Looking Beyond the Jet 18" x 40" EVS? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are searching for jet 18 x 40 evs alternatives, you likely want a machine with similar capacity but different specifications. The Jet JWL-1840EVS offers 2 HP power and a 40 to 3200 RPM range on 230V circuits. It handles large projects with an 18-inch swing and 40-inch between-center distance. However, its 418-pound weight and 230V requirement limit where you can place it. You might need a lighter unit or one that runs on standard 115V power. Some buyers prefer a smaller swing or a benchtop configuration for tighter workshops. Others seek a different brand for specific feature sets or price points. We selected these options because their core specs overlap with the Jet model. Each alternative shares key traits like variable speed control and woodturning application. This list covers seven machines that match the original’s general purpose while offering distinct differences in size, power, or voltage. You can compare these specs to find the best fit for your shop space and project needs.
Our top pick: Jet 18 x 40 EVS Lathe.
How these alternatives compare
JET 16" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe
The Jet 16" x 40" EVS Lathe uses a 1-1/2 HP motor instead of the 2 HP unit in the original. It operates on 115V circuits, making it suitable for standard household outlets where the 230V model requires dedicated wiring. This machine weighs 377 pounds, which is 41 pounds lighter than the original. It retains the variable speed control and reversible turning features. You gain flexibility in power requirements but sacrifice some raw torque. This model fits woodturners who need reliable performance on standard electrical circuits without installing new 230V lines.
Powermatic 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe
The Powermatic 20" x 35" Variable Speed Lathe increases the swing capacity to 20 inches but reduces the between-centers distance to 35 inches. It shares the 2 HP motor rating but weighs 726 pounds, significantly heavier than the original. The machine is yellow and designed for professional use. You gain larger diameter capacity for wide bowls but lose some length for long spindles. The increased weight provides greater stability for heavy-duty work. This lathe suits professional turners who prioritize maximum width capacity and do not need the full 40-inch length of the Jet model.
VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe
The VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe matches the original's 18-inch swing and 40-inch length. It also uses a 2 HP motor. However, it weighs only 272 pounds, which is 146 pounds lighter than the Jet. The construction appears less massive, which may affect vibration control during heavy cuts. It features a black and orange finish. You get similar capacity and power at a lower weight, potentially making it easier to move. This option fits those who need large turning dimensions but prefer a lighter machine or have different stability preferences.
VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe
The VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe is a benchtop unit with a 1/3 HP motor. It offers an 8-inch swing and 13-inch length, far smaller than the original. It weighs just 37 pounds, making it highly portable. This machine lacks the power and capacity for large projects. You gain a compact, affordable option for small decorative items and beginners. It sits on a workbench rather than standing on the floor. This lathe suits hobbyists making small pieces who do not need the robust capabilities of a floor-standing 2 HP lathe.
ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe
The ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe is a tiny benchtop unit with no listed motor power or weight in the data. It has a 3-inch swing and 8-inch length. It is significantly smaller than the original in every dimension. This machine is intended for small DIY projects and decorative items. You gain a very compact footprint but lose all capacity for serious turning. It is not suitable for large workpieces. This lathe fits hobbyists making small items who need a benchtop solution and do not require the power or size of a full-sized woodturning machine.
Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe
The Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe offers a 14-inch swing and 40-inch length. It weighs 49.2 pounds, making it much lighter than the original. It is a benchtop model, unlike the floor-standing Jet. The motor power is not specified in the data. You gain a compact machine with similar length capacity but reduced swing width. It is suitable for hobbyists needing variable speed for general turning. This lathe fits those who want a 40-inch reach but lack space for a heavy floor-standing unit or do not need an 18-inch swing.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Jet 18 x 40 EVS Lathe
Best for: large-scale woodturning projects
- Swing Over Bed
- 18-1/2"
- Between Centers
- 40-1/2"
- Motor Power
- 2 HP
- Speed Range
- 40–3200 RPM
- Speed Control
- Variable speed
- Voltage
- 230V
View on Amazon: Jet 18 x 40 EVS Lathe Affiliate link
This 2 HP, 230V lathe offers an 18-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It features electronic infinitely-variable speed from 40 to 3200 RPM. The reversible turning function allows smooth transitions. It includes an improved banjo and tailstock quill lock. This machine suits woodworkers needing substantial size and precise control for larger projects.
