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10 Best Mini Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

WEN LA3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe , Black

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WEN LA3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe , Black

WEN

10.0 score

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The WEN LA3424 mini-wood-lathe is designed for small to medium woodturning projects, offering a swing over bed of 12 inches and a distance between centers of 18 inches. It stands out with its 4.5-amp motor, providing sufficient power for various tasks. The lathe offers five different speed settings (520, 900, 1400, 2150, and 3400 RPM), allowing users to adjust according to the specific needs of their project.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,450
Motor Power
Build Quality

Most important from
429 reviews

Motor Power
The motor delivers enough torque for most jobs.
Build Quality
This lathe is well built and works well.
#2
10.0 score

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

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

WEN

10.0 score

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The WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe with an 8-inch swing over the bed and 13-inch distance between centers is a compact and versatile option for hobbyists and small project enthusiasts. This lathe is well-suited for turning pens, bowls, cups, and small workpieces, making it ideal for beginners or those working on intricate projects. The 3.2-amp motor is powerful enough for most small tasks and features a soft start to enhance safety and prolong motor life.

Rating
10.0
Motor Power
Speed Range
Build Quality

Most important from
1656 reviews

Motor Power
Despite its compact size, the lathe is robust and performs well. However, the motor is slightly underpowered for larger tasks, and the headstock bearings might need an upgrade for better performance.
Speed Range
Great for turning pens, bottle stoppers, and other small items. It's quiet, smooth running, and offers good power and speed range for its size.
Build Quality
The unit is solid, works as expected, and is perfect for those who want to start woodturning without a huge investment.
#3
9.9 score

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

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

RIKON Power Tools

9.9 score

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The RIKON Power Tools VSR MIDI Lathe (RIK-70-150VSR) is a robust machine that stands out with its powerful 1HP DC motor, offering substantial power for various turning tasks. Its electronic variable speed control and digital RPM readout provide a wide range of operational speeds, enhancing precision and ease of use. The forward and reverse rotation capabilities are handy for intricate woodturning projects. The pivoting belt cover design simplifies belt speed changes, contributing to user convenience.

Rating
9.9
Swing Over Bed
Motor Power
Speed Range

Most important from
102 reviews

Swing Over Bed
It has the torque needed to turn bowls at the maximum swing for the machine without breaking a tool or throwing something out.
Motor Power
The motor compensates for load, maintaining the selected RPM. Everything works as well as higher priced machines.
Speed Range
Quiet as the proverbial Church Mouse! Tailstock travel is good! Love the speed ranges that each of the three selections provide.
Build Quality
This is a Cadillac compared to my old one. Built well and goes nice and slow for larger projects.

Top 10 Best Mini Wood Lathes 2025 in the United States

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Slide 1

GarveeTech

GarveeTech Wood Lathe, 14" x 40", Power Wood Turning Lathe 400W, 4 Speed 1040/1480/2130/2980RPM, Benchtop Wood Lathe for High Speed Sanding and Polishing of Finished Work

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#1

Winner

10.0 score

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WEN

WEN LA3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe , Black

Swing Over Bed: 12 inches
Distance Between Centers: 18 inches
Motor Power: 4.5-amp
Speed Range: 520 to 3400 RPM
Tool Rest: 8-inch

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21% OFF

Chosen by 1450 this week

Sponsored

Slide 1

GarveeTech

GarveeTech Wood Lathe, 14" x 40", Power Wood Turning Lathe 400W, 4 Speed 1040/1480/2130/2980RPM, Benchtop Wood Lathe for High Speed Sanding and Polishing of Finished Work

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#2

10.0 score

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WEN

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

Swing Over Bed: 8-inch
Distance Between Centers: 13-inch
Motor Power: 3.2-amp
Speed Range: 750 to 3200 RPM
Tool Rest: two interchangeable rests

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#3

9.9 score

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RIKON Power Tools

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

Motor Power: 1HP DC
Speed Range: variable speed
Build Quality: ball-bearing construction

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#4

9.8 score

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Delta

Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray

Swing Over Bed: 12-1/2 inches
Distance Between Centers: 16-1/2 inches, extendable to 42
Motor Power: 1 HP
Speed Range: 250-700, 600-1,800, 1,350-4,000 RPM
Tool Rest: 6-inch and 10-inch
Build Quality: All cast-iron construction

