Lathe Buyer's Guide Archives

Beginner Friendly Best Wood Lathes Under $300 in 2022 A wood lathe is a machine that turns stock on a spindle, allowing the user to shape and form it with various tools. It's an essential piece of equipment for any serious woodworker or carpenter. Wood lathes are one the essential tools for any carpenter or woodworker. They allow you to create beautiful, intricate designs and shapes that would be otherwise impossible to achieve by hand. If you're looking for a wood lathe for small projects like bowl turning, you may be wondering what the best option is for your needs. Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Beginner Wood Lathe Machine Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Beginner Wood Lathe Machine There are many factors to consider, such as budget, size, power, and features. In this article, we'll take a look at the best wood lathe for beginners under $300 and help you choose the best one for your shop. When choosing a wood lathe, the first thing to consider is the power and speed. You'll want a lathe that has enough power to turn the projects as you plan. The speed is also important, as you'll need to be able to adjust it depending on the type of material you're working with. Higher-end lathes will often have more powerful motors and higher speeds, but they can be more expensive. A less powerful lathe may be all you need if you're starting out. Another important consideration is the size and weight of the lathe. If you plan on moving the lathe around frequently, you'll want one that's lightweight and easy to transport. However, if you have a large shop and plan on leaving the lathe in one place, weight may not be as big of a concern. Lathes come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to choose one that will fit in the space you have available. When choosing a wood lathe, you'll also want to consider the features that are important to you. Some lathes have built-in storage for your tools, while others have dust collection systems to clean your work area. You'll also want to consider the type of controls that are available on the lathe. If you're looking for a simple machine, a basic model with ON/OFF switches may be all you need. However, if you want more control over the speed and direction of the lathe, you may want to choose a model with variable speed control. Of course, one of the most important considerations when choosing a wood lathe is price. Lathes can range in price from around $100 to several thousand dollars. You may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a more expensive lathe if you're starting out. However, if you plan on doing more advanced work, you'll likely need to invest in a higher-end model. The best wood lathe for your needs will depend on a variety of factors, such as budget, size, power, and features. By taking the time to consider all of your options, you'll be sure to choose the perfect lathe for your shop. What Things Should Know Before Buying a Beginner Wood Lathe? What Things Should Know Before Buying a Beginner Wood Lathe? Woodturning can be a very serious and sensitive task. It's important to get used to the tool and how it handles before attempting any delicate work. Make sure to read the manual that comes with the lathe, and take special care when turning small pieces of wood. With practice, you'll be able to create beautiful wooden bowls, spindles, and other decorative pieces. Before buying a wood lathe, you should know a few things about how to operate one and what features to look for. First, understand how a wood lathe works. Essentially, a wood lathe is a machine that spins a block of wood so that you can shape it with various tools. The speed at which the wood rotates can be changed depending on what kind of finish you want on the final product. How to Choose The Best Wood Lathes For Beginners? If you're a beginner at woodworking, choosing the right wood lathe is an important decision. There are a few things to keep in mind when making your choice. First, consider the type of projects you'll be working on. If you're starting out, it's probably best to choose a simpler lathe that's easier to work. However, if you have some experience and plan to tackle more complex projects, you'll need a more powerful and sophisticated lathe. Second, think about the size of the projects you'll be working on. If you only plan to make small items, like jewellery or wooden large bowl, a smaller lathe will be just fine. However, if you want to make larger pieces, like furniture or sculptures, you'll need a larger lathe. Finally, consider your budget. Wood lathes of 2022 can range in price from around $100 to several thousand dollars. If you're starting out, you may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a more expensive lathe. However, if you plan on doing more advanced work, you'll likely need to invest in a higher-end model. The best wood lathe for your needs will depend on a variety of factors, such as budget, size, power, and features. By taking the time to consider all of your options, you'll be sure to choose the perfect lathe for your shop. What Are Mini And Midi Lathes? What Are Mini And Midi Lathes? If you're working with smaller pieces of wood, a mini or midi lathe is a great option. These lathes have a small footprint and can be easily stored away when not in use. A