Have you ever been fascinated by complicated wooden designs?
Turning wood is an amazing craft. It is a full-time profession for most of the people while some woodmen do it for fun. Wood lathe is a necessary tool for woodturners, whether it’s for fun or professional use.
If you are a woodworker and have just focused on the art of wood, a wood lathe is one of the things you should essentially have.
Let’s discuss
There are plenty of different types of wood lathers available in the market, and it can be difficult to find out the best options to choose from. Several models of different branded wooden lathes are available in the market like any other power tool.
Thousands of products can easily make you stressed and overwhelmed.
But don’t worry
You do not need to waste your time further to search out the best small lathes. In this article, we have come up with the 8 best wooden lathes to narrow down your options with an informative buying guide.
Let’s dive in
Best small wood lathes 2021:
Here are our picks for the top small wood lathes worth the money:
24 integrated indexing positions for multitasking.
The spindle has a combined spring-loaded lock.
The motor is 115V that produces excellent power.
Easy to adjust belt tension system.
Pros
Cons
✅ Solid built
❌Low weight may cause vibrations
✅ Variables enable constant speed changes
✅ Light weight and portable
✅ Great torque at lower speeds
✅ Ratchet-style belt tension system
✅ Smooth forward to reverse transitions
✅ 5 years of warranty
Due to the obstructing features, some lathes are challenging to use. Older lathes decrease control by offering heavy vibrations in the system. But this model has been designed to boost up the control of the overall system. JET claimed that this model is entirely different from anything that anybody has ever designed before.
JET believes that they have designed the best gadgets in the small lathe niche that gives the perfect woodturning experience.
The bed of this lathe is made from cast iron that makes it reliable and durable. The overall weight of this lathe is 129.8 that has powerful effects on its overall performance that makes it the best small lathe.
The reason is that the weight of the JWL 1221VS totally decreased at the time of turning. This process increases the precision and accuracy of your wood work.
Besides the minimum vibrations of the system, it is relatively quiet when in use. This is considered as the best small lathe that won’t take up much of your workshop space.
Working on several projects provides you some extra versatility with 24 indexing positions. This indexing head initiates new techniques in many ways such as improved accuracy in your turns and detailed pattern of grooving and drilling.
With a quick glance at the control system, you can easily change the speed and can perform other adjustments.
If you are looking for your first wood lathe, JWL 1221VS just might be the best budget lathe in the market right now.
Powerful 1 HP motor offers a maximum speed of 1725 RPM.
Features a three pulley variable speed.
User-friendly quick switch with easy forward and backward functions.
Cast iron structure
High 12-½ swing capacity
Pros
Cons
✅ Variable speed enhances accuracy
❌ Difficulty in finding spares.
✅ Exceptional build quality
✅ User friendly belt tensioner system
✅ Allows speed changes without changing belt position
✅ Large swing capacity with strong motor
The Delta industrial 46–460 is one of the best machines that is handy for a multitude of wood projects. It is considered great for professionals as well as hobbyists. With the variable speeds for consistency and control, this lathe offers fast and smooth results.
It is designed with strong cast iron and bearing live center with a knockout bar of steel. This lathe is equipped with the onboard storage so that you can store its accessories.
The power and the swing speed of this lathe is the largest in its class. You can easily change the speed without changing the positions of the belt.
Forward and the reverse functions of the lathe saves much of your time. You only need to change the switch instead of turning your objects in opposite directions. Such andy features enhance its ease of use and helps it qualify as one of the best wood lathes for beginners.
This lathe also has a belt tensioning system to make fast changes in speed. It sets the tension of the belt automatically for maximum efficiency. Six groove belts of this lathe offer more power for even larger projects that make it one of the best small lathe in the market.
The Delta Industrial 46–460 is the best small lathe for any smaller projects such as candlestick holders, pens, chair spindles. Besides, it can also be used for larger projects with the help of an extension. Larger projects can be table legs, basketball bats, or even cue sticks.
