4 Best Mini Metal Lathes 2025 in the United States

The VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe offers a solid option for hobbyists or small workshop owners looking to engage in metalworking projects. With a swing over bed of 8.3 inches and a distance between centers of 14 inches, it provides sufficient workspace for various turning tasks, making it suitable for model making or small parts production. The 650W motor delivers decent power, and the variable speed range of 50-2250 RPM allows for versatility in operations, whether you need high speed for finer cuts or slower speeds for more robust tasks.

The sturdy cast iron construction contributes to its durability, which is essential for maintaining precision over time. The pre-installed 3-jaw chuck and adjustable tailstock enhance usability, enabling users to securely hold materials and perform precise cuts. Additionally, the turret post allows for quick tool changes, which is a significant advantage for users who often switch between different tasks.

There are some drawbacks to consider, such as the weight of 122.4 pounds, which could pose challenges for mobility, particularly in smaller workspaces. Furthermore, the manual or automatic feeding rate adjustment may not be intuitive for all users, especially those who are new to metal lathes.

The BestEquip 7x14 inch mini metal lathe is a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshop users who need a compact but capable lathe. Its swing over bed of about 7 inches and distance between centers near 14 inches make it suitable for working on small to medium metal parts. The 550W motor provides enough power for precision tasks, and the spindle speed range from 50 to 2500 RPM covers a wide variety of materials and cutting needs, including forward and reverse operation. The included 3-jaw self-centering chuck is accurate and stable, supported by tapered roller bearings to keep rotations precise within 0.01mm.

The iron bed construction with nylon gears adds durability and smooth performance. Features like the professional compound rest and adjustable auto feed help with versatile cutting positions. The lathe also comes with safety features like a full-length splash guard and an emergency stop button, which are thoughtful additions for beginners. However, with a bed length of around 14 inches, it limits the size of parts you can work on compared to larger lathes. Some users might find the weight (99 pounds) a bit heavy for frequent moving.

Customer ratings are decent at 4 out of 5 stars, indicating generally satisfied users but with some room for improvement. This lathe is best suited for those doing precise small-scale metalworking, model making, or prototype parts rather than heavy industrial work.

The Mini Metal Lathe Machine is a versatile tool designed for small-scale projects, hobbyists, and educational purposes. It supports turning, drilling, boring, and threading on materials like wood, plastic, and soft metals (excluding alloys). This makes it suitable for hobbyists, students, and even young learners in technical and science education settings.

With its 12V safe DC transformer, the machine offers a secure operation environment, especially beneficial for beginners and younger users. The machine's components, including the headstock, intermediate block, and sliders, are constructed from high-quality metal, enhancing its durability and precision. The ability to adjust the height of the turning tool using provided shims further adds to its versatility, allowing for precise and customizable results.

It's important to note that the machine's capabilities are limited when dealing with harder materials, as it requires a slower feed rate. Additionally, the machine is not suitable for working with metal alloys, which could be a limitation for those looking to work on more robust materials. The relatively compact size (10.94 inches wide) and moderate power source (240V AC) make it a good fit for benchtop use in workshops and educational environments. This mini metal lathe is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, hands-on tool for smaller, detailed projects and educational applications.