Comparing Wheel Brands & Models

One of the most common Q's we get from potters is how to decide on which wheel to get and the benefits they can offer. They all have their perks and we hope to help break down the key differences for you!

 

Wheel Brand: Speedball

Artista: If you're after a table top wheel this is the one we recommend. We have one in the studio which has been used in classes, as a take home wheel and brought to local markets for demonstrations. The Artista is light weight, durable & has the option to later add on accessories like foot pedals & legs.

Clay Boss: This is a super great wheel for the price! We often compare this one to the Lite when folks are calling around to compare wheels. A few things it has over the Shimpo Lite is a warranty twice as long plus a larger weight capacity + Speedball includes bats with their wheels!

Big Boss: Want a wheel that can handle an obscene amount of clay? Maybe you want to slab build a throw a pot you can stand in? Big Boss has that capability. Again too a very affordable option for an extremely durable wheel.

Wheel Brand: Nidec-Shimpo

Aspire:The Aspire is a table top wheel. Excellent for hobby potters. It's light weight and can be tucked away when needed (small apartment living plus).

Centering Weight: 20 lbs

Wheel Head: 7" - Something to note! This wheel does not fit most standard sized bats.

Manufacturer's Warranty: 5 Years

Reverse Capabilities: No, but can be ordered for CW or CCW

Additions: Can choose a foot pedal or not. Comes with 2 bats!

PRICE as of Jan.14, 2021: $795 (No Foot Pedal) $895 (With Foot Pedal)

SHIPPING: $40 Canada Wide

VL Lite:Likely one of the most popular hobby/beginner wheels on the market. The price is fantastic and it is a light enough wheel to move around while still including legs and a foot pedal.

Centering Weight: 25 lbs

HP: 1/2

RPM: 250

Wheel Head: 12" Wheel head & fits standard bats

Manufacturer's Warranty: 5 years

Reverse Capabilities: Yes

PRICE as of Jan.14, 2021: $1,175.00

SHIPPING: $80 Canada Wide

RK Whisper:A workhorse of a wheel! Direct drive like the VL Whisper but a compact design. The speed lever is a perk as well as it helps make the wheel more accessible.

Centering Weight: 100 lbs

HP: 1/2

RPM: 250

Wheel Head: 12" Wheel head, fits standard bats & can double as a banding wheel when off.

Manufacturer's Warranty: 5 years

Reverse Capabilities: Yes

PRICE as of Jan.14, 2021: $1,895.00

SHIPPING: $80 Canada Wide

VL Whisper: Top dog of a wheel! The VL Whisper is extremely quiet, offers are solid workspace, and is built to grow into.

Centering Weight: 100 lbs

HP: 1/2

RPM: 250

Wheel Head: 14" Wheel head, fits standard bats & can double as a banding wheel when off.

Manufacturer's Warranty: 5 years

Reverse Capabilities: Yes

PRICE as of Jan.14, 2021: $2,065.00

SHIPPING: $80 Canada Wide

Wheel Brand: Pacifica (Laguna)

GT-400: We love the workspace the Pacifica wheels provide! They're durable wheels. We've had Pacificas in our classroom for many years now and have never had an issue.

GT-800:This wheel is a staff member's favourite! They feel like they have complete control when throwing on it. Again the workspace on the Pacificas are ideal and they're well manufactured.

 Wheel Brand: Brent (AMACO)

IE: Easily converts for floor or table top use. Brent wheels are durable long trusted manufactured wheels. If you're wanting a table top wheel strong enough for a production potter this would be recommended.

B: Great for classrooms & studio potters. Brent's are reliable and changed the electric pottery wheel game!

C: Want to create an intimidatingly towering piece? The Brent C has a huge capacity