Best Portable Pottery Wheels for 2024

The Speedball Artista stands out as our top pick for the best portable pottery wheel. Known for its compact and lightweight design, it suits both beginners and seasoned potters. The wheel features an 11-inch wheel head driven by a robust 1/3 horsepower motor, ensuring enough power for small to medium-sized projects. Weighing only 26 pounds, the Artista is easy to transport and set up, whether in a classroom or a home studio. The wheel also includes a removable splash pan and a hand-controlled speed lever for convenient use. Additional accessories such as a foot pedal and folding legs can be purchased separately, adding to its versatility. With its blend of stability, durability, and excellent performance, the Speedball Artista offers unmatched value for its price.

Our runner-up is the Brent Model B, a reliable choice for those seeking durability and stability. With its solid build and weight of around 48 pounds, this wheel is designed to offer enhanced stability during use. It features a powerful 1/2 horsepower motor and a spacious 14-inch wheel head, capable of centering up to 100 pounds of clay. The Brent Model B also includes a modular foot pedal that provides precise speed control. Optional accessories, such as a splash pan, are available to customize your setup further. This wheel is ideal for both home studios and more demanding classroom environments, making it a versatile option for both amateurs and professionals.

For potters on a budget, the VivoHome Pottery Wheel is an excellent choice. Despite its affordable price point, it does not compromise on essential features. The VivoHome wheel includes an 11-inch wheel head and a simple, user-friendly design. Weighing approximately 28 pounds, it is easy to transport and set up. This model comes with a detachable foot pedal for straightforward speed control and includes a variety of tools to get you started. While it may lack some advanced features, the VivoHome Pottery Wheel offers fantastic value and practicality for beginners and casual potters.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper is an outstanding option for professional potters looking for top performance in a portable design. This wheel is equipped with a nearly silent, magnet-driven motor that delivers 1/2 horsepower, capable of centering up to 100 pounds of clay with ease. Its innovative flat design allows the wheel to be used on tabletops by removing the legs, offering flexibility for either sitting or standing positions. The generous 14-inch wheel head and a reversible switch provide versatility for various types of pottery work. Although it weighs 135 pounds, its stability and durability make it a stellar investment for serious potters.

The Speedball Clay Boss Pottery Wheel is the top recommendation for students and hobbyists. It features a robust 1/2 horsepower motor and a 14-inch composite wheel head, capable of centering up to 100 pounds of clay. The Clay Boss is celebrated for its quiet operation, making it suitable for home use and small studio environments. It also includes a removable splash pan and a foot pedal for smooth and precise speed control. With its durability, user-friendly design, and accessible price point, the Speedball Clay Boss is an excellent choice for those starting out or working on more ambitious pottery projects.