 12x16 Inch

Fewer bells and whistles than more expensive models, but Rikon put more emphasis on producing a smooth, powerful unit. Shipping damage is problematic, but parts replacement is satisfactory.

Responsive customer service, quick warranty replacement. Solid unit provides good power for small turning projects like pens, but motor runs relatively quiet.