6 Best Alternatives to the CXRCY 12" x 18" Wood (2026)

How the alternatives compare to CXRCY

VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe

The VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Mini Wood Lathe uses a smaller 1/3 HP motor compared to the CXRCY’s 3/4 HP unit. It offers a reduced swing of 8 inches and a shorter distance between centers at 13 inches. This compact design weighs only 37 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the 88-pound CXRCY. You gain a smaller footprint suitable for tight workspaces, but you lose the capacity for larger bowls or spindles. The variable speed control remains, but the lower power limits heavy cutting. This model suits beginners focusing on small details like pens or beads rather than large structural turning projects.

ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

The ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe is a low-voltage option designed for very small-scale tasks. It features a 3-inch swing and an 8-inch distance between centers, which is much smaller than the CXRCY’s 12-inch swing and 18-inch capacity. The unit weighs only 5 pounds, offering extreme portability compared to the CXRCY’s 88 pounds. While it shares the benchtop configuration and variable speed settings, it lacks the raw power for serious woodturning. This lathe is ideal for hobbyists making tiny items like beads or small decorative pieces. It sacrifices capacity and power entirely for precision and minimal space usage.

Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe

The Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe provides a larger 14-inch swing and a 40-inch distance between centers, exceeding the CXRCY’s 12-inch and 18-inch limits. It weighs 49.2 pounds, which is lighter than the CXRCY’s 88 pounds despite the larger bed. The variable speed control allows for smooth adjustments similar to the CXRCY. This machine is better for turning long spindles or wide bowls that do not fit on the CXRCY. You gain significant working capacity while maintaining a manageable weight. The trade-off is a different footprint and potentially less rigid setup for very heavy cuts compared to heavier industrial models.

VEVOR 12x18 3/4 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe

The VEVOR 12x18 3/4 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe matches the CXRCY’s 3/4 HP motor and 12-inch by 18-inch dimensions exactly. However, it weighs only 59.8 pounds, which is 28 pounds lighter than the CXRCY. This model lacks the digital speed display and infinitely variable speed control found on the CXRCY. Instead, it relies on fixed speeds for operation. You gain a lighter, simpler machine that is easier to move and adjust mechanically. The trade-off is the loss of fine speed tuning for delicate work. This option suits users who prefer stable, fixed speeds for large projects without needing precise RPM adjustments.

MECHINHUB 8" x 12" Variable Speed Wood Lathe

The MECHINHUB 8" x 12" Variable Speed Wood Lathe features a smaller 8-inch swing and 12-inch distance between centers, compared to the CXRCY’s 12-inch and 18-inch specs. It uses a 1/3 HP motor, which is less powerful than the CXRCY’s 3/4 HP unit. Weighing 44 pounds, it is half the weight of the CXRCY. The variable speed control offers flexibility similar to the original, but within a smaller capacity. This lathe is better for hobbyists who prioritize stability and precision for small items over large turning capacity. You trade raw power and size for a more manageable, compact tool suitable for detailed pen and bead work.

JET 14" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe

The JET 14" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe offers a 1 HP motor, which is more powerful than the CXRCY’s 3/4 HP unit. It provides a 14-inch swing and 40-inch distance between centers, significantly exceeding the CXRCY’s capacity. The unit weighs 220 pounds, making it much heavier and more stable than the 88-pound CXRCY. It supports 115/230V operation, offering voltage flexibility. The variable speed control ensures precise adjustments for detailed work. This machine is ideal for professional woodturners needing robust power and large capacity. You gain industrial-grade stability and speed but sacrifice portability and benchtop convenience for a floor-standing or heavy-duty setup.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

CXRCY 12" x 18" 3/4 HP Wood Lathe

Best for: Detailed woodturning with precise speed control

Swing Over Bed

12"

Between Centers

18"

Motor Power

3/4 HP

Speed Range

650–3800 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Configuration

Benchtop

View on Amazon: CXRCY 12" x 18" 3/4 HP Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The CXRCY 12x18 Wood Lathe offers 3/4 HP power with a 12-inch swing and 18-inch between-center capacity. It features infinitely variable speed control from 650 to 3800 RPM. A digital display shows current RPM, and an adjustable belt system allows speed changes without complex disassembly. This benchtop machine suits woodworkers needing precise speed adjustments for various projects.

