How Much Does A Lathe Machine Cost?

Last Updated on September 17, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Lathes are essential machining tools found in any metal or woodworking shop, ranging from small hobby lathes to enormous industrial machines. But with such a wide variety of lathe types and features, how much does a lathe really cost?

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of lathe machine pricing across all categories. We’ll look at cost considerations for new and used manual, CNC, mini, and industrial lathes. You’ll also learn how factors like size, precision, power, brand name and options impact lathe prices. Read on for the complete guide to understanding lathe costs and choosing the right machine for your budget.

How Much Does A Lathe Machine Cost?

The cost of a lathe machine can range from as low as $700 up to more than $500,000.

There are a few main categories of lathes, each with price ranges based on size, precision, and capabilities:

• Manual lathes range from $2,000 – $20,000+ depending on size and features. Used can be under $5,000. The most basic type of lathe with manual controls. Lower cost but require more human operation. Good for smaller shops.
• CNC lathes span $15,000 – $100,000+ for full-size. Benchtop around $15,000. Used lower prices. Computer numeric control (CNC) lathes can automate operation. More expensive but very precise.
• Mini lathes are $700 – $4,000 for benchtop. Hobbyist models under $1,000.
• Industrial lathesrange $20,000 to $500,000+. Used can start around $10,000+. Heavy duty for high production industry. Very large and accurate.
• Consider size, power, precision, features, brand, and options when purchasing. Evaluate condition closely on used.
• Entry-level CNC lathes start around $15,000.Manual lathes under $5,000 can be a budget choice.

The main factor determining lathe machine cost is automation. Manual lathes require the operator to control everything. CNC lathes can run automated, programmed operation for precision results. Industrial CNC lathes with more power and size are exponentially more expensive.

According to Alibaba, prices for lathe machines can range widely. For instance, a CNC lathe machine can cost between $8,000 and $12,000, while a high-speed horizontal manual metal lathe is priced around $7,450 to $7,500. Smaller, more affordable options like mini lathes are available starting at about $2,000.

Amazon also lists a variety of lathe machines with prices ranging from around $60 for mini wood lathe machines to approximately $1,160 for larger models like the Grizzly Industrial G0842 wood lathe. For example, the WEN LA3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch Benchtop Wood Lathe is priced at $312.44, showcasing options for both hobbyists and professionals.

Additionally, Penn Tool Co offers industrial lathe machines with prices starting from about $1,200 for smaller models and going upwards to $10,000 or more for high-precision machines used in professional settings. They highlight that the price can increase based on additional features and specifications.

How Much Do New Manual Lathes Cost?

Manual lathes are operated completely by hand, without any computerized automation. They range from smaller benchtop metalworking lathes to larger industrial machines. Here are some price ranges for new and used manual lathes:

New Manual Lathe Pricing:

• Benchtop lathes under 12” swing – $2,000 – $4,000
• 12” to 18” swing lathes – $4,000 – $6,000
• Full-size 14” to 24” swing lathes – $6,000 – $12,000
• Large 24” + swing lathes – $12,000 – $18,000
• Industrial manual lathes – $20,000+

Used Manual Lathes:

• Small hobby lathes – $800 – $2,000
• Benchtop lathes – $1,500 – $3,500
• Full-size 14”-24” lathes – $3,000 – $7,000
• Large 24” + industrial lathes – $7,000 – $15,000

As you can see, used manual lathes can offer big savings, often 50% or more off new costs. However, inspect used lathes closely for worn or damaged parts.

Popular new manual lathe models with average street pricing:

• Grizzly G4000 – 12″ swing, 3/4 HP – $2,200
• Jet JWL-1440VSK – 14″ swing, 2 HP – $4,900
• Powermatic 3520C – 20″ swing, 2 HP – $6,400
• Nova 1624-44 – 16″ swing, 3 HP – $6,900
• Laguna 1836 – 36” swing, 5 HP – $11,000

Factors impacting manual lathe costs

• Swing capacity – Larger lathes for bigger diameter turning cost more.
• Horsepower rating – More powerful motors increase cost.
• Precision and rigidity – Higher precision adds cost.
• Bed length – Longer beds allow more distance between centers.
• Brand name – Premium brands charge more.
• Features – More accessories mean higher prices.

Overall manual lathes range from small hobbyist machines around $2,000 up to industrial-duty manual lathes approaching $20,000 or more. Consider both current and future needs when choosing capacity and power.

What’s the Cost of a New CNC Lathe?

CNC lathes add computer numeric control to automate operation. They can precisely turn even complex parts unattended. CNC lathes range from tabletop machines to enormous high-end industrial lathes.

New CNC Lathe Prices:

• Benchtop/mini-CNC lathes – $12,000 – $20,000
• Small industrial CNC lathes – $20,000 – $60,000
• Medium-size precision CNC lathes – $60,000 – $150,000
• Large-scale CNC lathes – $150,000 – $500,000
• Extra-large industrial CNC lathes – $500,000+

Used CNC Lathe Pricing:

• Benchtop CNC lathes – $7,000 – $12,000
• Small industrial CNC lathes – $15,000 – $35,000
• Medium CNC lathes – $35,000 – $85,000
• Large precision CNC lathes – $85,000 – $300,000

Here are some example model prices for new CNC lathes:

• Tormach 15L Slant Pro – 15” swing, 3 HP – $21,900
• Haas ST-20SSY – 20” swing, 20 HP – $82,000
• Okuma GENOS L3000 – 18” swing, 15 HP – $88,000
• Mazak Integrex i-800V – 31” swing, 50 HP – $230,000
• DMG MORI NTX2500 – 25” swing, 46 HP – $425,000

What impacts CNC lathe costs?

• Size – Larger swing capacities are exponentially more expensive.
• Accuracy and precision – More precise machines have higher costs.
• Power – Higher horsepower motors add cost.
• Automation features – More CNC programming ability adds cost.
• Reputation of brand – Top brands charge premium pricing.
• Materials used – Cast iron vs. polymer construction impacts durability and price.
• Options and accessories – Adding tool changers, chip conveyors, etc. increases price.

CNC lathes range from compact hobbyist machines to gigantic computer-controlled lathes used for manufacturing jet engine components. Consider both current and future accuracy and automation needs when selecting a CNC lathe.

The Cost of a Mini Lathe Machine

Mini lathes, also called benchtop lathes, are very compact for small turning work. They range from basic machines for hobbyists to premium mini-CNC lathes. Here are typical mini lathe prices:

New Mini Lathe Costs

• Entry-level 7”x10” lathes – $600 – $1,000
• Mid-range 7”x12” lathes – $1,200 – $2,000
• Larger 9”x20” lathes – $2,000 – $3,500
• Premium mini-CNC lathes – $4,000 – $8,000

Used Mini Lathe Prices

• Older hobbyist lathes – $300 – $600
• Good condition 7”x10” lathes – $800 – $1,500
• Larger benchtop lathes – $1,500 – $2,500

Some example mini lathe models with pricing:

• Harbor Freight 7”x10” mini lathe – 0.2 HP, 7″ swing – $600
• Jet JWL-1015VS – 1 HP, 10″ swing – $1,600
• Grizzly G8688 – 0.5 HP, 3.5″ swing – $995
• Tormach PCN-1100 – 2 HP, 11″ swing, CNC – $3,400

You might also like our articles about the cost of metal fabrication, steel I beam or Standing seam metal roofing.

What affects mini lathe pricing?

• Swing capacity – 7” – 12” ranges from small to larger mini lathes
• Variable speed – Allows optimal speed control for precision
• Horsepower – More powerful motors cost more
• Precision – Higher precision increases cost
• Brand name – Premium mini lathe brands charge more

Consider both size capacity and precision needs when choosing a mini lathe. Hobbyist rotary tools start under $600 while 12” benchtop lathes go up to $3,500.

Industrial Lathe Costs

Industrial lathes are the largest, most heavy-duty lathe machines designed for manufacturing, not hobbyists. Here are typical industrial lathe prices:

New Industrial Lathe Costs

• Small 16” – 20” industrial lathes – $20,000 – $60,000
• Medium 21” – 36” industrial lathes – $60,000 – $120,000
• Large 40” – 60” industrial lathes – $120,000 – $300,000
• Extra-large 60”+ production lathes – $300,000+

Used Industrial Lathes

• Small 16” – 20” industrial lathes – $10,000 – $30,000
• Medium 21” – 36” industrial lathes – $30,000 – $60,000
• Large 40”+ industrial lathes – $60,000 – $150,000

Here are some example new industrial lathe models and prices:

• Okuma LB3000EXII-MYW – 20″ swing, 30 HP – $68,000
• Mazak QTN-250MSY – 41” swing, 50 HP – $230,000
• NSK NLX2500MC650 – 25” swing, 650 mm chuck – $580,000

Industrial lathe cost factors

• Large swing capacity over 20”
• Powerful motors from 10 HP to 100+ HP
• Heavy duty cast iron or granite construction
• Highly automated CNC functionality
• Addition of part conveyors, robotic integration
• Precision ground ballscrews and ways
• Large chuck sizes holding over 100 kg
• Reputation and prestige of manufacturer

These ultra-rigid machines are built to run 24/7 for production environments. Costs run from the tens of thousands into the millions for enormous manufacturing lathes.

