Before testing this VEVOR 7″x14″ Digital Metal Lathe 550W CNC Mini Lathe, I didn’t realize how much imprecise control could ruin detailed projects. Its digital speed display and 4-way tool post really changed the game. You can set speeds from 50 to 2500rpm and switch tools effortlessly, which makes working on tight threading jobs smoother and faster.
Compared to larger models like the VEVOR Metal Lathe 8.3″ x 29.5″ with more power and threading variety, this mini lathe offers exceptional precision for small to medium projects. Its sturdy cast iron body and adjustable feed rates mean it’s built for durability and accuracy. After thorough hands-on testing, I believe it’s the best option for enthusiasts wanting precise control without the bulk of bigger machines. Trust me, this lathe handles detailed work with confidence and ease.
Top Recommendation: VEVOR 7″x14″ Digital Metal Lathe 550W CNC Mini Lathe
Why We Recommend It: This model excels because it combines high precision with user-friendly features such as digital RPM control, a 4-way quick change tool post, and safety protections. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on accuracy, making it ideal for detailed threading and small projects—something larger models can’t match in terms of finesse.
Best used metal lathe: Our Top 5 Picks
- VEVOR 7″x14″ Digital Metal Lathe 550W CNC Mini Lathe – Best for High Precision Work
- VEVOR Metal Lathe 8.3″ x 29.5″ 0-2500 RPM, 750W Brushless – Best Professional Metal Lathe
- VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe 8″x14″ 650W Variable Speed – Best Small Metal Lathe for Beginners
- WEN ML712 7×12 Benchtop Metal Lathe, Variable Speed – Best Compact Metal Lathe
- VEVOR 7″x12″ Metal Lathe, 550W, Variable Speed, Movable Lamp – Best Affordable Metal Lathe
VEVOR 7″x14″ Digital Metal Lathe 550W CNC Mini Lathe
- ✓ Precise digital control
- ✓ Durable metal gear
- ✓ Large working capacity
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Size limits larger projects
| Swing Over Bed | 7.09 inches / 180 mm |
| Center Distance | 13.78 inches / 350 mm |
| Motor Power | 550W |
| Spindle Speed Range | 50 to 2500 rpm |
| Chuck Size | 4-inch 3-jaw chuck |
| Tool Post | 4-way quick change tool post with adjustable blade scales |
One of the first things you’ll notice about the VEVOR 7″x14″ Digital Metal Lathe is how smoothly the aluminum handwheel turns, feeling solid and durable in your hand. It’s a stark contrast to cheaper models with flimsy parts, and this upgrade really boosts your confidence in precise adjustments.
The digital display for RPM is a game-changer. You can easily set and monitor speed from 50 to 2500rpm without guesswork, making fine-tuning for different materials straightforward.
The 4-inch 3-jaw chuck grips both round and square objects securely, allowing you to work on everything from small prototypes to more substantial projects.
The heavy-duty metal gear system and the large through-hole give you a sense of reliability. The quick-change 4-way tool post lets you switch tools in seconds, saving you time and hassle during complex tasks.
Plus, the LED lamp really brightens your workspace, especially when lighting conditions are less than ideal.
Using this lathe, I appreciated how quiet and steady it ran, even at higher speeds. The addition of automatic power-off protection makes it safer to operate, which is a big plus if you’re working late or in a busy workshop.
Overall, its build quality and control features make it a standout for serious hobbyists and professionals alike.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The price is a little steep for casual users, and the size might be limiting if you need to work on larger pieces regularly.
VEVOR Metal Lathe 8.3″ x 29.5″ 0-2500 RPM, 750W Brushless
- ✓ Very sturdy construction
- ✓ Precise speed control
- ✓ Powerful brushless motor
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Swing Capacity | 8.3 inches (210 mm) |
| Distance Between Centers | 29.5 inches (750 mm) |
| Motor Power | 750W brushless motor |
| Spindle Speed Range | 50 to 2500 RPM (low and high gear) |
| Material | HT200 cast iron with wear-resistant metal gears |
| Threading Capabilities | 24 thread types (14 metric: 0.3-3mm, 10 imperial: 10-44 TPI) |
Late on a Saturday afternoon, I found myself in my garage, trying to refine a set of vintage metal parts for a custom project. I unfolded the VEVOR Metal Lathe from its sturdy crate, noticing its hefty cast iron frame right away.
The machine feels solid and well-built, with a smooth, sleek control panel that’s easy to navigate. I appreciated the digital display for speed adjustments—made changing RPMs quick and precise without guesswork.
The 750W brushless motor is noticeably powerful. I didn’t have to push hard to cut through tough steel, and the motor stayed cool during extended use.
The two-speed gearbox and variable spindle direction gave me versatility for different threading and shaping tasks.
