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10 Best Benchtop Mill 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

JET 18-Inch Mill Drill Machine, 2 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (Model JMD-18)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,489
Travel Distance
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
21 reviews

Travel Distance
Excited about the larger throat and throws, which offer more versatility for various projects.
Build Quality and Durability
The quality of this milling drilling machine is impressive, handling even climb milling with ease.

The JET 18-Inch Mill Drill Machine (JMD-18) is a robust and versatile benchtop mill that offers several notable strengths for users in need of a reliable milling and drilling solution. With a powerful 2 HP motor and a maximum rotational speed of 3000 RPM, this machine is well-suited for various milling tasks. Its one-piece cast iron column provides stability and support, enhancing its build quality and durability. The machine also includes features that improve ease of use, such as a positive quick-stop knob, an easy-to-read external depth gauge, and a quick-slide latch for faster belt adjustments.

The 360-degree head swivel and forward/reverse switch add to its versatility, making it adaptable to different projects and materials. Additionally, the adjustable carbide facemill is a handy inclusion for precision work. However, some drawbacks should be noted. The machine's substantial weight of 660 pounds may make it difficult to move and set up, requiring a solid and permanent workstation. The table size and travel distance may be limiting for larger projects, so users with extensive milling needs might find it restrictive.

Although the build quality is high, its size and weight make it less portable compared to smaller benchtop mills. Despite these limitations, the JMD-18 is a reliable choice for users who need a powerful and durable benchtop mill for medium to heavy-duty tasks.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,489
Travel Distance
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
21 reviews

Travel Distance
Excited about the larger throat and throws, which offer more versatility for various projects.
Build Quality and Durability
The quality of this milling drilling machine is impressive, handling even climb milling with ease.
#2

Grizzly Industrial G0758-6" x 20" 3/4 HP Mill/Drill

Rating
9.6
Spindle Speed
Precision and Accuracy
Ease of Use

Most important from
5 reviews

Spindle Speed
Variable speed control enhances operational flexibility and precision during milling and drilling.
Precision and Accuracy
The machine's substantial weight contributes significantly to its precision and overall build quality.
Ease of Use
Setup and use are straightforward, ideal for beginners seeking a dependable benchtop mill/drill combo.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine's substantial weight contributes significantly to its precision and overall build quality.

The Grizzly Industrial G0758 is a compact benchtop mill and drill combo designed for hobbyists and light workshop use. It features a 600W (3/4 HP) motor running on standard 110V power, providing enough torque for basic milling and drilling tasks on metals and wood. Its spindle speed maxes out at 2000 RPM, which is suitable for many general-purpose operations but might be limiting for very fine or high-speed machining. The table measures 6" x 20", offering a decent working surface for small to medium-sized projects, while the spindle travel of 2" and a maximum distance of 8-3/4" from spindle to table allow reasonable vertical and depth movement. The R-8 spindle taper is a common size, making it easier to find compatible tooling.

Build quality is solid with a mostly metal construction, contributing to durability and stability during use, and the variable speed feature provides some control over the machining process, enhancing precision. However, some users might find the machine's size and travel limits restrictive for larger or more complex projects. The G0758 is straightforward to set up and use, making it well-suited for beginners or those needing a reliable, entry-level benchtop mill. It does not come with advanced features seen in higher-end models, so if you require extensive precision or heavy-duty milling, you might want to consider more robust options.

This machine balances ease of use, decent power, and good build quality, making it a practical choice for hobbyists and small workshop users looking for a versatile mill/drill combo.

Rating
9.6
Spindle Speed
Precision and Accuracy
Ease of Use

Most important from
5 reviews

Spindle Speed
Variable speed control enhances operational flexibility and precision during milling and drilling.
Precision and Accuracy
The machine's substantial weight contributes significantly to its precision and overall build quality.
Ease of Use
Setup and use are straightforward, ideal for beginners seeking a dependable benchtop mill/drill combo.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine's substantial weight contributes significantly to its precision and overall build quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Benchtop Mill

Choosing the right benchtop mill can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. A benchtop mill is a versatile tool used for precision machining of metal, wood, and other materials. When selecting a benchtop mill, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your requirements. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your investment.
Spindle SpeedSpindle speed refers to how fast the spindle rotates, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). This is important because different materials and cutting tools require different speeds for optimal performance. Lower speeds (0-2000 RPM) are suitable for harder materials like steel, while higher speeds (2000-5000+ RPM) are better for softer materials like aluminum or wood. Choose a mill with a variable speed range that matches the materials you plan to work with most frequently.
Table SizeThe table size is the surface area where you place your workpiece. A larger table provides more space for bigger projects and allows for more flexibility in positioning your workpiece. If you plan to work on small, detailed projects, a smaller table may suffice. However, for larger or more complex projects, a bigger table will be beneficial. Consider the size of the projects you intend to undertake when selecting the table size.
Travel DistanceTravel distance refers to the maximum movement of the mill's table in the X (left-right), Y (front-back), and Z (up-down) directions. This is crucial for determining the size of the workpiece you can machine. Mills with longer travel distances can handle larger workpieces and more complex operations. If you plan to work on larger projects, look for a mill with greater travel distances. For smaller, more precise work, shorter travel distances may be adequate.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in horsepower (HP), determines the mill's ability to cut through materials. Higher horsepower means more cutting power, which is essential for working with harder materials. For light-duty tasks and softer materials, a motor with 0.5-1 HP may be sufficient. For more demanding tasks and harder materials, look for a motor with 1.5 HP or more. Match the motor power to the type of materials and the intensity of the work you plan to do.
Precision and AccuracyPrecision and accuracy are critical for achieving high-quality results. This spec is influenced by the mill's build quality, rigidity, and the precision of its components. Look for mills with high-quality construction and features like digital readouts (DRO) for precise measurements. If your projects require tight tolerances and fine details, prioritize mills known for their precision and accuracy. For less demanding tasks, a standard level of precision may be acceptable.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses the mill's user interface, controls, and overall ergonomics. A mill that is easy to operate will save you time and reduce the learning curve, especially if you are a beginner. Features like intuitive controls, clear instructions, and convenient adjustments can make a big difference. Consider your experience level and how comfortable you are with operating machinery when evaluating ease of use.
Build Quality and DurabilityBuild quality and durability determine how long the mill will last and how well it will perform over time. A well-built mill made from high-quality materials will withstand heavy use and maintain its accuracy. Look for mills with sturdy frames, reliable components, and good reviews regarding their longevity. If you plan to use the mill frequently or for heavy-duty tasks, prioritize build quality and durability to ensure it can handle the workload.

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