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. The JET BDB-919 Belt Drive Bench Lathe wins on features. The VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W costs $3,020.09 less ($529.90 vs $3,549.99).
For a serious hobbyist or small shop that wants a gearbox lathe from a known brand and will pay for it.
Amazon $3,549.99Prices 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 $3,549.99).
- Choose the JET BDB-919 Belt Drive Bench Lathe for features (cuts threads, power feed 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 | JET BDB-919 Belt Drive Bench Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Price 25% | 100 $529.90 | 0 $3,549.99 |
| Capacity 20% | 16 7.1 in swing x 13.8 in between centers | 50 swing or distance between centers not published (neutral score used) |
| Motor 15% | 56 550 W motor | 57 560 W motor |
| Features 30% | 30 variable speed, power feed | 40 cuts threads, power feed |
| Warranty 10% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 100 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| VEVOR 7x14 Mini Metal Lathe 550W | JET BDB-919 Belt Drive Bench Lathe | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Swing over bed | 7.1 in | 8.8 in |
| Between centers | 13.8 in | - |
| Spindle bore | 0.8 in | 0.8 in |
| Spindle and motor | ||
| Motor | 550 W | 560 W |
| Spindle speeds | 50 to 2,500 rpm | 130 to 2,000 rpm |
| Variable speed | Yes | No |
| Features | ||
| Cuts threads | - | Yes |
| Power feed | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | - | 250 lb |
| Warranty | - | 2 years |
