The Granberg Chain Saw Mill Model# G777 is our best milling machine which can fit chain sows that have bars of 20 inches or less. Also, it can cut lumber or beams with a width up to 17 inches and thickness from 1/2 inch to 13 inches and it is strongly applicable for use on any kind of timber due to its lightweight and high quality design. There is no need for the drilling bar when you attach it to the saw so it is highly convenient.
Our step-up pick is the Konmison DIY CNC Milling Engraving Machine and this machine is electric powered and optional for two voltages: 110 volts and 220 volts. It can operate in a 3-axis manner and it runs at a speed of 10,000 RPM. The motor runs at 300 watts of power and it is truly ideal for caving, engraving and milling all in one for most wood materials.
The budget pick is the Lukcase Multifunction Worktable Milling Working Table and it comes with a sliding table which can be used for bench drilling. It is a compound table milling machine and can be used with other suitable machines and contains adjustable dovetails slots for the work table. The body composition is aluminum alloy for a lightweight feel and durability and it is extremely accurate and takes up very little space in your workshop.
A Little Background
A milling machine can be used for a variety of purposes. In general a milling machine can be either manual or computer controlled. However, nowadays since the computers have ran our world and one simply cannot live without the touch or the influence of technology whether it is in industrial work or field work, a milling machine will usually be a computer numerical control machine that depends upon computer software to plot and plan out what it is going to cut, engrave, drill and mill on the surface of the material such as wood, PVC, soft metal and others.
Milling machines for cutting wood and producing lumber are usually cheaper. The most basic types of milling machines are the ones that are used to cut timber and produce lumber out of such wood. This is especially used by woodworkers and casual workers such as carpenters and those whose job natures have something to do with wood. Whether it is just for personal use or for business use, a milling machine is always there to support your chainsaw so you get the most precise cutting possible without having to process it to a factory (if you are really willing to invest on such a milling machine).
Some milling machines can be used for CNC or computer numerical control printing, engraving and milling. Today, everything we see can be controlled by computers and this speeds up the processing and the productivity of humankind in the long run. When it comes to the milling machine, the main purpose of a CNC is to produce a virtual blueprint in which it will base its judgment on cutting, drilling, engraving and milling on any given material in the work table. This kind of technology is very awesome due to the fact that eliminates the need for a flimsy and hassling prototype.
In some very rare cases, some milling machines can be used for food processing. You will also find small milling machines that are used for food. One of tour best milling machines below is used for tomato processing and can also be used for extracting other similar fruits. The milling machine can be used for making natural juices and purees and are a great way for people to go natural if they have the necessary fruits on their backyard or from the local market.
Whichever you pick, you cannot argue that a milling machine is usually pricey, especially if it is one that is used for industrial purposes. At the very most, get ready to spend above $1,000 if you plan to buy a milling machine for industrial needs, especially for those that print circuit boards, do 3D printing and such. But if you are looking forward to a milling machine that is only used for cutting lumber then don’t really expect it to be that high in price.
How We Picked
A milling machine must come with all the instructions needed as well as the specs of the machine. No one will be able to learn the milling machine and its purposes for the first try. Everyone starts out a beginner at the very most and this is why the milling machine should come with the most necessary details such as how to install and operate the software that has been included in the milling machine and can be installed on any computer.
Versatility and flexibility should be present in the milling machine. A milling machine with flexible components and parts is definitely a sure winner especially when you consider the fact that the operator of the said milling machine will go through hours of labor and it will be a hassle for that person if he or she will get tired and get fatigue due to repetitive pains from handling the milling machine in a non-angled position. The flexibility and ergonomics of any milling machine is very vital when it comes to keeping up the health and focus of any machine operator in the long run, especially if you are always going through tough shifts and strict deadlines with the machine in terms of production.
The software, if the machine includes one, should be up to date and precise. In most cases, a milling machine is a CNC or computer numerical controlled milling machine that will depend upon the software’s commands to engrave and mill any design or measurement that you make on the corresponding layout software. Because the software eliminates the need for a prototype and becomes your virtual blueprint, the milling machine must have up to date software that lets you thoroughly pursue creativity and perfection when it comes to producing the best quality results for your milling and engraving work using the milling machine. A milling machine with Mac-compatible software is a plus point as well.
A milling machine that does not take up way too much space is a good deal. This is true for a milling machine that is going to be used for the garage or small shop. Either way, even if you are looking forward to using a milling machine for industry or factory use, the space consideration should be strategic. The sizing is a sacrifice you must make when it comes to mass production in the long run, so think about it carefully first before buying a milling machine that is fit for your needs.
