A starter R8 mill for small parts and learning, with dealer support.
Grizzly $970The Grizzly G8689Z 4x16 Mill/Drill rates 3.3 among mills metal lathes; the Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe rates 2.9 among lathes ones. The Grizzly G8689Z 4x16 Mill/Drill costs $75 less ($970 vs $1,045).

For a beginner who wants dealer support with a classic 7x12 mini lathe. The motor limits it to light work.
Grizzly $1,045Prices were last checked November 3, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Scores side by side
These two sit in different machine type classes (mills and lathes), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own machine type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Grizzly G8689Z 4x16 Mill/Drill | Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Price 25% | 76 $970 | 75 $1,045 |
| Capacity 20% | 16 3.6 x 15.8 in table (57.1 sq in) | 10 7 in swing x 12 in between centers |
| Motor 15% | 40 373 W motor | 22 249 W motor |
| Features 30% | 60 R8 spindle, variable speed, tilting head | 40 cuts threads, variable speed |
| Warranty 10% | 50 1-year warranty | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Grizzly G8689Z 4x16 Mill/Drill | Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Swing over bed | - | 7 in |
| Between centers | - | 12 in |
| Spindle bore | - | 0.8 in |
| Table | 3.6 x 15.8 in table | - |
| Longitudinal travel | 9.1 in | - |
| Cross travel | 4 in | - |
| Spindle and motor | ||
| Motor | 373 W | 249 W |
| Spindle speeds | 0 to 2,500 rpm | 100 to 2,500 rpm |
| Variable speed | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle taper | R8 | MT3 |
| Head tilt | 45° each way | - |
| Features | ||
| Cuts threads | - | Yes |
| Weight | 135 lb | 90 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |