Today’s metalworking is made easy through advanced technology installed on the best mini metal lathes. However, it’s not a secret that more newbie users end up purchasing lathes that have incompatible features for their metal projects.
To resolve this dilemma, here are my tried-and-tested recommendations.
Reviews of the Top Mini Metal Lathes
1. BestEquip Mini Metal Lathe
If you’re looking for a solid mini lathe, the BestEquip Metal Lathe should be on your radar. It’s made from high-grade iron that can really take a beating. Plus, it’s got nylon gears that bring a lot to the table in terms of torque and durability. I’ve had my share of flimsy tools, and this isn’t one of them.
The BestEquip Metal Lathe operates with a DC motor. Because of this, it works well with tasks like mini precision parts processing and modeling of metal workpieces. You can also use it as a metal-turning tool.
And if you’re as obsessed with accuracy as I am, you’ll appreciate the tapered ball bearings on this thing—its spindle accuracy hovers around 0.01mm. It also has a self-centering chuck for setting cylindrical materials steadily.
What I Like
- The variable speeds up to 2500 RPM allow me to easily tailor the lathe's performance to my project needs.
- With durable plastic gears and a cast-iron bed, I can tell this lathe is built to last
- The adjustable 4-way tool post makes bevel cutting straightforward and simple
- It's a versatile lathe, capable of handling a variety of metal turning tasks
- Compared to other mini metal lathes I've seen, this one is notably more affordable
- The chuck's maximum diameter of 3.94 inches accommodates a good range of workpiece sizes
What I Don't Like
- The absence of a variable speed indicator is a bit of a letdown
- Before using it, some tuning is required
2. TECHTONGDA Benchtop Mini Metal Lathe
Although not as expensive as other options, TECHTONGDA mini metal lathe allows users to adjust its variable speed settings from 50 to 2500 RPM. In fact, this variable speed feature enables the metal lathe to operate in forward and reverse directions.
Its lowered price tag is also not a hindrance to delivering mini metal lathe power of 900 watts, which is highly owed to its brushless motor. It had no problems keeping up during my own projects, and I’ve put it through the wringer a bit.
I’m sure you’re curious about the build quality. Trust me, this is no plastic toy. Everything, from the gears to the spindles, is all metal. Even the tool rest is smooth to operate. So if you’re wondering if it’s sturdy, let me tell you—it is.
What I Like
- I appreciate that the metal gears are durable and wear-resistant, a clear sign of the lathe's longevity
- Cleanup for the lathe gearbox is pretty straightforward
- The variable speed range from 50 to 150 RPM is perfect for my fine-tuning needs
- The ability to turn screw threads from 10 to 41 TPI is an excellent feature
- It stands out as a more budget-friendly option among mini metal lathes
What I Don't Like
- It has a heavy shipping weight
- Adjusting the compound rest angle isn't recommended
3. Grizzly G0602 Mini Metal Lathe
The best mini metal lathe you can consider for handling hard materials is Grizzly G0602. The 10-inch by 22-inch dimensions give you a good amount of capacity, which came in handy for my own more ambitious projects. One feature I find indispensable is its 4-way tool post. You can adjust this bad boy into different positions, making internal cutting a breeze.
You can also ensure that this is a high-quality mini metal lathe because the brand in which it was manufactured is popular among metalworkers.
You’ll get several spare parts, including an extensive tool bed. The unit’s gearbox is also highly accessible, allowing you to change pulleys and gears without hassle.
What I Like
- It's one of the best metal lathes for beginners since it's user-friendly
- The output is both precise and smooth, which adds a professional touch to my projects
- Its durable and versatile build has me convinced that it will last for quite a while.
- With six-speed settings, it offers decent flexibility
What I Don't Like
- Unfortunately, it can't create left-hand threads
- The one-year warranty is somewhat disappointing compared to other options that offer longer coverage
4. Central Machinery Precision Mini Metal Lathe
The Central Machinery Precision Mini Metal Lathe really caught my eye, mainly because it packs a punch without breaking the bank. I mean, a mini lathe with variable speed control under a grand? That’s a steal in my book. Plus, it has this nifty chuck guard with a microswitch, which adds a layer of safety I genuinely appreciate.
Despite being under the category of micro lathes, it runs on a powerful engine. Through this, the mini lathe operates at a speed range of 0 to 2500 RPM.
On top of that, this feature lets the spindle spin in forward and reverse directions, which gave me more control over the operation. Although it’s a small tool, it’s made of durable construction elements like zinc alloy [1], ABS, and aluminum steel.