Pros

• 3/4 HP motor provides strong turning power
• Infinitely variable speed from 650 to 3800 RPM
• Digital display clearly shows current RPM
• 12-inch swing over bed accommodates larger workpieces
• Belt adjustment is simplified by an upgraded design

Cons

• Variable speed requires manual belt repositioning
• Digital display does not allow direct speed input
• Benchtop footprint requires stable workspace support

Good fit if

• You need precise speed control for detailed woodturning
• You work with workpieces up to 18 inches long
• You prefer seeing exact RPM on a digital display

Skip if

• You require fully automatic electronic speed control
• You only turn small items under 8 inches
• You need a floor-standing heavy-duty machine

Verdict: CXRCY 12x18 Wood Lathe fits woodworkers who value precise speed control and a clear digital readout for detailed turning tasks. It is a capable benchtop option for those who do not mind manual belt adjustments for speed changes.

2 Best budget

VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe

Best for: small detailed woodturning projects

Swing Over Bed

8"

Between Centers

13"

Motor Power

1/3 HP (250W)

Speed Range

150–3200 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Swing

8-Inch

View on Amazon: VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The VEVOR 1/3 HP 8x13 Mini Lathe is a benchtop machine designed for beginners and hobbyists. It features a variable speed range of 150 to 3200 RPM, allowing you to handle both roughing and fine finishing tasks. The 8-inch swing and 13-inch between-center capacity suit small projects. Its metal frame reduces vibration, and the included accessories let you start immediately.

Pros

• 1/3 HP motor handles soft and hard woods
• Variable speed from 150 to 3200 RPM
• Metal frame reduces vibration for better stability
• Includes essential tools for immediate use

Cons

• Smaller 8-inch swing limits workpiece diameter
• Shorter 13-inch length restricts project size
• Lower 1/3 HP power compared to 3/4 HP models

Good fit if

• You are a beginner learning woodturning
• You need a compact benchtop machine
• You mostly create small detailed projects

Skip if

• You require large 12-inch swing capacity
• You need high-power roughing performance
• You turn long spindles over 13 inches

Verdict: VEVOR 1/3 HP 8x13 Mini Lathe fits beginners who prioritize compact size and variable speed for small, detailed woodturning projects over raw power.

3 Also great

ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: small-scale DIY woodturning projects

Swing Over Bed

3"

Between Centers

8"

Motor Power

96W

Speed Control

Infinitely variable

Voltage

24VDC

Spindle Taper

MT1

View on Amazon: ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The ARTYMASTER WM101A is a 24VDC mini benchtop lathe designed for home DIY projects. It features a 96W high-torque motor and infinitely variable speed control for precise turning. With a 3-inch swing over bed and 8-inch between centers capacity, it handles small items like pens and bowls. The solid steel base minimizes vibration, while the included tool set supports various woodworking tasks.

Pros

• 96W high-torque motor for versatile material processing
• Infinitely variable speed control for precise cutting
• Solid steel base minimizes vibration and noise
• Includes professional turning tool combo and chuck set

Cons

• Small 3-inch swing over bed limits project size
• 8-inch between centers capacity restricts long workpieces
• Requires 24VDC power supply rather than standard AC

Good fit if

• You need a compact lathe for small DIY projects
• You want infinitely variable speed for fine detail work
• You prefer a quiet operation with low vibration

Skip if

• You need to turn large bowls or long spindles
• You require a standard AC-powered benchtop machine
• You need a larger swing over bed for bigger stock

Verdict: The ARTYMASTER WM101A Mini Wood Lathe is a compact, low-voltage option ideal for small-scale turning tasks like pens and beads. It suits hobbyists who prioritize precision and quiet operation over large capacity.

4 Also great

Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: Large capacity turning with smooth speed control

Swing Over Bed

14 in

Between Centers

40 in

Motor Power

0.5 HP (400W)

Speed Range

1040-2980 RPM

Speed Control

Infinitely Variable Speed

Spindle Taper

MT2

View on Amazon: Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The Garvee 14 x 40 benchtop wood lathe offers a 14-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It features a 0.5 HP motor with infinitely variable speed control ranging from 1040 to 2980 RPM. The sturdy aluminum base and steel headstock minimize vibration. This machine suits woodworkers needing a large workspace for detailed turning projects.

Pros

• 14-inch swing over bed for larger stock
• 40-inch between-centers length for long pieces
• Infinitely variable speed control from 1040 to 2980 RPM
• MT2 spindle and tailstock tapers for accessory compatibility

Cons

• Lower 0.5 HP motor power compared to 3/4 HP competitors
• Heavier 49.2-pound build requires sturdy support
• Limited speed settings compared to multi-speed fixed options

Good fit if

• You need a 40-inch length for long spindles
• You require a 14-inch swing for wide bowls
• You prefer smooth speed adjustments for fine detail

Skip if

• You require more than 0.5 HP for heavy cuts
• You need a smaller footprint for tight spaces
• You prefer fixed speed settings for simplicity

Verdict: Garvee 14 x 40 Benchtop Wood Lathe fits woodworkers needing large capacity and smooth speed control. It is ideal for detailed turning on long or wide pieces.

