The Best Benchtop Milling Machine - Reviews & Comparison

Published by Theresa Linwood at February 26, 2020

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T here was a time when milling machines were produced exclusively for the industrial and commercial sectors and used only in factories for the mass production of pieces. Although these massive machines are still in use, a smaller, more practical version has become highly popular among buyers, namely the benchtop milling machine, which has been specially designed to fit on a regular benchtop. This way, small businesses, and even independent craftsmen, can use this ingenious invention in their workshop or garage, without having to spend tens of thousands of dollars.

When buying a milling machine, several variables should be taken into account and, by this, we mean not only their sturdiness and engine power but some important specifications like work table size or spindle speed. Besides that, the price is important as well, along with warranty and service. Luckily, we’ve checked all these variables for you and came up with the 8 best products, so make sure you check out our article for details and recommendations.

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Top 8 Benchtop Milling Machines Compared
1. JET 350018
2. Grizzly Industrial G0704
3. WEN 33013
4. Klutch 49657
5. Happybuy 7×14 Inch Metal Lathe
6. Proxxon 37110
7. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO
8. top-tool High Power Metal Mini Lathe
Conclusion

Top 8 Benchtop Milling Machines Compared

Photo	Product Name	Motor	Worktable Size	Spindle Speed	Longitudinal Travel	Cross Travel	Warranty	Price
Best Overall	1. JET 350018	2 HP, 1 phase, 230 volt only	9 1/2 in. x 31 3/4 in.	150-3000 RPM	20-1/2 in.	6-1/2 in.	2-year	Check Price
Best Benchtop Milling Machine for a Home Shop	2. Grizzly Industrial G0704	1 HP, 110V, 12A, single-phase	7-1/16 in. x 26-5/8 in.	50-2,250 RPM	18-7/8 in.	6-7/8 in.	1-year	Check Price
Best Benchtop Milling Machine for Beginners	3. WEN 33013	120V, 60Hz, 4.5A	18-1/8 x 4-3/4 in.	100-2,500 RPM	5-1/8 in.	11-13/16 in.	2-year
Editor’s Choice	4. Klutch 49657	1/2 HP, 110V	3 5/8 in. x 15 3/8 in.	100-2,500 RPM	8-5/8 in.	4 in.	1-year	Check Price
	5. Happybuy 7×14 Inch Metal Lathe	0.75HP/ 550W/ 110V	7 in. x 14 in.	100-2,500 RPM	1.38 in.	2.56 in.	N/A	Check Price
Best Precision Benchtop Milling Machine	6. Proxxon 37110	1/8 HP 100-Watts	7-7/8 in. x 2-3/4 in.	5,000-20,000 RPM	5-17/64 in.	1-13/16 in.	2-year	Check Price
	7. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO	775 motor, 12V	11.8 in. x 7.1 in. x 1.8 in.	3,000-9,000 RPM	11-13/16 in.	7-3/32 in	1-year	Check Price
	8. top-tool High Power Metal Mini Lathe	144W motor	N/A	12,000 RPM	5-45/64 in.	1-17/64 in.	N/A	Check Price

1. JET 350018

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JET 350018

Specifications

Drilling Capacity: 1-1/4”
Face Mill Capacity: 3”
End Mill Capacity: 3/4”
Swing: 15-7/8”
Spindle Travel: 5”
Number of Spindle Speeds: 12
Range of Spindle Speeds: 150 – 3,000 RPM
Table Longitudinal Travel: 20-1/2”
Work Table Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.

JET is renowned for its highly-qualitative, durable and powerful machines and JET 350018 isn’t an exception. Easy to adjust and use, it is perfect for wood or metal milling and it can easily handle heavy materials due to the heavy-duty roller bearings that, combined with the cast iron column, add excellent stability.

Generous Work Table

If you are planning on working on a larger project, you will appreciate this model’s work table that measures 9 1/2 by 31 3/4 inches. This way you will be able to shape extra-large pieces of aluminum, ceramics, wood and other materials, all with the help of a single machine and faster than you could have imagined. The longitudinal and cross travel are 20-1/2 in. and 6-1/2 in. respectively, while the end milling and face milling capacity are 4 in. and 3 in respectively. A work lamp is included as well, so you can easily see what you are milling, even when you are working in dimmer light.