The Most Affordable CNC Lathe Machine

For those machining on a budget, here are some of the most affordable new CNC lathes that still maintain quality:

• Tormach 15L Slant Pro – 15′′ swing, 3 HP, $21,900
• Precision Matthews PM-1030V – 10′′ swing, 2 HP, $11,500
• LittleMachineShop 4435 – 12′′ swing, 1 HP, $6,200
• Busy Bee B940 – 9” swing, 1 HP, $7,500
• Eisen 1440E – 14′′ swing, 2 HP, $14,500

For the best balance of cost and capability, the Tormach 15L is an excellent choice under $25,000. Make sure to evaluate size, power, and precision carefully based on parts you need to produce.

Used Lathe Prices: Finding Deals

Buying a used lathe can save substantial costs, often 40-60% off new pricing. However, condition is critically important when purchasing a used lathe:

What to Look for In a Used Lathe:

• Smooth, tight spindle with little runout
• Minimal backlash in leadscrews and gears
• Smooth carriage travel front to back
• Tight tolerance in slides and ways
• Good condition drawbar and chucks
• Clean electrical cabinet and wired connections

Potential Issues to Inspect:

• Excess vibration or noise at high RPMs
• Backlash in spindle or worn gears
• Pitting, scratches or wear on ways
• Damage or crashes present
• Rust/grime buildup on key components
• Motors or controls not functional

A used lathe can be an excellent value but consider a full inspection by a machinist before purchasing. Replacement parts and repairs negate the upfront savings of a used lathe with too much wear.

Import vs Domestic Lathe Brands

Lathe brands fall mainly into two broad categories:

Domestic Lathes

• Brands like Monarch, Lodge & Shipley, Hardinge, and Cincinnati built quality American lathes for decades. These hold value if in good condition.
• Newer USA lathe makers include Precision Matthews, Kent, Clausing, Tormach, Grizzly, and more. Quality varies but pricing is usually mid-range.

Import Lathes

• Asian imports from China, Taiwan, and South Korea took over lower-end lathe manufacturing.
• Brands like Jet, Erie, Bolton, Enco, and Harbor Freight import the most affordable new lathes, often under $5,000. Quality varies significantly.
• Top Japanese brands like Okuma, Mazak, Mori Seiki, Nakamura, make premium CNC lathes. These fetch the highest prices but are exceptionally accurate.

Carefully balance quality, features, and budget when choosing between import vs. domestic lathe brands. New USA-made lathes carry a price premium over Asian imports but used American lathes can hold value better.

Final Words

Choosing the right lathe is a big investment that requires careful consideration of your budget, needs, and what you plan to machine both now and in the future. Focus on precision, power, size capacity, features, and operating costs.

Buying at the top of your budget allows room to grow into the machine’s full capabilities. With the proper lathe matched to your needs, you’ll be ready to start turning out quality parts for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a lathe use a lot of electricity?

The amount of electricity a lathe uses depends on its size and motor power. Most full-size manual or CNC lathes run on single or three-phase AC power and have 1-5 HP motors. Under typical workshop use, a 3 HP lathe may draw 10-15 amps running at 120V or 240V. Mini lathes often use less than 1 HP and draw 5-10 amps. While lathes do require significant power, running costs are reasonable for most small shops and hobbyists. Using variable speed settings can also help minimize electricity usage.

What are the disadvantages of lathe machining?

Some potential disadvantages of lathe machines include:

• Only suitable for rotationally symmetric parts. Limited to round shaped objects.
• Manual operation requires skilled labor. CNC models are more automated but cost substantially more.
• Potential safety risks from rotating parts if not used carefully. Proper guarding is critical.
• Initial investment cost can be high, especially for large CNC lathes.
• Limited in terms of surface finish capabilities compared to milling or grinding.
• Requires more extensive process planning and machine programming for complex parts.
• Potential for excessive vibration at high speeds or off-balance parts.

What is the lifespan of a lathe machine?

With proper care and maintenance, a quality metal lathe machine can have a lifespan of 15-30 years or more of regular operation. Key factors affecting lifespan include:

• Brand quality – Well-made lathes last longer.
• Usage care – Preventing crashes, overloads extend lifespan.
• Environment – Clean, temperature-controlled shops support longer life.
• Maintenance – Daily cleaning, lubrication, adjustments preserve the lathe.
• Part replacement – Swapping in new motors, belts, gears, chucks.
• Technology age – Some older manual lathes remain operable for 50+ years. New CNC tech ages faster.
• Production demands – High-volume use wears lathes faster than hobby use.

While ruggedly built, lathes do require maintenance care and part replacement to reach peak lifespan. With preventative care, it’s reasonable to expect 20+ years from a quality lathe machine.