There are many different wood lathes on the market for bowl turning, but which one is the best? The answer to this question depends on your needs. For example, if you only need a small lathe that can be used in a workshop or garage then you might want to try out the Jet Mini Lathe.
This small and affordable lathe is perfect for smaller projects and hobbyists who don’t need anything too big. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more heavy duty with an extended bed length then look at machines like Grizzly G7938LX 12-Inch Swing Over Bed Wood Lathe with Leg Set.
This article will cover some of the most popular wood lathes available today for hobbyists need or that someone who wants an inexpensive way of turning wood without breaking their budget.
Nova 46300 Comet II Midi Lathe

This midi lathe from NOVA features a speed range that goes up to 4000 RPM which makes it perfect for all kinds of woodworking projects. It has an impressive 12 inch swing over the bed and 16.5 inches between centers making it ideal for bowl turning as well!
The 3/4 HP electronic variable speed motor gives this small lathe the power to tackle any task in one of three different speeds. It is space-saving and portable, which makes it perfect for use both at home or on a job site.
The machine is able to deliver the capacity and has all of the rugged stability that you could want.
As a result of its forward and reversing switch, this model offers extra flexibility for superior finishing.
The Nova Comet II also features reinforced composite guards with rapid access latches that make it easy to get in at an instant. In addition, the die cast motor housing is robust which makes them last longer than other models on the market today!
PSI Woodworking KWL-1218VS Variable Speed Lathe
The variable speed motor on this Midi Lathe will give you ample power to turn your wood into whatever shape or size you want. With 2 belt positions and a swing over bed of 12 inches, this lathe is perfect for turning bowls.
It also offers two belt positions, so you can adjust the speeds from 500 to 1800 RPM or 1950 to 3800 RPM depending on what your project needs are. The distance between centers and swing over bed make it perfect for bowl turning!
The robust and durable construction of this lathe will allow you to make strong, creative projects for a long time. It features convenient inbuilt handles that can be used when moving it from one place to another!
This precision tool provides lasting and precise control with an integrated digital readout, which allows you to work at a desired speed. This model also comes complete with handy accessories including a storage rack for tools, googles for safety while working on the machine as well as 4 hex wrenches so that it is worth every penny!
In conclusion, This power tool is perfect for the needs of professional woodworkers and DIY hobbyists.
Delta Industrial 46-460 Midi Lathe
The Delta midi lathe is a perfect model for bowl turning projects. It features the largest swing capacity in its class and can handle just about any woodturning task with ease thanks to an impressive 1 horsepower 1725 RPM motor and 12.5″ swing capacity.
The Delta 46-460 features 3 pulley speed ranges, a forward and reversing function that allows for superior finishes on projects without belt changing needs. The patented mechanism ensures the correct tension is set with ease each time to increase power transfer and tool life length.
This midi lathe is an easy to use machine for novice and experienced woodworkers. The onboard storage allows the user immediate access to adjustment tools as needed during their project without having to stop what they’re doing or look around on a work bench.
Jet JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe
For those who want to do it all, this heavy-duty laser cutter has an ultra low speed of 500 RPM that is perfect for slow cuts and engraving. The high 3975 rpm speeds are great for fast cutting through metal while the mid range 1725 RPM is best suited for woodworking applications like veneering or marquetry. With so many possibilities, choose your preferred output tone wisely!
The 6 different spindle speeds from 500RPM right up to 3995RPMS means you’re able to find just the right one depending on what type of project you’re working with.
The wide bed on this model makes it the perfect choice for newbies who are looking to enter into woodturning. The improved tension system is what allows newcomers access to belts without any hassle, and its 24 position index will help beginners find their bearings right off the bat!
This lathe is ideal for the professional who wants to make their small workshop a lot more versatile. With its power and precision, this 15 inch mini lathe can handle any project with ease- no matter how big or complicated! while being well protected by its 5 year manufacturer’s warranty.
Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe

The Rikon power tools brand features a 1 HP motor to make your projects easier and more fun.
Let your creativity flow with the 12.5″ diameter swing and 20 inches between centers of this perfect model for all bowl turning woodworkers while its 24 position index head ensures accurate pattern and design work on any kind of project, large or small!
With variable speeds of between 250 and 3850 RPM, the Rikon lathe is perfect for all your projects. Thanks to its bright LED display it’s easy to achieve precision every time.
This machine also has forward and reverse functions that make it even more flexible in noisier spaces where you need quiet work space!
It’s worth to note that this machine is more expensive than any other model.
SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe


The W1704 from Shop Fox is an ideal beginner’s model because it’s portable enough to take with you on your little weekend wood turning adventures outside of the garage or basement workshop–but also powerful enough to turn small pieces of wood quickly without difficulty!
This version makes a great gift idea too; no one will have any regrets getting this as their first foray into joining our beloved community in making things by hand.
If you’re looking for an honest-to-goodness desk or bench top lathe, look no further than the W1704. This 1/3 hp motor packs a punch and has variable speeds ranging from 700 to 3200 RPM. Whether it’s pens, rings, bowls – this little machine will get any job done in style!
With a durable cast-iron construction, this lathe is perfect for any aspiring woodworker. With its 13 inch spindle capacity and 8 inch swing it turns small projects with ease. The 5 ¾” face plate enables you to turn items without the use of a spindle making your work quicker than ever before!
Final Conclusion
In the end, Don’t just jump into making a big purchase on wood lathe without doing your fair share of research. It is likely that if you are on a budget, you will need to spend wisely and do plenty of comparison shopping before deciding which product to buy. Consider looking at multiple options and weighing the pros with cons before choosing what’s best for you!