small 1⁄2-hp motor is standard on these lathes, which are also available with bed extensions for turning longer spindles. Mini lathes typically have a 12" or less swing, while midi lathes have a minimum swing of 12". Both types of lathes are perfect for crafting bowls, plates, cups, vases, and other small wooden objects. Best Wood Lathe Comparison Table in 2022 01. Rikon 70-105 - Best Overall Starter Lathe Under $300 https://www.walmart.com/ip/Rikon-70-105-10-x-18-Mini-Lathe/152038895 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎35.5 x 10.5 x 14.75 inches Weight : 74 pounds Power : ‎375 watts Speed : 5 Working Length : 18” Pros: 5 Speed Turning Best for Tiny Creations Beginner-friendly Durable Built Cons: After-sales Issues The Rikon 70-105 is the best overall wood lathe that can be found under$300. This mini lathe is the perfect tool for any woodturning enthusiast. With five-speed settings and a maximum work length capacity of 18 inches, this lathe is capable of tackling any project you throw at it. The 375-watt motor provides plenty of power for even the most challenging jobs, while the solid cast iron construction ensures that vibrations are never an issue. Whether you're an experienced woodturner or just starting out, the Rikon 70-105 is the perfect lathe for you. Furthermore, at just 74 pounds, this lathe is incredibly easy to move around, making it the perfect addition to any workshop. It's truly a complete package when it comes to the benefits you get along with Rikon 70-105 wood lathe. Overall, it is the best wood lathe that comes with plenty of features and functions to keep even the most experienced woodturner happy. Here are some of the beneficial plus points that you can expect: One of the best things about this small wood lathe is that it comes with five-speed settings. This allows you to tackle any project, no matter how challenging it may be. This mini lathe is the perfect tool for any woodturning enthusiast. With a maximum work length capacity of 18 inches, this lathe is capable of tackling any project you throw at it. The Rikon 70-105 is the perfect lathe for anyone just starting out in woodturning. With its easy-to-use controls and durable construction, this lathe is sure to last for years to come. When it comes to the customer reviews given by the most current users, 75% of them are standing on the positive side with the product. One highlighted review from a retired carpentry teacher has commented, "Lathe was as advertised. I had No problem setting it up and operating it. As a retired carpentry teacher, I have used many lathes, and I found this one very user-friendly". Among these many positive reviews, there were a few minor drawbacks listed. One user has said, "There is a slight hassle with having to move the belt and it not being variable speed". Overall, Rikon 70-105 is a great product that will surely make you have a good woodturning experience. Looking at the bottom line, Rikon 70-105 is an incredible wood lathe that will make any woodturning project a breeze. With its five-speed settings and 18-inch maximum work length capacity, this lathe is capable of tackling any challenge you throw at it. Whether you're just starting or you're a seasoned pro, the Rikon 70-105 is the perfect lathe for you. 02. WEN 3424T - Best Runners Up https://www.walmart.com/ip/WEN-Products-3424T-4-5-Amp-12-Inch-by-18-Inch-5-Speed-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe/283224206 https://www.homedepot.com/p/WEN-4-5-Amp-12-in-x-18-in-5-Speed-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe-3424T/308614267 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎33.38 x 18.75 x 18.75 inches Wight : ‎78.9 pounds Power : ‎600W Speed : 5 Working Length : 18” Pros: 5 Speed Turning Accessory Holder Powerful Motor Cons: Poor After-Sales Service The WEN 3424T 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe is the perfect tool for anyone who loves working with wood. This lathe features 5-speed levels, 18 inches of distance between centers, 600watts power input, 78.9 pounds in weight, and 33.38 x 18.75 x 18.75 inches in dimensions. The WEN 3424T can switch between five different speeds: 520, 900, 1400, 2150, or 3400 RPM. MT2 tailstock and headstock taper allow for compatibility with a wide variety of lathe accessories. Also, it features a 4.5A motor, an MT2 headstock spur centre, an MT2 tailstock live centre, an 8-inch tool rest, and an onboard accessory holder. Furthermore, the WEN 3424T comes backed by a 2-year warranty. There are several reasons why the WEN 3424T is our top choice for the best wood lathe under $300. First, its five different speed settings allow you to work with a variety of wood types and create different types of projects. Second, its MT2 headstock and tailstock taper makes it compatible with a wide range of lathe accessories, giving you the ability to customize your projects. Third, its 4.5A motor is powerful enough to handle most lathe applications yet still runs quietly and smoothly. Finally, its 2-year warranty and nationwide network of service technicians give you peace of mind in knowing that your investment is protected. When it comes to the reviews kept by the most current users, it is easy to see that the WEN 3424T is not just a good product but a great one, as it has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on many e-marketplaces. A lot of users have complimented on how this machine has worked great for them and how they would recommend it to anyone in the market for a wood lathe. There have also been some complaints about the quality of the customer service and how some replacement parts can be difficult to find. Overall, the vast majority of users are happy with their purchase and would recommend the WEN 3424T to others. The WEN is one of the best lathe brands that is synonymous with quality and value, and the WEN 3424T is no exception. This wood lathe is packed with features that make it perfect for anyone who loves working with wood. Looking at the bottom line, the WEN 3424T is an excellent wood lathe for anyone who wants a powerful and versatile machine that won't break the bank. It's our top pick for the best wood lathe under $300. 03. VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" - Best Budget https://www.walmart.com/ip/VEVOR-Wood-Lathe-14-x-40-Power-Turning-1-2HP-4-Speed-1100-1600-2300-3400RPM-Benchtop-3-Chisels-Perfect-High-Sanding-Polishing-Finished-Work/660917275 https://www.ebay.com/itm/Wood-Lathe-14-x-40-Power-Wood-Turning-Lathe-400W-4-Speed-Benchtop-/373009511174 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎38.4 x 16.5 x 10.2 inches Wight : 54 pounds Power : ‎400W Speed : 4 Working Length : 40” Pros: 7W LED work light Very stable 110V motor Cons: Difficult to find chucks If you're looking for a powerful and durable wood lathe that won't break the bank, the VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" is a perfect choice. With four-speed levels and a 40" distance between centers, this lathe can handle just about any project you throw at it. And at only 54 pounds, it's easy to transport and set up. The 1/2 Horse Power motor starts softly and offers maximum safety and low noise operation. The adjustable belt tension system make it easy to adjust the speed with accuracy, up to 3400 RPM. The solid steel construction provides increased stability and smooth operation while reducing vibration. So whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality wood lathe at an affordable price. When it comes to the benefits you get along with VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" purchase, it is important to mention that it is a powerful product. The 400W motor is strong enough to work with various materials, and the speed can be adjusted according to your needs. You also get a 7W LED work light that will help you see what you're doing more clearly. The lathe is made of solid steel, which makes it quite durable and stable during use. The 110V motor is also soft-starting, which means it won't jolt you or your project when it's turned on. When we refer to the user's reviews published on many e-marketplaces, this particular lathe model holds an average of 65% positive feedback. Among many happy thoughts user has comments as "Arrived quickly and packaged very well. Husband set it up and did a test piece on it. Easy to follow directions for setup and use. Turned out great! His first wood lathe!". As well as the positive thoughts, one repeatedly noticed some drawback is that the motor is underpowered. These types of issues mostly happen when you do not follow the user's manual instructions. Overall, VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" is a good quality product with satisfied users. Looking at the bottom line, VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" is a powerful and durable product that comes at an affordable price. It is easy to set up and use, even for beginners. The strong motor and adjustable speed make it perfect for working with various materials. And the solid steel construction ensures stability and smooth operation. So if you're looking for a high-quality wood lathe that won't break the bank, the VEVOR Wood Lathe 40" is a great choice. 04. PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS Specifications: Dimensions : ‎32 x 9 x 17 inches Wight : 82 pounds Power : ‎550W Speed : Variable Speed Working Length : 40” Pros: Delivering precision control Digital readout ability Comes with essential accessories Cons: Poor assembly instructions Quite heavy The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is one of the best wood lathes that can be found for under $300. This powerful and precise machine is perfect for any woodworking project, big or small. With its variable speed levels, 18 inches of work length capacity, 550 watts power input, and 82 pounds in weight, this machine is very sturdy and durable. Its dimensions are ‎32 x 9 x 17 inches. The 3/4 hp Variable Speed high-performance motor runs on 110V power and has two belt positions which are 500-2000 RPM & 1500-3600 RPM. The digital readout allows you to work at precise speeds, ensuring perfect results every time. With its microprocessor and durable construction, this machine is built to last. When it comes to the benefits you get along with PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS, there are several of them. Let's go through some of the most important ones: The first thing that you will notice is how precise and accurate this machine is. This is achieved by the digital readout that allows you to work at specific speeds. As a result, you can get perfect results every time. Another great benefit of this machine is its durability. With a heavy cast