10 Best Wood Lathes for Beginners in 2022 【Top Picks】

Comparison with other wood lathes

As compared to many other midi wood lathes that produce 1 Horsepower by the motor, the Delta Industrial 46-460 wood midi lathe produces a way more efficient power of up to 1725 RPM on idle for optimal stock removal. It also has the best range in class which is 250 to 4000 RPM. No other product of this league matches this range.

This product also exhibits the forward and reverse immediate transition of the turner so that you can achieve even better finishing and more precise work. A midi wood lathe would normally do woodturning on small objects, but this product by Delta can be extended to up to 40 inches and even work on an object large as a chair. The design of this product has been made keeping in mind the need for storage space for accessories and tools & instruments on board.

In-Depth Details

You can achieve your turning masterpiece from the Delta 46-460 lathe. It is considered the workhorse for you, which has 1 HP that produces more than 1,750 rpm torque. The machine will even handle the woods and allows you to slow down the rpm at 250 for any large creations. It has a pulley system that is the reversible electronic variable speed that minimizes chatter and vibration. Also, the machine is patented with the belt tensioning system to let quick and easy speed changes, plus it helps to set the belt at the correct tension for the maximum power transfer and longer tool life.

The Delta is equipped with a three-inch faceplate constructed with all cast iron, and the machine is very durable. The device’s face is 46-460 inches, including a three-inch face plate with 6-inch and 10-inch tools. On the other side, the rest of the device supports various turning applications. You will get a user manual, wrenches, live center, tool rest base, knockout bar, 12-1/2-inch variable-speed midi lathe, chrome 3-inch faceplate, and 10-inch tool rests. However, this Delta industrial lathe is backed up with a five-year warranty, and the machine is very durable. So you can consider the device for your fantastic woodwork.

Specifications

The weight of this product happens to be 106 pounds, which is not quite much we’d rather say. This weight is suitable enough for a beginner to start with a good kick. It runs on 110 Alternate Current and produces 1 Horsepower.

It utilizes the voltage of 120 Volts, on 60 hertz in 1 phase. Its speed range is quite wide, ranging from 250 RPM to 4,000 RPM, this range suits our requirement of a wide range of variable speeds. The length of this product is 36 inches, width is 11 inches, and height is 17 ¾ inches. It exhibits a swing over the bed of 12 ½ inches and a swing over the base of 9.67 inches.  The regular distance between the centers is 16 and a half inches while that with extension is 42 inches. The powerful motor is controlled by an electric variable speed system.

You can also get Delta 46-460 at homedepot.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

The best and foremost attractive feature of this product is the wide warranty range that the company promises. The warranty is for 5 years. Plus, for these 5 years, the company will provide free repair and service at their service centers.

Comparing it with most other wood lathes of the same league, this product of jet JWL features an improved tensioning system that helps the operator access the belts more easily and efficiently. It has a packaged weight of 78 pounds. This shows that this model has lesser weight than the other in the same category. A lightweight yet sturdy machinery. The bed is made of cast iron which in turn gives extreme rigidity and stability to the machine. Despite being a midi wood lathe, it is made with such great standards that it can work on even industrial-scale projects.

In-Depth Details

If you are a novice woodturner and looking for a user-friendly lathe that is affordable, we recommend the JET 1015VS. This wood lathe is also an excellent choice for professional or advanced enthusiasts. People who want to add a full-featured mini-lathe to their shop can consider this. This lathe is very sturdy and is equipped with a smooth-running 15-inch diameter. It will provide precise results of every project to make a versatile number of projects properly.

You will find the machine is equipped with three different speed ranges from 200-1050, 300-1750, and 600-3600. Moreover, it is integrated with 24 position indexing and has improved the tension system with easier access to the belts. For people who are looking for a woodturning lathe for beginners, this Jet JWL-1015 would be a better choice. But the downside of this machine is that it has no reverse function, and hopefully, you will be okay with it. Since it’s not that important.

Specifications

The Swing over the bed of this wood lathe is 10 inches, while the quill travel happens to be 2 inches. The spindle bore of this Jet JWL-1015VS 10-inch wood lathe is 3/8 inches. You can even index on a whooping 24 optional space positions. Though it has a lacking in case of Motor power, which is ½ horsepower.

