9 Best Metal Lathe of 2021 [Reviewed]
Does designing an extraordinary metal workpiece sound a little too much? Well, not if you get your hands on the best metal lathe out there. But, let us be honest, selecting the best metal lathe is easier said than done. A good quality metal lathe should be durable, affordable, and less noisy. As you must […] The post 9 Best Metal Lathe of 2021 [Reviewed] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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Does designing an extraordinary metal workpiece sound a little too much? Well, not if you get your hands on the best metal lathe out there.
But, let us be honest, selecting the best metal lathe is easier said than done. A good quality metal lathe should be durable, affordable, and less noisy. As you must know, the market is already saturated with many options, so choosing the best can be pretty challenging.
So, we decided to help you in the process of buying the best metal lathe by reviewing the top 9 options currently available on the market.
After rigorous research and testing, our experts have shared the results with us, and based on them, we have provided detailed reviews for each of our recommendations. Also, do not forget to read the whole article, as towards the end, we have added a buyer’s guide to help you even further.
So, let’s begin!
Top Metal Lathe
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick | BestEquip 7" x 14" Metal Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Jectse Mini Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Grizzly Industrial G0752 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | BestEquip Mini Metal Lathe 8x16 Inch |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Eastwood Benchtop Mini Metal Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | JET GH-2680ZH Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Techtongda 7" x 12 " Metal Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Mophorn 7” x 12” Benchtop Mini Metal Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | VEVOR Metal Lathe |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
BestEquip is one of the leading suppliers of top-quality, innovative, and dependable power tools. And the 7” x 14” metal lathe from the brand is certainly no different. Sporting a high-grade iron construction, this unit takes durability, efficiency, and long-lasting performance to a whole new level.
- 【STURDY METAL CONSTRUCTION】- The mini metal lathe bed is...
- 【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEEDS】- Variable speed from 0-2500...
- 【ACCURATE 3-JAW CHUCK】- Mini metal lathe chuck, 3-jaw...
- 【PROFESSIONAL COMPOUND REST】- The mini metal lathe quick...
Why Did We Like It?
To be honest, we were thoroughly impressed with what this product had to offer. We really liked its sturdy design, for starters, built using high-grade iron and featuring nylon gears; it makes the product wear-resistant and allows it to provide accurate rotations. Also, it comes with a splash guard for added protection.
Apart from this, it was a relief to find out that the speeds can be adjusted between 50 and 2,500 RPM to suit the project requirements. Plus, it comes with an emergency stop button, thereby ensuring maximum safety during operation.
Furthermore, you would be pleased to know that it features an adjustable compound rest, thus allowing you to control the depth of bevel cutting, face cutting, and internal cutting. Overall, the BestEquip metal lathe is suitable for a wide variety of applications such as cutting, drilling, threading, and processing. And that makes it one of the most versatile options on the list.
What Could’ve Been Better?
This metal lathe is undoubtedly one of the best options when it comes to versatility. However, you need to make some additional purchases in order to use this product. We noticed that it does not come with tool holders or cutters, so you would have to purchase them separately. Apart from this minor drawback, it works perfectly.
- Highly durable
- A versatile option
- Features an adjustable compound rest
- Variable speeds
- Doesn’t come with tool holders or cutters
Next up, we bring you a mini metal lathe by Jectse, a brand that is popular for delivering top-notch yet affordable machines. Featuring a potent motor, this particular unit can process a wide variety of metals. Overall, it is an option that you may not want to miss out on.
- Machine tool with powerful motor, the motor box and spindle...
- Main parts: such as the spindle box, tailstock, long stand,...
- Center height is 75mm and distance between centers is 135mm,...
- Maximum motor power is 60W by using more powerful motor.
Why Did We Like It?
There are quite a few things that we liked about this product. The first being its metal construction; not only does it make it more durable, but it also gives it a sleek, professional look. It features a powerful motor capable of producing 12,000 RPM, which is decent enough to cut through different types of metals, including precious and non-ferrous metals.
Furthermore, it weighs just about 176 ounces, making this product one of the most lightweight options on the list. Also, the components that come along with this mini metal lathe, such as the long stand and connecting box, are all made of metal, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Apart from this, its diameter can be enlarged to 50mm, thanks to the central block for making it possible. It is also one of the most affordable options on this list. Finally, all these handy features make this metal lathe the right choice for light-duty projects.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Jectse mini metal lathe is noteworthy on this list, especially because of its affordability and lightweight construction. That being said, it is not the right choice for those who are looking for a metal lathe that can handle heavy-duty professional projects.
