7 Best Mini Milling Machines [Evaluated Late 2023]

7 Best Mini Milling Machines [Evaluated Late 2023]

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mini milling machine

Best Mini Milling Machines

Updated October 2023 – added PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70 and improved buying guide.

Despite their power, convenience, and versatility, milling machines come at a hefty price tag, making them out of reach for most people. 

Fortunately, you can get a smaller version of a milling machine called a “mini milling machine” more cheaply, and that takes up far less space in your workshop.

These machines, commonly called mini milling machines, provide you the versatility and capability of standard milling machines without pinching your pocket or needing a forklift to install.

Mini-milling machines allow for more precision cuts than you can get with other workshop tools. Hobbyists, hackers and CNC’ers all find that a mini mill can help unlock projects that are impossible without.

To save you the hassle, we’ve evaluated the full range of mini milling machines on the market as of October 2023 and identified those that we think are the seven best with help from our team of experts here at 911Metallurgist:

Best Mini Milling Machine in 2023:

Milling Machine
Best for Small Workshops
Decent option for beginners
PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70, 37110
Klutch Mini Milling Machine - 350 Watts, 1/2 HP, 110V
Grizzly G0781 3/4 hp Mill/Drill, 4 x 18"
Pros
Lots of options for extra features
Great option for beginners at low initial price with big upgrades available
Industrial level quality for the home
Weight
‎18.21 pounds
143 pounds
‎167 pounds
Cons
There are more powerful milling machines out there
Initial investment is high
Be wary of damage on delivery
Price
$448.99
$949.99
$1,340.00
Best for Small Workshops
Milling Machine
PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70, 37110
Pros
Lots of options for extra features
Weight
‎18.21 pounds
Cons
There are more powerful milling machines out there
Price
$448.99
Buy Now
Decent option for beginners
Milling Machine
Klutch Mini Milling Machine - 350 Watts, 1/2 HP, 110V
Pros
Great option for beginners at low initial price with big upgrades available
Weight
143 pounds
Cons
Initial investment is high
Price
$949.99
Buy Now
Best Overall
Milling Machine
Grizzly G0781 3/4 hp Mill/Drill, 4 x 18"
Pros
Industrial level quality for the home
Weight
‎167 pounds
Cons
Be wary of damage on delivery
Price
$1,340.00
Buy Now

7 Best Milling Machines in 2023

Without further ado, here are the best mini-milling machines to buy. We analyzed the latest customer sentiment data and also asked for recommendations from our community of metallurgists:

1. PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70 Best Budget Mini Milling Machine

PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70, 37110

The PROXXON MF70 is one of the most popular mini milling machines on Amazon and for good reason as it has all the features you need for less than $500.

It’s much smaller than many of the other options on this list and weighs only 17.6 lbs but can still provide 5,000 to 20,000 RPM and is perfect for hobbyists working with smaller items that need the features of a milling machine.

One of the best features of this unit is that you can buy many accessories that work directly with the machine. This is not a mini milling machine of industrial grade, but for the right hobbyists, this could be the perfect machine without the issues of having to move a 700lb machine.

Key Features

  • Voltage: 110 volts
  • Speed: 5000 – 20,000 RPM
  • Horsepower: 100 watts
  • Weight: 17.6 lbs
  • Extras

One of the best features of this unit is that you can buy many accessories that work directly with the machine. This is not a mini milling machine of industrial grade, but for the right hobbyists, this could be the perfect machine without the issues of having to move a 700lb machine.

PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70, 37110
  • Variable speed 5000-20000-Rpm with 1/8HP (100-Watts) motor; 110 to 120-Volt AC, 60 HZ
  • Table size 7-7/8-Inch by 2-3/4-Inch (200 by 700mm)
  • With X-Y travel, 5-17/64-Inch and 1-13/16-Inch vertical travel 2-3/4-Inch
  • 57/64 by 8-55/64-Inch (130 by 225 millimeter) weighs 15.5-Pound

1. Jet JMD-18 350018 Milling/Drilling MachineBest Workshop

JET JMD-18 Mill/Drill Machine with R-8 Taper, 1Ph 115/230V (350018)

The Jet JMD-18 350018 is a powerful milling machine that doubles as a drilling press. Ideal for both metal and woodworking projects, the JMD 18 makes a strong case for being one of the best milling machines on the market. 