Know the purpose and the usage of the milling machine. For instance, what would you like to create? Is your work nature deadline-based or is it just some casual DIY work? You have to know what the milling machine is going to be used for so you do not waste dollars on something that will not fit your needs and will not fit your workspace. For instance, people with a very big need for productivity inside a workshop may need a bigger milling machine whereas those with smaller and more causal needs can go for a milling machine that is more inexpensive.
A milling table with good dimensions depending on the purpose is worth buying. Not every milling machine is for wood cutting and lumber – for instance, others are for printed circuit boards, 3D printing, engraving, drilling and other purposes. The price and the size of the milling table roughly depend on what you want to work on. Usually, industrial use milling machines are priced way higher but you get value for your money because of its durability, longevity and span of work. But for the home-based DIYer, you can just go for a smaller milling machine.
Our Pick
Granberg Chain Saw Mill Model# G777
Our best milling machine is the Granberg Chain Saw Mill Model# G777 and this milling machine can cut lumber or beams with a width up to 17 inches and thickness from 1/2 inch to 13 inches. Moreover, there is no need for the drilling bar when you attach it to the saw. When it comes to measurement, can fit chain sows that have bars of 20 inches or less and it is also applicable for use on any kind of timber due to its lightweight and high quality design.
The milling machine is great for any homeowner, woodworker, carpenter or anyone who works regularly with wood. The Granberg Model# G777 has a very compact design. As for the capacity of cutting and milling, the Granberg Chain Saw G777 can cut to a minimum of 55 to 60 cc and the smaller diameter of log you can cut is around 10 inches. The Granberg Mill is indeed very portable and easy to assemble and it has a solid feel. As a whole, this machine is a great starting milling machine for those who are newly introduced into wood working.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
Perhaps the only known con to the Granberg Chain Saw Mill Model# G777 is that it might not be as effective as it is without getting the ripping chain or ripping blade.
Step-up Pick
Konmison DIY CNC Milling Engraving Machine
The Konmison DIY CNC Milling Engraving Machine is our step-up pick and its motor runs at 300 watts of power. Moreover, when it comes to power, it is electric powered and optional for two voltages: 110 volts and 220 volts. When it comes to its supreme purpose, it is ideal for caving, engraving and milling all in one for most wood materials and it can operate in a 3-axis manner.
Moreover when it comes to capacity and speed, the Konmison Engraving Machine runs at a speed of 10,000 RPM. It includes a lead screw triangle that is made from stainless steel and threaded M8. As for the specs, it has a resolution ratio of 0.0125 mm. Moreover, as for the features, it comes with a convenient spindle and it uses an XYZ working area with dimensions of 600 by 700 by 500 mm.
When it comes to durability, table has been made at 10 mm thickness and this machine also has a maximum moving speed of 4,000 mm per minute. The Konmison DIY CNC Machine includes the 3-axis driver board, a USB interface board, 300-watt spindle, CD with software and Mach 3, stepper motor x 3, switching power supply, parallel port lines, rectifier and transformer badge and a data line.
Adding to that, this 7 x 7 milling machine has an ER11 of 3.175 mm and it also has a stepper driver model and uses G-code for its instruction. Moreover, the tool diameter range is 0.3 to 0.175 mm as well as 4 and 6 mm and the control is at 3,000 mm per minute. Additionally, this CNC router milling machine weighs 25.2 lbs overall and it can handle tough materials such as steel, spring steel and iron but at a thin instance for handiness.
Budget Pick
Lukcase Multifunction Worktable Milling Working Table
Our budget pick is the Lukcase Multifunction Worktable Milling Working Table which comes with a sliding table which can be used for bench drilling. It contains adjustable dovetails slots for the work table and it is a compound table milling machine and can be used with other suitable machines.
Being extremely accurate and takes up very little space in your workshop, its body composition is aluminum alloy for a lightweight feel and durability. Both the x and the y axis have a distance of 200 mm while it has a 50 mm stroke. Some 3 t-shaped grooves make up the working table and as for the span the overall table dimensions are 15 by 8 by 6 mm.
So far, a 1.25 mm circle is the rotation of the hand wheel that provides zero adjustment while its lattice equates to 0.05 mm. In the other specs of the Lukcase Multifunction Table, the groove distance is at 34 mm and the scale travel is 1.25 mm on the circle while 0.05 mm on one cell. Its size of the alloy is 310 by 90 by 80 mm. the Lukcase Milling Working Table includes a compound table, milling machine and CNC milling machine.