What I Like
- It's more budget-friendly than other mini lathe models
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around
- Despite its small size, it packs a punch in the power department
What I Don't Like
- The assembly process wasn't straightforward; you'll definitely need the user manual
- Its limited compatibility with accessories hampers its versatility
5. Erie Tools Mini Metal Lathe
At first glance, Erie Tools Mini Metal Lathe undoubtedly looks small. However, its compact construction packs a swing of 7 inches and a central space of 14 inches. It also comes with a chuck key and a cutter kit for different metalworking tasks.
(You may also want to check out other options, so consider these metal cutting saws!)
These are the best mini-lathes you can rely on when turning metal pieces down to the size of 84-cubic-crawls. You can also utilize its string pointer to divert the screw thread from 12 to 52 teeth per inch.
As for its weight, it’s around 104 lbs. Sure, that’s a bit on the heavier side when compared to other mini-lathes, but it’s not too cumbersome. You can still move it around your workshop with relative ease.
What I Like
- The adjustable motor speed lets me tailor my work according to the material and task
- The operations are precise and accurate, which adds to the quality of my projects
- No batteries are needed to function
What I Don't Like
- Unfortunately, the motor engine driver seems fragile and may require extra care
- The absence of a one-year warranty is a letdown
6. Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe
As a tool from a prominent brand, I couldn’t resist the urge to test the Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe. What strikes me most about this lathe is its reverse switch feature, perfect for those who prefer to work with their dominant hand.
Its ¾-HP motor provides massive power to make the metal lathe run at the speed of up to 2500 RPM. This tool also accommodates a threading range of around 12 to 52 teeth per inch (TPI).
The lathe’s convenience is further fueled by its 4-way tool post and sturdy construction that’s meant to withstand the harshest working conditions.
What I Like
- This mini metal lathe is versatile and powerful enough to handle various tasks with ease
- It's a great mini metal lathe for newbie tool users
- With a max speed of 2500 RPM, it covers most of my project needs
What I Don't Like
- The compound rest is limited to a 30-degree angle, which can be restrictive for some jobs
- Lack of a tachometer is a downside when precise speed monitoring is needed
7. Grizzly G9972Z Bench Lathe
If you need mini metal lathes for light-duty tasks, Grizzly G9972Z’s 10-⅝ inch swing and 6-⅜ inch cross slide should fulfill your metalworking requirements. Thanks to its 1HP motor engine, this metal lathe can operate at six spindle speeds between 150 RPM to 2400 RPM.
I also appreciate the thoughtful additions like a splash guard and chip tray—these aren’t standard features on every mini lathe out there. And if you’re relatively new to metalworking, you’ll find the gearbox user-friendly, making the initial learning curve less daunting.
Its spindle bore ranges around 25 mm with a mid-distance of 26 inches. I find that this offers ample space for a variety of DIY projects. It also features a three-jaw chuck with a 5-inch diameter, further broadening its function.
What I Like
- I like that it offers different spindle speed settings, allowing for better control
- This cutting tool doesn’t need batteries, which simplifies things
- The inclusion of a forward and backward switch enhances its usability
- It's the perfect mini metal lathe for hobbyists
What I Don't Like
- It's more expensive than other mini metal lathes
- I wish it had a digital readout for easier and more accurate operation
About Mini Lathes: What is it, Where To Use, and How it Works
Generally, a mini lathe is used for turning metal pieces. However, these are the smaller versions of the typical lathe models sold in the market. You can utilize these tools when handling workpieces around 4 to 7 inches in diameter and up to 3.5 inches in radius.
Because of their compact sizes, the best mini metal lathes work well in residential workshops and MRO stores. Although these tools are small, beginners and professionals prefer them for their lightweight properties more than heavy-duty lathes like the ones from Shop Fox.
Effective usage of lathes depends on what application you intend to use them in. Operating these tools isn’t hard, especially once you get to know their components. Here are crucial details you should know about its components.
Parts of a Mini Lathe
Headstock
It’s where you’ll locate the center spindle, speed control system, and gearbox. The main operation happens in the spindle, where the long bars can be extended along the space. You can thank this feature for reducing material waste during the operation.
Bed
You’ll see this extensive feature attached to the headstock. It ensures that the tailstock and carriage are aligned to the spindle’s axis. I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to level the bed during your setup; it’s your ticket to achieving those pinpoint-accurate cutting angles.
Carriage
It’s the most used part of the lathe as it holds the tool’s bit. It’s your command center for the tool bit, letting you move it both horizontally and vertically. Some models also include a handwheel to handle the feeding mechanism.
Tailstock
It’s the drill located on the other end of the headstock. You’ll notice that it has a taper meant to hold drill bits and other tools. Take my advice: Adjust its position to match your workpiece’s angle, and you’ll be all set for success.
Advantages of Buying a Mini Metal Lathe
Investing in metal lathes will give you the freedom to create smaller workpieces yourself. Despite its smaller footprint, mini metal lathes still offer impressive versatility and functionality.