- Extremely affordable
- Very lightweight
- Features an adjustable diameter
- Highly durable
- Not meant for professional projects
Founded in 1983, Grizzly is a US-based brand that manufactures various technologically advanced products, including power tools. Having said that, allow us to introduce you to the innovative G0752 metal lathe from the brand that can help you deliver some of the best metalwork out there.
- Motor: 1 HP, 110V, 12A
- Swing over bed: 9-1/2"
- Swing over cross slide: 6-1/8"
- Distance between centers: 22"
Why Did We Like It?
For us, the main USP of this product is its digital RPM display, which is pretty innovative when you compare it with the other models on the list. Also, you can change the spindle speeds and that too while it is running, thanks to its electronic speed spindle control. This allows you to have the best possible finishes on the workpiece.
Furthermore, it is packed with a 1 HP motor that is capable of working on a wide variety of materials. Also, the highly durable heavy-duty construction gives it a sturdy and sleek look that is like a cherry on the cake. Impressive, right? Well, there’s more.
The G0752 metal lathe from Grizzly is on the quieter side and is an option that you should consider.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Grizzly Industrial G0752 is an option worth considering, but it is not for those who are on a tight budget. That being said, it’s an investment worth making as apart from its expensive price tag, we did not come across any significant issues with this premium metal lathe.
- Spindle speeds can be adjusted
- Very sturdy and durable
- Makes less noise
- Features a powerful motor
- Tad bit expensive
As you know, BestEquip is one of the leading suppliers of innovative power tools, so it would only be fair to include yet another top-quality product from this brand. That being said, the 8” x 16” mini metal lathe is an option you simply cannot afford to miss out on, given all its exceptional features.
- 【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEED】- The mini metal lathe is...
- 【750MM LARGE SWING RANGE】- The benchtop lathe brings a...
- 【PROFESSIONAL COMPOUND REST】- The mini lathe machine...
- 【SUPPORTIVE & PROTECTIVE】- Soft start, change-over...
Why Did We Like It?
We were very impressed with the variable features of this product, but what drew our attention right at the start was its large swing range. This unit comes with a 3-jaw chuck, allowing you to work with larger workpieces with ease. Also, the powerful motor is capable of producing speeds up to 2,250 RPM, which is considered decent enough for light to medium-duty purposes.
Apart from this, we really liked the LED screen that comes along, displaying accurate and clear speed for precise operation. Like its predecessor, this metal lathe also features a professional compound rest to achieve different cutting positions.
It doesn’t end there; the BestEquip mini metal lathe 8″ x 16″ is also one of the quietest options that you will come across. Lastly, it can be used on a wide range of applications such as modeling works and sample processing.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are a couple of things that the manufacturer could have done better. It does not come with a warranty, for starters, and the instruction manual is made of cheap material and is hardly legible. This is quite disappointing, considering its price point and other exceptional features.
- Features a powerful motor
- Doesn’t make much noise
- Can be used widely
- Delivers clean results
- Poor instruction manual
We are halfway through this list, and now it’s time to talk about the Eastwood benchtop mini metal lathe. If you didn’t already know, Eastwood has been in the business since 1978; it is one of the most sought-after brands by DIYers. Having said that, the mini metal lathe from this brand allows you to machine parts right from the comfort of your home.
- Home workshop-friendly size
- Auto-feed and selectable gear train components
- Inside and outside 3-Jaw Chuck set included
- Includes HSS Cutting tools
Why Did We Like It?
As a power tool from a brand that has been in the business for over 40 years, the Eastwood benchtop mini metal exceeds our expectations for most parts. It is powered by a 3/4 HP motor that does more than a decent job in cutting steel, allowing you to use it for your projects.
Furthermore, it is very compactly built, enabling it to be used at home without much trouble. It can accommodate a wide variety of workpiece configurations, thanks to its internal and external jaws. Plus, it comes with a handful of HSS cutting tools right out of the box, so you can get started as soon as possible.
Coming to its design, it sports a metal construction, thereby making it very durable and long-lasting. Overall, Eastwood’s benchtop mini metal lathe is one of the best-selling options currently available on the market.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite being one of the best-selling options, the Eastwood benchtop mini metal lathe comes with a drawback. While testing it, we found out that the reset button does not always work; in our opinion, it is not properly engineered. Apart from the problem with the reset button, it does a fairly decent job.
