Suppose you are working with metals not just in construction but also for other metalworking activities. You know that a metal lathe should be part of your arsenal. But for, people with limited space in their workshop think that getting one is out of the question.
But this doesn’t have to be the case – you can opt for the best mini metal lathe for the money. While it may be more compact, it doesn’t mean that it will not meet your needs. Even the more experienced metalworkers have them.
Are you looking to buy one? You’re in the right place! We can also help you if you’re looking to buy a plasma cutter or its consumables.
Summary
As we tested the different options, we found that the best mini metal lathe machine for the money was the Central Machinery 7 x 10. The best runner-up was Erie Tools.
Here is a quick overlook at our category winners:
- Best overall mini metal lathe machine for the money: Central Machinery 7 x 10
- Best runner-up mini metal lathe: Erie Tools
- Best cheap mini metal lathe: Shop Fox M1015
Continue reading
Here we review our top picks for the best mini metal lathes that we believe offer the greatest value for your money.
Why you can trust us & how we picked
You can trust us because we tested all the mini metal lathes machines on this page and tried to standardize the testing to make it as fair as possible. We also picked products at various different price points so that there is a mini metal lathe for everyone on this page.
Best Mini Metal Lathe Machines For The Money
Now you know its various uses and the features or characteristics you require. It is time to choose the right one that gives you the best value for your money. And if you don’t know where to start your hunt for one, look no further. We have rounded up the highly rated and popular models you should consider.
Grizzly G8688 – Great Benchtop Option
Consistently top-rated, the Grizzly G8688 is renowned for its power despite being a benchtop option. It features a 3/4 HP motor that offers speeds up to 2500 RPM and variable speed settings.
This comes with a 7-inch swing and 12-inch distance between its centers, making it ideal for small to medium workpieces. Despite its small frame, it can easily handle different thread ranges and comes with a spindle bore measuring 20mm. It has a four-way tool post. Because the Grizzly G8688 has a single-phase power system, you can plug it into your standard electric outlet and immediately use it.
| Brand | Grizzly Industrial G8688-7″ x 12″ |
| Item Weight | 89.8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 13 x 30.25 x 13 inches |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
Pros
- Durable despite its low price
- Relatively easy to use for both beginners and experienced users
- Thread present has a wide range
- Considered among the most powerful and versatile
Cons
- Installed tool post may be a hit-or-miss for users
- Insufficient for advanced metalworking
- Familiarity is needed before you can smoothly use it.
Central Machinery Precision
Another popular choice is the Central Machinery Precision Mini Lathe, and for good reasons. Its precision and ease of use are at the forefront. It is important in any model. It also has a user-friendly design that makes its operation uncomplicated for most users.
It is often compared to the Grizzly model we reviewed earlier. It is also equipped with a 3/4 HP motor that offers variable speeds that can reach 2500 RPM when operating at high speed. At low speed, it can run from 0 to 1100 RPM. This model also features other notable features, like a control knob for setting the variable speed. You’ll appreciate its automatic feed and chuck guard.
| Brand | Central Machinery 7 x 10 |
| Features | Variable speed control knob |
| Power Source | corded-electric |
| RPM | 0-2500 |
Pros
- Inexpensive but has great quality.
- It features a chuck guard, which is not common in its price range.
- It has an automatic feeding system.
- Relatively easy to use even for beginners
Cons
- Inconsistent operation
- Gears are made of plastic
- Finding spare parts can be a challenge.
Erie Tools Benchtop Model
The Erie Tools Benchtop Mini Metal Lathe is one of the most highly-rated mini options because of its reliability. It still comes at a price you’ll like. This model is not just efficient at metalworking. Still, it can also be used on wood and plastic with no difficulty, even for beginners. What also makes it one of the crowd favorites is that it already comes with a five-piece cutter kit right out of the box.
The straightforward design of this model makes its operation uncomplicated for everyone without compromising. Precision and flexibility are still key with this model, unlike other models of its class. Aside from that, it is also equipped with an emergency stop switch. Enjoy its power indicator and digital speed readout. At the price, you usually get very limited variable speed knob control or chuck guard. It also has an automatic feed.
| Brand | Erie Tools 7 x 14 |
| Item Weight | 103 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 35 x 16 x 18 inches |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
Pros
- Operation is easy for anyone
- It has a chuck guard.
- The straightforward design makes it suitable for all kinds of users.
- It can be used on metal, wood, and plastic.
