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6 Best Mini Metal Lathes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe, 9" x 24" Benchtop Metal Lathe with 3 Jaw Chuck and 3000rpm Max. Spindle Speed, 1100W Metalworking Machine with LCD Display, Metal Lathe Machine

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,152
Spindle Speed

Most important from
11 reviews

Spindle Speed
Adjusting the motor speed can be tricky at low RPMs, adding complexity to threading tasks.

The CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe is a compact yet powerful option for hobbyists and professionals looking to handle small to medium metalworking tasks. With an 8.7-inch swing over the bed and a 23.6-inch distance between centers, it provides sufficient workspace for various projects. Its 1100W brushless motor, capable of speeds up to 3000 rpm, makes it suitable for a range of applications, including turning, drilling, and threading across different materials like metal, plastic, and wood.

One standout feature is its high-precision 5-inch 3-jaw chuck, which is designed for accuracy and can handle both square and round materials effectively. The real-time digital display enhances user control by allowing easy monitoring of spindle speed. The machine's sturdy cast iron construction not only contributes to durability but also ensures stability during operations.

The lathe is equipped for various tasks but may not be as capable for heavy-duty projects compared to larger models. Additionally, the weight of 159 pounds could make it less portable for those looking to move it frequently.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,152
Spindle Speed

Most important from
11 reviews

Spindle Speed
Adjusting the motor speed can be tricky at low RPMs, adding complexity to threading tasks.
#2

VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 7"x14", Benchtop Metal Lathe, 550W Variable Speed 2250 RPM Metal Lathe, with 3-jaw Chuck Mini Lathe Machine, Precision Mini Lathe w/Tool Box Digital Display for Metal Turning

Rating
9.6
Motor Power
Spindle Speed
Bed Length

Most important from
30 reviews

Motor Power
The slides move easily without play, gears mesh nicely, and the motor is tightly mounted with good belt tension.
Spindle Speed
Despite its low price, the lathe powers up smoothly and the speed control is efficient.
Bed Length
The lathe's capacity might be less than advertised, often only handling about three or four inches, but it can be upgraded with a longer cross slide lead screw.

The VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe is a compact and versatile option for metal turning, measuring 7 inches by 14 inches with a bed length that should suit various basic projects. One of its strong suits is the powerful 550W motor which allows variable speeds up to 2250 RPM, providing flexibility for different types of metal work.

The 3-jaw chuck included is a valuable feature for securely holding your workpieces. The digital display is another highlight, offering precision and ease of use for both beginners and more experienced users. However, the lathe's weight of 142.7 pounds makes it relatively heavy, which could be a challenge for those with limited workspace or who need to move it frequently.

The swing over bed and distance between centers are adequate for small to medium-sized projects, but might be limiting for larger workpieces. This mini metal lathe is well-suited for hobbyists and small-scale metalworking projects, offering a good balance of power, precision, and usability, albeit with some limitations in size and mobility.

Rating
9.6
Motor Power
Spindle Speed
Bed Length

Most important from
30 reviews

Motor Power
The slides move easily without play, gears mesh nicely, and the motor is tightly mounted with good belt tension.
Spindle Speed
Despite its low price, the lathe powers up smoothly and the speed control is efficient.
Bed Length
The lathe's capacity might be less than advertised, often only handling about three or four inches, but it can be upgraded with a longer cross slide lead screw.
#3

VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, 8"x14", Mini Lathe Machine 2250 PRM Variable Speed Change, Precision Mini Lathe 650W Metal Working Lathe, Small Metal Lathe, Milling Machine for Various Types of Metal Turning

Rating
9.3
Motor Power

Most important from
20 reviews

Motor Power
Some units may have significant quality control issues, such as poor assembly and weak motor performance, making them unsuitable without major adjustments or returns.

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.

Rating
9.3
Motor Power

Most important from
20 reviews

Motor Power
Some units may have significant quality control issues, such as poor assembly and weak motor performance, making them unsuitable without major adjustments or returns.

Buying Guide for the Best Mini Metal Lathes

Choosing the right mini-metal lathe can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. Mini-metal lathes are versatile tools used for shaping metal and other materials. They are perfect for hobbyists, small workshops, and even some professional applications. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the lathe's suitability for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you pick the best fit for your projects.
Swing Over BedThe swing over bed is the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be turned over the lathe bed. This spec is important because it determines the largest size of the material you can work with. If you plan to work on larger pieces, you will need a lathe with a larger swing over bed. For smaller, more detailed work, a smaller swing over bed will suffice. Consider the typical size of the projects you intend to undertake when choosing this spec.
Distance Between CentersThe distance between centers is the maximum length of the workpiece that can be mounted between the lathe's headstock and tailstock. This is crucial for determining the length of the material you can work on. If you need to turn longer pieces, look for a lathe with a greater distance between centers. For shorter projects, a smaller distance will be adequate. Think about the typical length of the items you plan to create to guide your choice.
Motor PowerMotor power, usually measured in horsepower (HP), indicates the strength of the lathe's motor. This spec is important because it affects the lathe's ability to handle tougher materials and perform more demanding tasks. Higher motor power is better for heavy-duty work and harder metals, while lower power is sufficient for lighter tasks and softer materials. Assess the types of materials and the intensity of the work you plan to do to determine the appropriate motor power.
Spindle SpeedSpindle speed refers to how fast the lathe's spindle rotates, usually measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). This is important because different materials and tasks require different speeds. A lathe with variable speed settings allows you to adjust the RPM to suit the material and the precision needed. For versatility, choose a lathe with a wide range of speeds. Consider the variety of materials you will work with and the precision required for your projects.
Bed LengthThe bed length is the total length of the lathe bed, which affects the overall size of the machine and the maximum length of the workpiece. This spec is important for ensuring that the lathe fits in your workspace and can handle the size of the materials you plan to work on. If you have limited space, a shorter bed length may be necessary. For larger projects, a longer bed length will be beneficial. Measure your workspace and consider the size of your typical projects to choose the right bed length.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size indicates the maximum diameter of the workpiece that the lathe's chuck can hold. This is important for securing the material during operation. Larger chuck sizes can hold bigger workpieces, while smaller chucks are suitable for finer, more detailed work. Think about the size of the materials you will be working with most often to determine the appropriate chuck size for your needs.

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