Best Variable Speed Lathes 2026

Editor's Choice

Our #1 Pick For Variable Speed Lathes

1. WEN 3421 Wood Lathe

(392 Points)

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Editor's Review

I'm SUPER pleased with my new Wood Lathe! I turned in on and I was working in minutes. I was really pleased with this Wood Lathe. Arrived with all accessories as advertised. Has been a very reliable and fun little machine.

While researching the top Variable Speed Lathes, we evaluated a number of options that are purchasable right now. We were surprised to discover more terrific options than we anticipated. The Lathe that definitely stuck out from the pack though was the 3421 Wood Lathe by WEN.

Both professionals and amateurs alike can enjoy the WEN 3421. Users are sure to be impressed by the features this Wood Lathe includes. This Wood Lathe is a great tool for job sites and also for home improvement.

The WEN 3421 is produced with premium craftsmanship. WEN has a good reputation as a top ranked Lathe manufacturer.

The WEN 3421 is likewise a very budget-friendly Lathe. It is priced at just $135.18. It's really incredible that WEN is able to retail this Wood Lathe at the price listed. That is really cost-effective considering the features of this Wood Lathe.

The 3421 by WEN is top reviewed as well. The 3421 Wood Lathe has been rated on Amazon 392 times. It has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. This is definitely a Wood Lathe which most people prefer.

Full WEN 3421 Review

WEN 3421 Features & Specs

Perfect for pens, bowls, cups, chess pieces, and other small workpieces
Fits workpieces up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide
3.2-Amp motor provides over 50% more power than most 8-inch wood lathes
Adjust the soft start variable speed motor anywhere from 750 to 3200 RPM
Features a 2.3-Inch face plate, an MT1 spindle and tailstock taper, and two interchangeable tool rests

People's Choice

These Are Some Of The Highest Rated Variable Speed Lathes Available Today

2. Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe

(266 Points)

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In general I am very happy with the Wood Lathe! The machine is quiet and smooth as silk. So far, I'm very satisfied with this Wood Lathe. If you're a beginner, this Wood Lathe is for you. Screw the feet in place and you're good to go!

The fact is that the WEN 3421 Wood Lathe B07ZG9VTT2 was the Variable Speed Lathes that we rated the highest. However, there were a handful of other really premium quality Variable Speed Lathes worth showcasing here that just barely fell short.

Shop Fox is an additional top maker of Lathes. They produce the tool next on our lineup. Shop Fox's Wood Lathes are great as well. I was eager to try out the model W1704 and I was not disappointed!

This Wood Lathe is merely $249.99. That is an exceptional deal for a superior Lathe like the W1704 by Shop Fox. The Shop Fox W1704 is definitely a sound alternative. Of you are not sure about our number one choice, I would select this Lathe.

Full Shop Fox W1704 Review

Shop Fox W1704 Features

Motor: 1/3 HP, 2 Amp, 110V, Single-phase, 60 Hz

12-inch distance between centers

8-inch swing over bed

Cast iron construction and infinitely variable speed control

Includes two tool rests

Honorable Mentions

If the Variable Speed Lathes we rated above fail to do it for you, we rated a variety of other selections that may likely be a better fit. It's true that there are a plenty of excellent tools available to pick from. Through extensive study and assessments, the options above are our favorites. That being said, the Lathes below deliver a few unique features and are each highly rated Variable Speed Lathes.