iron construction and a powder-coated finish, this machine is built to last. This machine also comes with all the accessories you need to get started. The vast inventory of accessories comes with this lathe, so you have a wide range of choices to customise your lathe. Some examples include a storage rack, work light with 18" flex cable, two tool rests (6" & 12"), 3" face plate, spur drive centre, live tailstock centre, hex wrench (set of 4), Safety Goggles and many more. Many users have shared their experience with PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS from a positive angle. Some of them said that it is one of the best wood lathes under $300; others said that it is perfect for small and big projects. The microprocessor was also praised by many users for its ability to maintain speed and torque. However, some people were not so happy with the assembly instructions that came with this machine. They said that it was difficult to follow and that it did not provide enough information. Overall, the majority of users were happy with their purchase and would recommend this machine to others. PSI Woodworking is a brand that is known for manufacturing high-quality woodworking tools and machinery. The KWL-1018VS is no exception. As you can see, there are many reasons why the PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is one of the best wood lathes under $300. If you are looking for a powerful, precise, and durable machine, this is the lathe for you. 05. Excelsior Mini Lathe MC 1018 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎N/A Wight : 80.5 pounds Power : ‎550W Speed : 5 Working Length : 18” Pros: Solid cast-iron construction Robust single phase motor Beginner-friendly Cons: Poor tool rest The Excelsior Mini Lathe MC 1018 is a great wood lathe that can be found for under $300. This features 5-speed levels, 18 inches of work length capacity, 550watts power input, 80.5 pounds in weight and compact size dimensions. The Excelsior 5-Speed Mini Lathe can turn bowls of almost 10" in diameter. Spindle locking indexing positions up to 17-3/4" in length, making it perfect for chair legs, small table legs and an endless array of decorative turnings. A convenient controller provides easy access to the belt and speed range: 760, 1100, 1600, 2200 and 3200 RPM. The cast-iron body provides mass for minimal vibration, ensuring that your workpiece remains steady during the turning process. The motor is mounted on spring-loaded vibration-dampening pads to reduce vibration and noise further. When it comes to the benefits you get along with this woodworking lathe, it features a solid cast-iron construction making it extremely durable and long-lasting. The robust motor is capable of withstanding heavy use and can provide years of service. This wood lathe is also one of the best beginner wood lathes and it is easy to set up and use. Looking at the reviews kept by many of its current users, it has scored mostly with five starts at many e-marketplaces. There are more than 72% of the reviewers with a positive experience. A majority of the users have praised it for its solid construction, ease of use and beginner-friendly design. However, a few minor negative thoughts can be found, such as it's a too small product even for beginners. Overall, Excelsior Mini Lathe MC 1018 is a great wood lathe that is perfect for anyone starting out or even those who have some experience. Looking at the bottom line, if you are planning to start your woodworking journey or want to take it to the next level, then Excelsior Mini Lathe MC 1018 is the best starter lathe under $300 that you can get your hands on. It is a great machine for anyone starting out or even those who have some experience. However, if you are looking for a bigger and more powerful machine, then you may want to consider other options. 06. Mophorn Wood Lathe MC 1018 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎35 x 16.5 x 12.5 inches Wight : 81.8 pounds Power : ‎370W Speed : 5 Working Length : 18” Pros: Interchangeable tool rest Stable operation Powerful motor Cons: Poor after sales support Are you looking for a reliable and powerful wood lathe? If so, check out the Mophorn Wood Lathe MC 1018. This lathe is excellent for anyone who wants to get into woodturning or for those who want to upgrade. With a powerful motor and 5-speed levels, this lathe can handle whatever you throw at it. It also has a large work length capacity of 18 inches, meaning you can take on bigger projects. And at only 81.8 pounds, it's easy to move around your shop or garage. So if you're looking for a high-quality wood lathe that won't break the bank, the Mophorn Wood Lathe MC 1018 is the perfect choice for you. The Mophorn Wood Lathe MC 1018 is a great choice for anyone who wants to get into woodturning or for those who are looking for an upgrade. With a powerful motor and 5-speed levels, this lathe can handle whatever you throw at it. It also has a large work length capacity of 18 inches, meaning you can take on bigger projects. And at only 81.8 pounds, it's easy to move around your shop or garage. Many users have reviewed this product in the past few years. Most of them are positive thoughts with one repeated negative thought. Out of all its reviews, one review expresses the real picture of this particular wood lathe: "This is a great lathe for the price. It's well-built and has plenty of power. I've had it for a few months now, and it's been working great. The only downside is that the customer service from Mophorn is pretty poor. I had an ssue with the tailstock, and they were very unresponsive. Overall, though, I'm happy with the product." So, this is a great wood lathe with the biggest drawback of poor after sales support. The brand Mophorn is not well-known in the wood lathe world, but the MC 1018 model lathe is great. The Mophorn Wood Lathe MC 1018 is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful and reliable wood lathe. It's easy to use and has a large work capacity, perfect for beginners and experienced woodturners. And at only 81.8 pounds, it's not so difficult to move around your shop or garage. 