5 Also great

VEVOR 12x18 3/4 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: Large woodturning projects requiring stable power

Swing Over Bed

12"

Between Centers

18"

Motor Power

3/4 HP (560W)

Speed Range

780–3840 RPM

Speed Control

5-speed

Configuration

Benchtop

View on Amazon: VEVOR 12x18 3/4 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The VEVOR 12x18 benchtop wood lathe offers 3/4 HP power with five fixed speeds up to 3840 RPM. Its 12-inch swing and 18-inch between-centers capacity handle larger projects like table legs. The metal frame reduces vibration, and thermal protection safeguards the motor. This machine suits advanced hobbyists and professionals needing reliable performance for soft or hard woods.

Pros

• 3/4 HP motor delivers strong turning power
• 5 fixed speeds reach up to 3840 RPM
• 12-inch swing accommodates wider workpieces
• Metal frame reduces operational vibration
• Thermal protection prevents motor overheating

Cons

• Only 5 fixed speeds, not infinitely variable
• Heavier 59.8 lb build limits portability
• No variable speed control for fine finishing

Good fit if

• You need 12-inch swing capacity for larger projects
• You prefer fixed speeds for consistent roughing
• You want thermal protection for long runs

Skip if

• You require infinitely variable speed control
• You need a lightweight portable lathe
• You only work on small 8-inch projects

Verdict: VEVOR 12x18 3/4 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe fits users who prioritize raw power and stability over fine speed adjustments. It is a solid choice for turning large items where fixed speeds suffice.

6

MECHINHUB 8" x 12" Variable Speed Wood Lathe

Best for: Small detailed woodturning projects

Swing Over Bed

8"

Between Centers

12"

Motor Power

1/3 HP

Speed Range

750–3200 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Voltage

110V

View on Amazon: MECHINHUB 8" x 12" Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The MECHINHUB mini lathe offers an 8-inch swing and 12-inch between-centers capacity for small woodworking projects. It features a 1/3 HP pure-copper motor and infinitely variable speed control from 750 to 3200 RPM. This benchtop unit weighs 44 pounds and includes two tool rests and essential accessories. It suits DIY enthusiasts needing precise control for detailed turning tasks on a compact footprint.

Pros

• Infinitely variable speed from 750 to 3200 RPM
• 1/3 HP pure-copper motor for durability
• Includes two solid tool rests
• Cast-iron construction minimizes vibration

Cons

• Smaller 8-inch swing limits project width
• Shorter 12-inch length restricts turning size
• Lower 1/3 HP motor power compared to alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a compact lathe for small projects
• You require precise speed control for detailed work
• You value stability from a cast-iron base

Skip if

• You need to turn large diameter stock
• You require longer pieces between centers
• You prefer higher motor power for heavy duty use

Verdict: MECHINHUB 8" x 12" Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe fits hobbyists who prioritize precision and stability for small-scale turning over raw capacity. It is a solid choice for detailed work where space and control matter more than size.

7 Best premium

JET 14" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe

Best for: Precision woodturning with variable speed control

Swing Over Bed

14"

Between Centers

40"

Motor Power

1 HP

Speed Range

400-3,000 RPM

Speed Control

Variable Speed

Voltage

115/230V

View on Amazon: JET 14" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The JET JWL-1440VS is a 1 HP benchtop wood lathe with 115/230V capability. It offers 14-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. Variable speed ranges from 400 to 3,000 RPM. The headstock pivots 360 degrees with seven locking positions. An easy-to-read RPM display helps you track settings. This machine suits serious woodturners needing precision and power.

Pros

• 1 HP motor provides strong turning power
• Variable speed control from 400 to 3,000 RPM
• Headstock pivots 360 degrees with 7 locking positions
• 115/230V dual voltage compatibility

Cons

• Heavy 220-pound build limits portability
• 40-inch between-centers capacity is smaller than some alternatives
• No mention of digital speed memory or app control

Good fit if

• You need a 1 HP motor for heavy stock removal
• You require variable speed for fine detail work
• You want a lathe that pivots for spindle turning

Skip if

• You need more than 40 inches between centers
• You require a lightweight machine under 100 pounds
• You only have 115V power and prefer fixed speeds

Verdict: JET 14x40 Variable Speed Wood Lathe fits woodturners who need robust 1 HP power and flexible headstock positioning. It is ideal for those prioritizing variable speed precision over maximum length capacity.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions