Be it for the purpose of embarking on home improvement projects, or for any art or craft that you are looking to make yourself, or even to pursue your goal of making brilliant creations based on the numerous DIY videos that you have seen online, having a good metal lathe is incredible. This handy machine goes a long way into improving the kind of work that you do, making it not only easier but also a lot more precise.
Working with metal can sometimes be a challenge, which is why having the right tools to make the process easier is always advised. However, if you are someone who isn’t well versed with metalworking tools, or if you are just overwhelmed by the options available on the market, look no further, because we are here to give you a rundown of ten of the best mini metal lathes on the market right now.
Delta Industrial Variable-Speed Midi Lathe
For a product that stands as the top of the line, and which can perform all its functions with absolute ease the Delta Industrial Speed Mini Lathe is the one for you. One of the more iconic features of this particular product is the speed adjustments that the product has. Because of multiple switches, changing the speed while the metal is on the belt is incredibly smooth and seamless to use. The motor of the product runs at 1725rpm and is incredibly powerful for its size.
Pros:
Seamless Speed Change
Cons:
No Accessories
The Central Machinery Mini Lathe
Ever since the Central Machinery mini lathe was released on the market, hobbyists all over have been interested in all that this product has to offer. For those who love exact cuts and work that is flawless, this is the product that you should consider going in for. The broad range of speed options makes this brilliant for cutting that is in tune with the density of the metal being used. One of the only downsides that people have experienced with this product is the lack of additional components and accessories that usually come with similar products.
Pros:
Precise Cuts
Cons:
No Accessories
EverVictory Mini Metal Lathe
While most people tend to look for products that are with features, there are the select few who want something simple that will most definitely get the job done. The EverVictory Mini Metal Lathe is one tool that does the very basics of what a mini metal lathe is supposed to do, and nothing more. However, this can still be good for those who don’t want to work around something that is too complicated. This is also the perfect product for beginners who are just getting into metalworking and don’t want to get too overwhelmed by the intricacies of it.
Pros:
Beginner Friendly
Cons:
No Versatile Use
SHOP FOX Benchtop Lathe
With an eight-inch swing and ⅓ horsepower, the Shop Fox Benchtop Lathe is another power-packed product on our list that is sure to come into good use, no matter what kind of project you are trying to do. The product is made of cast iron which means that it is incredibly durable and is going to last you an incredibly long time. Interchangeable speed options also exist on this product but don’t work as seamlessly as some of the other products mentioned on this list. The Benchtop Lathe also comes with its own set of accessories and tools to do the job that you are doing even easier.
Pros:
Powerful
Cons:
Not Budget Friendly
The Grizzly Benchtop Metal Lathe
The Grizzly Benchtop Metal Lathe is another product that has been getting a fair amount of attention for its usefulness and durability. Even though users have reported this particular tool to be a little bit noisy as compared to other products, the fact is that it works better than anything else that you can find. The product works with extreme precision and is brilliant for intricate and hard cuts. The device is power packed with features which can all prove to be extremely useful for experienced users.
Pros:
Extremely Durable
Cons:
Not Suitable For Beginners
RIKON 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe
Another brilliant pick for those who are somewhat experienced in working with these machines, the Rikon 12-by-16 Inch Mini Lathe is something that most people who want the very best tend to go in for. This product works just as good as large-scale lathes and can be useful for a number of projects. With everything that one could ask for in a mini lathe, this is one tool that is bound to be a long-term investment. The product comes with a number of additions to make the work that you do even easier.
Pros:
Long Lasting
Cons:
Expensive
Chuang Sheng Mini Lathe Machine
One of the most underrated products on the market, the Chuang Shend Mini Lathe is something that someone is just getting into metalworking should try. The product is not too heavy, and is portable, making it even easier to use. It as some speed options that are good to help cut through a variety of materials including brass and silver. However, this product is not meant for any heavy-duty use and can end up getting damaged if not allowed to cool off in between uses.
Pros:
Easy To Use
Cons:
Heating Issues
SUNWIN 6 In 1 DIY Tool Wood Lathe
While the SunWin Wood Lathe may not be the most conventional design for a lathe, it surely is something that a lot of people could find useful if they are only working with softer materials. The device is rather compact as compared to some of the other options on this list, and can be quickly moved around. The device is brilliant for beginners who are looking to get started on their projects but may limit them regarding the materials that they can use when using this product.
Pros:
Specialized For Cutting Wood
Cons:
Limited To Few Metals
Central Machinery Precision Mini Lathe
The Central Machinery Precision Mini Lathe is one product that delivers a power packed performance for the price that it is available at. The body of the device is sturdy and can be used for heavy-duty use. One of the more prominent drawbacks of this product is the usability. Reviews suggest that people often have a hard time understanding the functioning of this product because of how the setting works and the processes are carried out. However, this product still comes with all the features that one could want, making this a good option for anyone on a budget.
Pros:
Budget Friendly
Cons:
Complicated To Use
Bolton Tools BT0919 Bench Lathe
The Bolton BT0919 Bench Lathe may be a little bit on the expensive side but is worth it for those who are hugely experienced with this kind of projects and want to take their work onto a professional scale. This is also a rather large product and may require a designated space that is sturdy enough to handle its weight.
Pros:
Ideal For Professionals
Cons:
Bulky And Heavy