Benchtop lathe for hobby turning promising accurate, high-speed results for model makers and small workshops. Quiet, all-metal construction gives confidence when working on delicate parts. Is the Generic Miniature Metal Lathe precise and robust enough for regular model making and small metalwork?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Cutting Precision: T-type aluminium bed, dovetail connections and a 0.02mm-scale handwheel enhance repeatable accuracy
- • Best for: Hobbyists and model makers working with small soft-metal parts and engineering plastics
- • Not ideal for: Heavy industrial turning or large diameter stock beyond 50mm
All-metal miniature lathe with a 36W fan-cooled motor capable of up to 20,000 rpm. Supports workpieces up to 50mm diameter and 150mm length with a 0.02mm handwheel for fine adjustments.
Repeatable accuracy - thanks to T-type aluminium bed and 0.02mm handwheel
Dovetail connection blocks match machine slots to reduce play while the European standard T-type aluminium bed keeps slides running smoothly. Handwheels are moulded with 0.02mm scale lines to allow precise, repeatable adjustments.
Fine details and small parts can be turned with consistent results, useful for model-making and jewellery components requiring tight tolerances.
Sustained high-speed performance - with a fan-cooled 36W motor
A 36W motor drives all axes and is fitted with a built-in fan for cooling, while 3C-rated transformers provide over-current, over-voltage and over-heat protection. Maximum spindle speed reaches 20,000 rpm for rapid material removal on small parts.
High spindle speeds reduce cutting time on small pieces and the cooling/protection systems keep runs stable during longer sessions.
Flexible clamping and tooling - with three-jaw chuck, collets and wide gripping ranges
Three-jaw chuck and collets cover 1 to 6mm internal sizes, positive jaw gripping 3 to 30mm and opposite jaw gripping 3 to 50mm, with centre distance of 150mm. The chuck is secured by a hexagon nut to increase clamping tightness.
A wide range of part sizes and shapes can be held securely, making it straightforward to switch between tiny shafts and larger small-diameter workpieces.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Generic Miniature Metal Lathe
- All-metal construction - reduces vibration for steadier finishes and longer life
- 20,000 rpm motor - speeds up stock removal on small components reliably
- 1–6mm collets plus 3-jaw chuck - clamps very small to moderate diameters for varied projects
- 0.02mm scale handwheel - allows repeatable adjustments to precise, measurable increments
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Home Improvement / Miniature Lathe
- Power: 36W
- Max speed: 20,000 rpm
- Motor input: 12V / 3A
- Switch power supply input: 110V-240V
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What materials can be turned on it?
A: Soft metals such as gold, silver, copper and aluminium can be machined, along with acrylic and engineering plastics according to the manufacturer description.
Q: What is the maximum size of a workpiece?
A: Maximum diameter is 50mm with a working length (centre distance) of 150mm and centre height of 25mm.
Q: What power and speed does the motor use and is cooling provided?
A: Motor rating is 36W with an input of 12V/3A and a maximum speed of 20,000 rpm, and a built-in fan is fitted for cooling with transformer protections.
🏆 Our Verdict
Ideal for hobbyists and model makers who need a compact lathe for precise, small-scale turning. All-metal construction, fan-cooled high-speed motor and fine 0.02mm handwheel combine for repeatable accuracy and reliable runs. Compact footprint and robust build suggest good long-term value for regular home workshop use.