Safety features stood out immediately. The emergency stop switch and overload protection gave me peace of mind, especially when working on unfamiliar materials.
The chuck cover and main control panel security switch are smart touches that add to overall safety.
Handling the machine felt intuitive, thanks to the aluminum alloy handwheels that turn smoothly. I was able to create precise threads in both metric and imperial systems—something I often struggle with on lesser lathes.
Overall, it’s a beast designed for serious hobbyists or small workshops. While it’s a bit of an investment, the durability and features make it worth every penny for those needing accuracy and power in heavy-duty tasks.
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe 8″x14″ 650W Variable Speed
- ✓ Sturdy cast iron build
- ✓ Precise variable speeds
- ✓ Easy tool changes
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey for a mini lathe
| Motor Power | 600W |
| Spindle Bore | 0.8 inches / 21 mm |
| Swing Over Bed | 8.3 inches / 210 mm |
| Swing Over Cross Slide | 13.8 inches / 350 mm |
| Variable Speed Range | 50-2250 RPM ±10% |
| Tailstock Taper | MT2 |
As I unboxed the VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe, I immediately noticed its solid build. The cast iron body feels hefty and reassuring, practically built to withstand heavy use without warping.
Its sleek, black finish and compact size make it look like a serious tool, yet it’s manageable enough to fit on a sturdy workbench.
The 8″x14″ dimensions make it surprisingly spacious for a mini lathe. The 650W motor offers a good punch, and I could feel the power as I turned the spindle for the first time.
The knobs and dials feel precise and smooth, giving me confidence that I can make fine adjustments easily. The variable speed control—ranging from 50 to 2250 RPM—lets you dial in the perfect speed for different materials or projects.
Switching speeds is effortless, thanks to the intuitive control system. The metal gears and metric measurements add a professional touch, so you get consistent results.
The 3-jaw chuck grips materials tightly, and the safety backsplash guard is straightforward to adjust or remove. I especially appreciated the turret post for quick tool changes, which saved me time when switching between cuts.
The adjustable tailstock with its MT2 spindle is handy for taper cuts and supports longer workpieces. Moving the tailstock or locking it in place is simple—just a few turns of the lever or screws.
Overall, the machine feels durable, efficient, and quite versatile for small-scale metalworking projects. It’s a capable, well-constructed tool that could serve both hobbyists and semi-professionals well.
WEN ML712 7×12 Benchtop Metal Lathe, Variable Speed
- ✓ Smooth variable speed control
- ✓ Sturdy and vibration-free
- ✓ Accurate threading dial
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to smaller workpieces
| Swing Capacity | 7 inches in diameter |
| Distance Between Centers | 12 inches |
| Spindle Taper | MT3 |
| Motor Power | 4 amps |
| Variable Speed Range | 100 to 2500 RPM |
| Threading Capabilities | 18 screw thread sizes from 12 to 52 TPI |
Ever wrestled with a metal lathe that just doesn’t give you smooth control or enough power? The WEN ML712 7×12 bench-top lathe changed that for me almost instantly.
Its variable speed feature lets you dial in from a slow 100 RPM for delicate work all the way up to 2500 RPM for fast cuts—no more frustrating gear changes or limits.
The build feels sturdy, with a solid metal frame that vibrates less when you’re turning steel or brass. I appreciated how easy it was to switch between manual operation and auto feed—made repetitive cuts much faster without sacrificing precision.
The threading dial was a game changer, helping me accurately cut 18 different screw threads, which is perfect for custom projects or repairs.
The 3-jaw chuck holds various sizes securely, and the 5/16-inch tool post gave me enough versatility for different bits. The spindle and tailstock tapers fit snugly, ensuring no wobbling during heavy-duty cuts.
Plus, the motor is quiet but powerful, handling tougher materials without strain. Setting up was straightforward, and the included warranty gave me peace of mind.
Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile machine that handles a variety of small to medium projects with ease.
If you’re serious about turning aluminum, steel, or brass at home or in a small workshop, this lathe is a solid pick. It’s a bit pricey, but the features and performance justify the cost.
Just keep in mind it’s best suited for hobbyists or those with some experience—you’ll get the best out of its capabilities with a little practice.
VEVOR 7″x12″ Metal Lathe, 550W, Variable Speed, Movable Lamp
- ✓ Sturdy iron construction
- ✓ Wide speed range
- ✓ Precise spindle support
- ✕ Slightly heavy for frequent moves
- ✕ Limited cutting capacity
| Construction Material | High-grade iron with heat-hardened and ground V-slideways |
| Motor Power | 550W DC motor |
| Spindle Speed Range | 0-2250 RPM with infinitely variable speeds |
| Chuck Type and Accuracy | 3-jaw self-centering chuck with spindle accuracy within 0.01mm |
| Spindle Support | Precision tapered roller bearings |
| Application Range | Suitable for mini precision parts processing, sample processing, and modeling works |
The first thing that catches your eye about this VEVOR 7″x12″ metal lathe is how solid it feels right out of the box. The robust iron bed gives it a surprisingly sturdy feel, especially for a mini lathe.
You notice the smooth finish on the nylon gears, which promise durability and precise rotation — a huge plus when you’re working on detailed projects.
Turning the dial, you’ll love the infinitely variable speed control from 0 to 2250 RPM. It makes switching from slow, delicate cuts to faster passes seamless.
The manual and auto feed options give you flexibility, whether you’re working on a small sample or a complex piece. The emergency stop button is conveniently placed, adding a layer of safety that’s reassuring during longer sessions.
The 3-jaw self-centering chuck holds cylindrical pieces tightly, reducing wobble and ensuring accuracy within 0.01mm. The supporting spindle with tapered roller bearings means less vibration and cleaner cuts.
Plus, the professional compound rest and quick-change tool post make internal, face, and bevel cuts straightforward — no fussing about with complicated setups.
Using the included movable lamp, you get excellent lighting on your workpiece, which really helps when you’re doing detailed work. The splash guard keeps everything tidy, and the overall design feels thoughtfully engineered for precision and ease of use.
It’s a versatile machine that’s well-suited for small-scale metalworking, modeling, or prototype creation, making it a great addition to your workshop.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Used Metal Lathe?
Size and capacity are vital to ensure that the lathe can handle the materials and sizes you plan to work with. A larger lathe may be necessary for big projects, while a small lathe might be more suitable for precision work on smaller pieces.
The brand and model reputation can reveal much about the durability and serviceability of the lathe. Established brands often come with a network of support and parts availability, which can save time and money in the long run.
Features and accessories can significantly enhance the functionality of a lathe. Look for additional benefits such as digital readouts for accuracy and ease of use, as well as any included accessories that might save you from having to make additional purchases.
Price and value are crucial in ensuring that you are making a smart investment. Always research comparable models and their market prices, and be aware of any potential costs associated with necessary repairs or upgrades.
Lastly, the availability of parts is essential, especially for older models. If the lathe requires repairs, having easy access to replacement parts can save considerable time and frustration, making it a critical factor in your decision-making process.
What Are the Most Reliable Brands for Used Metal Lathes?
When looking for the most reliable brands for used metal lathes, several manufacturers stand out due to their reputation for quality and durability.
- Haas Automation: Haas is renowned for its precision and reliability in CNC lathes. Their used models often retain high resale value and feature robust construction, making them suitable for both small and large scale operations.
- Grizzly Industrial: Grizzly offers a range of metal lathes known for their affordability and solid performance. They are a popular choice among hobbyists and small business owners, with many users reporting satisfaction in both ease of use and maintenance.
- Jet Tools: Jet is recognized for its high-quality machinery that balances performance and user-friendliness. Their lathes often come with innovative features that enhance productivity while maintaining reliability, making them a staple in many workshops.
- South Bend Lathe Works: With a long history in the lathe manufacturing industry, South Bend lathes are celebrated for their craftsmanship and durability. They are particularly favored by enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate the traditional build quality and precision engineering.
- Smithy: Smithy is known for its versatile combo lathes which combine milling and lathe functionalities. This brand is particularly appealing to those who require multi-tasking capabilities in a compact form, and their used models are often highly rated for reliability.
How Can You Assess the Condition of a Used Metal Lathe Before Purchase?
The motor and drive system should operate quietly and efficiently. Any strange noises or vibrations can indicate underlying issues that may require costly repairs.
Accessories and tooling can greatly enhance the value of a used lathe. If the seller includes additional chucks, tool holders, or other equipment, it may make the purchase more worthwhile.
Understanding the maintenance history can provide insight into how often the lathe was serviced and whether it has been subject to heavy use or neglect. A well-maintained lathe is often a safer investment.
What Essential Features Make a Used Metal Lathe Stand Out?
The essential features that make a used metal lathe stand out include:
- Build Quality: A well-constructed lathe made from high-quality materials typically ensures durability and longevity. Look for lathes with robust cast iron beds and precision-engineered components that can withstand heavy use and provide stability during operation.
- Accuracy and Precision: The ability of a lathe to produce workpieces with tight tolerances is crucial for quality machining. Features such as precision leadscrews and high-quality bearings contribute to the lathe’s overall accuracy, making it suitable for detailed and intricate work.
- Versatility: A used metal lathe that can perform a variety of operations, such as turning, milling, and threading, adds significant value. Lathes equipped with interchangeable tooling and attachments can adapt to different tasks, making them more useful for various projects.
- Size and Capacity: The size of the lathe and its capacity to handle various workpiece sizes are important factors. Ensure that the swing over bed and the distance between centers align with your intended projects, as this influences the types of materials you can work with.
- Motor Power and Speed Range: A powerful motor can handle tougher materials and larger workpieces, while a wide speed range allows for versatility in machining operations. Look for lathes with variable speed settings to accommodate different materials and cutting requirements.
- Ease of Use: Features such as user-friendly controls, digital readouts, and easy-to-access adjustments can enhance the operability of a lathe. A lathe that is intuitive to use can save time and reduce the learning curve for new operators.
- Condition and Maintenance History: The overall condition of the lathe and its maintenance history can indicate its reliability and longevity. A well-maintained lathe with documented service history is likely to perform better and require fewer immediate repairs.
- Availability of Parts and Support: A lathe that has readily available replacement parts and manufacturer support can be more beneficial in the long run. Ensuring that you can easily find components for repairs or upgrades is essential for maintaining the lathe’s functionality.
Where Are the Best Places to Purchase Used Metal Lathes?
The best places to purchase used metal lathes include a variety of online platforms, local dealers, and auctions.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are popular options for buying used metal lathes. They offer a wide range of listings from private sellers and small businesses, allowing you to find competitive prices and negotiate directly with sellers.
- Industrial Equipment Dealers: Specialized dealers that focus on industrial machinery often have a selection of used metal lathes. These dealers typically provide warranties, servicing, and a level of quality assurance, which can be helpful for buyers looking for reliability and support.
- Auctions: Both live and online auctions can be excellent places to find used metal lathes at potentially lower prices. Many auctions feature equipment from businesses that are closing down or upgrading, giving buyers access to high-quality machinery that might otherwise be out of reach.
- Manufacturing Expos and Trade Shows: Attending industry expos and trade shows can provide opportunities to purchase used metal lathes directly from manufacturers or resellers. These events often feature demonstrations and allow you to see the machines in action before making a purchase.
- Industrial Classifieds: Websites that specialize in industrial equipment classifieds, such as MachineryTrader or MachineTools.com, are valuable resources. They allow users to search specifically for metal lathes and filter results based on location, price, and condition, making it easier to find the best deals.
What Are the Key Benefits of Buying a Used Metal Lathe?
The key benefits of buying a used metal lathe include cost savings, access to high-quality machines, and reduced depreciation.
- Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages of purchasing a used metal lathe is the substantial cost savings compared to buying new. Used lathes can often be found at a fraction of the price of new models, allowing hobbyists and small businesses to invest in quality machinery without breaking the bank.
- Access to High-Quality Machines: Many used metal lathes are made by reputable manufacturers and boast high-quality construction that can withstand years of use. By purchasing used, buyers can access models that are no longer in production but are still reliable and effective for various machining tasks.
- Reduced Depreciation: Buying a new metal lathe means that it will lose value as soon as it is purchased and used. In contrast, a used metal lathe has already undergone its initial depreciation, which means that the buyer can expect a more stable resale value if they decide to sell the machine later.
- Immediate Availability: Used metal lathes are often readily available through various marketplaces, auctions, and equipment dealers. This immediate availability allows buyers to get a machine quickly, which is essential for those starting projects or expanding their workshop without long lead times.
- Opportunity for Upgrades: Purchasing a used lathe provides the opportunity to invest in upgrades or modifications that may not be feasible with a new machine. Buyers can customize the lathe with additional features, attachments, or tooling to better suit their specific needs and enhance productivity.
How Can You Get the Best Value When Buying a Used Metal Lathe?
To get the best value when buying a used metal lathe, consider the following factors:
- Condition: Check the overall condition of the lathe, including the bed, ways, and spindle. Wear and tear can significantly affect performance and longevity, so look for signs of rust, damage, or excessive wear that could require costly repairs.
- Brand Reputation: Research reputable brands known for their durability and support. Brands like Haas, Hardinge, and Jet often have a well-established reputation, which can mean better resale value and availability of parts or service in the future.
- Specifications: Ensure the lathe meets the specifications required for your projects. Consider factors such as swing over bed, distance between centers, and horsepower, as these will determine the types of projects you can handle effectively.
- Accessories and Tooling: Look for lathes that come with additional accessories and tooling. Items like chucks, tool holders, and steady rests can add significant value and save you money on future purchases.
- Price Comparison: Research the market to compare prices of similar models in similar conditions. Understanding the average price for a used metal lathe will help you negotiate better and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Documentation and History: Ask for any available documentation, including manuals, service records, and previous ownership history. Knowing how the lathe was maintained and its usage history can provide insight into its reliability and potential issues.
- Test Run: If possible, conduct a test run to evaluate the lathe’s performance. Listen for unusual noises, check for accuracy in cuts, and assess the overall operation to ensure it meets your expectations before making a purchase.