Its solid build, reversing feature and the variable speeds makes it one of the best benchtop lathe and the best small lathe. It also offers slow speed, unlike many other lathes. Small speeds help in finishing works and for turning projects. This is arguably one of the best wood lathes for the money that you can get your hands on.
Features an adjustable spindle speed as it has a 6 step motor for variable spindle speeds.
Has a self ejecting tailstock.
Has the ability to add multiple extensions.
Strongest ½ HP motor to control the speed easily
12 positioning indexing head for detailed and accurate work.
User-friendly design to make it extremely easy to use.
Pros
Cons
✅ The largest mini lathe
❌ Weak tailstock
✅ Rapid speed alterations
❌ Some parts don't fit properly
✅ User friendly
✅ Dual purpose spindle lock
✅ Auto eject tailstock
It is another great offering from a respected brand. This small lathe has an extremely sturdy and durable design that decreases the number of vibrations distributed throughout the system.
It offers several extensions and accessories that can be customized and can easily be utilized. For many woodmen, this feature made this model in high regard and the best small lathe.
Although the size of the machine is small, it does not compromise on functionality. You can work with larger woodenobjects while occupying much lesser space.
It comes with a nylon faceplate that is easy to use which prevents the materials from getting stocked at the end of the spindle. It is very convenient to use as compared to its competitors such as Shop For W1 that is not considered as an ideal choice for the beginners.
The dual-purpose spindle lock is located at the headstock. Due to its location, it is easy to use. On the headstock, the indexing meter has 12 positions that are arranged equally spaced.
It offers an accurate work pattern for detailed tasks such as drilling, layout, grooving, and several others. Besides, it is also used to remove chucks, lock the spindle without the need for two different tools.
The Rikon Mini lathe facilitates the handling of space with maximum output. It is a huge time saver and very convenient to use. It is one of the best small lathes available in the market considering the above factors.
You may also like our comprehensive guide to wood planers.
4. Nova 46300 Comet II Small Wood Lathe
Why we love it:
The speed range is versatile, ranging from 250 to 4000 RPM.
Features a digital readout for the easy adjustment of the speed on the screen.
Features a Forward and reversing switch that allows a superior finish.
230V single phase
Pros
Cons
✅ Compact design perfect for advanced users
❌ Occasional belt slippage issues
✅ Versatile variable speed
❌ Doesn't include extendable accessories
✅ Easy to use speed settings
✅ Compatible accessories enable customization
✅ Noiseless motor with great swing capacity
It is one of the best options for beginners comprising of a strong variable motor speed in a small size. The RPM range of this lathe is between 250 to 4000 RPM from higher to lower speed. This feature has made this lathe an ideal option for different wood projects and is a contender for the best small lathe in the market.
The forward and reverse features of this lathe makes it extra flexible and helps you to get a premium finish. Along with optimal flexibility, the feature of the 3 step pulley system with various speed ranges stand it out among the professionals.
Normally, the middle step of the pulley gives enough range for a lot of woodturning processes. However, for some critical applications, you can use an extra two steps as they offer more torque.
The cast-iron design of this lathe provides rigidity and solid strength that will absorb any vibration. You will experience high-quality creations and an exceptionally smooth turning experience.
The compact design of this lathe gives the maximum stability and control to its users. Additional accessories allow you to customize your lathe according to the type of your project. We can confidently recommend this lathe by considering all these excellent features.
It is considered as a great budget lathe for small to moderate woodturning projects, pen turners, and for the beginners who are new to woodturning.
5. Grizzly Industrial H8259-10″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lathe
Why we love it:
Produces no vibrations.
Heavy duty iron cast construction
Leveling feet are adjustable
Features above 18 inches between the centers for benchtop lathes.
Pros
Cons
✅ Digital RPM readout
❌ Prolonged use may cause heating
✅ Speed control from 60 RPM to 3600 RPM.
❌ Insecure tailstock
✅ Ratchet style belt system
❌ Small tool rest
✅ Smooth forward to reverse transitions
✅ Easy speed alterations
✅ Solid built
It is another one of the best small wood lathes that every woodturner likes to have is this benchtop machine. It is known well for its compact and heavy-duty construction.
