5-Speed vs 4-Speed Wood Lathes: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 5-Speed vs 4-Speed wood lathe depends on your specific turning needs. Both machines are benchtop lathes designed for woodturning, but they offer different capabilities. The WEN model provides five distinct speed settings for finer control, while the VEVOR unit offers a larger swing and longer between-centers distance. You must decide which capacity and speed range best fit your workshop space and project types.
Key differences
| Aspect | WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe | VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Swing Over Bed | 12 inches | 14 inches |
| Between Centers | 18 inches | 40 inches |
| Speed Settings | 5-Speed (520–3400 RPM) | 4-Speed (885–2425 RPM) |
| Motor Power | 4.5 Amps | 0.5 HP (370W) |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood, Plastic |
Which one should you choose?
Choose WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe if
- You need five specific speed options for detailed turning tasks.
- You primarily work with smaller wood pieces under 18 inches long.
- You prefer a higher maximum speed of 3400 RPM for fine finishing.
Choose VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe if
- You require a larger 14-inch swing for wider bowls or blanks.
- You need to turn longer pieces up to 40 inches between centers.
- You plan to work with both wood and plastic materials.
Verdict: The WEN lathe suits those who need more speed variations for smaller projects. The VEVOR lathe is better for larger workpieces and dual-material use. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize speed granularity or physical capacity.
5-Speed vs 4-Speed Lathe Comparison
Swing capacity
The WEN model offers a 12-inch swing over the bed, allowing you to turn workpieces up to 12 inches wide. The VEVOR unit provides a 14-inch swing, giving you two extra inches of clearance for wider bowls or platters. This additional space on the VEVOR can be useful if you frequently work with larger diameter stock. However, the WEN’s 12-inch capacity is sufficient for most standard hobbyist projects. If your projects rarely exceed 12 inches, the WEN’s size is adequate. For those needing extra width, the VEVOR has the advantage.
Between centers length
Length capacity differs significantly between these two machines. The WEN lathe handles pieces up to 18 inches between centers, which is typical for a compact benchtop model. The VEVOR lathe supports workpieces up to 40 inches long between centers. This substantial difference means the VEVOR can accommodate long spindles, such as table legs or rolling pins, without requiring extension tools. The WEN is better suited for shorter items like pens or small cups. If you plan to turn long pieces, the VEVOR is the clear choice due to its extended bed length.
Speed settings
Speed control is a key differentiator in this comparison. The WEN lathe features five distinct speed settings: 520, 900, 1400, 2150, and 3400 RPM. This five-speed configuration allows for finer adjustments, particularly at the higher end of the range. The VEVOR lathe offers four speeds: 885, 1245, 1715, and 2425 RPM. While the VEVOR covers a solid range, the WEN provides more granular control with an extra step. The WEN also reaches a higher maximum speed of 3400 RPM compared to the VEVOR’s 2425 RPM, which may be beneficial for fine finishing work.
Motor power
Power specifications vary between the two units. The WEN lathe is equipped with a 4.5-amp motor. The VEVOR lathe specifies a 0.5 HP motor, which equates to 370 watts. While amperage and horsepower measure power differently, the WEN’s 4.5-amp draw suggests a robust motor for a benchtop unit. The VEVOR’s 370-watt rating is adequate for general turning but may struggle with dense hardwoods compared to the higher amperage WEN. For heavy stock removal, the WEN’s higher electrical draw indicates more available torque. This gives the WEN a slight edge in raw power potential.
Target material
Both lathes are primarily designed for woodturning, but their material specifications differ slightly. The WEN lathe lists wood as its target material, indicating it is optimized for traditional woodworking tasks. The VEVOR lathe explicitly lists both wood and plastic as target materials. This broader specification suggests the VEVOR may be more versatile if you plan to turn acrylics, delrin, or other synthetic materials alongside wood. The VEVOR’s chisel set and speed range also support plastic work. If you intend to work with non-wood materials, the VEVOR offers a wider applicability.
Which 5-Speed vs 4-Speed Lathe Fits You
Small workshop woodworkers with limited space
The WEN lathe measures 30.5 inches in length, making it significantly more compact than the VEVOR unit. Its 70.3-pound weight provides stability on a benchtop without requiring excessive footprint. You get five speed settings ranging from 520 to 3400 RPM, allowing precise control for detailed turning tasks in tighter quarters.
Turners needing larger bowl capacity
The VEVOR lathe offers a 14-inch swing over the bed, providing two extra inches of clearance compared to the WEN model. This larger capacity allows you to turn wider bowls and platters. The 40-inch between-centers distance also accommodates longer spindles, making it ideal for larger projects that exceed the WEN's 18-inch limit.
Users preferring higher maximum speed
The WEN model reaches a maximum speed of 3400 RPM, which is higher than the VEVOR's 2425 RPM limit. This extra speed range allows for finer finishing work and faster cutting on specific wood types. The five distinct speed steps provide more granular control over your turning process compared to the four settings on the VEVOR.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe | Detailed turning and bowl work | Check price of WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe on Amazon |
| 2 | VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe | small turning projects with fixed speeds | Check price of VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe on Amazon |
The products compared
WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe
Best for: Detailed turning and bowl work
- Speed Settings
- 5-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Swing Over Bed
- 12"
- Between Centers
- 18"
- Speed Range
- 520 - 3400 RPM
- Speed Control
- 5-speed
- Spindle Taper
- MT2
View on Amazon: WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe Affiliate link
The WEN LA3424 is a 12-inch by 18-inch benchtop wood lathe with a 4.5-amp motor. It offers five speed settings ranging from 520 to 3400 RPM. This range lets you switch between rough shaping and fine finishing. The MT2 tapers in both the headstock and tailstock allow for standard accessories. It is designed for turning bowls, cups, and spindle work within its 12-inch swing capacity.
Pros
- Five speed settings from 520 to 3400 RPM
- 12-inch swing over bed for wider workpieces
- MT2 tapers for accessory compatibility
- Includes 3-1/8 inch faceplate for bowl turning
Cons
- 18-inch between centers limits long spindle work
- 70.3-pound weight reduces portability
- Smaller swing capacity than 14-inch models
Good fit if
- You need precise speed control for detailed turning
- You work with bowls or short spindles
- You want standard MT2 accessory support
Skip if
- You regularly turn long spindles over 18 inches
- You need to turn pieces wider than 12 inches
- You require a higher amperage motor for heavy stock removal
Verdict: WEN 12x18 5-Speed Benchtop Lathe provides five distinct speeds for detailed work, making it a solid choice for bowl turners and those working with smaller diameters who value precision over size.
VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe
Best for: small turning projects with fixed speeds
- Speed Settings
- 4-Speed (what this guide is about)
- Swing Over Bed
- 14"
- Between Centers
- 40"
- Motor Power
- 0.5 HP, 370W
- Speed Range
- 885–2425 RPM
- Speed Control
- 4-speed
View on Amazon: VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link
The VEVOR MCS1000 is a benchtop lathe with a 14-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It features a 0.5 HP motor with four fixed speeds ranging from 885 to 2425 RPM. The aluminum alloy base and steel headstock help minimize vibration. This setup suits woodworkers turning small items like pens or bowls who need a stable, compact machine for their shop.
Pros
- 40-inch between-centers capacity for longer projects
- Aluminum alloy base reduces vibration
- Four speed settings up to 2425 RPM
- Includes faceplate and chisels
Cons
- Only four speed settings limit fine control
- 0.5 HP motor is less powerful than competitors
- Fixed speeds lack variable speed precision
Good fit if
- You need a 40-inch turning length
- You turn small wooden items like pens
- You prefer a stable benchtop design
Skip if
- You require variable speed control
- You need more than 0.5 HP power
- You want five or more speed options
Verdict: VEVOR 14x40 4-Speed Wood Lathe fits hobbyists who prioritize length and stability over high-speed versatility. It is a solid choice for turning small projects where fixed speeds are sufficient.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WEN 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe | VEVOR 14 x 40-Inch 4-Speed Wood Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Swing Over Bed | 12" | 14" |
| Between Centers | 18" | 40" |
| Motor Power | not stated | 0.5 HP, 370W |
| Speed Range | 520 - 3400 RPM | 885–2425 RPM |
| Speed Control | 5-speed | 4-speed |
| Spindle Taper | MT2 | not stated |
| Swing | 12-Inch | 14-Inch |
| Configuration | Benchtop | not stated |
| Speed Settings | 5-Speed | 4-Speed |
| Amperage | 5 A | not stated |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood, Plastic |
| Application | not stated | Woodworking, Woodturning |
| Dimensions | 30.5 × 8.75 × 16.3 inches | 57.5 × 8.07 × 13.4 inches |
| Weight | 70.3 pounds | 50.7 pounds |
| Size | 12 x 18" (5 Speed) | 14" x 40"-0.5HP |
| Model | 3424T | MCS1000 |
| Color | not stated | Black + Orange |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 5-speed wood lathe better than a 4-speed model?
A 5-speed lathe offers finer control for detailed work. The WEN model provides five distinct speeds, which helps when turning smaller diameters or performing bowl work. This extra setting allows for more precise adjustments compared to the four fixed speeds found on units like the VEVOR. Choose 5-speed if precision is your priority.
Can a 4-speed lathe handle plastic materials?
Yes, some 4-speed lathes support plastic turning. The VEVOR unit lists plastic as a target material alongside wood. Its fixed speeds are sufficient for small turning projects. If you need to work with both wood and plastic, this machine covers both requirements without needing variable speed controls.
Which lathe is better for small workshops?
The WEN 5-speed lathe fits better in tight spaces. It measures 30.5 inches in length, which is much shorter than the VEVOR’s 57.5-inch footprint. Despite its compact size, it weighs 70.3 pounds, providing stability on a benchtop. You get a stable machine that does not require excessive floor space.
What is the difference in swing capacity between these lathes?
The VEVOR offers a larger swing capacity. It provides a 14-inch swing over the bed, while the WEN model offers a 12-inch swing. The extra two inches on the VEVOR allows you to turn wider bowls or larger diameter workpieces. Choose the VEVOR if you frequently work with wider stock.
Does the 5-speed lathe have a higher amperage?
The WEN 5-speed lathe draws 5 amps of power. This amperage rating indicates its electrical load during operation. The VEVOR model is listed with a 0.5 HP motor but does not specify amperage in the provided data. For the WEN, the 5-amp rating helps you plan your workshop power supply needs.
Is the 4-speed lathe suitable for hobbyists?
Yes, the VEVOR 4-speed lathe suits hobbyists well. It is designed for small turning projects where fixed speeds are sufficient. The unit is lightweight at 50.7 pounds, making it easier to move than heavier industrial models. You get a stable base for learning or casual woodturning without complex speed adjustments.