07. Stark 65049 https://www.homedepot.com/p/Stark-10-in-x-18-in-1-2-HP-370-Watt-5-Grate-Variable-Speed-Low-Noise-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe-in-Gray-65049-H/316671738 https://www.walmart.com/ip/Stark-10-x-18-Inch-Variable-Speed-Mini-Wood-Lathe-Variable-Speed-500-3150RPM-Grey/854468948 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎‎33.07 x 16.92 x 11.8 inches Wight : 79.4 pounds Power : ‎900W Speed : 5 Working Length : 18” Pros: Wide application tool High torque Max 3200 RPM Cons: Not for hard wood The Stark 65049 is a high-quality wood lathe that offers great value for money. Featuring 5-speed levels, 18 inches of work length capacity and 600watts power input, this lathe is made of cast-iron construction for increased stability and smooth operation. The gears and shafts in the headstock have been precisely grounded and hardened for longer service life and mute operation, while the rubber feet provide increased stability. High-quality electronic units are applied throughout the machine, making it ideal for beginners. When it comes to the benefit you get along with Stark 65049, it is a great value for money. It has all the features and specs as that of an expensive wood lathe but is available at half the price. The machine is made of cast-iron construction, which means increased stability and smooth operation. Also, the gears and shafts in the headstock have been precisely grounded and hardened for longer service life and mute operation. When it comes to the reviews given by the most current users, 75% of them are standing on the positive side with the product. Among these many positive reviews, there were a few minor drawbacks listed. One user said that it was a deal breaker once he learned that this particular model cannot work with too hardwood materials. Overall, Stark 65049 is a great product that will surely make you have a good woodturning experience. Looking at the bottom line, Stark 65049 is a great product that will not disappoint you. It has all the features of an expensive wood lathe but is available at half the price. With cast-iron construction, increased stability and smooth operation are guaranteed. The gears and shafts in the headstock have been precisely grounded and hardened for longer service life and mute operation. If you are looking for a great wood lathe for under $300, then Stark 65049 should be your choice. 08. Shop Fox W1704 https://www.walmart.com/ip/Shop-Fox-W1704-8X13-Bench-Top-Wood-Lathe-w-Infinitely-Variable-Speed-Control/158049907 https://www.homedepot.com/p/reviews/Shop-Fox-8-in-x-13-in-110-Volt-1-3-HP-Bench-Top-Wood-Lathe-W1704/309626238/1 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎36 x 11.5 x 15 inches Weight : 41 pounds Power : N/A Speed : Variable speeds Working Length : 13” Pros: Variable Speeds Beginner-friendly 2 Year Warranty Cons: Machine Body Tend to Rust Shop Fox's W1704 wood lathe is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a quality lathe at an affordable price. This lathe features 5-speed levels, 13 inches of work length capacity, great power input, 41 pounds in weight and 36 x 11.5 x 15 dimensions. The W1704 includes both a 4-1/2 and 7-inch tool rest for various turning applications, and with a 13-inch distance between centers and an 8-inch swing over the bed, this lathe is ideal for a variety of turning projects. The infinitely variable speed from 700-3200 RPM comes in handy when turning hard or soft species of wood. Shop Fox's W1704 wood lathe is a great choice for the budget-conscious woodturner. When it comes to the benefits you get along with Shop Fox W1704, it is hard not to notice the versatility in speed options. At the same time, you don't have to worry about the weight of this machine as it is quite light in comparison with other available models. The design and construction are also quite impressive. Looking at the reviews which are posted on many e-marketplaces, we can see that this model from Shop Fox has been quite popular among users. There are many reasons for such popularity, and one of them is the fact that it can complete various tasks without any problem. However, some users have mentioned this particular model tends to rust, which can be voided by proper maintenance. All in all, if you are looking for a wood lathe that is not going to cost you a lot but still offers a lot of features and benefits, Shop Fox W1704 is the perfect model for you. However, keep in mind that this machine is not designed for heavy-duty tasks. But if you are looking for a machine that can help you complete various light to medium duty tasks around your house, there is no better option than Shop Fox W1704. In conclusion, Shop Fox W1704 is a great wood lathe, and it is surely worth your money. 