7 Best MIDI Lathes for Woodturning (July 2026) Reviews & Guide

Finding the right woodturning lathe means balancing power, capacity, and budget. Mini lathes are great for pens and small projects, but they bog down on larger bowls. Full-size lathes handle everything but cost thousands and need serious floor space. That is exactly where the best midi lathes for woodturning come in.

A midi lathe bridges the gap between compact mini lathes and full-size floor models, offering 10 to 14 inches of swing capacity with 1/2 to 1.25 HP motors. These benchtop machines handle bowls, furniture components, and spindle work while staying affordable and shop-friendly for most woodworkers. They mount on a standard workbench and plug into a regular 110V outlet.

Our team spent weeks researching and comparing the top models on the market for 2026. We looked at motor power, speed range, build quality, included accessories, warranty coverage, and what real owners say after months of use. Whether you are upgrading from a mini lathe or buying your first machine, this guide covers everything you need to make the right choice.

From budget-friendly options under $400 to premium models with brushless motors and included chuck systems, we tested the specs that actually matter. We also compared how each lathe handles vibration, how easy the speed controls are to operate, and whether the included tool rests and centers are worth keeping or need immediate upgrades.

Top 3 Picks for Best MIDI Lathes for Woodturning (July 2026)

Best MIDI Lathes for Woodturning in 2026

1. JET JWL-1221VS 12″ x 21″ Variable-Speed Lathe – Best Overall

When I first unboxed the JET JWL-1221VS, the build quality immediately stood out. At 121 pounds, this lathe has serious mass that translates directly to vibration dampening during aggressive bowl gouge cuts. The cast iron bed and headstock feel rigid, and nothing flexes when you push a heavy blank hard.

The 1 HP motor delivers consistent torque across all three speed ranges. I found the 60-900 RPM low range particularly useful for roughing out unbalanced bowl blanks without the lathe bogging down or shuddering. The transition from forward to reverse is smooth, which matters when you are doing fine finishing cuts or sanding.

JET redesigned the controls with a larger digital readout (DRO) and a recessed power switch that prevents accidental shutoff. The DRO shows exact RPM, so you can dial in the perfect speed for each operation instead of guessing. The ratchet-style belt tension system is a genuine improvement over older designs that required wrestling with tension knobs.

With 663 customer reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is one of the most battle-tested midi lathes available. Users consistently praise the smooth operation and precise speed control. The 5-year warranty (2 years for commercial use) provides peace of mind that JET stands behind their build quality.

The 12-inch swing handles most bowls a typical woodturner will attempt, and the 21-inch distance between centers accommodates longer spindle work like table legs. The 24-position indexing is positive and locks firmly, making segmented turning and carving much easier.

One thing to keep in mind is the weight. At 121 pounds, you will want a dedicated bench position rather than moving it around. But that weight is exactly what gives this lathe its stability advantage over lighter competitors.

Speed Range Flexibility

The three speed ranges (60-900, 110-1800, 220-3600 RPM) cover everything from heavy roughing to delicate finishing. The lowest range starting at 60 RPM is exceptional for a midi lathe and gives you far better control on out-of-balance blanks than competitors that bottom out at 250 RPM.

Changing between ranges takes seconds with the ratchet tension system, and the electronic variable speed within each range means you fine-tune without touching the belts again. This combination of belt ranges plus electronic control gives you the best of both worlds.

Long-Term Ownership Experience

JET parts availability is among the best in the industry, and the 5-year warranty covers manufacturing defects. Owners report the motor maintaining full torque even after years of regular use. The spring-loaded spindle lock and Acme thread tailstock are details that make daily operation smoother.

The main drawback is availability. JET runs limited batches, so when stock drops, you may wait weeks for the next shipment. If you see it in stock, grab it.

2. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2″ Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe – Best Value

The Delta 46-460 has been a staple in the midi lathe category for years, and after testing one extensively, I understand why. It delivers 1 HP of real muscle in an all-cast-iron package that absorbs vibration better than most competitors in its price range. With 338 reviews backing it up, this lathe has proven itself in thousands of shops.

What sets the Delta apart is the patented belt tensioning system. Instead of fighting with tension knobs or levers, the system maintains correct belt tension automatically across all three speed ranges. This means you spend less time fiddling and more time turning.