The bed of this wood lathe is made up of cast iron which helps keep the machine stable and provides precision to the work of your craftsmanship. The voltage its motor works on is 115 Volts and the prewired voltage as well is 115 Volts, which indicates good efficiency of the motor. The motor’s optimal amperage is 4 Amps while the experts recommend that with this lathe, one should use the circuit of size 10 Amps.

You can get JWL-1015 Lathe at Jettools.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

Compared to most of the other wood lathes made by different industries of the same category, it has some salient features that make this Grizzly Industrial T25290 a way better option than most others. For example, despite being very small in size, this lathe is well equipped to work equally well as a commercial size wood lathe for industrial size projects.

Moreover, unlike others, the company has a widespread network of service centers and customer care agencies around the United States of America. Plus, the package contains a fully pre-installed wood lathe, so you don’t have to go through the hustle of screwing it together and spending time on it. When the competitors are giving 3 to 5 years of warranty, Grizzly provides its customers with only 1 year of warranty on its products.

In-Depth Details

Grizzly is a reliable name when it comes to the best wood lathe for beginners. This machine is budget-friendly, so don’t worry if you are under any budget issues. The machine offers ten different variable speeds with three distinct ranges from 650 to 3800 RPM. So you can change the speed settings on different sides whenever you need to.

It’s also very powerful since it is equipped with three distinct ranges from 650 to 3800 RPM. The best part of this machine is, it is equipped with a digital spindle speed indicator. Also, it includes a 3-1/4″ faceplate, live center, knockout bar, and spur center. The price is worth paying for the Grizzly so you can consider investing in this. Grizzly has 3/4 HP, and the electric voltage is 110V. It comes with a 12-inch swing over the bed, and a 9-1/2 inch is the swing over tool rest base. And 18 inches is the distance between the centers of this machine.

It is constructed with heavy-dust cast iron to make it a more durable machine than others. However, if you are new to woodworking and need a stable lathe, this could be your option.

Specifications

The motor produces ¾ Horsepower while consuming 110 Volts of electricity on a single-phase electric supply with 5.3 Amperes. Its swing over the bed is 12 inches or 1 foot. The swing over tool rest base is 9 and a half inches, while the distance between centers is 18 inches, which is one and a half feet.

The spindle speed exhibited by this machine has an extended range of 650 RPM to 3800 RPM. This machine has a whole footprint base of 30 inches into 8 inches in dimensions of Length and Width. It has a whole packaged weight of 84 pounds. The overall machine dimensions are 38 ¾ inches Width x 12 inches D x 17 inches Height. The tool rest included in the package is almost 8 inches wide, sufficient enough to carry all the instruments and tools needed.

You can get Grizzly Industrial T25926 at ubuy.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

Comparing it with the Jet JWL 1015vs 10 inches wood lathe, this machinery by PSI Woodworking KWL-1018vs, Jet has a better warranty of 5 years than Turncrafter Commander despite having almost all features same other than the horsepower. A feature of this machine that attracts a majority of the audience is the Light bulb/lamp built-in in the machine. This not only helps make better pieces but also adds to the comfort of the operator. It is a feature unique to this wood lathe.

Plus, it also has a digital display that endorses necessary technical information to the operator to help carry out a smooth and safe operation. With all these features, Turncrafter Commander can also be compared to other wood lathes in the terms of price. It is surely light on the pocket as compared to other ones.

In-Depth Details

The PSI is very safe, can provide the best performance, and the product quality is fantastic. Since it is certified by the Intertek and ESL listed. It offers a 3/4 HP variable speed motor, and the electric voltage is 110v. The machine is equipped with two belt positions, which are position: A 500-2000 RPM and position B is: 1500-3600 RPM. The motor runs very fast to work properly, but sometimes it may run slowly.