09. XtremepowerUS Specifications: Dimensions : ‎61 x 8.5 x 14.25 inches Wight : 485 pounds Power : ‎350W Speed : 4 Speed Working Length : 40” Pros: Perfect for Home Use Compact Design 3400 Max RPM Cons: Uncommon head-stock size Looking for a versatile and affordable wood lathe good for beginners? Look no further than the XtremepowerUS. This powerful machine is perfect for woodworkers of all levels, from beginner to expert. With 4 speed levels, 40 inches of distance between centers, and 350W of power input, the XtremepowerUS can handle any project you throw at it. And at only 61 x 8.5 x 14.25 inches and 48.5 pounds, it's surprisingly lightweight and portable – perfect for taking to your next craft fair or workshop. The frame is steady and strong enough to handle even your most delicate projects, made of solid steel. And with several accessories available to customize the lathe, you can tailor it to fit your specific woodworking needs. When it comes to the benefits you get along with XtremepowerUS, it might be good to start with the warranty. You have a 1-year warranty that covers any manufacturer defects so that you can feel confident in your purchase. That being said, this wood lathe is also built to last with a solid steel frame that can handle even your most delicate projects. The XtremepowerUS is also surprisingly lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to your next craft fair or workshop. Overall, the reviews for the XtremepowerUS are quite positive. Many users appreciate the wide range of features and benefits that this wood lathe has to offer. Some users have mentioned that the assembly process is a bit complicated, but it's a great machine once you get it set up. Others have also noted that the machine is quite loud, and it has a quite uncommon size of head-stock. So if you're looking for a quiet lathe, this might not be the best option for you. All in all, the XtremepowerUS is a great choice for woodworkers of all levels. With 4 speed levels, 40 inches of work length capacity, and 350W of power input, this machine can handle any project you throw at it. It's also surprisingly lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to your next craft fair or workshop. And with a 1-year warranty, you can feel confident in your purchase. In conclusion, this model can be listed as one of the best wood lathe machines available for under $300. 10. WEN 3420 https://www.walmart.com/ip/WEN-3420T-8-Inch-by-12-Inch-Variable-Speed-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe/803921908 https://www.homedepot.com/p/WEN-8-in-x-12-in-Variable-Speed-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe-3420T/307349068 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎28.11 x 13.39 x 7.64 inches Weight : 44.3 pounds Power : ‎240W Speed : Variable speed Working Length : 12” Pros: Stylish & Quality Finish Variable Speeds Soft Start Motor Cons: Only for Very Simple Jobs Looking for an affordable and versatile wood lathe? Look no further than the WEN 3420! This great lathe features variable speed levels, 12 inches of distance between centers, 240W power input, 44.3 pounds in weight and ‎28.11 x 13.39 x 7.64 dimensions. This model includes a 5-inch faceplate for turning bowls, cups and other non-spindle workpieces. The soft start motor maximizes safety and helps protect the machine from damage. It features a 2A motor, an MT1 spindle and tailstock taper, two interchangeable work rests and a two-year warranty. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, the WEN 3420 is perfect for you! WEN 3420 is a great wood lathe that brings you many benefits, which can be described as follow: The stylish and quality finish of WEN 3420 will make your woodworking projects look more professional. Variable speed levels help you find the perfect speed for your project, whether you're working with soft or hardwoods. Also, the soft start motor is a great safety feature that protects the machine from damage and maximizes safety. Finally, the 5-inch faceplate is perfect for turning bowls, cups and other non-spindle workpieces. WEN 3420 is reviewed by many users, mostly with positive compliments. WEN 3420 can be mentioned as the highest reviewed wood lathe machine in your shortlisted products. That shows us how the WEN manufacturing team has managed to win most of their users. When looking for any drawbacks mentioned by its users, what can be repeatedly noticed is this machine is suitable for light tasks. So, if you are looking for a wood lathe only for simple woodie creations, this is the perfect model for you from a reputed brand. The WEN is a brand that has been in the woodworking industry for a long time. The WEN 3420 wood lathe is one of their most popular models, and for a good reason. It's a great machine that is perfect for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. It's well-made and has a quality finish. Looking at the bottom line, the WEN 3420 is one of the best wood lathes under $300 that you can buy. The reasons are its quality finish, versatility with variable speed levels, and safety features like a soft start motor and 5-inch faceplate. If you are a beginner or a seasoned woodworker looking for an