The product has garnered a 4.7-star review on Amazon, with many users recommending it for heavy-duty use. One happy customer who used it for drilling steel described it as a “ very good quality tool” for heavy-duty use. Another one who used it for climb milling described it as a “great product for the money.”

The JMD 18 boasts 12 spindle speeds ranging between 15 and 3,000 RPM. This gives you the flexibility to tackle different projects, as different materials require different speeds. The 2 HP motor allows the mill to tackle different types of projects. 

It also comes with a spacious work table, measuring 31-inches by 9-inches, that provides ample room for larger workspaces. 

Key Features

  • Voltage: 115 volts
  • Amperage: 24 Amps
  • Speed: 15 – 3,000 RPM
  • Horsepower: 2 HP
  • Weight: 660 pounds
  • Key features: heavy-duty tapered roller bearings, hinged belt cover for faster speed changing, large work table, 360-degree swivel for precision

The Jet JMD-18 is an excellent product for tackling heavy-duty projects, thanks to its powerful motor and variable speed. And for $3,339, this mill is priced lower than the competition offers for similar products.

JET JMD-18 Mill/Drill Machine with R-8 Taper, 1Ph 115/230V (350018)
  • One-piece cast iron column for added support
  • 360° head swivel
  • Positive quick-stop knob and easy to read internal depth gauge
  • Forward and reverse switch
  • Drill press angle vise

2. WEN 33075T 11-Amp

WEN 33075T 11-Amp Variable Speed 16-Inch Benchtop Milling Machine with Digital Readout and Extra-Large Mill Table

Whether you want to create straight hoes, flat surfaces, angled edges, or surface contours, the WEN 33075T will do the job quickly and efficiently. 

This mill has varied speed dials, ranging from 100 to 2,000 RPM, allowing you to handle various projects. It also has a spacious work table, measuring 27.6-inch by 6.3-inch, that provides enough room for larger workpieces. 

This mill comes with a powerful 11-Amp motor with an impressive ¾-drilling capacity, while the R8 taper allows it to be used with various drill chucks, collets, and end mills. An LED monitor also displays your current speeds for maximum control and accuracy. 

Key Features

  • Variable speed ranging from 100 – 2,000 RPM
  • R8 spindle taper
  • Digital LED display
  • Spacious 27.6 x 6.3-inch work table

THANKS TO ITS VARIABLE SPEED, the WEN 33075T is an excellent mini-milling machine for various home projects. And for $2,381, the machine is affordable for many DIY enthusiasts. 

WEN 33075T 11-Amp Variable Speed 16-Inch Benchtop Milling Machine with Digital Readout and Extra-Large Mill Table
  • Variable speed operation ranges from 100 to 2000 RPM while the LED monitor displays the current spindle speed
  • Spacious 27.6 by 6.3-inch work table combined with the 14.5-inch max distance between spindle and table provides ample room for larger workpieces
  • Table travels 19.75 inches along the X-axis and 6.5 inches along the Y-axis while the headstock travels 9.75 inches along the Z-axis
  • Digital Z-axis DRO depth gauge showcases exact spindle travel for maximum precision
  • Includes an R8 spindle taper, a 2.75-inch spindle travel, a pre-installed drill chuck (1/32 to 3/4 inch), fine-tune adjustment hand wheels, a transparent chuck guard, an emergency stop button, onboard measurement indicators, a 15-inch swing, two M10-1.5 T-nuts, 12mm T-slots, and a two-year warranty

3. SHOP FOX M1111

SHOP FOX M1111 6-Inch by 21-Inch Mill and Drill

The SHOP FOX M111 is an upgraded version of the M110 and comes with a whole set of additional features that make it easier and more pleasurable to use. 

