For a hobbyist who wants an R8 mini mill with a readout at the lowest price and can live with short travels.
Amazon $1,999 eBayThe MechMaxx VM18LD 6x20 Mill Drill with DRO and the MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill are evenly matched, rated 3.2 and 3.2. The MechMaxx VM18LD 6x20 Mill Drill with DRO leads on features. The MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill wins on price. The MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill costs $400 less ($1,599 vs $1,999).
Prices were last checked November 4, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
A good value brushless R8 mill in the popular 6x20 size.
Amazon $1,599 eBayWhich should you buy?
- Choose the MechMaxx VM18LD 6x20 Mill Drill with DRO for features (R8 spindle, digital readout, brushless motor, variable speed, tilting head vs R8 spindle, brushless motor, variable speed, tilting head).
- Choose the MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill for price ($1,599 vs $1,999).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every mini mills milling machine; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | MechMaxx VM18LD 6x20 Mill Drill with DRO | MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Price 25% | 34 $1,999 | 52 $1,599 |
| Table size 20% | 20 5.5 x 19.6 in table (107.9 sq in) | 20 5.5 x 19.6 in table (107.9 sq in) |
| Motor 15% | 52 746 W motor | 52 746 W motor |
| Features 30% | 85 R8 spindle, digital readout, brushless motor, variable speed, tilting head | 65 R8 spindle, brushless motor, variable speed, tilting head |
| Warranty 10% | 33 1-year warranty | 33 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| MechMaxx VM18LD 6x20 Mill Drill with DRO | MechMaxx VM18L 6x20 Mill Drill | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Table | 5.5 x 19.6 in | 5.5 x 19.6 in |
| Longitudinal (X) travel | 8.6 in | 8.6 in |
| Cross (Y) travel | 6.3 in | 6.3 in |
| Spindle and motor | ||
| Motor | 746 W (1 hp) | 746 W (1 hp) |
| Motor type | 1 hp DC brushless | 1 hp DC brushless |
| Brushless motor | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle speeds | 0 to 2,500 rpm | 0 to 2,500 rpm |
| Variable speed | Yes | Yes |
| Spindle taper | R8 | R8 |
| Head tilt | 60° each way | 60° each way |
| Features | ||
| Digital readout | Yes | - |
| Weight | 180 lb | 180 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