User-Friendly

Designed for garage and workshop use, it comes with a detailed manual that will help you assemble and use it. Besides that, the design is quite intuitive and you will find numerous user-friendly features such as a depth gauge that is easy to read, a practical quick-stop knob or satin-finished dials that will offer you guidance throughout the entire project.

Powerful Motor

The 2HP, 1 phase, 230-volt motor is UL-listed and able to rotate the spindle at 12 different speeds ranging between 150 and 3,000 RPM. Moreover, the engine is sustained by a hinged belt cover that helps with speed changing, reducing delays. Not to mention that the whole ensemble is covered by a generous 2-year warranty that covers both parts and labor for a wide range of mishaps.

PROS

Extra-large worktable
Intuitive design helps you to rapidly understand how it works
Generous 2-year warranty
Ultra-performant motor produces up to 3,000 RPM
User-friendly features

CONS

Requires a solid stand as it is very heavy
Expensive

Verdict

This machine will deliver professional results in the comfort of your garage, so when it comes to the quality-price report, we would call it fair. Moreover, the extra-large work table is perfect for projects of considerable size, while the strong motor allows you to shape even harder materials like ceramics or metals.

2. Grizzly Industrial G0704

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Grizzly Industrial G0704

Specifications

Drilling Capacity: Cast Iron: 3/4”; Steel: 5/8”
Face Mill Capacity: 2-1/2”
End Mill Capacity: 3/4”
Swing: 15”
Spindle Travel: 2”
Spindle Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 50 – 1125 RPM; 100– 3,000 RPM
Table Longitudinal Travel: 18-7/8”
Table size: 7-1/16″ x 26-5/8″

It comes with all the great features that are usually found in a professional machine, namely a variable speed motor, aR-8 spindle, tapered gibs, dovetail column and an extra-large 7-1/16 in. x 26-5/8 in. work table. The spindle is engaged by the 1 HP, 110V, 12A, single-phase motor and spins with variable speed within 50 and 2250 RPM, ensuring the perfect conditions for wood and metal shaping. Furthermore, it is equipped with a forward/reverse switch that will help you change direction and ease milling operations.

Other important specifications are the longitudinal travel which is 18-7/8 inches and the cross travel with a value of 6-1/2 inches. The R-8 spindle comes with a digital readout and DRO. In addition to that, you will receive a 2-speed gearbox and fine feed head control. Not to mention that the huge table comes with its own stand, so you won’t have to trouble yourself with finding one that can sustain such a heavy machine. Backed by a 1-year warranty and less expensive than a professional miller, this machine will help you build the projects of your dreams.

PROS

Generous work table
Forward/Reverse switch increases efficiency
Work table stand included
1-year warranty
Up to 2,250 RPM

CONS

Drilling function is weak
Setting it up may take a while

Verdict

All in all, this machine will help you with some serious metal shaping projects. The large table is supported by its own robust support, while the strong motor engages the spindle, generating up to 2,250 rotations per minute. Furthermore, a shut off switch is at your disposal for safety purposes.

3. WEN 33013

WEN 33013

Specifications

Drilling Capacity: 1/2”
Face Mill Capacity: 1-1/8”
End Mill Capacity: 5/8”
Spindle Speed: Low: 100-1,100 RPM; High: 100-2,500 RPM
Vertical Axis Travel: 7”
Longitudinal Axis Travel: 5-1/8”
Cross Axis Travel: 11-13/16”
Noise Level: 70-75 dB

It is equipped with a 4.5 amperes motor and a generous work table that measures 18-1/8 inches in length and 4-3/4 inches in width, being suitable for shaping channels in a broad variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Moreover, you can use it to create straight holes, pockets, flat surfaces, and angled edges. The maximum drilling capacity is 1/2 inches, and it comes with an R8 spindle taper that is compatible with a broad variety of mills, cutters, and bits.

The spindle speed is variable, reaching values between 100 and 1,200 rotations per minute on low speed and between 100 and 2,500 rotations per minute on high speed, therefore you will be able to adjust it according to the type of material you are milling. Furthermore, the table travels 11-13/16 inches on the cross axis (X), 5-1/8 inches on the longitudinal axis (Y), and 7 inches on the vertical axis (Z), allowing you to make accurate cuts.

