Whether you’re turning bowls, crafting spindles, or creating intricate wooden art, the right wood lathe machine is the heart of any woodworking setup. A reliable lathe gives you precision, control, and stability — all essential for clean, detailed work.
We’ve rounded up the seven best woodworking lathe machines for 2025, covering everything from compact benchtop models for hobbyists to professional-grade machines for full-scale workshops.
List of 7 Best Top-Performing Wood Working Lathe Machines
#1
Powermatic 20" x 35" Woodworking Lathe - 3520C
- Features: 20" x 35" Woodworking Lathe, 2 HP, 220V 1Ph (Model 3520C)
- Adjustable riser blocks for 4 inches of height adjustment.
- Price: $5500
#2
JET 18" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe
- Features: 18" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe, 2 HP, 230V 1Ph (Model JWL-1840EVS). Electronic infinitely-variable speed from 40 to 3200 RPM
- Price: $3600
#3
JET 10" x 15" Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe
- Features: 10" x 15" Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1/2 HP, 115V 1Ph (Model JWL-1015VS).
- Three variable-speed ranges (200–1050, 300–1750, 600–3600) allow you to match the speed to each workpiece
- Price: $649
#4
JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe- JWL-1640EVS
- Features: 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe, 1-1/2 HP, 115V 1Ph. Variable speed from 40 to 3200 RPM
- 36 integrated indexing positions
- Price: $3250
#5
WEN Mini 8"X 13" Benchtop Wood Lathe
- Features: Mini 8-Inch by 13-Inch with Variable Speed (LA3421). Soft-start 3.2-amp motor
- Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 750 to 3200 RPM
- Price: $250
#6
WEN 14"x 20" Benchtop Wood Lathe
- Features: 34035 6-Amp 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe
- Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 250 to 3550 rotations per minute
- Price: $650
#7
VEVOR Benchtop Wood Lathe, 10 in x 18 in
- Features: 0 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
- 370W high-frequency motor, our wood lathe offers a maximum speed of 3200RPM
- Price: $250
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood lathe depends on what you build and how often you use it. For professionals, the Powermatic 3520C or JET 1840EVS deliver unmatched control and durability. For hobbyists, the WEN and VEVOR models offer excellent value without sacrificing quality.
No matter your skill level, a dependable lathe is a long-term investment — one that makes every woodworking project smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
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