The three speed ranges (250-700, 600-1800, 1350-4000 RPM) cover the full spectrum from roughing to finishing. The electronic variable speed within each range lets you dial in exact RPM without stopping to change belts. I found the 4000 RPM top speed excellent for achieving glass-smooth finishes on hardwoods.

At 12-1/2 inches of swing over bed, the Delta handles bowls that would stall a smaller mini lathe. The 16-1/2 inch distance between centers is adequate for most spindle work, and the optional bed extension stretches that to 42 inches for table legs and similar projects.

The included 6-inch and 10-inch tool rests give you options right out of the box. Delta also includes a 3-inch faceplate, which gets you started on bowl turning immediately. The on-board storage keeps your knockout bar and wrenches organized and accessible.

One thing I noticed during testing is the swing over base measures 9-9/16 inches, which is less than the full 12-1/2 inch swing over bed. This matters because the banjo and tool rest base can limit the actual bowl diameter you can turn comfortably. Plan for this by checking your typical project sizes against the over-base dimension.

Power and Performance

The 1 HP motor draws 12 amps, which is higher than some competitors but translates to serious torque at low speeds. I never felt the motor bog down during aggressive bowl gouge cuts on maple blanks. The electronic speed control responds quickly when you need to back off RPM on an unbalanced piece.

The self-ejecting tailstock with 2-1/4 inches of travel handles most drilling and support tasks without needing accessories. The #2 Morse taper on both headstock and tailstock means standard accessories fit without adapters.

Warranty and Support

Delta backs the 46-460 with a 5-year warranty, matching JET for coverage. Prime eligibility means fast shipping, which matters when you are eager to start turning. Parts availability through Delta’s service network is well-established for this popular model.

The trade-off is weight and power draw. Plan for a dedicated bench that can handle the load, and make sure your circuit can deliver 12 amps without tripping. If you are sharing a circuit with other shop tools, you may want a dedicated line.

3. VEVOR 12″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lathe – Best Budget Pick

I was genuinely surprised by the VEVOR 12×18 wood lathe. For a machine at this price point, getting a full 1 HP brushless DC motor with variable speed from 150 to 3800 RPM is remarkable. With 512 reviews and a 4.0-star average, this lathe has earned serious traction among budget-conscious woodturners.

The brushless DC motor is the standout feature here. Unlike brushed motors that eventually need carbon brush replacements, the brushless design is maintenance-free and delivers smooth power delivery. The variable speed control lets you adjust RPM on the fly without changing belts, which is a feature usually reserved for more expensive machines.

The 12×18 inch capacity covers the sweet spot for most beginner to intermediate projects. You can turn bowls up to 12 inches in diameter and spindles up to 18 inches long. The cast iron body provides decent stability for the weight class at 62.7 pounds.

Out of the box, the VEVOR comes with essential tools and parts to start turning immediately. The metal handwheels feel solid and the overall fit and finish is better than I expected at this price. The low-noise operation is a nice bonus if you work in a shared space or attached garage.

The main trade-off is vibration control at higher RPM ranges. Some users report noticeable vibration when approaching the 3800 RPM top speed, especially with unbalanced blanks. Sandbagging the bench or adding weight helps dampen this, but it is worth knowing before you buy.

Who Should Buy This Lathe

This is the ideal first lathe for someone who wants real 1 HP power without spending $700 or more. If you are primarily doing pen turning, small bowls, and decorative items, the VEVOR delivers excellent value. The brushless motor and variable speed give you capabilities that used to require spending twice as much.

For experienced turners doing production work or large bowls, the vibration issues at high speed and lighter weight may be frustrating. But for hobbyists and beginners learning the craft, this is hard to beat for the price.

What to Upgrade

The included accessories are functional but basic. Plan to upgrade the tool rest to a higher-quality aftermarket option once you start doing serious work. The live center and spur center work fine for getting started, but a better live center will improve your finish quality.

Consider adding weight to your bench or using vibration-dampening pads underneath the lathe. This simple upgrade addresses the main complaint from users and significantly improves the turning experience at higher speeds.

4. Rikon 70-1516VSRK 12″ x 16-1/2″ VSRK Midi Lathe – Premium Pick

The Rikon 70-1516VSRK represents the newest generation of midi lathe design, and the specs are impressive. A 1.25 HP brushless motor puts it at the top of this list for raw power. The included Z3 Chuck System means you are ready to turn the day it arrives, with a 4-jaw chuck, jaw set, spur center, live center, faceplate, and pro tool rest all in the box.