Regarding the design, we’ve appreciated the materials to be highly qualitative. The table is robust and able to hold pieces of considerable sizes and weights. The heavy-duty base comes with pre-drilled bolt holes to increase the machine’s stability. Furthermore, it is covered by a generous 2-year warranty that covers both the broken parts and the labor.

PROS

Excellent safety features include a transparent shield and an emergency stop setting
Compatible with a broad variety of bits, mills, and cutters
Robust base increases stability
Can handle metal, plastic, wood, and many other materials
Easy to clean, as it comes with a rubber cover that catches chips

CONS

Verdict

Highly versatile and with a straightforward design, this machine is an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users. It can create slots, pockets, flat surface, surface contours, and others, being suitable for a wide variety of projects. Plus, the manufacturer made sure you won’t get cut or injured during the milling process by providing this model with an emergency stop and a transparent shield.

4. Klutch 49657

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Klutch 49657

Specifications

Drilling Capacity: 1/2”
Face Mill Capacity: 1-3/16”
End Mill Capacity: 5/8”
Spindle Travel: 7”
Spindle Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 0 – 1,100 RPM; 0 – 2,500 RPM
Table Longitudinal Travel: 8-5/8”
Table Cross Travel: 4”
Noise Level: 70 – 75 dB

ETL listed, this machine comes with the guarantee of safety and performance, so you can purchase with the utmost confidence. Equipped with a performant 1/2 HP, 110V motor that can produce a spindle’s variable speed within 100 and 2,500 RPM, it will help you mill large thick pieces of metal, wood or ceramics. Moreover, for increased performance, it comes with a collet and a drawbar, being suitable for variate R8 collets with the following sizes: 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/16, 3/8, 5/16, 5/8 and 9/16 inches. Plus, you will be able to drill holes thanks to the drilling option that features a capacity of 1/2 inches.

The work table measures 3 5/8in. x 15 3/8in, being generous enough for medium-sized projects, with a longitudinal travel of 8 5/8 inches and a cross travel of 4 inches. The headstock travel is 7 inches. Furthermore, the column and the milling head tilt to 45 degrees right or left, thus increasing versatility and ease of use. Worthy to mention is the 1-year warranty, which will provide great cover for parts and labor, so you can put your mind at ease and concentrate on your project.

PROS

ETL-listed for safety and performance
Versatile, with a tilting column and milling head
1-year warranty
Excellent spindle speed

CONS

Stand not included
No work light available

Verdict

Powerful and adaptable, this tool will help you shape all the materials for your project at a great speed and with wonderful results. Easy to operate, it can be used even by beginners. Not to mention that it is backed by an excellent 1-year warranty, so you will be able to enjoy it without worrying that a mishap or a manufacturing flaw will put you through extra expenses.

5. Happybuy 7×14 Inch Metal Lathe

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Happybuy 7x14 Inch Metal Lathe

Specifications

Top Slide Travel: 1.36”
Chuck Diameter: 3.94”
Spindle Accuracy: 0.001 mm.
Swing: 7”
Spindle Bore : 0.8”
Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 100 – 2,500 RPM
Table Longitudinal Travel: 8-5/8”
Table Cross Travel: 4”

If you need to mill small parts that need extra attention and precision, you should go with Happybuy 7×14 Inch Metal Lathe that was specially designed for this purpose. Featuring a top-notch 0.75 HP 550 W motor, it is ready to produce infinitely variable speeds between 100 and 2500 RPM. Moreover, you will be able to use it for a great variety of jobs, including the processing of small precision parts, modeling works or sample processing. The 7×14 inches work table is generous enough to support all the operations and it comes with longitudinal travel of 1.38 inches and a cross travel of 2.56 inches.

Ready to for some serious milling and designed to last for many years of work, Happybuy is built only of highly-qualitative materials. The parts are all metal, including the hand wheel, gears, and shell. Other important specifications include the distance between centers which measures 14 inches, the chuck diameter – 3.93 inches, and the spindle bore measuring 0.8 inches. Moreover, it can be turned within the turning taper, foreign aid, and others.