It’s very convenient to use compared to others since you can find a digital readout in this. It lets you work at precise speeds. You can find a 10-inch swing over the bed from this lathe, and the distance between the center is 18 inches. It is a smart lathe machine as it is equipped with a SBC microprocessor. Furthermore, you can select the precise speed you want since it has a digital readout. And you should check this wood lathe for your work.

Specifications

This machine by PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS Turncrafter commander produces ¾ Horsepower, comes with a 10 inches swing. It also features a one and a half feet distance between the centers. Moreover, it has a digital readout that shows essential information needed by the operator to keep on the smooth flow of work on the machine.

The bed can be extended with 42 inches of extension and a couple of tool rests that it features within are 6 inches wide and 12 inches wide respectively. For bowl turning, it has a 4 inches wide faceplate that comes with the package. It also has quick-release levers that help keep the pace of woodturning. Moreover, for better vision and hence precise working, it has a good density light bulb which can be adjusted to different points. Moreover, all the essential body components including bed and etcetera are made up of cast iron, too.

You can get PSI Turncrafter lathe at Pennstateind.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

The distinguishing feature that this wood lathe has is the forward and reverse transition switch. This switch is of high practicality as you don’t have to unload the wood piece and reverse the gears manually. Unlike most others, this wood lathe is completely built of cast iron. The whole frame, bed, and non-moving components are made up of reinforced solid cast iron which makes it a promising product in terms of durability and longevity.

The 2 MT spindles are made up of strong material which is not prone to breaking. It also features cam controls, rather quick ones to help the operator to focus on only what matters. It has a screen-operated speed adjustment, it is quick and reliable with a digital display for readout. This machine is in a nutshell, a good blend of advanced technology and strength.

Specifications

Like most others in the same category, this wood lathe has a capacity for bowl turning of up to 12 inches or 300 mm in the board. The total length between centers on standard size is 16.5 inches 419 mm while with an extension, it reaches up to 42 inches or 1066 mm. It produces ¾ horsepower on 230 volts single phase electricity supply at 60 Hz.

The speed variable range lies between 250 RPM to 4000 RPM. This midi wood lathe features a 1-inch 8TPI RH spindle thread for very fine outcomes on the product. This machine also has a hollow 2 MT tailstock with 1.6 inches or 40.60 mm of quill travel. The pully system manufactured in this specific model is a 3-way system that helps the operator achieve the highest flexibility with no compromise on durability. The additional two steps are involved in producing top torque.

In-Depth Details

NOVA is a space-saving machine and portable, but it will deliver the power capacity. The device provides 250-4000 RPM powerful variable speed. It is equipped with a digital readout that helps you quickly dial in the correct speed to do the job.

This wood lathe’s additional function is that it comes with a forward and reverse switch to offer the flexibility to achieve a superior finish. It has a 12-inch swing over the bed, including a 16-inch distance between centers. You can additionally purchase an optional bed extension accessory, which is expandable to 42 inches. While you purchase this machine, you will get a user manual, a spur-drive center, knockout bar, lathe handwheel Unit, 6-inch tool rest, 3-inch faceplate, live tailstock center. The machine comes with a three-year limited warranty, and it can last for many years to come. If you like this, then check its best price to purchase it.

You can also get Nova 71118 Comet II at Teknatools.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

Comparing this model with other wood lathes of different brands as well as other models of the same brand, it comes out to be a good package. Though most of the other wood lathes of the same category feature forward and reverse function, it only functions in a forward manner. Yet, better of an option than competitors, it has 6-speed options when most others have 3 or 4 or 5 at most options. Its motor is efficient yet produces ¾ horsepower when most other options from the same category produce 1 horsepower or even more.

The RAM travel that’s featured in this machine is considerably low as 2 and a half inches as compared to other wood lathes featuring even over 3 and a half inches.

In-Depth Details

RIKON mini features the largest capacity compared to others, plus it has multiple extensions so that you can work with larger pieces. While maintaining a low-profile workbench, the machine allows you to do your work as it is equipped with 12 inches over the bed plus 16 inches between the centers. The speed settings can be changed quickly and easily from 430 to 810, 1,230, 1,810, 2,670, and 3,900 in the perfect sequence. It features a handy chart that lets you determine the spindle speed, and an access cover opens up to give you room so that you can adjust the drive belt.

