6 Best Alternatives to the WEN 34035 6-Amp 14-Inch by (2026)

How each alternative compares

VEVOR 12" x 18" 1 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe

The VEVOR 12x18 model trades the WEN’s larger 14-inch swing and 20-inch bed for a more compact 12-inch by 18-inch footprint. It offers a 1 HP motor, which provides more power than the WEN’s 6-amp unit, making it suitable for denser hardwoods. You gain a smaller machine that fits tighter workspaces, but you lose the capacity for very wide bowls or long spindles. The VEVOR is best for hobbyists who prioritize precision and stability over maximum workpiece size. Its variable speed control remains essential for detailed turning tasks, ensuring you can match the rotation rate to your material hardness and tool type effectively.

VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe

This VEVOR mini lathe significantly reduces both swing and bed length compared to the WEN 34035. With an 8-inch swing and 13-inch between-centers capacity, it is designed for small projects like pens or small bowls. It features a 1/3 HP motor, which is much less powerful than the WEN’s 6-amp motor. You sacrifice large workpiece capacity for a compact, lightweight machine that is easier to store and handle. The 37-pound weight makes it less stable for heavy cuts than the heavier WEN unit. This alternative is ideal for beginners or those with limited bench space who do not need to turn large, wide items.

WEN 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Lathe

The WEN LA3421 mini lathe offers an 8-inch swing and 13-inch bed, which is smaller than the WEN 34035’s 14-inch by 20-inch dimensions. It targets hobbyists focusing on small, detailed woodturning projects rather than large-scale work. While it shares the same brand heritage, the reduced size means you cannot turn wide bowls or long spindles. The variable speed control allows for similar precision in tool engagement, but the smaller frame may not support heavy cuts as well as the larger 34035 model. This option is best for those who already own a larger lathe and need a dedicated machine for intricate, small-diameter turning tasks.

ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

The ARTYMASTER 3x8 mini lathe is drastically smaller than the WEN 34035, with only a 3-inch swing and 8-inch bed. It is designed for very small, detailed items like pens or rings, not for bowls or spindles. You give up almost all large workpiece capacity for a tiny footprint that fits on any desk. The variable speed control is present, but the low power limits it to softwoods and small diameters. This alternative is strictly for hobbyists who need a dedicated machine for tiny turning projects and do not require the versatility of a full-sized benchtop lathe. It is not suitable for any project requiring significant width or length.

Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe

The Garvee 14x40 lathe matches the WEN 34035’s 14-inch swing but doubles the bed length to 40 inches. This allows you to turn much longer spindles, such as table legs or tool handles, which the WEN cannot accommodate. It retains variable speed control for precise turning. You gain significant length capacity without increasing the swing width, making it ideal for long projects. The trade-off is a larger footprint and potentially less rigidity for wide bowl turning compared to the more compact WEN. This alternative is best for woodworkers who prioritize length over swing width and need to turn long, slender pieces with stability.

VEVOR 14" x 20" 1 HP Variable Speed Wood Lathe

The VEVOR 14x20 lathe matches the WEN 34035’s 14-inch swing and 20-inch bed length but offers a 1 HP motor for more power. It features a heavy cast iron build, which provides greater stability for larger projects than the WEN’s construction. You get the same workpiece dimensions but with enhanced rigidity and torque for harder woods. The variable speed range supports similar turning techniques, but the increased mass reduces vibration during heavy cuts. This alternative is best for professional woodworkers or serious hobbyists who need a more robust machine for large, demanding projects without sacrificing the compact benchtop form factor of the original WEN model.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

WEN 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe

Best for: Turning large bowls and wide wooden spindles

Swing Over Bed

14"

Between Centers

20"

Speed Range

250 - 3550 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Spindle Taper

MT2

Swing

20-Inch

View on Amazon: WEN 14-Inch by 20-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link

This benchtop lathe lets you turn workpieces up to 14 inches wide and 20 inches long. You get a 6-amp motor with variable speed control ranging from 250 to 3550 RPM. The MT2 tapers and 1-inch spindle thread support many accessories. It includes a faceplate, spur center, and live center. This setup suits woodworkers needing capacity for larger bowls or spindles.

