10 Best Mini Lathes 2026 in the United States

The Grizzly Industrial G0769 is a versatile combination lathe and mill, making it an excellent option for hobbyists and small workshop owners who want a compact but powerful tool. With an 8-1/4” swing over the bed and a distance between centers of 16”, it provides a good working space for various projects. The 600W motor offers enough power for most tasks, while the variable spindle speed from 50 to 2000 RPM allows for flexibility in handling different materials and applications.

One of the standout features is its dual functionality; you can switch between lathe and milling operations, which helps save space and money if you're looking to complete a variety of machining tasks. The 4-5/8” cross slide provides decent control, which is important for precision work.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the machine is robust at 296 pounds, it may be a challenge to move or reposition in a smaller workspace. Additionally, the size and weight could limit portability for users who need to transport their equipment frequently. The lathe's swing might also feel a bit constrained for larger workpieces, which could frustrate those looking to work with bigger stock.

The CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe 8"×16" offers a solid choice for hobbyists and small workshop users who need a reliable machine for metal turning tasks. It has a good swing over the bed at 8.3 inches and a 16-inch distance between centers, which allows for handling moderately sized workpieces. The 1100W (1.5HP) brushless motor provides enough power to work through various metals while maintaining consistent performance. The spindle speed is adjustable from 50 to 2250 RPM, giving you flexibility to match the speed to the material and task, and the digital display makes speed monitoring straightforward.

The bed and tailstock are made from all-metal construction, contributing to durability and stability, which is key for precision work. The 5-inch 3-jaw chuck is versatile, securing both round and square objects, and the 4-way tool post allows for multiple tool setups, improving workflow efficiency. Safety is also considered with a transparent chuck guard that helps protect against debris without sacrificing visibility.

This lathe is on the heavier side (about 174 pounds), which can make it less portable. While it is well-suited for precision tasks like threading and drilling, beginners might face a learning curve with setup and operation. This mini lathe is a sturdy, capable machine ideal for those who want a balance of power, precision, and safety in a compact size.

The CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe is a compact yet powerful choice for hobbyists and professionals looking to handle small to medium metalworking tasks. With a swing over bed of 8.7 inches and a distance between centers of 23.6 inches, it strikes a balance between size and capability. The machine's 1100W brushless motor allows for spindle speeds up to 3000 RPM, granting users excellent control over their projects, which is displayed in real-time on an LCD screen. This feature is particularly beneficial for precision work, such as threading and turning, where accuracy is crucial.

The sturdy cast iron construction of the lathe not only ensures durability but also provides stability during operation, reducing vibrations that can affect precision. The inclusion of a 3-jaw chuck and a robust tailstock enhances versatility, allowing users to work with various materials, including wood, plastic, brass, and aluminum.

There are some drawbacks to consider. Some users may find the learning curve steep, especially those new to metalworking, as it requires careful handling and adjustment for optimal results. Additionally, while the lathe is designed for precision tasks, its compact size may limit its capacity for larger projects or heavier materials.