Pros
- 2 HP motor provides strong power for heavy turning.
- Electronic infinitely-variable speed control ranges from 40 to 3200 RPM.
- Reversible turning allows smooth forward to reverse transitions.
- Remote emergency stop button enhances safety along the bed.
Cons
- Requires 230V power, limiting placement options.
- Weighs 418 pounds, making it difficult to move.
- Large footprint at 73 inches long requires significant floor space.
Good fit if
- You need a large capacity for turning bowls or long spindles.
- You have a dedicated shop with 230V power available.
- You want precise electronic speed control for detailed work.
Skip if
- You only have standard 115V household outlets.
- You have limited floor space for a 73-inch machine.
- You need a lightweight lathe for easy relocation.
Verdict: Jet JWL-1840EVS 18" x 40" Lathe fits serious woodturners who require a robust, stationary machine for large-scale projects and have the necessary power and space.
JET 16" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Best for: Detailed woodturning on 115V power
- Swing Over Bed
- 16"
- Between Centers
- 40"
- Motor Power
- 1-1/2 HP
- Speed Range
- 40 to 3200 RPM
- Speed Control
- Electronic infinitely-variable
- Voltage
- 115V
View on Amazon: JET 16" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link
This 115V lathe offers 1-1/2 HP power with a 16-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It features electronic infinitely-variable speed from 40 to 3200 RPM. The design includes an extended spindle, improved tailstock quill, and a 36-position indexing system. It suits woodturners needing reversible turning capabilities on standard household circuits.
Pros
- Electronic infinitely-variable speed from 40 to 3200 RPM
- 1-1/2 HP motor for robust performance
- 36 integrated indexing positions for precise work
- Reversible wood turning machine design
- Extended spindle nose with dual headstock bearings
Cons
- Smaller 16-inch swing compared to 18-inch competitors
- Heavier 377-pound build requiring sturdy support
- Shorter 40-inch between-centers length limits long projects
Good fit if
- You need 115V compatibility for standard outlets
- You require variable speed control for fine detail work
- You want reversible turning capabilities for varied projects
Skip if
- You need 220V power for higher torque demands
- You require a swing larger than 16 inches
- You frequently turn pieces longer than 40 inches
Verdict: Jet 16x40 EVS 115V Wood Lathe fits woodturners who need reliable variable speed and reversible turning on standard 115V circuits, offering a compact yet capable setup for detailed projects.
Powermatic 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Best for: Professional woodturners needing high capacity
- Swing Over Bed
- 20"
- Between Centers
- 35"
- Motor Power
- 2 HP
- Speed Range
- 15 - 3,200 RPM
- Speed Control
- Variable speed
- Voltage
- 220V
View on Amazon: Powermatic 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link
This Powermatic lathe offers a 20-inch swing and 35-inch between-centers capacity. It features a 2 HP motor with a variable speed range of 15 to 3,200 RPM. The unit includes a digital display for precise indexing and adjustable riser blocks for comfort. It is designed for serious woodturning tasks requiring high stability and control.
Pros
- 2 HP motor provides strong power for large projects
- Variable speed range from 15 to 3,200 RPM
- Digital display simplifies indexing for added precision
- Adjustable riser blocks offer 4 inches of height adjustment
Cons
- Heavy 726-pound build limits portability
- Requires 220V power outlet
- Larger footprint than benchtop alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a 20-inch swing capacity
- You require a 2 HP motor for heavy turning
- You have a dedicated shop with 220V power
Skip if
- You only have standard 110V outlets
- You need a portable benchtop machine
- You prefer smaller swing capacities under 16 inches
Verdict: Powermatic 20" x 35" Variable Speed Lathe fits professional turners who need maximum capacity and power in a fixed location.
VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Best for: large capacity woodworking projects
- Swing Over Bed
- 18 in
- Between Centers
- 40 in
- Motor Power
- 2 HP (1500W)
- Speed Range
- 150 to 3200 RPM
- Speed Control
- Variable speed
- Target Material
- Wood
View on Amazon: VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link
The VEVOR 18 x 40 inch wood lathe offers a 2 HP brushless DC motor and variable speed control from 150 to 3200 RPM. Its 18-inch swing and 40-inch between-center capacity handle medium to large projects. The vertical leg design provides stability for continuous use. This machine suits professional woodworkers and small business owners who need reliable power and a large work area without manual gear adjustments.
