For a first lathe on a tight budget, to learn on small aluminum and brass parts. Expect to tune and upgrade it.
Amazon $529.90The VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W is the better metal lathe overall, rated 3.1 to 2.9. The VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W leads on price and motor. The Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe wins on features. The VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W costs $515.10 less ($529.90 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.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W for price ($529.90 vs $1,045) and motor (550 W motor vs 249 W motor).
- Choose the Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe for features (cuts threads, variable speed vs variable speed, power feed).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every lathes metal lathe; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W | Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Price 25% | 100 $529.90 | 75 $1,045 |
| Capacity 20% | 16 7.1 in swing x 13.8 in between centers | 10 7 in swing x 12 in between centers |
| Motor 15% | 56 550 W motor | 22 249 W motor |
| Features 30% | 30 variable speed, power feed | 40 cuts threads, variable speed |
| Warranty 10% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W | Grizzly G8688 7x12 Mini Metal Lathe | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Swing over bed | 7.1 in | 7 in |
| Between centers | 13.8 in | 12 in |
| Spindle bore | 0.8 in | 0.8 in |
| Spindle and motor | ||
| Motor | 550 W | 249 W |
| Spindle speeds | 50 to 2,500 rpm | 100 to 2,500 rpm |
| Variable speed | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle taper | - | MT3 |
| Features | ||
| Cuts threads | - | Yes |
| Power feed | Yes | - |
| Weight | - | 90 lb |
| Warranty | - | 1 year |