Pros

• Swing over bed reaches 14 inches for wider projects
• Variable speed adjusts from 250 to 3550 RPM
• Includes MT2 tailstock and headstock tapers for accessories
• 1-inch by 8 spindle thread allows tool compatibility

Cons

• MT2 tapers limit compatibility with standard Morse taper tools
• Benchtop footprint requires 38 inches of length
• Variable speed dial lacks digital readout

Good fit if

• You need to turn bowls larger than 12 inches
• You want variable speed for fine detail work
• You already own MT2 compatible accessories

Skip if

• You only turn small spindles under 8 inches
• You need digital speed control
• You require a floor-standing model

Verdict: WEN 34035 14-Inch Variable Speed Lathe fits woodworkers who need extra swing capacity for bowls while keeping a benchtop footprint. It offers solid speed control for detailed turning tasks.

2 Also great

VEVOR 12" x 18" 1 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: Small turning projects and hobbyists

Swing Over Bed

12 in

Between Centers

18 in

Motor Power

1 HP (750W)

Speed Range

150 to 3800 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Configuration

Benchtop

View on Amazon: VEVOR 12" x 18" 1 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe Affiliate link

This VEVOR benchtop lathe features a 1 HP brushless DC motor and a 12-inch swing by 18-inch between-centers capacity. It offers a variable speed range of 150 to 3800 RPM for precise control. The cast iron body provides stability for turning bowls, pens, and small carvings. It suits hobbyists and beginners who need a robust machine without manual gear adjustments.

Pros

• 1 HP brushless DC motor eliminates carbon brush maintenance
• Wide variable speed range from 150 to 3800 RPM
• Durable cast iron body minimizes vibration during operation
• Includes essential accessories for immediate use

Cons

• 12-inch swing limits workpiece diameter compared to larger lathes
• 18-inch between-centers length restricts longer projects
• Brushless motor design may cost more than brushed alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a stable machine for small turning projects like bowls or pens
• You prefer low-maintenance brushless motor technology
• You want a wide speed range for detailed work

Skip if

• You frequently turn long spindles exceeding 18 inches
• You require a swing capacity larger than 12 inches
• You are looking for a budget option with brushed motors

Verdict: VEVOR 1 HP 12x18 Benchtop Wood Lathe is a solid choice for hobbyists who value stability and low maintenance for small-scale turning projects. It fits users who prioritize precision over large workpiece capacity.

3 Best budget

VEVOR 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe

Best for: small woodturning projects and beginners

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-inch swing and 13-inch between-centers capacity. It features a 1/3 HP motor with variable speed from 150 to 3200 RPM. The metal frame reduces vibration for better stability. It includes essential accessories for immediate use. This machine suits beginners and hobbyists working on small, detailed wood projects. It provides reliable performance for soft and hard woods.

Pros

• 1/3 HP motor handles roughing and fine finishing
• Variable speed control from 150 to 3200 RPM
• Metal frame reduces vibration during operation
• Includes overcurrent protection circuit board
• Comes with essential tools for immediate use

Cons

• Smaller 8-inch swing limits project diameter
• 13-inch between-centers restricts longer workpieces
• Lower 1/3 HP motor power compared to larger lathes

Good fit if

• You need a compact lathe for small projects
• You are a beginner looking for an entry-level machine
• You want variable speed control for detailed work

Skip if

• You require more than 8-inch swing capacity
• You need to turn workpieces longer than 13 inches
• You prefer a high-power motor for heavy-duty use

Verdict: VEVOR 1/3 HP 8x13 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe fits beginners needing a compact, stable machine for small woodturning tasks. It is not suitable for large or long projects.

4 Best 13-inch

WEN 8 x 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Lathe

Best for: Small precision woodturning projects

Swing Over Bed

8"

Between Centers

13"

Speed Range

750 - 3200 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Spindle Taper

MT1

Swing

13-Inch

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

The WEN LA3421 is a compact benchtop wood lathe designed for small projects like pens and chess pieces. It offers an 8-inch swing and 13-inch distance between centers. The 3.2-amp motor provides variable speed control from 750 to 3200 RPM. This unit includes two tool rests and a face plate. It suits beginners or those with limited workspace who need precision for small workpieces.

Pros

• Variable speed range from 750 to 3200 RPM
• Soft-start 3.2-amp motor for safety
• Includes two interchangeable tool rests
• Compact 8-inch swing over bed

Cons

• Limited 8-inch swing restricts large bowls
• 13-inch distance between centers is short
• 3.2-amp motor lacks power for heavy stock removal

Good fit if

• You turn small items like pens or cups
• You have limited bench space
• You want a safe soft-start motor

Skip if

• You need to turn large bowls
• You require high torque for hardwoods
• You need more than 13 inches between centers

Verdict: The WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Lathe fits hobbyists focusing on small, detailed woodturning projects. It is not suitable for large-scale work due to its compact 8-inch swing and short bed length.

5 Also great

ARTYMASTER 3x8-Inch Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: small detailed 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 compact benchtop lathe designed for small DIY projects. It features a 96W motor and 3-inch swing capacity with an 8-inch between-centers distance. The infinitely variable speed control allows precise turning of wood and soft materials. Its solid steel base minimizes vibration, while the included tool set supports various finishing tasks. This unit suits hobbyists needing a quiet, space-saving machine for detailed work.

Pros

• Infinitely variable speed control for precise adjustments
• Solid steel base reduces vibration and noise
• Includes round, square, and diamond turning tools
• UL certified 24VDC power supply for safety

Cons

• Small 3-inch swing limits large bowl turning
• Only 8-inch between-centers capacity restricts length
• 96W motor lacks power for hardwoods

Good fit if

• You need a compact lathe for small pens or rings
• You work in a space-constrained home workshop
• You require low noise levels during operation

Skip if

• You need to turn bowls larger than 3 inches
• You require high torque for dense hardwoods
• You need to turn spindles longer than 8 inches

Verdict: ARTYMASTER WM101A Mini Lathe fits hobbyists turning small, detailed items like pens or rings. It is not suitable for large bowl projects or heavy-duty hardwood work.

6 Also great

Garvee 14" x 40" Benchtop Wood Lathe

Best for: Large turning projects requiring stability

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 benchtop lathe offers a 14-inch swing and 40-inch between-centers capacity. It uses a 0.5 HP motor with infinitely variable speed control from 1040 to 2980 RPM. The sturdy aluminum alloy base and steel headstock minimize vibration. This machine suits woodworkers needing a spacious work area for larger projects while maintaining precise control over turning speeds.

Pros

• Infinitely variable speed control for precise adjustments
• Large 40-inch between-centers capacity
• Sturdy aluminum alloy base reduces vibration
• MT2 spindle taper for accessory compatibility

Cons

• Lower 0.5 HP motor power compared to 1 HP competitors
• Heavier build at 49.2 pounds
• Fixed speed range caps at 2980 RPM

Good fit if

• You need extra length for large turning projects
• You prefer smooth speed adjustments over fixed settings
• You want a stable base for detailed work

Skip if

• You require higher than 0.5 HP motor power
• You need speeds above 2980 RPM
• You have limited bench space for a 40-inch machine

Verdict: Garvee 14x40 Benchtop Wood Lathe fits woodworkers who prioritize length and stability over raw power. It is ideal for those turning larger pieces who need smooth speed control.

7 Best premium

VEVOR 14" x 20" 1 HP Variable Speed Wood Lathe

Best for: Large turning projects and professional stability

Swing Over Bed

14 in to 16 in

Between Centers

20 in

Motor Power

1 HP

Speed Range

150-3500 RPM

Speed Control

Variable speed

Swing

14-Inch

View on Amazon: VEVOR 14" x 20" 1 HP Variable Speed Wood Lathe Affiliate link

The VEVOR 1 HP 14x20 Benchtop Wood Lathe offers 750W of power for turning table legs and long-handled tools. It features a dual-speed variable control ranging from 150 to 3500 RPM. The cast iron frame reduces vibration for precise results. It includes a riser block to expand the swing over bed from 14 inches to 16 inches. This machine suits advanced hobbyists and professionals.

Pros

• 1 HP / 750W motor handles soft and hard woods
• Dual-speed variable control from 150 to 3500 RPM
• Cast iron frame reduces vibration during operation
• Includes riser block to expand swing over bed to 16 inches

Cons

• Heavy at 109 pounds for benchtop use
• No mention of electronic speed display
• Lacks remote control functionality

Good fit if

• You need to turn long items up to 20 inches
• You want a cast iron frame for stability
• You require variable speed for fine finishing

Skip if

• You need a mini lathe under 10 inches
• You prefer a lightweight machine under 50 pounds
• You only turn small projects under 8 inches

Verdict: VEVOR 1 HP 14x20 Benchtop Wood Lathe fits woodworkers who need power and stability for larger projects. Its heavy cast iron build and wide speed range support precise turning of table legs and tools.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions