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5 Best Lathes 2025 in US

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An all-around product reviewer with a diverse skill set with experience across categories like tech and home goods.
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#1 | Winner
JET JWL-1221VS

Main Features

  • Variable speed from 60-3600 RPM
  • Digital readout for precise control
  • Robust construction for durability
  • Compact design suitable for small workshops

Product Overview

The JET JWL-1221VS Woodworking Lathe is engineered to deliver smooth, accurate, and reliable performance. Its variable speed control ranges from 60 to 3600 RPM, allowing you to handle a variety of woodturning projects with precision.

The intuitive design and user-friendly controls make it easy for both beginners and professionals to use. Constructed with high-quality materials, this lathe ensures durability and long-lasting performance.

The digital readout provides exact speed control, ensuring that you can achieve the desired finish on your projects. Its compact size makes it suitable for small workshops while still offering the power and capability to handle larger tasks.

Whether you're crafting intricate details or larger pieces, the JET JWL-1221VS is a tool you can rely on.

PROS
  • Precise speed control
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Suitable for various projects
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Limited to smaller scale projects

Product Specifications

  • Speed Range 60-3600 RPM
  • Motor Power 1 HP
  • Distance Between Centers 21 inches
  • Swing Over Bed 12 inches

Main Features

  • Variable speed up to 2500 RPM
  • Sturdy cast iron construction
  • Includes thread indicator and chip tray
  • Tailstock for additional support

Product Overview

The Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe is an excellent choice for hobbyists and small-scale metalworking projects. Its compact size doesn't compromise on performance, offering a robust 3/4 HP motor that allows for precise and accurate machining.

The lathe features a variable speed control that ranges from 0 to 2500 RPM, making it suitable for various metal types and project requirements. The machine is designed with a sturdy cast iron construction, ensuring stability and reducing vibration during operation.

It comes equipped with a number of practical features, including a thread indicator, a tailstock for additional support, and a chip tray for easy cleanup. This mini metal lathe is both user-friendly and efficient, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.

PROS
  • Compact and efficient
  • Precise speed control
  • Durable construction
CONS
  • Limited capacity for larger projects
  • Basic features compared to higher-end models

Product Specifications

  • Speed Range 0-2500 RPM
  • Motor Power 3/4 HP
  • Distance Between Centers 12 inches
  • Swing Over Bed 7 inches

Main Features

  • Variable speed from 250-4000 RPM
  • Patented belt tensioning system
  • Forward and reverse function
  • Heavy-duty cast iron construction

Product Overview

The Delta Industrial 46-460 Wood Lathe is a top-tier tool designed for professional woodworkers who demand precision and reliability. The lathe features a powerful 1 HP motor and a variable speed range of 250 to 4000 RPM, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking tasks.

Its patented belt tensioning system ensures quick and easy speed changes while maintaining consistent belt tension for maximum power transfer and longer tool life. The lathe also includes a forward and reverse function, which allows for superior finish and greater control over your woodworking projects.

The heavy-duty cast iron construction provides stability and reduces vibration, ensuring smooth operation. With its professional-grade features and robust design, the Delta Industrial 46-460 is an excellent investment for serious woodworkers.

PROS
  • Powerful motor
  • Quick and easy speed changes
  • Superior finish with reverse function
CONS
  • Higher price range
  • Heavier weight may require a sturdy workbench

Product Specifications

  • Speed Range 250-4000 RPM
  • Motor Power 1 HP
  • Distance Between Centers 16.5 inches
  • Swing Over Bed 12.5 inches

Main Features

  • Variable speed from 750-3200 RPM
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Includes MT1 spindle and tailstock taper
  • Two interchangeable tool rests

Product Overview

The WEN 3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe is designed for small woodworking projects and is a great tool for beginners and hobbyists. This lathe features a 3.2-amp motor that provides ample power for small to medium-sized projects.

The variable speed control ranges from 750 to 3200 RPM, allowing you to adjust the speed to suit the task at hand. The lathe's compact design makes it easy to fit into any workshop, and its lightweight construction allows for easy transport and storage.

The WEN 3421 also includes practical features such as a MT1 spindle and tailstock taper, as well as two interchangeable tool rests for added convenience. With its user-friendly design and reliable performance, this mini wood lathe is perfect for those looking to explore the world of woodturning.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Compact and easy to store
  • User-friendly design
CONS
  • Limited power for larger projects
  • Basic features compared to higher-end models

Product Specifications

  • Speed Range 750-3200 RPM
  • Motor Power 3.2 amps
  • Distance Between Centers 12 inches
  • Swing Over Bed 8 inches

Main Features

  • Variable speed from 100-2000 RPM
  • Sturdy construction for durability
  • Includes MT2 tailstock taper and 4-way turret tool post
  • 3-inch three-jaw chuck

Product Overview

The Shop Fox M1015 Metal Lathe is built for heavy-duty machining and is ideal for both hobbyists and professionals. It features a powerful 1/5 HP motor and a variable speed range of 100 to 2000 RPM, allowing for precise control over your metalworking projects.

The lathe's sturdy construction and high-quality components ensure durability and long-lasting performance. The M1015 includes an MT2 tailstock taper, a 4-way turret tool post, and a 3-inch three-jaw chuck, providing versatility and convenience for various tasks.

The machine's compact size makes it suitable for smaller workshops, while its robust design ensures it can handle demanding projects. With its combination of power, precision, and reliability, the Shop Fox M1015 is an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a high-quality metal lathe.

PROS
  • Durable and robust construction
  • Precise speed control
  • Includes multiple accessories
CONS
  • Limited power compared to larger models
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Speed Range 100-2000 RPM
  • Motor Power 1/5 HP
  • Distance Between Centers 10 inches
  • Swing Over Bed 6 inches

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the technical details, it's crucial to consider what you intend to do with the lathe. Are you a hobbyist or a professional? Will you be working on wood, metal, or both? The answers to these questions will significantly influence your choice.

Types of Lathes

Lathes come in various types, each suitable for different tasks:

  • Wood Lathes: These are typically used for turning wood into bowls, spindles, and other decorative items. They usually have simpler mechanisms and fewer features compared to metal lathes.
  • Metal Lathes: These are more complex and robust, designed for machining metals. They often come with features that allow for precise cutting, threading, and shaping.
  • Mini and Micro Lathes: Ideal for small projects and limited spaces, these lathes are perfect for hobbyists who work on intricate parts.
  • Engine Lathes: Known for their durability and ability to handle heavy-duty work, these lathes are common in industrial settings.

Key Features to Consider

When evaluating lathes, several features are particularly important:

  • Bed Length and Swing: The bed length determines the maximum length of the material you can work on, while the swing indicates the largest diameter you can turn. Choose a lathe with dimensions that match your project requirements.
  • Motor Power: The motor's horsepower (HP) affects the lathe's ability to work with different materials. More power is needed for tougher materials like metal.
  • Speed Control: Variable speed control allows you to adjust the spindle speed to match the material and the task. This is essential for achieving precise results.
  • Construction Quality: Opt for lathes made from high-quality materials like cast iron, which provide stability and reduce vibrations.
  • Tailstock and Headstock: Ensure these components are robust and well-aligned, as they hold and rotate the workpiece, respectively.
  • Tool Rest: A stable and adjustable tool rest is crucial for maintaining control over your cutting tools.

Brand Reputation

Reputable brands often provide better quality, durability, and customer support. Some well-known brands in the lathe market include Jet, Grizzly, Powermatic, and Delta for wood lathes, and Hardinge, Clausing, and South Bend for metal lathes. Researching customer reviews and expert opinions can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of different models.

Budget Constraints

Lathes can vary widely in price, from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for high-end machines. Determine your budget early on and try to find the best balance between cost and features. Remember that investing in a quality lathe can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent repairs and replacements.

Additional Accessories

Consider the availability and cost of accessories such as chucks, faceplates, and cutting tools. Some lathes come with a comprehensive set of accessories, while others may require additional purchases. Having the right accessories can significantly enhance the functionality of your lathe.

Maintenance and Support

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your lathe in good working condition. Check if the manufacturer provides detailed maintenance guides and whether replacement parts are readily available. Good customer support can also be a lifesaver if you encounter any issues.

Conclusion

Selecting the best lathe requires a thorough understanding of your needs, careful evaluation of the machine's features, and consideration of your budget. By focusing on these key aspects, you can make an informed decision that will serve you well in your woodworking or metalworking projects.