- Among the most durable in its price range
Cons
- Has plastic components
- Not ideal for larger workpieces
Shopfox M1015
For those who need the most compact but fully functional option, the Shopfox M1015 is right for you. Its size already falls into the micro option territory. That is why it is not as powerful as the other models on our list. But, it still gets the job done.
Because of its size, it is only suitable for small workpieces. You can easily transport and use it anywhere you want. The 1/5 HP motor offers variable speeds ranging from 100 to 2000 RPMs, almost at par with its bigger counterparts. Plus, it has an easy control mode and a chuck guard to ensure safe operation.
| Brand | Shop Fox M1015 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Item Weight | 71 Pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 27 x 14.3 x 12 inches |
Pros
- Very portable
- It has various safety features.
- It’s equipped with both manual and automatic feeds.
- Ideal for beginners
- It ships with various accessories that help you save money.
Cons
- It can only be used on small projects.
- Not-so-seamless operation
- Parts are not that durable, but they can easily be replaced.
Mophorn
The Mophorn Small Metal Lathe is the best mini metal lathe for beginners. Experienced users also find it a joy to use. Not only is it equipped with a digital display, but it also has a motor that has variable speeds ranging from 50 to 2500 RPMs. That is enough for most users. You get more than what you pay for because it is one of the most budget-friendly models around.
One of its standout features is the chuck with three jaws. Its size is more than you would expect for such a compact unit. The components of its gear system are also welded, which means it is quite durable even for heavy-duty use.
Make sure to visit our page with engine-driven welders, too.
Pros
- One of the cheapest models around
- It is known to be hard-wearing despite its low price.
- It can be easily used even by beginners.
- The components of the gear are welded.
Cons
- Users have complained about the quality of the motor, even if it is replaceable.
- Versatility is not at par with others.
- No tool bits included.
Always consider your budget when choosing the right one for your shop. You may intend to buy one for long-term use, like a Monarch. You don’t have to buy the most expensive one loaded with the most features. You must be practical. Choose the one with all the features you need and not hurt your budget too much.
BestEquip
The BestEquip metal lathe is a relatively affordable option for metal turning while being constructed in sturdy aluminum. At the same time, the bed is made of iron to provide the necessary stability. With variable speeds between 50-2500, you can get the speed you want while easily adjusting. Whether you want your piece of metal to be turning one way or the other, this speed range is available. It can offer infinite adjustment, giving you the type of control you are looking for. No matter if you are looking for something that is either manual or with an adjustable auto feed rate, look into this machine!
Safety is also a feature that has been taken very seriously. An easy-to-hit emergency button ensures the ability to stop the machine at your desire. It is a sturdy model that provides an impressive 7-inch swing over its bed while having the weight that makes it sturdy. It is still comfortable to use. This 550W DC single-phase motor will power those metallic creations you have always wanted to show off. It still provides easy-to-use functionality.
Customers report having great customer service when working with BestEquip over damaged parts or other issues. Various customers have reported that this machine is better than expected and can cut in 6061 aluminum.
Factors to consider
It is easy to be overwhelmed when looking for the best mini metal lathe. There are just so many options out on the market! That is also why buyer’s remorse is quite common in this case. People would immediately go for cheap or high-end models without thinking about if it meets their needs. And when they start using it for their projects, they realize that they bought the wrong one.
You don’t have to be one of them. To avoid this situation, you need to know the essential features or characteristics you need and choose the model that meets them. They may all look the same to you, but they also have unique features that you may or may not find useful.
Before purchasing a mini metal lathe, here are factors to consider,
Size
They come in mini or full sizes. Mini options are suitable if you are only working on small projects, but you will need a full-size one if you work on larger projects.
Weight
With these machines, weight matters. Whether you prioritize portability or ease of use is a matter of preference. The heavier the model, the better it can handle vibrations. And if you are not aware, vibrations can affect its operations. For better accuracy, get a heavier one.
Power feed
Different options have different power feed options available. You need to choose one that offers convenience for you when in use.
Measurements
The center and the swing are what you need to note. The bigger the swing measurement, the more you can do with your machine. Also, longer distances between centers allow you to work with longer workpieces.
Bed
They traditionally have flatbeds made of cast iron. There are also models equipped with beds in the form of metal tubes or bars. It is also just a matter of preference, but you need to ensure that no flexing occurs when the tool rest and tailstock are in place.
