Are you looking for the best benchtop lathes? If yes, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you with a list of the best benchtop lathes that are effective for metalworking and woodworking applications.
Benchtop lathes are already popular in the market because they are versatile. You can use them in workshops without worrying about the size. Apart from that, you can learn everything in a short period. They are convenient to use. The price of these lathes is pretty affordable. So, you don’t need to spend more money.
Benchtop lathes come in different sizes, features, and prices. You have to choose a particular one after looking at every detail. Some people often forget to compare the items based on these things. If you want the best results, you need to focus on buying the perfect tool for you. Every lathe has some pros and cons. So, make sure to consider everything before making any decision.
There are various options for you regarding the lathes in the market. It is essential first to gain knowledge about the popular ones that most people prefer. Let’s get into the details without wasting any more time.
What Are The Top Benchtop Lathes For Metalworking And Woodworking?
Choosing a bench top lathe is a complex thing because you have plenty of options. The only thing you can do is compare these products according to their features, sizes, and prices. You have to focus on your requirements and preferences before making any decision. There are other things as well which will help you in better decision-making. The most reliable benchtop lathes are as follows-
1. TECHTONGDA Metal Lathe: This company provides high-quality equipment to its customers. It is one of the reasons you should trust their products. This lathe comes in different sizes. Therefore, their weight also varies accordingly. You can choose any size, depending on your needs. Also, note that every configuration has a different setup. You need to make sure you are picking the right one.
Another remarkable thing about the TECHTONGDA metal lathe is its motor. Its speed is pretty impressive. It is also brushless, which provides users with the best results. You can control the speed by using the knob. The screen will show the same, which is how you will handle it. There is nothing in this product that seems disappointing for the customers. Forward and Reverse switch is also present to offer a unique experience.
By using this equipment, you can create threads on workpieces with precision. The range lies between 10-14 TPI. It is a suitable score according to many professionals.
If you are worried about accidents with metal lathes, you can trust this option. The company has also added a safety button/switch to prevent accidents. All you have to do is turn it on and wait until you are sure nothing will happen. You must be careful whenever you think there is an emergency.
Checking the parts of the equipment is also crucial after getting it. Sometimes, the problem arises because of the issues in any part. You will also get a six-month warranty with this product.
Source: amazon.com
2. Sherline 17″ Lathe: Sherline 17″ machine comes next on the list. This lathe has everything you need in the best equipment for woodworking and metalworking applications. The manual control of this tool makes it more convenient for users. Even beginners can learn about everything in detail in a short period. Its footprint is 32.5″ x 8″x 8″, and its weight is 32 lbs.
If you want a CNC variant, you should always purchase this one. Then you can operate it using a PC. CNC lathes are more efficient in providing the best results to the users. That is why people prefer it over other variants. The speed control switch is also given to change the speed according to your needs quickly.
Some people wish to customize the lathe. If you also want a similar thing, you can buy a kit. You can make a custom tool by using the materials inside it. Customers can quickly learn the assembling using some resources.
Various reasons make Sherlin 17″ a better option compared to others. However, some users have different needs. In that case, you can opt for other options.
Source: sherline.com
3. Taig 3029 Manual Turn Lathe: You can also trust the Taig 3029 lathe because it has the best features. Many people fail to search for a small tool for woodworking and metalworking. If you are in the same situation, you can buy this equipment.
The footprint of this benchtop lathe has a measurement of 24″ x 31″ x 14″, and the weight is 90 lbs. This equipment is used for both metal turning and wood turning. You don’t have to buy another tool for each process. The addition of other components is also available with this lathe.
The 1/4 hp motor of this metal lathe works excellently. You can adjust the spindle speed according to your needs. Its range is between 435-1800 RPM. All these things make it a versatile tool in the market.
The spindle rotation can be changed to the counterclockwise direction. But to achieve that, you have to reverse the motor’s direction. The entire process is straightforward. You can do it without any problems.
Source: taigtools.com
4. WEN 3424T: WEN 3424T is a mini benchtop wood lathe. But cast iron makes it sturdy equipment. The footprint is 30.25″ x 8.75, and the weight is 70 lbs. This lathe is compatible with many accessories. So, you can expect more efficiency by using the same.
You can easily change the speed of the spine by loosening the belt. Also, use pulleys for better adjustment. The most significant feature of this lathe is the different motor speeds- 520, 1400, 3400, 2150, and 900 RPM. You can choose to speed according to the requirements.
Source: amazon.com
The Bottom Line
Benchtop lathes are beneficial in many ways. That is why you should buy one for woodworking and metalworking applications. But before picking any option, make sure to look at the features.