This fantastic milling machine is designed for small to medium-sized jobs but can also work on more demanding projects. First, it offers variable speeds spaced out between 100 and 1,750 RPM. This allows you to handle a wide range of projects. 

Secondly, this mill has high precision and accuracy. 

Precision is easily achieved thanks to the digital readout and digital depth scale. It also has a quick reverse tapping that makes hole threading easier. 

Key Features

  • Voltage: 110 V
  • Speed: 100 – 1,750 RPM
  • Power source: Corded electric
  • Weight: 416 pounds
  • Horsepower: 1 HP
  • Special features: R8 spindle taper, reverse taping, digital readout, and control panel

The SHOP Fox M111 is an excellent choice for beginners and DIYers who frequently work on different projects. And for $3,699, this item is competitively priced for its features. 

4. JET JMD-18PFN 230

JET JMD-18PFN Mill/Drill Machine with Power Downfeed, 1Ph 230V (350020)

The JET JMD-18PFN is a versatile and affordable milling machine perfect for heavy machining. This mill has a one-piece cast iron column for support, which also helps to reduce the vibration, resulting in accurate finishes. 

The beauty of this machine is in its flexibility and ease of use. 

It comes with a 360-degree swivel, a belt cover, and a handy slide latch, making changing the spindle speeds easier. The spindle is supported by heavy-duty tapered roller bearings, resulting in greater tolerance and more accurate drilling depth. 

Key Product Specifications

  • Voltage: 115 volts
  • Horsepower: 2 HP
  • Speed: 4,500 RPM
  • Weight: 740 pounds
  • Special features: 36-degree swivel, adjustable carbide face mill, ½-inch Drill chuck, chuck arbor, drill press angle vise

The Jet JMD-18PFN is best suited for heavy-duty and more demanding projects. But for $4,319, this mini milling machine is priced higher than other mills in its class. 

JET JMD-18PFN Mill/Drill Machine with Power Downfeed, 1Ph 230V (350020)
  • One-piece cast iron column for added support
  • 360° head swivel
  • Positive quick-stop knob and easy to read internal depth gauge
  • Drill press angle vise
  • Forward and reverse switch

5. Grizzly Industrial G9729-31 Lathe/Mill Combo

Grizzly Industrial G9729-31' 3/4 HP Combo Lathe/Mill

If you need a larger, more powerful machine for your projects, the Grizzly Industrial G9729-31 will not disappoint. With great features like two motors for extra power, a magnetic controller, and a reverse switch, you can be sure this mill is designed for power and accuracy. 

Crave a bigger workspace? The G9729 has a massive 31-inch between centers and a 16-1/2-inch swing. That means you can easily fit large workpieces onto this machine. 

Additionally, it has a 4-nose taper. You can change between the tools in a second and speed up your work progress. There’s also a 4-way turret tool post that makes working with this fantastic mill a smooth experience. 

The beauty of the Grizzly G9729-31 is seen in its speed. This beast of a machine offers sixteen-mill spindle speeds spaced out between 120 and 1,500 RPM. As for the lathe speed, it has seven, ranging from 175 to 1,425 RPM. 

Key Features

  • Voltage: 110V
  • Speed (mill): 120 – 1,500 RPM
  • Horsepower: 1 HP
  • Weight: 692 pounds
  • Special features: two separate motors, built-in vise, hardened and ground bed ways, adjustable mill/drill head, T-slots in the cross slide

The Grizzly G9729 combo lathe/mill is an excellent choice for those looking for a larger, more powerful machine for more demanding projects. At a price of $2,995, this machine is competitively priced for its features.  

