This article compares the machinability of a C45E (AISI/SAE 1045) steel type under two different manufacturing processes: conventional machining and pulsed current assisted machining. The testing procedure consisted on the dry turning, using a coated carbide cutting tool (HM) and high-speed steel (HSS) cutting tools, under two different spindle speeds. In this study cutting tool life is evaluated in function of cutting speed for both machining conditions and both cutting tools. Results show variation on flank wear depending on the tool used and cutting speed, showing an increase in machinability when using the HM tool with the electropulse assisted turning at low cutting speed. Additionally, changes in chip type are found when assisting the process with electropulses. Statistically significant variations in chip dimensions and chip ratio are present, evidencing the differences in the phenomena affecting shear strain. Surface roughness, for its part, is improved when turning with the assistance of electropulses.