Pros
- 2 HP brushless DC motor delivers strong power
- Variable speed range from 150 to 3200 RPM
- 18 x 40 inch capacity for large projects
- Vertical leg design minimizes vibration
Cons
- Heavy weight at 272 pounds
- Large footprint requires significant floor space
- No reversible wood turning capability listed
Good fit if
- You need a large 18 x 40 inch work area
- You require variable speed control for fine detail
- You want a brushless motor for low maintenance
Skip if
- You need a reversible wood turning feature
- You have limited floor space for a heavy machine
- You prefer a lighter benchtop model
Verdict: VEVOR 18 x 40 2 HP Wood Lathe fits woodworkers who need a spacious 18 x 40 inch capacity and stable vertical construction for large turning projects.
VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe
Best for: small hobbyist 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
This VEVOR mini lathe offers 8 inches of swing and 13 inches between centers. It features a 1/3 HP motor with variable speed control from 150 to 3200 RPM. The benchtop design fits on standard workbenches. It includes a metal frame for stability and comes with essential accessories. This unit suits beginners working on small, detailed wood projects.
Pros
- Variable speed range of 150 to 3200 RPM
- 1/3 HP motor handles soft and hard woods
- Metal frame reduces vibration during operation
- Includes essential tools for immediate use
Cons
- Small 8-inch swing limits large diameter work
- 13-inch capacity restricts spindle length
- 1/3 HP motor lacks power for heavy roughing
Good fit if
- You need a compact lathe for small turnings
- You are a beginner learning basic woodturning
- You have limited bench space for equipment
Skip if
- You require turning large diameter bowls
- You need to turn long spindles
- You want a heavy-duty industrial machine
Verdict: VEVOR 8 x 13 Mini Benchtop Lathe fits beginners making small projects. It lacks the capacity for larger workpieces.
ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe
Best for: small 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 benchtop lathe designed for small DIY projects. It offers a 3-inch swing and 8-inch between-centers capacity. The 96W motor provides infinitely variable speed control for precise turning. Its compact steel base minimizes vibration. This lathe suits beginners working on pens, rings, and small bowls. It includes essential accessories like chucks and tools.
Pros
- 96W high-torque motor with infinitely variable speed
- Compact 3-inch swing and 8-inch between centers
- Solid steel base reduces vibration and noise
Cons
- Small 3-inch swing limits larger workpieces
- Low 96W motor power restricts heavy material removal
- Requires 24VDC power supply, not standard outlet
Good fit if
- You need a compact lathe for small DIY items
- You are new to woodturning and want low cost
- You have limited bench space for equipment
Skip if
- You turn large bowls or table legs
- You require high-speed professional production
- You prefer standard 120VAC direct power
Verdict: ArtyMaster WM101A Mini Wood Lathe fits hobbyists making small decorative items. It is not suitable for serious turning or large projects.
Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe
Best for: Hobbyists needing variable speed for general turning
- 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
This benchtop lathe offers a 14-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It features a 0.5 HP motor with infinitely variable speed control from 1040 to 2980 RPM. The sturdy aluminum alloy base and steel headstock help minimize vibration. It includes essential accessories like a faceplate and wrenches. You should consider this model if you need a versatile machine for standard woodturning projects.
