MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO
#6 in LathesFull review
For accurate small parts: the DRO is what you pay for. Choose a longer bed if you turn shafts.
Amazon $1,999$1,999
The MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO and the Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe are evenly matched, rated 3.7 and 3.7. The MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO leads on features. The Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe wins on capacity and price. The Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe costs $284 less ($1,715 vs $1,999).
Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe
#7 in LathesFull review
For long work and panel set threading at a price below the MechMaxx readout lathes.
Amazon $1,715$1,715
Prices 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 MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO for features (cuts threads, variable speed, power feed, digital readout, brushless motor, spindle bore of 1 in or more vs cuts threads, variable speed, power feed, brushless motor).
- Choose the Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe for capacity (8.3 in swing x 31.5 in between centers vs 8.2 in swing x 15.8 in between centers) and price ($1,715 vs $1,999).
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 | MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO | Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Price 25% | 35 $1,999 | 44 $1,715 |
| Capacity 20% | 29 8.2 in swing x 15.8 in between centers | 84 8.3 in swing x 31.5 in between centers |
| Motor 15% | 87 1,119 W motor | 87 1,100 W motor |
| Features 30% | 100 cuts threads, variable speed, power feed, digital readout, brushless motor, spindle bore of 1 in or more | 70 cuts threads, variable speed, power feed, brushless motor |
| Warranty 10% | 50 1-year warranty | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| MechMaxx 0831VD 8x16 Lathe with DRO | Yokoma AL028401 8x31.5 Metal Lathe | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Swing over bed | 8.2 in | 8.3 in |
| Between centers | 15.8 in | 31.5 in |
| Spindle bore | 1.5 in | - |
| Spindle and motor | ||
| Motor | 1,119 W | 1,100 W |
| Brushless motor | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle speeds | 0 to 2,500 rpm | 50 to 2,500 rpm |
| Variable speed | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle taper | MT5 | - |
| Features | ||
| Cuts threads | Yes | Yes |
| Power feed | Yes | Yes |
| Digital readout | Yes | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | - |