The 10 Best Power Lathes – Woodworking Tools

Thinking of creating your own Pinocchio? Ready to expand your workshop? Whether you are a novice looking to start your very first project, a hobbyist woodworker building intricate models, or a professional furniture maker overdue for an equipment upgrade, our selection of power lathes is sure to contain the right model for you. Big or small, you’ll be ready to start turning wood in no time.

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10. Wen 3420 Benchtop

Described as good for beginners, the Wen 3420 Benchtop (around $197) is one of the best values you’ll find in this category. Its fairly low-powered motor makes it suitable for small projects and a safe choice for people who are new to woodworking.

9. Grizzly G8688 Mini

The Grizzly G8688 Mini (around $830) is, as the name says, diminutive, yet effective, with features like a turret tool post, a chip tray, and a splash guard. It’s a good choice for hobbyists and small jobs, but it’s not quite powerful enough to take on heavy-duty projects.

8. Shop Fox W1758 Digital

The Shop Fox W1758 Digital (appx. $969) is a powerful and competitively priced full-size model. It comes with an adjustable tailstock, allowing it to accommodate pieces that are up to 46 inches long, and has the weight and power necessary to tackle almost any project.

7. Jet 1221VS

Those seeking to get serious about their craft who can’t afford an enormous investment would do well to consider the Jet 1221VS (appx. $849). It’s noteworthy for its innovative, ratchet-style belt-tension system and precise speed control.

6. Nova 71118 Comet II

The Nova 71118 Comet II (appx. $547) is one of the most effective small options available. Its 3/4-horsepower, variable speed motor can turn at rates anywhere from 250 to 4,000 RPM which, along with an adjustable bed extension, makes this a highly adaptable machine.

5. Jet Wood JWL-1015

The Jet Wood JWL-1015 (appx. $500) puts professional quality machinery in the price range of the amateur woodworker. Its sturdy steel construction and extra-wide feet provide excellent stability, and it’s impressively quiet during operation.

4. Powermatic 3520B

The premium Powermatic 3520B (about $4982) is a serious piece of equipment from one of the most respected companies in the business, and it sells at a price that reflects that. Those who can afford it will get a beast of a machine with an impressive degree of adaptability.

3. Laguna Tools Mlarevo 1836

The impressive 2-horsepower motor on the Laguna Tools Mlarevo 1836 (around $2799) can rev its spindle up to 3,500 RPM across two sets of variable speeds. The lower of those settings achieves remarkable torque for shaping particularly dense wood pieces.

2. Rikon 70-100 Mini

The large-capacity Rikon 70-100 Mini (around $500) features a 12-inch swing and 16 inches between centers, making it possible to work on big pieces without taking up too much space. You can also add one or more bed extensions, allowing for even greater versatility.

1. Jet 719500

The Jet 719500 (about $2300) features a versatile sliding headstock and a positive locking wedge system that reliably holds your workpieces in place. It’s a powerful, freestanding model that would serve enthusiasts in their garages as well as it would pros in a small shop.

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