Pros
- 14-inch swing over bed provides ample capacity
- 40-inch between-centers length handles longer workpieces
- Infinitely variable speed control from 1040 to 2980 RPM
- MT2 spindle taper supports standard accessories
- Includes faceplate and wrenches for immediate use
Cons
- 0.5 HP motor is less powerful than 1 HP competitors
- Only 14-inch swing limits diameter for large bowls
- Fixed speed range lacks low-RPM options for delicate work
Good fit if
- You need a benchtop lathe for standard turning projects
- You prefer infinitely variable speed for precise control
- You want a machine with included accessories
Skip if
- You require high power for heavy stock removal
- You need to turn large diameter pieces over 14 inches
- You need very low RPMs for fine detail work
Verdict: Garvee 14 x 40 Benchtop Wood Lathe fits hobbyists who need a compact machine with variable speed for general woodworking. It is not suitable for large-scale production or heavy-duty turning.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Jet 18 x 40 EVS Lathe | JET 16" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe | Powermatic 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe | VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe | VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe | ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe | Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swing Over Bed | 18-1/2" | 16" | 20" | 18 in | 8" | 3" | 14 in |
| Between Centers | 40-1/2" | 40" | 35" | 40 in | 13" | 8" | 40 in |
| Motor Power | 2 HP | 1-1/2 HP | 2 HP | 2 HP (1500W) | 1/3 HP (250W) | 96W | 0.5 HP (400W) |
| Speed Range | 40–3200 RPM | 40 to 3200 RPM | 15 - 3,200 RPM | 150 to 3200 RPM | 150–3200 RPM | not specified | 1040-2980 RPM |
| Speed Control | Variable speed | Electronic infinitely-variable | Variable speed | Variable speed | Variable speed | Infinitely variable | Infinitely Variable Speed |
| Voltage | 230V | 115V | 220V | not specified | not specified | 24VDC | not specified |
| Spindle Taper | MT-2 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | MT1 | MT2 |
| Swing | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 8-Inch | not specified | 14-Inch |
| Configuration | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Benchtop | Benchtop | Benchtop |
| Speed Settings | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | Variable Speed |
| Amperage | 15 Amp | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Target Material | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood | Wood |
| Intended Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | DIY | DIY | not specified |
| Application | not specified | Woodworking, Woodturning | Woodworking, Woodturning | Woodworking | Woodworking, Woodturning | Woodworking, Woodturning | Woodworking, Woodturning |
| Dimensions | 73 × 52.5 × 20 inches | 57 × 31 × 28 inches | 69.5 × 36.5 × 47 inches | 72.8 × 17.7 × 46.9 inches | 28.4 × 11 × 12.6 inches | 5 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 32.7 × 11.4 × 16.5 inches |
| Weight | 418 pounds | 377 pounds | 726 pounds | 272 pounds | 37 pounds | not specified | 49.2 pounds |
| Color | White | White | Yellow | Black + Orange | Black + Orange | not specified | not specified |
| Model | JWL-1840EVS | JWL-1640EVS | 3520C | WL1840 | WL0813 | WM101A Plus | Wood Lathe |
| Size | not specified | not specified | not specified | 16" x 40"-2 HP | 720*280*320 mm | not specified | 14" x 40" |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a 115V alternative to the Jet 18 x 40 EVS?
Yes, the Jet 16" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe operates on standard 115V circuits. It features a 1-1/2 HP motor and variable speed settings. This model allows you to use standard household outlets instead of dedicated 230V wiring, making it suitable for detailed woodturning projects where power access is limited.
What is the most powerful alternative for large projects?
The Powermatic 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe offers 2 HP power and a 20-inch swing capacity. It is designed for professional woodturners needing maximum capacity. Weighing 726 pounds, this machine provides stability for heavy-duty work and fits in fixed locations where space and power allow.
Can I find a budget-friendly 18 x 40 lathe?
The VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe provides large capacity at a lower cost point. It features variable speed control and a 2 HP motor. This black and orange machine weighs 272 pounds, offering a spacious turning area for large woodworking projects without the premium price tag.
Are there smaller benchtop options for hobbyists?
Yes, the VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Mini Wood Lathe and the ArtyMaster 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe are suitable for small DIY projects. Both offer variable speed settings and compact footprints. The VEVOR model weighs 37 pounds, while the ArtyMaster is even lighter, making them ideal for beginners or small decorative items.
Is there a mid-sized option between 14 and 18 inches?
The Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe provides a 14-inch swing capacity. It features variable speed settings and a 14 x 40 inch turning length. Weighing 49.2 pounds, this benchtop machine is compact enough for hobbyists who need general turning capabilities but do not require the full 18-inch capacity of larger lathes.
Which alternative is best for serious woodturners on a budget?
The VEVOR 2 HP 18" x 40" Variable Speed Wood Lathe is the best budget choice for serious turning. It matches the 18 x 40 capacity of the Jet EVS with a 2 HP motor. Its vertical construction offers stability for large projects, making it a practical alternative for those needing high capacity without the premium cost.