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17% OFF
#5

9.7 score

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ARTYMASTER

Mini Lathe, WM101A-Plus Mini Wood Lathe Machine, 24VDC 96W Power Lathe, Small Benchtop Lathe with Wood Turning Lathe Tools Kits, Infinitely Variable Speed, Professional for DIY Woodworking

Swing Over Bed: 3 inches
Distance Between Centers: 8 inches
Motor Power: 96W
Speed Range: Variable speed
Tool Rest: Adjustable directions
Build Quality: Solid steel base

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8% OFF
#6

9.6 score

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WEN

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

Swing Over Bed: 14 inches
Distance Between Centers: 20 inches
Motor Power: 6-amp
Speed Range: 250 to 3550 RPM
Tool Rest: 8-inch

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12% OFF
#7

9.5 score

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Grizzly Industrial

Grizzly Industrial T25920-12" x 18" Variable-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe

Swing Over Bed: 12 inches
Distance Between Centers: 16-1/2 inches
Speed Range: 300-3700 RPM
Build Quality: ISO 9001 factory, 80 pounds

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#8

9.3 score

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RIKON Power Tools

RIKON Power Tools 70-105 10" x 18" 1/2 hp Mini Lathe

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#9

9.1 score

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Shop Fox

Shop Fox W1836 Bench Top Wood Lathe, 12" x 15"

Swing Over Bed: 12 inches
Distance Between Centers: 15 inches
Motor Power: 3/4 HP
Speed Range: 500-1800 RPM, 1000-3800 RPM

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#10

8.8 score

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FesmTek

Mini Wood Lathe Machine Infinite Speed Control Multi-Purpose Type For Desktop Supports Wood Sawing, Polishing, Grinding The Professional Set Of Accessories Comes With Instructions For Easy Use

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Buying Guide for the Best Mini Wood Lathes

Choosing the right mini wood lathe can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. Mini wood lathes are perfect for small projects like pens, bowls, and other intricate woodturning tasks. When selecting a mini wood lathe, it's important to consider several key specifications that will determine the lathe's suitability for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you get the best tool for your woodworking projects.
Swing Over BedThe swing over bed is the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be turned on the lathe. This spec is important because it determines the size of the projects you can work on. Mini wood lathes typically have a swing over bed ranging from 8 to 12 inches. If you plan to work on smaller items like pens or small bowls, a smaller swing over bed will suffice. For slightly larger projects, opt for a lathe with a larger swing over bed.
Distance Between CentersThe distance between centers is the maximum length of the workpiece that can be mounted on the lathe. This is crucial for determining the length of the projects you can undertake. Mini wood lathes usually offer a distance between centers ranging from 12 to 20 inches. If you are focusing on shorter projects like pens or small decorative items, a shorter distance will be adequate. For longer items like table legs or longer spindles, choose a lathe with a greater distance between centers.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in horsepower (HP), affects the lathe's ability to handle different types of wood and the size of the workpieces. Mini wood lathes generally have motors ranging from 1/4 HP to 1 HP. For light-duty tasks and softer woods, a lower-powered motor will be sufficient. If you plan to work with harder woods or larger pieces, a more powerful motor will provide the necessary torque and stability.
Speed RangeThe speed range of a lathe, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), determines how fast the lathe can spin the workpiece. This is important for achieving different finishes and working with various materials. Mini wood lathes typically offer variable speed ranges from around 500 to 4000 RPM. For beginners and general use, a lathe with a broad speed range is ideal as it allows for flexibility in handling different projects. Higher speeds are useful for sanding and finishing, while lower speeds are better for roughing out and shaping.
Tool RestThe tool rest is a support for your turning tools, and its adjustability and stability are crucial for precise and safe woodturning. A good tool rest should be easily adjustable and lock securely in place. Consider the length and height of the tool rest to ensure it suits the types of projects you plan to undertake. For intricate and detailed work, a smaller, more adjustable tool rest may be beneficial.
Build QualityBuild quality encompasses the materials and construction of the lathe. A well-built lathe will be more durable, stable, and provide a smoother operation. Look for lathes made from cast iron or other heavy-duty materials, as they reduce vibrations and increase stability. Pay attention to the overall fit and finish, ensuring that all parts move smoothly and lock securely.

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