Best Power Lathes of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Power lathes are versatile tools used in woodworking and metalworking. They are designed to shape, cut, and sand materials with precision and speed. With their powerful motors and adjustable speeds, power lathes can handle a range of projects, from creating intricate details on furniture to turning metal parts for machinery. Many models come with a variety of accessories, such as chucks, tool rests, and faceplates, to enhance their functionality. Power lathes are ideal for both hobbyists and professionals looking to achieve high-quality results in their work.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe Cover #TOP 1
WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe
ftb score rating icon 9.9
JET JWL-1221VS 12" x 21" Wood Lathe Cover #TOP 2
JET JWL-1221VS 12" x 21" Wood Lathe
ftb score rating icon 9.8
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14" Cover #TOP 3
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14"
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Power Lathes

#TOP 1

WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

WEN
LA3421
Black
WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe Cover
WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe, 8-Inch by 13-Inch with Variable Speed (LA3421)

The WEN Mini Wood Lathe is a versatile and compact lathe that is perfect for turning pens, bowls, cups, chess pieces, and other small workpieces. With its 8-inch swing over the bed and a 13-inch distance between centers, it provides ample space for your projects. The soft-start 3.2-amp motor ensures a gradual start to prevent damage and maximize safety. The variable speed feature allows you to adjust the speed anywhere from 750 to 3200 RPM, giving you full control over your turning projects. This lathe comes with a 2.3-inch face plate, an MT1 spindle and tailstock taper, two interchangeable tool rests, and a two-year warranty. Experience the convenience and precision of the WEN Mini Wood Lathe for all your woodworking needs.

What We Like
Versatile
Compact
Variable speed
#TOP 2

JET JWL-1221VS 12" x 21" Wood Lathe

Jet
719200
White
JET JWL-1221VS 12" x 21" Wood Lathe Cover
JET 12" x 21" Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1 HP, 115V 1Ph (Model JWL-1221VS)

The JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe features a patent-pending ratchet-style belt tension system, three speed ranges that can be easily adjusted with digital readout, and convenient controls. It also includes a tool storage caddy on each end of the machine, a removable safety key, and smooth directional control. Recommended circuit size is 10 Amps, and it falls under the category of Power Metal Lathes.

What We Like
Easy-to-reach controls and digital readout
Innovative ratchet-style belt tension system
Includes tool storage caddy on each end of the machine
Smooth directional control and added safety with removable safety key
Three speed ranges to choose from with optimal speed
#TOP 3

VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14"

7"x14"
7" x 14"
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14" Cover
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14" Benchtop Metal Lathe, 550W Variable Speed 2250RPM Metal Lathe, with 3-jaw Chuck CNC Mini Lathe Machine, Precision Mini Lathe w/Tool Box Digital Display for Metal Turning

VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe is a precision machine ideal for professionals. Its high-precision 3-jaw chuck handles square and round objects with ease, making it perfect for accurate tasks like threading. With a 550W motor, it can manage small to medium projects effectively. The metal gear design ensures durability, while features like automatic power-off protection and an LED lamp enhance safety and visibility. You can control the rotational speed from 50 to 2500rpm with the digital display, giving you complete command over your work.

What We Like
Precision engineering
Large working capacity
Upgrade design
#TOP 4

Vevor Wood Lathe 14" x 40"

Wood Lathe
14 x 40 Inch
Vevor Wood Lathe 14" x 40" Cover
Vevor Wood Lathe 14" x 40", Power Wood Turning Lathe 1/2HP 4 Speed 1100/1600/2300/3400RPM, Benchtop Wood Lathe with 3 Chisels Perfect for High Speed Sanding and Polishing of Finished Work - Amazon.com

The Vevor Wood Lathe 1/2HP is a powerful tool for wood turning. With a 1/2 Horse Power Motor, it starts softly for safety and low noise. The 4 Grade Speeds allow you to work with ease and accuracy at different RPMs. Its Large Work Capacity, with a 40" distance between centers and a cutting diameter of 14", offers high concentricity and adjustability. The Solid Steel Construction provides durability, strength, stability, and smooth operation, reducing vibration. This lathe comes with wrenches and 3 chisels for easy maintenance and various cutting needs.

What We Like
Powerful 1/2HP Motor
4 Grade Speeds
Large Work Capacity
#TOP 5

VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe

RWL1018
VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe Cover
VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe, 10 in x 18 in, 0.5 HP 370W Power Wood Turning Lathe Machine, 5 Variable Speeds 780/1320/1920/2640/3840 RPM with Rod Injection Wrenches Faceplate Foot Pads, for Woodworking

VEVOR Wood Lathe is a professional DIY tool with a sturdy and stable design, powered by a high-frequency motor offering 5 adjustable speeds. The high-quality materials minimize vibrations for precise operations. The powerful motor enables high-speed cutting and planing, improving work efficiency. With 5-speed control, you can easily adjust for different cutting requirements, giving you precise control over your woodworking projects. Complete with professional accessories, this wood lathe provides convenience and comprehensive tools for all your DIY needs.

What We Like
Sturdy & Stable Design
Powerful High-Frequency Motor
Adjustable 5-Speed Control
#TOP 6

JET JWL-1640EVS Woodworking Lathe

Jet
JWL-1640EVS
White
JET JWL-1640EVS Woodworking Lathe Cover
JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1640EVS)

The JET JWL-1640EVS Woodworking Lathe is a versatile and powerful lathe designed for woodworking enthusiasts. With its extended spindle nose and dual headstock spindle bearings, this lathe provides enhanced stability and precision. The improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with an anti-rotation key ensures secure and accurate positioning. The ACME threads on the tailstock allow for smooth and durable movement. The non-marring, positive locking wedge system on the banjo securely holds the tool post in place. The convenient spindle lock latch frees up both hands for easy tool changes. With 36 integrated indexing positions and an enclosed inverter for added protection, this lathe offers exceptional performance and reliability for all your woodworking projects.