- Features a very powerful motor
- Sports a compact design
- Can be used on a wide variety of materials
- Very durable
- Badly engineered reset button
Jet is a 50-year old American brand that has committed itself to produce quality and innovative power tools that you can depend on for a very long time. And the GH-2680ZH metal lathe from this brand lives up to the brand’s goodwill by delivering exceptional results for any metalwork.
- Large 4-1/8" Spindle Bore
- Turns 89 different thread sizes
- Clutch operated headstock with all headstock gears hardened...
- Bed ways are induction hardened and ground for durability
Why Did We Like It?
We were impressed with its massive spindle bore, which measures 4-1/8-inches, allowing us to work on all types of large and heavy metalwork. It weighs over 6,700 pounds, making it the heaviest metal lathe on this list. In fact, it weighs more than a car.
Furthermore, it is completely made of metal, making it very durable and adding a touch of elegance to its form factor. Also, we were glad to find out that it comes with 89 contrasting thread sizes, which makes the GH-2680ZH metal lathe from Jet the perfect choice for heavy-duty industrial work.
Also, we were impressed with the fact that the manufacturer did not skimp on the warranty. It, in fact, comes with a 2-year warranty which is undoubtedly an essential feature for a high-grade product like this.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The GH-2680ZH metal lathe is undoubtedly one of the heaviest and productive metal lathes available on the market. However, it cannot be installed at home because of its large and heavy form factor. Also, it is strictly meant for industrial purposes and not occasional DIY projects.
- The best option for heavy-duty industrial work
- Extremely durable
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Features 89 contrasting thread sizes
- Not meant for light-duty DIY projects
Techtongda is a very popular name in the machinery manufacturing industry, and the 7” x 12” thread metal lathe from this brand is no exception. In fact, it is used in almost all types of machining, such as boring, drilling, facing, and turning. Keep reading to know more about this unique product.
- [Professional Lathe]: Techtongda lathe is used for turning,...
- [600W Brushless Motor]: The newly upgraded 600W brushless...
- [All Metal]: All the gears are made of metal and the spindle...
- [Safety First]: The lathe is equipped with emergency stop...
Why Did We Like It?
Sporting a high-grade metal construction, this top-notch metal lathe by Techtongda is an option you simply cannot afford to miss out on. The main USP of this product is its spindle bore, which is big enough to machine workpieces of various shapes and sizes. You can use it for sample processing, extensive processing, and precision processing.
Apart from this, we were pleased to find out that the spindle comes supported with a tapered roller bearing to ensure maximum precision while operating. Also, the speed can be adjusted between 50 and 2,500 RPM, allowing you to meet your requirements at will.
Do not get fooled by its size; its powerful metal lathe can compete with some of the best options on the list. Furthermore, all its gears are made of sturdy metal, making machining stainless steel and carbon steel a very easy job.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Techtongda 7″ x 12″ metal lathe is not a perfect choice for those who are on a humble budget. It is slightly on the expensive side, which may compel you to think twice before investing. That being said, once you invest in it, you won’t be regretting it!
- Comes with a fairly large spindle bore
- Compatible with a wide variety of metals
- Compact design
- Extremely durable
- Slightly expensive
Now that we are nearing the end of the list, here’s another product that you should consider. Allow us to introduce you to the 7” x 12” benchtop mini metal lathe by Mophorn, a brand that produces a wide range of high-quality power tools with exceptional customer service.
- 【STURDY METAL CONSTRUCTION】- The mini metal lathe bed is...
- 【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEEDS】- Variable speed from...
- 【ACCURATE 3-JAW CHUCK】- Mini metal lathe chuck, 3-jaw...
- 【PROFESSIONAL COMPOUND REST】- The mini metal lathe quick...
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, we really liked its aluminum construction; the bed is made using high-grade iron and the gears, with nylon. This makes the metal lathe durable and wear-resistant. It is powered by a motor of 550W that helps in providing accurate rotations.
Furthermore, the speed can be adjusted between 50 RPM and 2,500 RPM, enabling you to set it as per your requirements. Not only that, but it also comes with an emergency stop button, thereby ensuring maximum safety during operation. Also, you would be happy to know that the spindle features tapered roller bearings, taking its accuracy to the next level.
The adjustable compound rest helps in bevel cutting, face cutting, and internal cutting with ease. And lastly, it’s worth mentioning that this lathe by Mophorn supports a wide variety of applications such as sample processing and precision processing, to name a few.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Even though the Mophorn 7” x 12” benchtop mini metal lathe does a decent job in most aspects, the motor could have been more powerful. Without a doubt, it will handle DIY projects with ease, but we are not sure if it will be as effective when handling heavy-duty, large-scale professional projects.
- Highly durable
- An extremely versatile option
- Delivers precise results
- Very safe to operate
- The motor could have been powerful
To be fair, this list would have remained half-complete without the inclusion of this exceptional metal lathe by Vevor. This brand is among the leading manufacturers of industrial products and has been in the business for over 10 years. On that note, this product may be the last entry on this list, but it can deliver similar results to other options.
- 【CAUTION】- The center frame will be sent by another...
- 【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEED】- The mini metal lathe is...
- 【750MM LARGE SWING RANGE】- The bench top lathe brings a...
- 【PROFESSIONAL COMPOUND REST】- The mini lathe machine...
Why Did We Like It?
We were quite impressed with all the different features of this metal lathe by Vevor. However, what piqued our interest right from the start was its LED screen feature; it helps track the speed, thereby ensuring accuracy. The metal construction offers decent durability.
Furthermore, you will be able to machine large workpieces with this product, thanks to the 3-jaw chuck for making it possible. The MT2 tailstock is worth mentioning as well since it makes operations a lot easier. Also, the adjustable compound rest helps achieve various positions needed for bevel cutting, internal and face cutting.
Apart from this, the spindle speed is adjustable between 500 RPM and 2,250 RPM, making it super user-friendly. Overall, this metal lathe by Vevor is one of the top-rated products currently available on the market. You can certainly keep it in consideration.
What Could’ve Been Better?
In our opinion, we felt that the VEVOR Metal Lathe does an outstanding job. However, we found out that the center rests were missing. We wish the manufacturer had been careful about the shipping process. Apart from this, it does a fabulous job as a top-notch metal lathe.
- Very user-friendly
- Delivers precise finishes
- Highly durable
- Comes with an adjustable compound rest
- Incomplete shipping
Metal Lathe Buyer’s Guide
Just knowing the brand names and a few pros and cons are not enough. There are a few other factors that you need to consider before buying the best metal lathe.
In this section, we have explained a few of these factors that will help you make an informed purchase based on your needs. We strongly recommend reading this part very carefully.
-
Size
Size is one of the most important factors you need to consider while buying a metal lathe. Heavy-duty industrial ones are larger compared to the ones meant for light-duty DIY projects.
That being said, lathes have considerable weight, which means they cannot be easily moved around. So, it comes down to your project requirements and also the space available in your workshop.
If you cannot afford to dedicate a very big space, go with a metal lathe that is compactly designed.
-
Motor Power
The efficiency of a metal lathe is directly proportional to its motor power. In general, the motor power of lathes ranges between 1 HP and 3 HP. So, the higher the motor power, the better and accurate finishes it will deliver.
-
Spindle Speed
While buying a metal lathe, consider keeping a check on the spindle speed. A top-quality metal lathe should have adjustable speed controls. Usually, light-duty lathes have adjustable spindle speeds between 30 RPM and 1,200 RPM, while heavy-duty ones offer speeds above 2,000 RPM.
On that note, you need to be too worried about the spindle speed as it only comes into play while working on projects that require splendid polishing.
-
Warranty
Buying a top-quality lathe requires significant investment, so to ensure that you don’t have to replace it anytime soon, go with a model that offers a warranty. Most metal lathe models do not come with a warranty. However, we strongly recommend settling for a product that offers at least a year of warranty.
Verdict
All metalworkers strive to achieve the best finishes on their workpieces. Using a top-quality metal lathe makes the process a lot easier and fun. So, if you want to carve your metalworks to perfection, then a top-quality metal lathe is a must-have.
With this, we have reached the end of our review-based guide. We hope this guide helps you choose the right metal lathe as per your requirements.
Before signing off, we would like to mention our favorite picks. BestEquip 7″ x 14″ Metal Lathe is the best overall. Jectse Mini Lathe is an extremely affordable option, while Grizzly Industrial G0752 is a durable option known for making less noise.
On that note, it’s time to bid farewell. See you soon!
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