WEN LA3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe vs Apprentice 812 VS Mini Lathe

Both are 8-inch, 750-3200 RPM mini lathes with soft start and MT1 tapers, so they turn the same pens and small bowls. The Apprentice 812 VS has a cast iron bed, a 1/3 hp high-torque motor, cam-lock levers and a 5-year satisfaction guarantee, which owners of entry lathes tend to value for stability and vibration control. The WEN LA3421 gives up a little rigidity and warranty length but adds a slightly longer 13-inch bed and a larger 2.3-inch faceplate. Buy the Apprentice for steadier turning and longer coverage; buy the WEN if you want the extra inch of bed and a bigger faceplate out of the box.

• Choose the WEN LA3421 if you want the longer 13-inch bed and a larger 2.3-inch faceplate for faceplate work, and you are fine with a two-year warranty.
• Choose the Apprentice 812 VS if you want cast iron construction, cam-lock tool rest and tailstock levers, and a five-year satisfaction guarantee.