What We Like
Stable and precise
Secure and accurate positioning
Smooth and durable movement
#TOP 7

WEN 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe

WEN
34035
WEN 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe Cover
WEN 34035 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe

The WEN 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe is perfect for turning bowls, cups and other workpieces up to 20 inches long and 14 inches wide. With a variable speed range from 250 to 3550 rotations per minute, it can tackle a wide variety of tasks. The lathe is equipped with a 4-inch faceplate, MT2 tailstock and headstock tapers, and a 1"- 8 spindle thread to accommodate different lathe accessories. It also features a 6A motor, MT2 spur center, MT2 live center, 8-inch tool rest, and onboard accessory holder for added convenience.

What We Like
Wide range of variable speed for different tasks
Compatible with a variety of lathe accessories
Equipped with a 4-inch faceplate for turning bowls and cups
#TOP 8

RIKON VSR MIDI Lathe RIK-70-150VSR

RIK-70-150VSR
RIKON VSR MIDI Lathe RIK-70-150VSR Cover
RIKON Power Tools VSR MIDI Lathe (RIK-70-150VSR)

The RIKON MIDI Lathe is equipped with a robust 1HP DC motor, ensuring you have the power needed for various woodturning projects. With electronic variable speed controls, you can easily adjust the lathe's speed to suit your specific tasks, allowing for greater flexibility in your work. The digital RPM readout provides clear visibility of the rotation speed, whether you are working in forward or reverse. Additionally, the pivoting belt cover makes it simple to change belt speeds, saving you time and effort while you focus on your crafting.

What We Like
Powerful 1HP motor
Variable speed control
Digital RPM readout
Easy belt speed changes
#TOP 9

WEN Benchtop Metal Lathe ML716

WEN
ML716
WEN Benchtop Metal Lathe ML716 Cover
WEN 7-by 16-Inch Benchtop Metal Lathe, Variable Speed, Two Direction (ML716)

The WEN Metal Lathe ML716 allows you to work with various metals like aluminum, steel, and brass up to 16 inches long or 7 inches in diameter. With dual variable speed ranges from 100 to 2500 RPM in both directions, you can handle your projects efficiently. The threading dial indicator assists in creating 18 screw thread sizes from 12 to 52 TPI. Enjoy manual operation or use the adjustable auto feed for added convenience. This lathe comes equipped with essential features like a 3-jaw chuck and offers a two-year warranty for peace of mind.

What We Like
Variable Speed Ranges
Threading Dial Indicator
Auto Feed Option
#TOP 10

GAOMON 14" x 20" Wood Lathe

Benchtop Wood Lathe
GAOMON 14" x 20" Wood Lathe Cover
Wood Lathe, 14" x 20" Benchtop Wood Lathe Machine 0.5 HP Infinitely Variable Speed 1040-2980 RPM, Wood Turning Lathe Machine with Wrench & 2 Chisels for Woodworking, Woodturning

The GAOMON Wood Lathe is an excellent choice for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. Its spacious 20-inch workbench allows you to work comfortably on various projects. The sturdy aluminum alloy base and steel headstock minimize vibrations, providing stability for precise operations. With a powerful 400W motor, you can achieve speeds up to 2600 RPM, enhancing your cutting and planing efficiency. The lathe features four adjustable speeds, giving you the control needed for different cutting tasks, making it easy to tackle projects of any complexity.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
High-speed capabilities
Adjustable speed options
Vibration-free operation
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the types of lathe?

There are several types of lathes, including speed lathes, center lathes, turret lathes, toolroom lathes, bench lathes, automatic lathes, special purpose lathes, and CNC lathes. Each type has its own specific features and applications.

2. What is a good horsepower for a wood lathe?

A good horsepower range for wood lathes is typically between 3/4 HP and 2 HP. Mini wood lathes usually have an output of 3/4 HP, while full-size wood lathes average around 2 HP. The horsepower requirement may vary depending on the size and complexity of the woodturning projects.

3. What is the most common lathe?

The most common type of manual lathe is the engine lathe or center lathe. It is widely used in machine shop applications and can perform various operations such as turning, end face, grooving, knurling, and threading. Engine lathes are versatile and suitable for a range of turning tasks.

4. What is the difference between a CNC lathe and a lathe?

The main difference between a CNC lathe and a conventional lathe is the control mechanism. A CNC lathe is computer-controlled and moves automatically, following instructions from a program. In contrast, a conventional lathe requires manual operation, with the operator controlling all the movements.

5. What type of wood is best for turning on a lathe?

Walnut wood is highly recommended for turning on a lathe. It produces excellent results when turned at speeds between 800 to 1,000 RPM. However, walnut wood can be tough and have challenging end grain, which may require extra care during sanding.

6. What is the easiest wood to turn on a lathe?

Pine and cherry are considered the easiest woods to turn on a lathe, especially for beginners. These softwoods are easy to shape and work with, allowing beginners to learn and practice woodturning techniques effectively. Starting with softwoods like pine and cherry reduces the complexity of turning wood.

Editor's Notes

During our power lathe research, we found 24 power lathe products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,918 customer reviews through our big data system to write the power lathes list. We found that most customers choose power lathes with an average price of $470.63.

The power lathes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of power lathes, including WEN, Jet, VEVOR, RIKON Power Tools, GAOMON. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.