Headstock
It’s considered the most essential part of any lathe. You need a headstock that can handle your projects. A headstock made of cast iron is the most ideal because it is completely solid. Fabricated headstocks usually cannot handle larger workpieces. Also, note that a pivoting headstock offers more flexibility as you work.
Gearbox
This can either be manual or automatic. Manually changing the gears offers you better control and better speed accuracy. Those that automatically do it for you offer convenience but at the expense of more limited speed changes.
Spindle
Opt for a spindle with a standard thread to use with different accessories. A standard spindle is also ideal if you plan on using it for a long time. Upgrading means you only need to buy new accessories and not completely replace your unit.
There are also other considerations that you need to keep in mind. We have listed the most important features or characteristics you need to look for.
Should you be using a metal lathe? Is a mini metal lathe better?
Some of them might be great for you, while others would be a waste of money if you were to end up buying them. These spinning machines are no different. You will need to figure out what your needs are at some point. Whether or not you are going for one of the smaller options or whether you will want to choose something bigger.
It is tempting to go for a smaller option as it could save you money. Buying the wrong model would mean you cannot work on projects of the size that you were hoping for.
It is always important to note the size of the projects you will be spinning to work comfortably on the piece of metal!
The term metal lathe covers a couple of different tools found in metal workshops. It covers center lathes, turret ones, gang-tool options, and others. It is an individual decision if the smaller model can do the things you need it to.
Before you start making the machine spin any metal object, you must test out the piece of metal that you are working on. It’s the same way that you would test out any piece of wood before turning it on a wood lathe.
Ones classified as mini options will have swing radiuses of somewhere between 3 and 7 inches. Other types of machines are more forgiving when you choose a capacity smaller than what you would have ideally picked. It is not the case with this type of machinery. These smaller models may be great for home use. You won’t simply be able to alter the way you use the tool if you are working on a bigger piece of material than what it is rated for.
The typical swing radius is no more than 7 inches. There are still exceptions to that rule, like the BestEquip 8×16, which allows for an 8-inch swing radius.
The budget will likely also be something that you are considering. There is another important thing to consider when you are faced with which model to get. These machines take up a decent amount of space, so it’s important that you already know where you will be placing them. Make sure you won’t end up with a piece of machinery that you may have spent $1,100 on without knowing where to put it. You can’t simply ignore the fact that these machines are heavy.
If you are buying the BestEquip 6×18, it is an object with the dimensions 36x19x17 once unpacked. It has a fighting weight of 128 lbs. While you can place that on a worktop bench, you wouldn’t be placing it on your grandma’s vulnerable coffee table.
A metal lathe is used for shaping wood and metal pieces together. Let’s take a look at how you can do this.
How much does a mini metal lathe cost?
As we tested various mini metal lathes, we found that they generally cost between range of metal lathes varies from $200 to anywhere around $1,100. The cost of a metal lathe will depend on the machine’s size and power. A mini metal lathe machine can cost you just $250, but a 550W machine with variable speed will cost you upwards of $700. If you go for the industrial models, you’ll need a couple of thousand bucks in the bank.
FAQ
Metal turning and crafts are the most common thing it’s used for. Contrary to popular belief, they’re not only used for working on metals. You can even do a bit of woodworking with it, although not as intensive as using a wood lathe. That is how versatile they are.
Did you know that there are different uses for these machines? If not, don’t worry because you are not alone. Since people are not familiar with its uses, they fail to maximize the use of their unit.
To address this, we have come up with the following list of the different uses that you may or may not be aware of:
Metal turning to craft even small objects like bowls and cups. It can also handle the following:
– Filing and polishing round parts
– Create round or partially rounded objects or parts
– Milling
– Cut off or trim materials, including both male and female threads
– Key-way cutting
– Align pieces before they can be repaired
– Knurling
– Drilling and boring holes
– Gear cutting
– Beveling, especially on edges
– Chamfering
– Tapering or taper turning
– Facing rough materials
– Parting
– Powering up motorless equipment, such as a hydraulic pump
– Grooving
The versatility of this machine makes it such a practical tool, especially once you master how to use it. With the right one, you can quickly do just that.
A metal lathe is for machining or shaping wood and metal. It is generally used in finishing and removing unwanted parts from a material. If you’re looking to get into lathing, you should buy a beginner-friendly metal lathe for your garage or home workshop. The Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe and Harbor Freight’s mini lathe are good options for beginners.
The machinery and the mechanism of both wood and metal lathes are the same. However, it is still not feasible to use a lathe made for wood to be used on thicker and denser materials like metal or alloy.
