Top 10 Midi Wood Lathes in 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For most woodturners in 2027, the best midi wood lathe overall is the JET JWL-1221VS at $989, a 12-inch by 21-inch electronic variable-speed machine whose silky speed control, three-pulley torque ranges, and 24-position indexing have kept it the benchmark midi lathe for years.

The best value pick is the Delta 46-460 at $659, a genuine 12.5-inch-swing variable-speed lathe with forward and reverse that undercuts the premium crowd by hundreds of dollars. This guide is for hobbyists, pen and bowl turners, and small pro shops who want a benchtop or bench-mounted lathe with real cast-iron mass, electronic variable speed, and room to grow with a bed extension rather than a wobbly fixed-speed toy.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted the things that actually matter on a benchtop lathe day to day, drawing on hands-on coverage and spec sheets from Pro Tool Reviews, Wood Magazine, American Woodturner, ToolGuyd, the AAW forums, and each manufacturer's published specifications.

• Power and smooth variable speed — 25%
• Capacity (swing and distance between centers) — 20%
• Build and vibration (cast iron mass) — 15%
• Features (electronic VS, reverse, indexing) — 15%
• Bed extension and expandability — 15%
• Price-to-performance — 10%

Sources used include Pro Tool Reviews, Wood Magazine, American Woodturner, ToolGuyd, the JET, Rikon, Laguna, NOVA/Teknatool, Record Power, Grizzly, and Delta spec sheets, plus turning-forum owner reports from penturners.org and the AAW community.

1. JET JWL-1221VS 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Price: $989 | Best for: Serious hobbyists and small pro shops who want the all-around benchmark

The JET JWL-1221VS pairs a 12.5-inch swing over the bed with 21 inches between centers and a 1 HP, 115V motor delivering electronic variable speed from 60 to 3,600 RPM across three mechanical pulley ranges, so you keep usable low-end torque for big bowls and high top speed for pens.

It has 24 integrated indexing positions, an MT2 spindle and tailstock taper, a 1 inch by 8 TPI spindle thread for near-universal chuck compatibility, and tips the scales at about 121 pounds of cast iron that soaks up vibration. A bed extension is available to stretch capacity for longer spindle work.

Owner reports on the AAW and penturners forums consistently call it the safest do-everything choice.

Pros:

• Smooth electronic variable speed with three torque ranges
• 24-position indexing built in
• Heavy 121-pound cast-iron build
• Bed extension available for longer work

Cons:

• Pulley change needed to jump between the three speed bands
• Pricier than budget midis

Verdict: The JET 1221VS remains the midi lathe to beat and the smartest single purchase for most turners.

2. Rikon 70-220VSR

Price: $800 | Best for: Turners who want the widest speed range and a digital RPM readout

The Rikon 70-220VSR offers a 12.5-inch swing, 20 inches between centers, and a 1 HP motor with a notably broad 250 to 3,850 RPM electronic variable-speed range plus a digital RPM readout so you always know your spindle speed. It weighs roughly 115 pounds, carries a 1 inch by 8 TPI spindle thread, and Rikon's reputation for responsive support shows up repeatedly in owner reviews.

A matching bed extension is offered for spindle turners who need more length.

Pros:

• Wide 250 to 3,850 RPM variable-speed range
• Digital RPM readout standard
• Strong Rikon customer support reputation

Cons:

• Slightly lighter than the JET at 115 pounds

Verdict: A superb all-rounder whose digital readout and wide speed range make it a close runner-up to the JET.

3. Laguna Revo 12|16

Price: $1,650 | Best for: Detail turners who want premium torque control and outboard turning

The Laguna Revo 12|16 runs a 1 HP motor with a Pulse Width Modulation drive that holds consistent torque at any speed, paired with a 12-inch swing and about 16 inches between centers. Its standout trick is an outboard turning capability that lets you turn blanks up to 16 inches, plus a one-step cam-action belt change behind a magnetic door and a heavy banjo with chamfered edges.

The fit and finish are a clear step above budget midis, which is reflected in the price.

Pros:

• PWM motor holds torque at low RPM
• Outboard turning for larger blanks
• Premium banjo and tool-rest hardware

Cons:

• Among the most expensive midi options
• Shorter between-centers length than the JET or Rikon

Verdict: The premium choice for bowl and detail turners who value torque control and build quality over outright capacity.

4. Rikon 70-1420VSR

Price: $1,400 | Best for: Turners who want the biggest benchtop swing and longer-spindle reach

The Rikon 70-1420VSR is the largest benchtop lathe in Rikon's line, stepping up to a 14-inch swing over the bed, 10-5/8-inch swing over the tool rest, and a full 20 inches between centers, driven by a stout 1.5 HP DC motor with electronic variable speed. That extra horsepower and swing let you tackle bigger bowls and longer spindles than a typical 12-inch midi while still living on a bench.

It keeps Rikon's familiar control layout and support network.

Pros:

• 14-inch swing, largest in the benchtop class
• 1.5 HP motor for heavier cuts
• 20 inches between centers

Cons:

• Heavier and pricier than 12-inch midis

Verdict: The pick when you want maximum benchtop capacity without jumping to a full floor-standing lathe.