PROS

Excellent spindle speed
Versatile, with many functions and features
Built of high-quality materials for better performance and prolonged lifespan
Powerful motor

CONS

Cannot handle large pieces of material
Work light not available

Verdict

To summarize, this versatile tool can help you mill small parts with the utmost precision, so if you need to build some complicated structures that need extra accuracy, Happybuy is your best choice. Moreover, it comes with a strong engine, able to generate infinitely-variable speeds, so you will be able to adjust it according to your every need.

6. Proxxon 37110

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Proxxon 37110

Specifications

Vertical Travel: 2-3/4”
T-Slots: 3
Numbers of Collets: 6
Maximum power: 1/8 HP
Footprint Size: 5-1/8″ x 8-7/8″
Spindle Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 5,000 – 20,000 RPM
Table Longitudinal Travel: 5 17/64″
Table Cross Travel: 1 13/16″

Able to generate an impressive variable speed within the 5,000 and 20,000 RPM interval, this is one of the most efficient machines on the market. The 1/8 HP 100-watts motor is qualitative and will help you shape metals, wood, ceramics, and many other materials. Besides that, the table is large enough to fit medium and small pieces, as it measures 7-7/8 per 2-3/4 inches. It features X-Y travel with the longitudinal travel being 5 17/64 inches and the cross travel 1 13/16 inches.

Designed for precision milling, it is perfect for electronics, jewelry or lab projects. The cast iron base provides the perfect balance, keeping the milling machine steady even at high speeds. The compound lathe and the vertical column are made of high-quality aluminum and treated for extended durability. Moreover, the package includes 6 steel collets with the sizes of 1/32, 1/16, 5/64, 3/32 7/64 and 1/8 inches. An adjustable ruler scale is also included for easier positioning of the work-piece.

PROS

Excellent precision
Speed varies between 5,000 and 20,000 RPM
High-quality materials
2-year warranty

CONS

Limited range of use as it is very small
Can be difficult to set the right adjustments

Verdict

Compact and equipped with all the functions and features for a quality precision work, this tool will prove of real help for your electronics or jewelry hobby. Apart from that, it is built of sturdy materials and backed by a 2-year warranty, all at a fair price, so we would call it a clever long-term investment.

7. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO

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Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO

Specifications

Table Longitudinal Travel: 11-13/16”
Table Cross Travel: 7-3/32”
Drill Bits Angle: 20-Degree
Rated Power: 60 W
Frame Size: 15.7” x 13.0” x 9.4″
Spindle Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 3,000 – 9,000 RPM
Supported OS: Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
Software: Grbl Control

Following up with precision milling machines, Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO can deliver incredible results as it comes with an integrated mainboard and special software designed to control movement with the ultimate precision. Moreover, Grbl runs on Arduino and is an open-source software, so you will get plenty of resources and support every time you stumble on something. Designed for beginners, it is perfect for students who are just learning CNC or for wood- or metal-carving enthusiast, and it will easily shape soft aluminum, plastic, PVCs, acrylics, and wood.

The 775 motor will generate a spin speed between 3,000 and 9,000 RPM, helping you cut through thicker materials, while the 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches work surface, with a longitudinal travel of 11 13/16 inches and a cross travel of 7 3/32 inches, provides the perfect conditions for a comfortable work. In addition to that, this machine comes with many safety features like a CE, FCC and PSE-certified power adapter or an offline controller module and is fully-covered by a generous 1-year warranty.

PROS

Built-in software ensures precision
Large work space provides comfortable work sessions
Many safety features for an extra-safe job
1-year warranty

CONS

Instructions aren’t clear
Assembly can be difficult

Verdict

Powerful and precise, this tool will help you make incredible metal carvings and shape pieces of small dimensions, being perfect for jewelry or electronics. Moreover, the software makes it easy to control and you will be able to set the right parameters in no time.