The device doesn’t need to use the knockout bar to remove the center since it is equipped with a self-ejecting tail. It helps you to save time, and it reduces your frustration. All you need to do is loosen the locking lever and then relock it in the desired position with the travel up to 2-1/2 inches, and the tailstock can also be moved, including the lathe bed.

It’s a user-friendly machine that features convenient functions to work efficiently. To fit your needs, you can tailor this machine, and it comes with several accessories. You will get a user manual, spur centers, pan head screw, live center, spindle lock assembly, adjustment wrench, knockout bar, and Rikon 70-100 12/16 inch lathe. This machine provides a two-year warranty, also, this machine can last for years to come.

Specifications

The motor is made of TEFC technology which produces ¾ horsepower on the electric supply of 115 volts on 60Hz and 5.7 Amps. It produces a total of 1720 RPM in only the forward direction. The speed variability options are SIX viz. 430, 810, 1230, 2627, and 3900 RPM. The swing over the bed is 12 inches while the swing over the tool rests in 19 and a half inches with a diameter of 5/8 inches. It features 16 inches distance between the centers and 1 inch 8 TPI spindle nose. This machine has dimensions of 32 inches Length, 10 and a ½ inches Width, and a 17 and a ½ inches Height.

The base has a width and length of 27 and three fourth inches into 7 and three fourth inches respectively. The net weight of this wood lathe is 89 pounds while the shippable package weighs 92 pounds in a carton of 33 ¾ inches x 12 inches x 11 ½ inches Length, width, and height.

You can also get RIKON 70-100 lathe at rikontools.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

The power that this machine produces despite its size is a little compromised. It produces ½ horsepower with a TEFC motor. The motor amps of 3.7Amp are also relatively low as compared to other wood lathes of the same category. The power and amps are low despite consuming more electricity than most of the other mini wood lathes. It has an emergency kill switch which a majority of wood lathes available in the market lack.

Specifications

This wood lathe has a TEFC motor that produces ½ horsepower. It runs on an electricity supply of 120 volts at 60 Hz with 3.7 Amperage. This motor produces an average of 1700 RPM speed in the forward direction only. Though it has 5-speed options, which are accordingly 500, 1175, 1850, 2225, 3200 RPM. The swing over the bed that this machine feature is 10 inches with a 7 and a half inches tool rest bed over the swing with 5/8 inches of diameter.

It also has a good work distance between the centers which is 18 inches or one and a half feet. The spindle nose is 1 inch in diameter x 8 TPI. The headstock and tailstock tapers are MT2. This wood lathe has RAM travel of 1 ¾ inch. This wood lathe has dimensions of 35.5 inches x 10.5 inches x 14.75 inches. This machine has a net weight of 75 pounds which shippable weight is 80 pounds. the company offers 5 years warranty.

In-Depth Details

If you are a novice turner and looking for the perfect lathe, this could be your choice. This is an affordable lathe that performs better than its rivals. This machine has a 1/2 horsepower, including a 375-watt engine that offers smooth and powerful performance. It contains five different variable speeds that let you set the perfect RPM for your projects.

The machines swing 10 inches that are capable of tackling everything you put into it. Also, it comes with wrenches and a 6 inches tool rest, including a knockout bar. This is constructed with the best quality material for durability. If you don’t need a versatile machine, then you can consider purchasing this excellent lathe. And it’s a beginner-friendly machine.

You can get RIKON 70-105 at walmart.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

WEN 3423T 4.5 Amp has a fine motor but not the best, it must have the tendency to produce at least 1 ½ to 2 horsepower but it clearly produces considerably less while on contrary, other lathes with similar or slightly better motors produce considerably more power. While other wood lathes for beginners have fancy colors on the structures, it has quite a subtle and decent combination of colors, which may please some operators. It also houses a kill switch which is a good option lacking in other wood lathes from different companies.