5. NOVA Comet II DR 💎 BEST VALUE

Price: $500 | Best for: Beginners and pen turners who want electronic VS on a tight budget

The NOVA Comet II DR delivers an electronic 3/4 HP variable-speed motor spanning 250 to 4,000 RPM with a digital readout, a 12-inch swing, and 16.5 inches between centers that expands to 42 inches with the available bed extension. Forward and reverse plus a 1 inch by 8 TPI spindle round out a feature set that punches well above its price.

For a turner who wants true electronic variable speed without belt swaps, nothing else lands this low.

Pros:

• Electronic variable speed with digital readout under $550
• Forward and reverse standard
• Expandable to 42 inches between centers
• Wide 250 to 4,000 RPM range

Cons:

• Only 3/4 HP, so deep cuts in dense hardwood ask for patience

Verdict: The runaway value champion. A real electronic-VS midi with reverse for the price of a fixed-speed lathe elsewhere.

6. Delta 46-460

Price: $659 | Best for: Value seekers who still want a full 12.5-inch swing and reverse

The Delta 46-460 is a long-standing favorite offering a class-leading 12.5-inch swing, a 1 HP motor geared around a 1,725 RPM base, electronic variable speed across three pulley ranges, and forward and reverse for a cleaner finish off the tool. Its swing matches lathes costing far more, and a bed extension is available for longer spindle work.

Reviewers at Popular Woodworking have long praised its capacity-to-price ratio.

Pros:

• Largest-in-class 12.5-inch swing for the money
• Forward and reverse for finishing
• Bed extension available

Cons:

• Three-pulley setup means belt moves to change speed bands
• No digital RPM readout

Verdict: A proven, big-swing midi at a value price, a hair behind the NOVA only because it lacks a readout.

7. Record Power Coronet Herald

Price: $1,500 | Best for: Bowl turners who want a swivel head and heavy cast-iron mass

The Record Power Coronet Herald brings a 14-inch swing over the bed, 20 inches between centers, and a swiveling headstock that opens up a 21-inch maximum bowl diameter for outboard work. Its 1 HP motor output drives a wide 95 to 3,890 RPM electronic variable-speed range, and the 1-1/4 inch spindle thread with heavy 48 kg (about 106 pounds) cast-iron build targets serious bowl turners.

The low 95 RPM floor is a real asset for roughing big, out-of-balance blanks.

Pros:

• Swiveling headstock for outboard bowl turning
• Very low 95 RPM starting speed
• Heavy-duty cast-iron construction

Cons:

• 1-1/4 inch spindle thread needs matching or adapted chucks
• Premium price

Verdict: A specialist bowl-turner's midi whose swivel head and low-end speed justify the spend for that crowd.

8. Grizzly G0844

Price: $1,050 | Best for: Budget-minded turners who want 14-inch swing without premium pricing

The Grizzly G0844 offers a 14-inch swing over the bed, 10-inch swing over the tool rest, and 20 inches between centers from a 3/4 HP, 110V motor with variable speed. The 8-inch-wide tool rest adds stability, and Grizzly's pricing brings big-swing benchtop capacity in well under the premium 14-inch machines.

It is a sensible middle path for turners who want reach without a four-figure splurge.

Pros:

• 14-inch swing at a mid-tier price
• Wide 8-inch tool rest for stability
• 20 inches between centers

Cons:

• Only 3/4 HP for a 14-inch swing
• Fewer dealer touchpoints than JET or Rikon

Verdict: The value route to a 14-inch benchtop swing, best where budget outranks raw horsepower.

9. NOVA 1624 II

Price: $1,200 | Best for: Turners ready to step up to near-full-size swing on a heavy stand

The NOVA 1624 II stretches the definition of midi with a 16-inch swing that expands to 29 inches using the optional outrigger, 24 inches between centers, and a 1.5 HP AC motor. It uses an eight-speed range from a low of 215 RPM up to 3,600 RPM via belt-and-pulley changes rather than a continuous dial, trading some convenience for serious capacity and torque.

It is the bridge to full-size turning for those who do not want a true floor lathe yet.

Pros:

• 16-inch swing, expandable to 29 inches
• 1.5 HP motor with strong low-end torque
• 24 inches between centers

Cons:

• Speed changes are mechanical, not a continuous electronic dial
• Large and heavy for a benchtop

Verdict: The capacity king of this list, ideal for turners pushing toward full-size bowl work.

10. WEN LA3424

Price: $362 | Best for: Absolute beginners and occasional pen turners on the tightest budget

The WEN LA3424 is the entry point: a 12-inch swing, 18 inches between centers, a 4.5-amp motor, and a cast-iron bed and table for steadiness at this price. It is a five-speed machine (520, 900, 1,400, 2,150, and 3,400 RPM) rather than electronic variable speed, so you stop and move a belt to change speed.

For someone testing whether turning is for them before investing in a VS lathe, it is hard to beat on cost.

Pros:

• Lowest price on the list by a wide margin
• Cast-iron bed and table for the money
• Five usable preset speeds

Cons:

• No electronic variable speed, no reverse
• Belt changes for every speed adjustment

Verdict: A legitimate starter lathe at a starter price, best as a stepping stone to a variable-speed machine.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Midi Wood Lathe

• Swing and distance between centers — Swing sets your maximum bowl diameter and between-centers sets your longest spindle. A 12.5-inch swing handles most bowls; jump to 14 or 16 inches only if you genuinely turn large platters.
• Electronic variable speed and low-end torque — A continuous dial beats belt swaps, but pay attention to whether the motor holds torque down low. A PWM or DC drive that does not stall on a big roughing cut matters more than peak RPM.
• Cast-iron mass for vibration — Heavier is steadier. Anything from roughly 100 pounds up resists the walking and chatter that ruin finishes on light lathes.
• Reverse and indexing — Reverse lets you sand and finish in the opposite direction for cleaner results; indexing positions help with fluting, drilling, and layout work.
• Spindle thread for chuck compatibility — A 1 inch by 8 TPI thread is the most common standard and the easiest to find chucks for. Oddball threads like 1-1/4 inch limit or complicate your accessory choices.
• Bed-extension expandability — A lathe that accepts a bed extension grows with you, turning a 16-inch capacity into 42 inches when a long spindle job appears.
• Motor power — 3/4 HP is fine for pens and small bowls; 1 to 1.5 HP earns its keep on dense hardwood and larger work.

What matters less than marketing implies: sky-high top RPM numbers (you rarely turn anywhere near 4,000 RPM safely), bundled accessory counts, and cosmetic touches. A solid drive, real mass, and a standard spindle thread outlast any spec-sheet bragging point.

FAQ

What is the difference between a midi lathe and a mini or full-size lathe? A mini lathe is the smallest, usually under a 10-inch swing and short between centers, aimed at pens. A midi lathe typically offers a 12 to 16-inch swing with a heavier bed and more power, while a full-size lathe is a floor-standing machine with 16 inches or more of swing and far greater mass.

Midis hit the sweet spot of capacity and footprint for most home shops.

Do I really need electronic variable speed? It is the single biggest convenience upgrade on a lathe. Electronic VS lets you dial speed up and down without stopping to move a belt, which matters when you rough at low RPM and finish at high RPM on the same piece. Fixed five-speed lathes like the WEN work, but you will wish for a dial within a month.

Is reverse turning worth paying for? Yes for finishing. Running the lathe in reverse while sanding cuts the fuzzy grain a forward pass leaves behind, giving a cleaner surface. The NOVA Comet II and Delta 46-460 both include reverse at value prices.

What spindle thread should I look for? A 1 inch by 8 TPI spindle is the de facto standard, so chucks and faceplates are plentiful and cheap. Lathes with a 1-1/4 inch thread, like the Record Power Coronet Herald, may need adapters or thread-specific accessories, so factor that into the cost.

Can a midi lathe turn bowls or only spindles? A midi turns both. Swing over the bed sets your maximum bowl diameter, so a 12.5-inch swing handles roughly 12-inch bowls and a 14 or 16-inch lathe goes larger. Models with a swiveling head or outboard turning, like the Laguna Revo 12|16 and Coronet Herald, push bowl capacity further still.

How much should I budget for a good midi lathe in 2027? Plan on roughly $500 to $700 for a capable electronic-VS midi like the NOVA Comet II or Delta 46-460, around $800 to $1,000 for the benchmark JET and Rikon, and $1,400 to $1,650 for premium or larger-swing machines. Budget extra for a four-jaw chuck, which most lathes do not include.

Bottom Line

The JET JWL-1221VS at $989 is our best overall midi wood lathe for 2027 thanks to its proven smoothness, 121-pound build, 24-position indexing, and do-everything 12.5-inch by 21-inch capacity, while the NOVA Comet II DR at $500 and the Delta 46-460 at $659 split best-value honors for turners who want real electronic variable speed and reverse without the premium price.

Match your swing to the work you actually do, prioritize a true variable-speed drive with low-end torque, and use the decision tree above to route from your budget and turning style straight to the right pick.

Sources

• Pro Tool Reviews — midi and benchtop wood lathe coverage and buying guides
• Wood Magazine — woodturning lathe reviews and tool tests
• American Woodturner and the AAW community forums (aawforum.org) — owner reports and lathe comparisons
• ToolGuyd — NOVA Comet II and midi lathe hands-on coverage
• penturners.org — JET 1221VS, Rikon 70-220VSR, Laguna Revo, and Delta owner threads
• JET official spec sheet — JWL-1221VS specifications and parts manual
• Rikon Power Tools spec sheets — 70-220VSR and 70-1420VSR
• Laguna Tools spec sheet — Revo 12|16 EVS
• NOVA / Teknatool spec sheets — Comet II DR and 1624 II
• Record Power, Grizzly Industrial, and Delta Machinery official product pages — Coronet Herald, G0844, and 46-460

*Wood lathe review — midi wood lathe reviews, rating, best wood lathe 2027, and a review of the top turning picks for buyers.*