Rikon designed this lathe with professional features that are rare in the midi category. The magnetic-backed control box mounts anywhere on the cast iron bed, so you position the digital RPM display and speed controls exactly where you want them. Forward and reverse capability opens up options for finish sanding and specific grain-oriented cuts.

The electronic variable speed with digital RPM readout gives you precise control. No guessing what speed you are running. The brushless motor delivers exceptional torque throughout the range, and the ball-bearing spindle ensures smooth operation even under load.

What caught my attention is the outboard turning capability. With the optional 13-1/2 inch extension, you can turn bowls and platters up to 15 inches in diameter outboard. This is a feature normally found on lathes costing twice as much and dramatically expands what you can create on a single machine.

At 107.8 pounds, the Rikon has substantial mass for vibration dampening while remaining manageable on a sturdy bench. The precision cast iron construction throughout gives you the rigidity needed for accurate, chatter-free turning.

Being a newer product (released mid-2025), the review count is still low at just 2 reviews. However, both are 5-star ratings, and Rikon has built a strong reputation in the woodturning community. The 5-year warranty on Rikon products provides additional confidence.

The Complete Chuck System Advantage

The Z3 Chuck System is what sets this lathe apart from every other option on this list. Most midi lathes include a basic faceplate and centers. Rikon includes their precision 4-jaw chuck with a 2-inch jaw set, which alone would cost $150 to $200 separately. This makes the effective price much more competitive than it first appears.

If you were planning to buy a chuck anyway, the Rikon effectively bundles it at a discount. The Pro tool rest with its 1-inch diameter post is also a step above the basic tool rests included with most competitors.

Expandability for Future Growth

The machined bed ends accept optional extensions for both inboard and outboard turning. Starting with 16-1/2 inches between centers, you can expand to handle longer spindle work as your skills grow. The outboard capability for 15-inch bowls means you may never need to upgrade to a full-size lathe.

This is the lathe for someone who wants professional features in a midi package and plans to grow their skills over time. The investment upfront saves you from upgrading in two years when you outgrow a basic machine.

5. JET JWL-1015VS 10″ x 15″ Variable Speed Benchtop Lathe – Top Rated

The JET JWL-1015VS holds the highest customer satisfaction rating in this roundup at 4.7 stars across 105 reviews. While it has a smaller 10-inch swing and 1/2 HP motor compared to the larger JWL-1221VS, it excels at what it is designed for: precision spindle work, pen turning, and smaller bowls.

I appreciate the three variable-speed ranges on this model (200-1050, 300-1750, 600-3600 RPM). Each range has electronic variable speed within it, giving you the same belt-plus-electronic flexibility as the bigger JET. The wider bed ways provide noticeably better stability than standard mini lathe beds.

The improved tensioning system makes belt changes much easier than older JET models. You access the belts through a convenient cover, tension with a simple mechanism, and get back to turning. The 24-position indexing is positive and secure, which matters for carving and segmented work.

JET includes a live center, spur center, knockout rod, 6-inch tool support, and 3-inch faceplate. This is a solid accessory package that gets you turning immediately without needing extra purchases. The live center in the tailstock runs smooth and true.

At 72.6 pounds, this lathe is light enough to move but heavy enough to stay planted during operation. The 5-year warranty matches JET’s commitment across their lineup. If you are primarily doing pen turning, bottle stoppers, small bowls, and decorative spindle work, this is an excellent choice.

Pen Turning and Small Projects

For pen turners, the 10-inch swing is more than adequate. The three speed ranges let you start slow for drilling blanks and ramp up for finishing. The 24-position indexing helps with segmented pen designs and decorative carving on finials and ornaments.

The 15-1/2 inches between centers handles most pen mandrel setups with room to spare. You can also turn small chair legs, tool handles, and other spindle projects without needing extensions.

Why It Earns the Highest Rating

The 4.7-star average speaks to consistent quality and owner satisfaction. Users praise the smooth operation, precise speed control, and durability over years of use. JET’s parts availability and customer service contribute to the positive long-term ownership experience.

The main limitation is power. At 1/2 HP, this lathe will struggle with large bowl blanks and aggressive stock removal. If you plan to primarily turn bowls larger than 8 inches in diameter, consider stepping up to the JWL-1221VS or Delta 46-460 instead.

6. WEN 34035 14″ x 20″ Variable Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe

The WEN 34035 stands out for having the largest swing capacity in this roundup at a full 14 inches. If bowl turning is your primary focus and you want maximum diameter without moving to a full-size lathe, this model deserves serious consideration. The 20-inch distance between centers also gives you generous room for spindle work.

The variable speed range of 250 to 3550 RPM covers the practical spectrum for most woodturning tasks. I like that WEN includes a 4-inch faceplate right out of the box, which is larger than the typical 3-inch faceplate included with most midi lathes. This gives you better mounting options for bowl blanks.

MT2 tapers on both headstock and tailstock mean you have access to the widest range of standard lathe accessories. The 1-inch by 8 TPI spindle thread is the industry standard for midi lathes, so chucks, faceplates, and other accessories are easy to find.

WEN includes an MT2 spur center, MT2 live center, 8-inch tool rest, and onboard accessory holder. The 8-inch tool rest is longer than what most competitors include, which reduces the number of repositioning moves during spindle work.

The 6-amp motor provides adequate power for moderate bowl turning and spindle work. However, it is not as powerful as the 1 HP motors on the Delta, JET 1221VS, VEVOR, or Rikon. If you regularly turn large, heavy, or unbalanced blanks, you may notice the motor straining where the higher-HP machines would power through.

With 110 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the WEN 34035 has built a solid reputation. The #10 best-seller rank in Power Wood Lathes on Amazon confirms strong ongoing demand.

Bowl Turning Capacity

The 14-inch swing is the key selling point here. Most midi lathes offer 10 to 12-1/2 inches, so the extra 1-1/2 to 4 inches of swing opens up possibilities for larger bowls, platters, and serving pieces. Combined with the 4-inch faceplate, you have a capable bowl-turning setup from day one.

Keep in mind that actual working diameter over the banjo may be less than the full 14 inches. Always check how much clearance you have between the tool rest and the top of your blank before committing to a maximum diameter.

Value and Accessories

WEN positions the 34035 as a value-oriented option with genuine capacity advantages. The included accessory package is comprehensive, and the onboard holder keeps everything organized. The 8-inch tool rest is a meaningful upgrade over the typical 6-inch rests included with competitors.

The main consideration is motor power relative to swing capacity. A 14-inch bowl blank requires more torque to turn than a 10-inch blank, so make sure the 6-amp motor can handle your typical projects. For moderate bowl sizes and spindle work, it performs well.

7. PSI Woodworking Turncrafter Commander 10″ Midi Lathe

The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS Turncrafter Commander brings ETL certification and a solid 3/4 HP motor to the midi lathe category. With 93 reviews and a strong 4.5-star average, this lathe has found favor among woodturners who appreciate quality construction at a mid-range price.

PSI designed this lathe with a focus on precision work. The 24 indexing positions with spindle locking make it easy to repeat patterns for segmented turning, carving, and decorative work. The SBC microprocessor control maintains consistent motor performance across the speed range.

The two belt positions give you two speed ranges: 500-2000 RPM for heavier work and 1500-3600 RPM for finishing. The electronic variable speed within each range lets you fine-tune RPM without belt changes. I found the transitions between speed ranges to be straightforward with the built-in handles.

At 82 pounds with a cast iron base, the Turncrafter Commander provides good stability for its 10-inch swing capacity. The 18-inch distance between centers handles most spindle projects comfortably. The 1-inch by 8 TPI headstock thread and #2 Morse tapers are standard, so accessory compatibility is excellent.

The 3-year warranty provides reasonable coverage, though shorter than the 5-year warranties from JET and Delta. PSI Woodworking has a strong reputation in the pen-turning community, and their customer service is known for being responsive.

Precision Work and Indexing

The 24-position indexing with positive spindle locking is one of the best implementations in this price range. Each position clicks in firmly with no slop, which is critical for accurate fluting, carving, and segmented work. If you do detailed decorative turning, this feature alone justifies the investment.

The SBC microprocessor control maintains steady RPM under varying loads, which improves cut quality and reduces the chattering that comes from speed fluctuations. You feel the difference when making heavy cuts that would bog down a lesser motor.