In-Depth Details

Look at the WEN 3424T 4.5-Amp lathe. You will get up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide workpieces on this. The machine offers five different speeds: 520, 900, 1400, 2150, and 3400 RPM. The speed level can be changed at any point you want. It includes a 3-1/8 inch faceplate so that you can turn the bowls, cups, and other non-spindle workpieces. For compatibility, the MT2 tailstock and headstock taper lets you comfortably work on the wide area. However, the machine has a 4.5-Amp motor that provides maximum torque. This machine is 70 pounds in weight, which is a little hassle to move. Also, it’s wobbling during the operation.

You will get various accessories with this machine: an onboard accessories holder, headstock spur center, a 7-7/8 inch tool rest, and a live tailstock center, including an owner’s manual.

Specifications

This wood lathe is rather a dedicated wood lathe for beginners or novices, so to say. It is being said so because it produces just enough power and has many basic features only. This benchtop wood lathe can turn on 5 different speed settings of 520 to 3400 RPMs. It has a 4.5 Amp motor which provides a torque of up to more than 70 pounds. The tailstock, headstock, and spindle are MT2. It also has a 7 7/8 inches tool rest stage.

You can get WEN 3420T at wenproducts.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

The Shop Fox W1704 is a fine wood lathe but only for beginners. It produces 1/3 horsepower, quite lesser power as compared to other mini wood lathes or benchtop wood lathes. This wood lathe comes with a 5 ¾ inches faceplate while many other options of the same league have larger faceplates for the convenience of the operator.

In-Depth Details

The Shop Fox comes with a 1/3 HP motor plus it has 700 to 3200 RPM spindle speed. The different RPM is handy when it comes to turning hard to soft pieces of wood. The distance between the centers is 12-inch, and the swing bed is 8 inches. It is constructed with the cast-iron, so the machine is very durable.

This lathe is ideal for various projects, such as – small projects and pen turning. The faceplate of this benchtop is 5-3/4 inches. You can find the machine includes two tool rests, which are very helpful to stop the lathe during the running so that it offers you flawless results, also prevents injuries. It offers a two-year warranty that could be improved. Additionally, the device is a very affordable option. And if you are very new and looking for a wood lathe, this could be your best option.

Specifications

This wood lathe for beginners is an alright choice for those who have just started woodturning. So is because it has 8 inches of swing over the bed, good for small objects. It also features 13 inches of distance between the centers, having overall dimensions of 7.1 inches of length, 27.9 inches of width, and 13.7 inches of Height. The adjustable speed options are between 700 RPM to 3200 RPM. It produces 1/3 horsepower which isn’t great and works on 110 volts of electricity supply. The net wt. of the product is 48.4 pounds. The company also offers 2 years warranty.

You can get SHOP FOX W1704 at grizzly.com

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Comparison with other wood lathes

The weight of this lathe is quite low as 45 pounds compared to other wood lathes which are way heavier. Being a benchtop, it doesn’t need a heavy cast iron base. It doesn’t include a micro-adjust rip fence as compared to many other options that include one. This lathe has 3.2 power amps which are considerably lower than that of most others.

In-Depth Details

Are you in search of a Mini benchtop wood lathe? If so, then the WEN 3421 would be the better option for you. It has a 4.5 AMP sturdy motor that provides you with a trouble-free experience and its design for the 18 X 12 inches workpieces. The machine comes with five different speed settings: 500, 900, 1400, 2150, and 3400 in sequence. The different speed settings help to make the job done easier. Though the machine is very powerful, it won’t vibrate, plus it’s comparatively less noisy than other devices. It features a 2.3-inch faceplate, which is an MT1 spindle plus tailstock taper. These functions made this machine very simple to use.

Moreover, for added safety and versatility, it comes with two interchangeable tool rests. WEN is easy to move from one place to another compared to other machines. This lathe comes backed up by a two-year warranty. And their customer helpline is very friendly.

Specifications

This wood lathe from wen is a base model and has some basic features. Its length x width x height is 28 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches respectively. The stand isn’t included in the package as it is a benchtop wood lathe. The finishing is in a subtle combination of orange and black. The speeds are variable with an average idling speed of 750 RPM. The speed goes up to much as 3200 RPM.

You can get WEN 3421 at wenproducts.com

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