8. top-tool High Power Metal Mini Lathe

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top-tool High Power Metal Mini Lathe

Specifications

Table Longitudinal Travel: 5-45/64”
Table Cross Travel: 1-17/64”
Collet Size: 0.03” – 0.23”
Motor Power: 144 W
Spindle Speed: Variable
Range of Spindle Speeds: 12,000 – 20,000 RPM

It features a solid 144 W motor that will provide an incredible 12,000 RPM spindle speed, so if you need to cut thicker materials, this machine is the right option. Provided with a two-edges milling cutter, it is more efficient than a regular miller. However, more attention should be paid while working, as it is more dangerous. It features longitudinal travel of 5 45/64 inches and a cross travel of 1 17/64 inches, being perfect for shaping small pieces that need extra accuracy. Moreover, the entire structure is made of high-quality metals that provide more durability and an extended lifespan.

All the necessary parts are included in the package for a fast assembly and a quick start, and you will receive the headstock, short machine bed, long machine bed, connection pieces, small and big slider, gear and other important parts that turn this machine into a highly performant tool. Not to mention that the price is attractive and you won’t have to spend a small fortune on your hobby.

PROS

2-edges milling cutter for enhanced efficiency
Accurate, perfect for precision jobs
Easy to assemble and use
Affordable

CONS

Working light not included
Not suitable for large pieces of material

Verdict

Affordable and easy to maintain, this is a great budget option for milling small precision parts. The motor generates huge speed, allowing you to cut through thicker materials, while the work table offers enough space for comfortable use.

Conclusion

Whether you need to cut large pieces of metal or wood for your extended project, or you are looking for a compact tool that can help you shape mini precision pieces for your lab or jewelry business, you will find a perfect match within our top, as we’ve chosen only highly performant and qualitative milling machines. For example, all our models reach spinning speeds of at least 2000 RPM and most of them are backed by generous warranties. However, each model comes with its features and specifications, so we suggest you take a second look at the following models that differentiated themselves through some specific qualities:

Best Overall Benchtop Milling Machine: JET 350018

Provided with an extra-large work table and a robust motor that can generate up to 3,000 rotations per minute, this machine is perfect for shaping large pieces of material and it will easily cut through metal, wood, and ceramics. Moreover, it comes with a work lamp that will help you go on with your work even if the light gets dimmer. With a user-friendly design and backed by a 2-year warranty, it’s surely worth every dollar and you will be able to enjoy it for many years to come.

The manual is detailed, and you will find everything you need to know inside it, including assembly and maintenance instructions. Plus, the control panel is intuitive and comes with a quick-stop knob and dials to help you adjust everything to your needs.

Editor’s Choice: Klutch 49657

ETL-certified, this model has been tested for both performance and safety and it complies with the highest standards, so it can be safely used by a beginner without the assistance of a specialist. Furthermore, it comes with a user-friendly design and is easy to put together, so you will be ready for work in no time. Not to mention that it is backed by a great 1-year warranty that covers both parts and labor, so you can purchase with confidence.

Best Precision Benchtop Milling Machine: Proxxon 37110

Jewelry, watches and other small accessories need extra-attention and a machine that can perform precise cuts and drills. Therefore, if you need a tool for this job, this compact model is an excellent choice. It is equipped with a 1/8 HP motor that can generate up to 20,000 rotations per minute. The speed can be adjusted, according to the project and the material, starting from the minimum value of 5,000 rotations per minute. Furthermore, the package includes 6 hardened MICROMOT steel collets to cover 6 different sizes.

Best Benchtop Milling Machine for Beginners: WEN 33013

It is designed to cover a wide range of operations and can be used for wood, plastic, metal, and other materials, therefore it is a great choice for beginners who wish to experiment a bit before deciding on the material or the job. The onboard measurement indicators ease the job by assisting with cutting, while the safety features like the emergency stop button or the transparent shield are designed to reduce the risk of work accidents.

Best Benchtop Milling Machine for a Home Shop: Grizzly Industrial G0704

A home shop can generate substantial incomes if you buy the right equipment. You will need a reliable machine that is ready to work every time a customer enters your premises. For milling, Grizzly Industrial G0704 is just the perfect choice. Not only that it has a small footprint, therefore it won’t take too much of your countertop space, but it is highly efficient, with a 1 HP motor that can produce up to 2,500 rotations per minute. Furthermore, it comes with a huge table and its own steel stand, so it will easily hold larger and heavier pieces.