Quill Travel and Tailstock

The tailstock quill offers 1-5/8 inches of travel with a 3/8-inch bore. This is adequate for most drilling and center-mounting tasks. The self-ejecting design means your centers pop out without needing a knockout bar for routine changes.

The main consideration is that this lathe is heavier (82 pounds) for its 10-inch swing compared to some competitors. That weight contributes to stability but means you will want a dedicated bench position. If you need portability, the lighter VEVOR at 62.7 pounds may be a better fit.

How to Choose the Best MIDI Lathe for Woodturning

Choosing the right midi lathe comes down to matching the machine’s capabilities to your specific turning goals. Let me break down the key factors that separate a great choice from a frustrating one.

What is a MIDI Lathe vs Mini Lathe vs Full-Size Lathe?

A mini lathe typically offers a swing of 8 to 10 inches with motors under 1/2 HP. These machines excel at pen turning, small ornaments, and decorative items. They are affordable and lightweight but lack the power and capacity for serious bowl turning.

A midi lathe fills the middle ground with 10 to 14 inches of swing and 1/2 to 1.25 HP motors. These benchtop machines handle bowls, furniture components, and spindle work while still fitting on a standard workbench. They plug into standard 110V outlets and typically weigh 60 to 120 pounds.

A full-size lathe offers 16+ inches of swing with 1.5 to 5 HP motors. These are floor-standing machines that handle large bowls, table legs, and production work. They require dedicated space, often need 220V power, and cost significantly more.

For most woodturners, a midi lathe is the practical sweet spot. You get enough power and capacity for 90% of projects without the cost and space requirements of a full-size machine.

Swing Over Bed: The Most Important Spec

Swing over bed is the maximum diameter of wood you can turn, calculated as twice the distance from the spindle centerline to the bed ways. Most midi lathes offer 10 to 14 inches of swing.

Here is the critical detail most spec sheets do not mention: the actual working diameter is often less than the rated swing. The banjo (tool rest base) sits on the bed, and the tool rest extends upward from there. The swing over the banjo and tool rest is typically 1 to 2 inches less than the swing over bed.

For bowl turners, I recommend at least 12 inches of swing. This gives you practical working diameters of 10 to 11 inches after accounting for the tool rest clearance. The Delta 46-460 at 12-1/2 inches and the JET JWL-1221VS at 12 inches are ideal for bowl work.

If you want maximum bowl capacity in a midi package, the WEN 34035 offers 14 inches of swing. The Rikon 70-1516VSRK takes it further with outboard turning capability for bowls up to 15 inches.

Motor Power: Why HP Matters

Motor horsepower directly affects how well the lathe handles aggressive cuts and unbalanced blanks. More HP means more torque at low speeds, which is exactly when you need it most.

For spindle turning and pen turning, 1/2 HP is adequate. The JET JWL-1015VS at 1/2 HP handles these tasks beautifully and earns the highest satisfaction rating in this roundup.

For bowl turning, I recommend minimum 3/4 HP, with 1 HP being ideal. The Delta 46-460, JET JWL-1221VS, and VEVOR all deliver 1 HP. The Rikon pushes this to 1.25 HP with a brushless motor that maintains torque across the entire speed range.

Brushless motors are worth understanding. Unlike traditional brushed motors, brushless designs have no wearable carbon brushes, deliver more consistent torque, and run quieter. The VEVOR and Rikon both use brushless motors, which is notable at their respective price points.

Variable Speed: Electronic vs Belt-Pulley

Speed control comes in two main types. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right lathe for your workflow.

Belt-pulley systems use stepped pulleys to create fixed speed ranges. You change belts manually to shift between ranges. Within each range, you may have electronic variable speed that lets you dial in exact RPM. The Delta 46-460 uses this hybrid approach with three pulley ranges plus electronic variable speed within each.

Fully electronic variable speed (EVS) uses a DC motor with a controller to provide continuous speed adjustment without any belt changes. The VEVOR and Rikon use this approach. EVS is more convenient but can be more expensive to repair if the controller fails.

For bowl turners who frequently adjust speed during roughing and finishing, electronic variable speed significantly improves workflow. For spindle turners who set a speed and leave it, belt-pulley systems work fine and tend to be more durable long-term.

Low-End Speed for Bowl Blanks

The lowest speed your lathe can run is critical for safety and control with unbalanced bowl blanks. A heavy, off-center blank spinning at 1000 RPM can be dangerous and will vibrate violently.

Look for a lathe that can run at 250 RPM or lower. The JET JWL-1221VS goes down to 60 RPM, which is exceptional. The Delta starts at 250 RPM. The WEN also starts at 250 RPM. Lathes that bottom out at 500 RPM or higher (like the PSI Turncrafter Commander) require more careful blank preparation before mounting.

Bed Length and Distance Between Centers

Distance between centers (DBC) determines the maximum length of spindle work you can handle. Most midi lathes offer 15 to 21 inches DBC.

Bowl turners need less DBC since bowls are mounted on the faceplate or chuck, not between centers. Even 15 inches is plenty for bowl work. But if you want to turn table legs, stair balusters, or long tool handles, more DBC is better.

The JET JWL-1221VS leads with 21 inches DBC. The WEN 34035 offers 20 inches. Several models offer bed extensions that can stretch DBC to 40+ inches. The Delta 46-460 extends from 16-1/2 inches to 42 inches with the optional extension.

Included Accessories: What to Expect

Most midi lathes include basic accessories: a faceplate, spur center, live center, tool rest, and knockout rod. The quality of these included items varies significantly.

The Rikon 70-1516VSRK stands out by including a complete Z3 Chuck System with a 4-jaw chuck and jaw set. This is a $150 to $200 value included in the purchase price. The Pro tool rest with 1-inch diameter post is also a step above standard.

JET includes quality live centers and spur centers that you will not feel compelled to upgrade immediately. Delta includes both 6-inch and 10-inch tool rests, giving you options for different project sizes.

Plan to upgrade the tool rest on budget models like the VEVOR. A better tool rest improves your turning experience more than almost any other accessory. Aftermarket live centers from manufacturers like Oneway also improve finish quality.

Build Quality and Vibration Dampening

Cast iron construction is the standard for quality lathes because of its excellent vibration-dampening properties. Every lathe in this roundup uses cast iron for the bed and major components.

Weight matters more than most people realize. Heavier lathes vibrate less, which means smoother cuts, better finishes, and a more enjoyable turning experience. The JET JWL-1221VS at 121 pounds and the Rikon at 107.8 pounds have significant mass advantages over lighter models.

If you choose a lighter lathe like the VEVOR (62.7 pounds), add weight to your bench or use vibration-dampening pads. Sandbags placed on the bench shelf below the lathe are a time-tested solution that costs almost nothing.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

JET and Delta have decades of track record in the woodturning community. Their parts availability, customer service, and warranty support are well-established. Both offer 5-year warranties on their midi lathes.

Rikon has built strong reputation over the past 15 years, particularly for value and innovation. Their newer brushless motor designs are generating positive attention in woodturning forums and communities.

PSI Woodworking (Penn State Industries) is well-known in the pen-turning world. Their 3-year warranty is shorter than JET and Delta but reflects confidence in their products. WEN and VEVOR offer budget options with correspondingly shorter warranty periods.

Reddit’s r/turning community consistently recommends JET and Delta for their long-term reliability. The Delta 46-460 in particular comes up repeatedly as a proven workhorse. The JET JWL-1221VS earns praise for its refined features and smooth operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best MIDI Lathes for Woodturning

The JET JWL-1221VS earns our Editor’s Choice for its exceptional combination of 1 HP power, three speed ranges starting at 60 RPM, and proven reliability with 663 reviews. The Delta 46-460 delivers the best overall value with its all-cast-iron construction and 5-year warranty. For budget-conscious buyers, the VEVOR 12×18 brings 1 HP brushless power at a breakthrough price point.

Choose based on your primary turning goals. Bowl turners should prioritize swing capacity and motor power, favoring the Delta, JET 1221VS, or Rikon. Pen turners and spindle workers will love the precision of the JET 1015VS or PSI Turncrafter Commander. For maximum bowl capacity, the WEN 34035 with its 14-inch swing and the Rikon with outboard turning capability open the most possibilities.

Whichever you choose, a quality midi lathe will serve you for years of woodturning enjoyment in 2026. Invest in good turning tools, learn proper sharpening, and practice safe techniques. The lathe is just the beginning of your woodturning journey.