Grizzly H8259 is an ideal wood lathe for all those who are searching for a low-cost solution that helps them best. Without compromising on the quality, Grizzly H8259 is one of the cheapest and the best small lathes for you.
It does not produce any vibrations or noise when in operation. However, the motor gets hot even on overheating. Overheating of the motor is not a major issue as the power tool still functions normally.
Along with the adjustable leveling feet, this lather offers a tool rest that fits your all needs comfortably. Besides, the Grizzly H859 has a solid motor with a variable speed which is an amazing feature of any lathe.
The motor offers variable speed from 826 to 3337 revolutions per minute (RVP). It is an amazing feature that offers you to work on different projects for different woods. The speed of the Grizzly H859 can only be changed manually by changing the belt to another pulley.
It comes with a 1-year warranty and is considered great for beginners. All the experienced woodworkers can use this machine as a portable wood lathe or a standby machine. This is perhaps one of the top mini wood lathes for sale right now.
The speed ranges from 500 to 3800 RPM for finishing and shaping
Heavy-duty, ball-bearing tailstock.
Constructed for easy belt access and removal.
It comes up with 3 years warranty
Pros
Cons
✅ Maximum speed of 3600 RPM.
❌ Horsepower is only ¾
✅ Small SBC microprocessor
❌ Only 2-speed settings
✅ 24 indexing positions.
✅ Large 18 inches distance from the center
It is one of the best lathes for your money. This small lathe is certified by Intertek. Therefore, you can be assured of the safety, performance, and quality of the products.
It has replaced the TCLC10VS model. PSI woodworking lathe has ¾ horsepower and 110v of the motor. It is the best small wood lathe for most of the woodwork projects.
It features a digital readout meters from where you can select your required speed for work. The speed of this lathe is variable with two belt positions. The speed of the position A is 500 to 2000 RPM while the speed of position B is 1500 to 3600 RPM.
These are considered a wide range of speeds for this type of lathe in this price range. It means that it can handle a variety of different tasks with versatility.
All in all, this is one of the best benchtop wood lathes if you’re on a budget.
Delivers a spindle speed between 700 and 3200 RPM.
Features a ⅓ horsepower, single-phase, and infinitely variable speed motor.
Safety paddle switch.
Pros
Cons
✅ Perfect for detailed patterns
❌ Can only be used to turn small objects
✅ Durable and stable
❌ The motor is not so powerful
✅ Easy to set up
✅ Portable and lightweight
✅ 2 year warranty
It is considered as one of the best small wood lathes for a beginner. The W1740 is built from cast iron that can be used for all the small tasks such as rings, pens etc and can even manage larger turnings.
It is designed immensely from high-quality components. This is a contender for the best budget lathe that would be a durable addition to your workshop.
The motor of this mini benchtop wood lathe delivers a very powerful output. That offers the workers to work with speed without feeling hesitating about the vibrations that occur throughout the spindle.
The motor speed of 700 to 3200 RPMs on ⅓ hp that is considered as perfect for turning different types of woods into unique designs. This power and speed do not support large size objects.
Users can produce clean and symmetric chisels because of its compact size, maximum speed, and weak horsepower count. The infinite variable speed offers versatility and an amazing quality of chisel in both hardwoods and softwoods.
This is an affordable lathe and is actually quite good. You can control the speed by just twisting the knob which is beneficial for producing symmetrical works of art.
Controlling the speed by just twisting the knob is considered as an excellent feature that is not common in other budget wood lathes. This system weighs around 50 pounds that is somewhat stable, however; it still needs additional weight to make it stable from moving unexpectedly.
Overall, this may be seen as one of the best benchtop wood lathes you can buy in the small lathe category.
More space for medium size pieces as the dimensions of the bed are 18’’ into 12’’.
Motor power is 4.5 Amp that is perfect for control over the five speeds.
During operation, 7 to ⅞ tool rest for some additional support.
Adjustments can be made on both the tailstock and tool rest.
The clamping system is straight forward.
Has a 5-inch faceplate for turning non-spindle workpieces.
Pros
Cons
✅ Perfect for beginner projects
❌ Not suitable for heavy-duty, larger projects
✅ Lightweight and compact size
❌ Sometimes the motor gets overheated
✅ Variable speed control
✅ Comes with the additional accessories
✅ Iron cast structure
Just because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean it’s not worth it!
This mini wood lathe is the best beginner wood lathe that should be included in your testing list if you are looking to start your professional career in turning.
It is a budget-friendly lathe with the best performance and quality like many other power tools. 3424T is one of the first models designed within the 342 series by WEN. It comprises 4.5 Amp motor and an impressive list of variable speeds.
It is designed by the solid cast iron that makes this lath durable. The benchtop can be fitted on a workstation as it has a decent fit for it.
3424T lathe delivers a powerful output that is considered as one of the best features of it. The motor begins its operation gradually to avoid unwanted mishaps or damaging the engines. The speed of the motor can be adjusted by the woodturner.
Generally, lathes give very choppy regulators at this affordable price range in the market. But 3424T are available in two forms of speed; variable speed for better accuracy and fixed-rate speed.
The performance of the spindle and tailstock is great in the 3424T model. It comes up with the additional accessories such as a knockout rod, a flat wrench, two tool rests, a faceplate, or some other accessories for the use of consumers.
Overall, this is one of the most affordable wood lathes that packs a heavy punch considering its price range.
Here are some of the general queries you might have before making a purchase.
First of all, let’s understand some of the basics out of the way.
What is a wood lathe?
Wood lathes is a tool that is used to turn the wood into several different shapes and forms. A wood lathe turns the large pieces of wood into usable and perfectly smooth objects. You can guarantee more flawless and polished results by having a wood lathe. You can get impressive wooden decorations, stunning furniture, and even can make different toys.
What is the best wood lathe for the money 2021?
Powermatic 1352001 – Overall is the best
JET JWL-1221vs Wood Lathe – Perfect for the Beginners
RIKON 70-100 12×16 – Best for the Money
NOVA 46300 Comet II – A Great Value Option
Delta Industrial 46 460 – A Consistent Favourite
SHOP FOX W1704 – Best for making pens
What is an ideal speed for turning woods?
Approximately 4000 RPM speed is the best for turning woods in small lathes. You should get a number between 6000 to 9000 RPM when you multiply the thickness of the woods.
How much is a wood lathe worth?
Normally, the range of low-cost wood lathes is between $200 and $400. The average cost of a wood lathe ranges between $400 to $800. While the high-cost wood lathes cost thousands of dollars, entry-level lathes will help you to learn the concepts of turning if you are a beginner. Such lathes are perfect to use at home. Besides, it can also be used for commercial purposes and are relatively quite cheaper. However, high-end lathes are used on a commercial scale and offer more reliability and precision than even the best cheap wood lathes.
What should be the power of a small wood lathe?
The best small lathes are the powerful ones that are able to turn hard materials. However, small wood lathes do not usually come with highly powerful motor engines. ¾ HP is good for small lathes as it is powerful enough to handle all the small woodturning projects that come your way.
What can you do with a small wood lathe?
Small lathes are generally used to make different parts of furniture, wooden rings, pens, and even cabinetry parts. Spindle turning and faceplate turning are two basic turning methods used in small lathes.
Are small wooden lathes any good?
Overall, small wooden lathes are an excellent tool for small projects but ensure that it does not come with any bits. Users always praise their performance, precision, and design. The lower speed of small wooden lathes ranges from 0 to 1100 RPM and the higher speed ranges from 0 to 2500 RPM.
What are the best lathes for beginners?
Our picks for best beginner wood lathes:
RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Wood Lathe
WEN 3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe
He spent 15 years in high-end construction as a carpenter, foreman, and supervisor. He lives in a very demanding old house and spent years renovation to his many homes.
WoodyMan Reviews is a website dedicated to present you with everything you need to know about woodworking tools and tactics.
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