They enable precise shaping, turning, and threading of metal components, allowing users to create intricate designs with ease. But it’s not just about flexing your craftsmanship; owning one of these beauties is practical too. Need a specific metal piece for a project? Forget the hassle of going to a machine shop; now you can DIY it right at home. Over time, you’ll find that the investment pays for itself, and not just in dollars and cents.
On top of that, having a lathe in your workshop will open business opportunities since you’ll be capable of doing a wide range of projects.
Some Projects You Can Do With Mini Lathes
Candlesticks
As long as you know the basic technique to bore, shave, and turn metal pieces like copper and aluminum, making candlesticks won’t be a problem. Just ensure that the materials are in the right diameter, and you can start with the project.
Baby Cups
The project begins with a disc that you can shape into a bell-like design using a lathe tool. You’ll also need to create a handle and attach it to the cup before sanding the workpiece down.
Rings
All you need to do to create rings is to cut a disc from a metal material. After that, use the lathe jaws and start boring out the size you desire for the ring. The final touch is finishing the workpiece by adding bevels on its edges.
(If you know the way around metal, you might also want to know how to bevel wood.)
Mini Metal Lathe Buyer’s Guide
Power and Motor
Like it or not, powerful motor engines should deliver better metalworking performance. You can find these mini tools with engines ranging from ¾ to 3 HP. A beefier motor means you’re in for some quality metalworking. Don’t skimp on this; it’s the heart of your machine.
Variable Speed and Control
The ability to control the tool’s speed is the perk of having this feature. However, you should remember that not all lathes include this in their functions. If your tool is equipped with this, rest assured that you’ll have more range in the materials your lathe can handle.
Size of DBC (Distance Between Centers)
Your lathe’s distance between centers should range at least 15 inches. If you find ones with less DBC, it’s not a mini version of this tool. Typically, those models fall under the category of normal-sized lathes.
This feature also dictates the material size your lathe can work on. But don’t sweat the small stuff—a difference of an inch in DBC won’t make or break your project.
Size of SOB (Swing Over Bed)
The SOB feature directly relates to the maximum metal size the tool can work with. When shopping for lathes, always try to choose ones with 6 to 7 inches of swing-over-bed features. The wider the material you use, the bigger the SOB size should be.
Lathe Bed and Bed Length
Alright, pay attention here, especially if you’re out there shopping for a mini lathe. Most models will have beds ranging from 760mm to 920mm. Now, you might think bigger is better, but hold on. Using a large bed for small projects can generate a lot of unnecessary vibrations, and nobody wants that. Stick to what you need for the job at hand.
Headstock Bearings
Don’t forget to check what kind of headstock bearings your lathe is equipped with. More often than not, you’ll need to replace this component. However, these things don’t cost much, so you don’t have to worry.
If you ask me, never go for plain bearings. Why? Because these components tend to be expensive and hard to find in the market.
Faceplates and Lathe Chuck
Chucks for lathes are sold in different types, but I suggest going for ones with four independent jaws. This makes a world of difference when you’re dealing with workpieces of varying shapes. You get more grip, more versatility, and more options to hold your work.
Ease of Use
These tools are portable and easy to maneuver, so you’ll have little to no difficulty during their usage. As long as the tool allows speed control changes and adjustment of other features, you can utilize the lathe without hassle.
Overall Size and Weight
Considering the compact size of these tools, it’s not hard to guess that they’re also lightweight. Because of this, mini metal lathes are easier to handle than larger ones. While lighter options aren’t always stable, choose the one that will complement the needs of your project the best.
Intended Use and Project Size
If you’re working on multiple projects at a time, it’s best to determine the general size of the materials you’re working on. These tools are best suited for smaller workpieces, so it’s wise to settle on this before officially buying them.
Tool’s Stand and Stability
Here’s a pro tip: If your workshop lacks a stable workbench, look for a lathe that comes with its stand. This way, you don’t have to compromise on stability.
But before buying one, make sure you know the suitable workbench height for your needs.
Additional Features/Accessories
You’ll find lathes loaded with bells and whistles, but don’t let that sway you. Always, and I mean always, prioritize the lathe’s overall quality over any extra features it might boast.
Price and Warranty
You can set a budget range when searching for the best mini metal lathes because these tools are sold in various price caps. Ultimately, it depends on the features and brand.
Don’t forget to check for warranty perks since these tools are often expensive. You wouldn’t want to get a tool with a defect upon purchase and be told that you can’t return it because of not having these policy perks.
My Top Pick For a Mini Metal Lathe:
BestEquip Mini Metal Lathe
After putting several models through their paces, I’ve got to hand it to the BestEquip Mini Metal Lathe as the standout choice in this product review.
Besides its affordable price, its adequate motor power and variable speed control make it a reliable tool for professionals and beginners. I’ve personally seen its versatility shine across a range of different projects.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