Grizzly Industrial G9729-31" 3/4 HP Combo Lathe/Mill
  • Forward / reverse switch
  • Built-in milling table with T-slots
  • Two separate motors
  • Power longitudinal feed
  • Power cross feed

6. Grizzly Industrial G0758-6-Inch

Grizzly Industrial G0758-6' x 20' 3/4 HP Mill/Drill

Regarding power tools, Grizzly products are always ahead of the curve. And their G0758 mini milling machine showcases the company’s prowess in milling machines, thanks to its handy features and a competitive price tag. 

The Grizzly G0758 comes packed with impressive features every DIYer loves. Designed to tackle all types of projects, the Grizzly G0758 sports a powerful motor that allows it to handle any material you throw at it.

This mill has a variable speed between 50 to 2,000 RPM, ideal for working on different materials. 

Additionally, this mill has one of the largest tables, allowing you to handle various workspace sizes. And with its R-8 spindle taper, it’s compatible with various tools. 

Product Specifications

  • Voltage: 110 V
  • Speed: 50 -2,000 RPM
  • Horsepower: ¾ HP
  • Table size: 3-5/8″ x 15-3/4″
  • Spindle taper: MT#3
  • Special features: Spindle elevation DRO, variable speed, high-torque low, noise motor, 3-axis precision handwheel control

The Grizzly G0758 is an excellent product for small to medium-sized projects. And for $1795, it’s the most affordable mini milling machine on our roundup. 

Grizzly Industrial G0758-6" x 20" 3/4 HP Mill/Drill
  • Motor: 600W (3/4 HP), DC, 110V, 10A
  • Spindle taper: R-8
  • Spindle travel: 2"
  • Swing: 13-1/4"
  • Max. distance spindle-to-table: 8-3/4"

Buying Guide for Mini Milling Machines

Mini milling machines are aimed squarely at the hobbyists/home workshop audience.

Freestanding or Benchtop: The main difference you will initially want to decide is if you want to go for a benchtop or freestanding model. Benchtop will be easier to move as freestanding models can be tricky to fit in a car, but a freestanding model will allow you to work with bigger materials. If size is a major issue, you might be better with a CNC machine that still does some milling functions in a much smaller space.

Power and Speed: Mini milling machines can range from 1000 RPM to 3000 RPM; the higher the speed, the easier it will be to make cuts, and they will be smoother. You will benefit from a higher RPM if you want to work with aluminum, plastic, or smaller tools. A higher RPM milling machine will generate less heat when cutting. You will also notice that power is given in horse-power with smaller units ranging from ¾ HP up to 3HP for larger freestanding models. Higher horsepower allows you to cut through stronger material and will be quicker than lower-powered units.

The reality is that many of the cheaper mini-milling machines are made in the same factory in China, and the differences between brands will be the features and support you will receive if anything goes wrong.

Some features that might be worth looking at but will cost extra include using accessories like vices, dividing attachments and precision V blocks. The PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70 is a super popular mini milling machine and has a large number of accessories that are available to purchase easily.

Mini Milling Machine FAQ

Q: What is the alternative to the mini mill?

The obvious alternative is a full-sized milling machine, but for smaller cuts, you can also use a CNC milling machine that you can program to make similar cuts that you would make with a mini mill. If precision is not required, you can also get away with using hand tools like a router or Dremel.

Q: Can you cut steel on a mini mill?

You can cut steel but need at least 500-1,000 RPM and power of at least 0.5 horsepower, as steel is much stronger than other materials. For cutting steel, you will also need to use lubrication or cutting fluid, as a lot of heat will be created that will need to be dissipated.

Q: What is the best small milling machine?

Based on our latest evaluations, the PROXXON MICRO Mill MF 70 is the best small milling machine available. It’s much smaller than many other milling machines but could be a great fit for working on small items with softer materials like plastic, wood or soft metals.

Wrap Up

That’s it! Our list of the best mini milling machines on the market today!

Have you used any of these products? If so, what were your experiences? Share with us in the comments section below!