Best Mini Milling Machine
Granberg Mini-Mill #G555b
A milling machine for wood and lumber, the Granberg Mini-Mill #G555b is a gas powered machine which spans at a length of 25 inches. As for its usefulness, it is ideal for slab edging or cant squaring. For the record, it weighs only 6 lbs. it is a budget solution for milling lumber which has bar clamps that span 2 inches in width.
Here are some things you need to know about the Granberg Mini Mill: you will need to clear the track chain with a 2 1/2 inch bar width and rails measure 24 inches. It also does not lose the shield or make it vibrate and it is a perfect milling machine for small time woodworkers.
Best Engraving Milling Machine
Konmison 3 Axis Engraving Machine
For those who want an ideal machine for wood carving, PCB milling and similar applications, the Konmison 3 Axis Engraving Machine is your best bet. It is also a smaller CNC engraving and milling machine that works even with Windows 7 which has a working area of 5.1 by 1.6 by 3.9 inches.
Going over the specs, the Konmison 3 Axis Machine uses a nema17 stepper motor and it is indeed a perfect milling machine for DIY use. The Konmison Engraving Machine comes with all the electronic and mechanical parts needed such as the stepper motors, power supply, electronic control board, frame and others and it also has a carving stroke of 5.1 inches by 3.9 inches.
On its accessories, a 4 mm or T8 screw is needed for its threaded rod. The motor is a 775 and spindle spans at 1.7 inches in diameter and the machine includes 2 12-volts 5-amp power supplies and a switching power supply at 24 volts and 5 amps. Moreover, the milling machine software is also compatible with Mac and it also comes with a convenient USB port for connecting to the computer for the software. The Engraving Machine by Konmison is currently backed by a 12 month warranty.
Milling Machine for Tomato
Fabio Leornardi Mr0 Tomato Milling Machine
If you want something unusual and used in the field of food prep, you can go for the innovative Fabio Leornardi Mr0 Tomato Milling Machine which has a motor which runs at 1/2 horse power. It is a unique milling machine specifically made for milling tomatoes and it has a diameter of 3 inches.
On the mechanism of the machine, the screw feeder has a double threaded design and is made from a screen that is of 18/10 stainless steel. Moreover, to add to the durability of the milling machine, the cast iron is heavy duty and has been neck treated with high quality resins. In addition to that, when it comes to the specs of the milling machine, the feed bowl output has a 120 RPM speed and is made from stainless steel with a large build.
A milling machine for home or commercial use, the main gear motor is made from cast iron with a spheroidal design which has been permanently lubricated and works in an asynchronous way along with the condenser. The motor runs at 380 watts of power. The Fabio Leornardi Mr0 also has a rotating screw feeder and it is truly an ideal milling machine for making juices and purees. As a matter of fact, the only maintenance needed is lubricating as well as cleaning regularly. Furthermore, you should know that the machine should also not be run while empty. Nonetheless, one praised feature of the said milling machine is the fact that the whole body of the milling machine is made from stainless steel as well as the auger part.
Best Belt Drive Milling Machine
Bolton Tools Belt Drive Mill Drill
The Bolton Tools Belt Drive Mill Drill is a milling machine with a drilling capacity at a maximum of 0.9 inch in which its head part can rotate up to 360 degrees with a tilting head of 90 degrees. In fact, there are 4 option grades for selecting the speed of the spindle from 120 RPM to 2,640 RPM while the capacity of the milling end is 0.9 inch while the face milling has a capacity of 2 1/2 inches.
When it comes to serving you with enough power, the Bolton Mill Drill runs on a 3/4 HP motor and its spindle taper is an R8. The table measures 20 1/2 by 6 3/10 inches and the column to spine distance is 7.9 inches. In general, the Bolton Tools Mill Drill has a work travel of 5 1/2 inches by 11 3/8 inches and it has an overall weight of 290 lbs. Do know that this belt drive milling machine is backed by a 1 year warranty.
Best Vertical Milling Machine
Bolton Tools Vertical Mills Power Feed
If you want a vertical style mill for your job for the industry or for DIY work then you should invest on the Bolton Tools Vertical Mills Power Feed which is a milling machine that has a spindle travel of 5 inches. When it comes to flexibility, this milling machine can tilt its head up to 90 degrees while its t-slot is 3 on 2 1/2.
This vertical mill measures 10 by 40 inches and it has an 8 grade speed from 276 RPM to 2,190 RPM making it a variable speed milling machine that will fit and adapt to any situation and it also uses an R8 spindle taper. The Bolton Vertical Mills is a rather expensive milling machine but fit for industrial applications and its table can swivel up to 45 degrees. What’s more, the Bolton Mills Power Feed has a knee travel of up to 16 inches and a table travel of 15 inches cross and the distance of spindle to table is max of 18 inches. The motor runs at 2 HP 220 volts and is a 3-phase motor and it is also conveniently backed by a 1 year warranty.
Best Variable Speed Milling Machine
OTMT Variable Speed Mini Milling Machine
The OTMT Variable Speed Mini Milling Machine is a flexible speed machine which comes with way covers and it also has a drilling capacity of 0.51 inches and a face milling capacity of 1.81 inches. Being a milling machine with an end milling capacity of 0.62 inches, it has two speed ranges.
The tilting head can go as much as 45 degrees to either left or right to give you more work accuracy. The OTMT Milling Machine comes with a coarse and fine feed for various applications and the said motor runs at 1/2 HP with 2 spindle speeds and running at 110 volts. The first lower range is from 0 to 1,100 RPM while the upper speed range is from 1,100 RPM to 2,500 RPM. Also, the spindle range is from -45 to +45 degrees.
Its head stock length is 7.08 inches and table travel is 3.93 inches going backward and forward while 8.66 going left and right. Moreover, it also has a t-slot of 0.47 inch. The travel size of the milling machine table is 3.93 by 8.66 inches and the machine comes with a user’s manual, drill chuck, keys and the milling machine itself.
A great milling machine, the OTMT Variable Speed Machine weighs 140 lbs and it can also mill gun metal. The dial measurements use the imperial system and the feed pitch for the table is 16 TPI.
Ideal Milling Machine for PCB
Eteyo 4 Axis Pcb’s Milling Machine
The Eteyo 4 Axis Pcb’s Milling Machine is ideal for industrial use due to having a 4-axis design. It is perfect for PCB and engraving work that requires bigger area and it uses a spindle motor that runs at 800 watts of power DC.
Quite easy to install and operate, the Eteyo Pcb Milling Machine is a CNC milling machine which comes with a 1.5 kW inverter. It also uses a thick plate that measures 15 mm and is made of aluminum and it comes with cover plates for the shafts and screws to have their pollution reduced.
Overall security is better with its emergency stop button and you can easily engrave anything in 3D with materials such as native wood, soft wood, PVC, MDF board and others. In addition, the VFD spindle is water cooled and runs at 0.8 kW and can be controlled by any computer for hours.
So far, it is an ideal CNC milling machine for a variety of industries and purposes such as prototype building, PCB (printed circuit board) milling, artworks and signs, aircraft models, model parts of RCs, model making for buildings, advertising, technology research, education, office and home use and many more and the carving speed can be set from 0 to 2,500 per minute.
It also has a resetting accuracy of 0.05 mm and the motor is a stepper motor that runs at 3 amps 2-phase with low noise. For the build, industrial aluminum and alloy makes up the frame materials. The max thickness for any material is 100 mm and the dimensions of the work table is 750 by 450 mm. Moreover, the 4-axis rotary comes with a tail stock and it passed the standards of CE. The Eteyo 4 Axis Machine is currently backed by 2 years of warranty.
The Competition
Milling machines are rare to find because of their exceedingly high price but you may find one that is good for your purpose if you consult our guide here. Finding the best milling machine roughly depends on your purpose but always do look at the specs and the user reviews as well.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some of the pros of using a milling machine for any construction and industrial needs?
A: According to eBay , a milling machine uses cutting edge technology such as software upgrades to give you more detail and accuracy for your work. Moreover, efficiency is improved and more productivity is given because of saving time and there is no need for building a prototype with a milling machine. Easily manufacture anything within seconds or minutes as milling machines also do not require warm-ups.
Q: Can you share any tips in using a milling machine?
A: According to CNCC Cookbook , you need to align the vise on your mill using a dial indicator as well as an indicol device. You can also center round features with better accuracy using a coaxial indicator. Spindle speed can be turned faster if you often get stringy and long chips. The coolants you can use for the milling machine include: kerosene, WD40, cutting oil that is heavily sulfurized, tap magic and others. However, never go over the needed and required amount of coolant so you don’t break the tool.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the Granberg Chain Saw Mill Model# G777 is our best milling machine if you work on wood for most of the time, but do try our step-up pick as well if you look forward to mill something else.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.