affordable and versatile wood lathe, then the WEN 3420 is perfect for you! 11. VEVOR Wood Lathe 51" https://www.walmart.com/ip/VEVOR-Benchtop-Wood-Lathe-14-51-Power-750W-mini-lathe-4-Speed-1100-3400RPM-Woodworking-Lathe-Machine-3-Chisels-High-Sanding-Polishing-Finished-Work/294828853 https://www.ebay.com/itm/313815312894 Specifications: Dimensions : ‎‎42.9 x 15.8 x 9.5 inches Wight : 59 pounds Power : ‎700W Speed : 4 Working Length : 51” Pros: Stable lathe base Powerful motor Compact structure Cons: Poor packaging The VEVOR Wood Lathe 51" is a great wood lathe that can be found for under $300. This wood lathe has 4-speed levels, 51 inches of work length capacity, 700W power input, 59 pounds in weight and ‎‎‎42.9 x 15.8 x 9.5 dimensions. The solid steel power wood lathe is designed to fit neatly on a workbench and features a 750W variable-speed copper motor that provides sufficient power for high-speed sanding and polishing. It also comes with three wrenches and a set of accessories. Furthermore, the machine has a 4-speed design, which allows for different speed settings to be used according to the workpiece. The working length of 51 inches is great for long workpieces. Finally, the compact structure and lightweight design make it easy to move around and store. When it comes to the benefits you get along with VEVOR Wood Lathe 51" purchase, it's stability is on top. With a stable lathe base and a powerful motor, the woodworking process make it easier than ever. The compact structure takes up less space in your workshop and the lightweight design makes the machine it easy to move around. When it comes to the reviews kept by most of its users, it was found that they were highly satisfied with the product and its performance. Many of them stated that it was a great value for the money and that it worked great for their needs. A few users did mention that the packaging could be improved, but overall, they were happy with the purchase. The brand VEVOR is known to create some best wood lathe products high in quality and performance. The VEVOR Wood Lathe 51" is no different. It is a great wood lathe that comes with a powerful motor, a special design of a working length of 51 inches, and a compact design at this price range. Looking at the bottom line, it is definitely a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable and powerful wood lathe available to purchase for under $300. 12. Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe Specifications: Dimensions : ‎23 x 7 x 6 inches Wight : 13.2 pounds Power : ‎580W Speed : Variable Speed Working Length : 8.5” Pros: Great for DIY Bunch of accessories Max 5000RPM Cons: No serious cons Introducing the Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe! This great wood lathe can be found for under $300 and is perfect for anyone looking to get into woodworking. With variable speed levels, 8.5 inches of work length capacity, 580W power input, and 13.2 pounds in weight, this wood lathe is perfect for a variety of projects. Whether you're looking to turn in miniature or create a series of small parts, the Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe is perfect for you. So get creative and add this great wood lathe to your workshop today! When it comes to the benefits you get along with Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe, it's hard to find any reason not to recommend this product. This wood lathe is perfect for those who want to get into woodworking without spending a fortune, as it can be found for under $300. It also features variable speed settings, so you can adjust the speed depending on your working project. Looking at its user reviews, it is easy to see that this wood lathe is a great value for the money. One user said, "I could be happier with my purchase of the Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe. It has worked flawlessly and has allowed me to complete many different projects. The price was unbeatable, and I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a great wood lathe." Onetuon is a brand that is quickly gaining popularity in the woodworking world, and for a good reason. Their products are well-made, affordable and perfect for those who are just getting started in woodworking. All in all, the Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe is a great product that is perfect for anyone looking to get into woodworking. It can be found for under $300, has variable speed settings, and comes with a bunch of accessories. So if you're looking for a great wood lathe, we highly recommend the Onetuon Mini Wood Lathe! Conclusion Wood lathes are big investments, so it's critical to get one that is well-made. These top wood lathes for less than $300 have excellent value and can be used for a variety of your DIY or even professional use. Any of the lathes on this list will make a fantastic investment if you're searching for a high-quality wood lathe that is within your budget. They all provide excellent value for money and will help you take your woodworking to the next level. We hope that our buyer's guide has assisted you in determining which wood lathe is ideal for your needs. You are going to need an informed decision so that you can be happy for years to come. If you have any queries or suggestions, please do not hesitate to leave them below. I wish you the best of luck with your purchase!