The best metal milling machines of 2025 are the Bernardo KF 25 D Vario for small workshops (€1,988, variable speed and digital display), the Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario for professional use (€8,076, inverter and 3-axis DRO), and the Bernardo UWF 150 for industrial production (€27,835, double ISO 50 spindle). This guide compares 10 models from €1,183 to €27,835 to help you choose the right milling machine.
A metal milling machine is indispensable for operations such as slot milling, surfacing, boring, and angular drilling. Compared to a drill press, it allows controlled movements on multiple axes and the use of milling cutters to remove material laterally. In the Krollit catalog, you will find compact drill-milling machines for artisans and universal milling machines for structured mechanical workshops.
Comparative Table: The 10 Best Metal Milling Machines
Model Price Type Table (mm) X/Y Travel (mm) Power Weight Ideal for
| Bernardo KF 20 Super | €1,183 | Drill-milling machine | 385 x 90 | 235 / 100 | 0.50 kW | 50 kg | Entry-level hobbyist |
| Bernardo KF 25 D Vario | €1,988 | Vario Drill-milling machine | 500 x 180 | 305 / 150 | 0.60 kW | 110 kg | Artisans' best buy |
| Bernardo KF 28 Top |
|
Drill-milling machine | 700 x 180 | 490 / 150 | 0.90 kW | 135 kg | Light workshop |
| Bernardo BF 30 N Super | €3,220 | Pro Drill-milling machine | 840 x 210 | 585 / 225 | 1.1 kW | 208 kg | Standard workshop |
| Bernardo FM 45 HSV |
|
Industrial Drill-milling machine | 800 x 240 | 555 / 225 | 1.1/1.5 kW | 308 kg | Pro transition |
| Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario | €8,076 | Top Drill-milling machine | 800 x 240 | 420 / 200 | 1.5 kW | 455 kg | Pro with inverter |
| Bernardo UWF 80 E Vario | €13,298 | Vario Universal | 1000 x 240 | 590 / 175 | 2.2 kW | 1010 kg | Entry-level universal |
| Bernardo UWF 110 | €16,989 | Universal | 1120 x 260 | 600 / 250 | 2.2 kW | 1380 kg | Structured workshop |
| Bernardo MFM 250 Super | €16,379 | Multifunctional | 1370 x 254 | 800 / 410 | 2.2 kW | 1255 kg | Maximum versatility |
| Bernardo UWF 150 | €27,835 | Industrial Universal | 1650 x 360 | 1350 / 290 | 4.0 + 4.0 kW | 2250 kg | Series production |
Detailed Analysis of the 10 Milling Machines
1. Bernardo KF 20 Super – Entry Level (€1,183)
The Bernardo KF 20 Super is the most accessible metal milling machine in the catalog. The 500W brushless DC motor ensures torque even at low speeds (100–2500 rpm) and quiet, maintenance-free operation. Compact 50 kg structure, ideal for small spaces.
Key specifications: 13mm drilling, 30mm face milling, 385x90mm table with 235/100mm travel, ±45° inclinable head, MT3 taper. 230V single-phase power supply.
Pros: Unbeatable price, brushless motor, minimal footprint, 230V.
Cons: Small table, limited travel, no digital display.
Recommended for: Hobbyists, model makers, small repairs, limited budget.
2. Bernardo KF 25 D Vario – Artisans' Best Buy (€1,988)
The Bernardo KF 25 D Vario offers the best value for money for artisans. Continuous variable speed in 2 stages (50–2250 rpm), digital display for speed and spindle travel, ±90° inclinable head. Spindle concentricity ≤0.015mm for precise machining.
Key specifications: 20mm drilling, 63mm face milling, 500x180mm table with 305/150mm travel, right/left rotation for threading, MT2 taper. Weight 110 kg.
Pros: Vario speed, digital display included, threading, ±90° head.
Cons: MT2 taper (not MT3), still compact for heavy work.
Recommended for: Artisans, small workshops, those seeking versatility at an affordable price.
3. Bernardo KF 28 Top – Light Workshop Offer (€2,130 instead of €2,366)
The Bernardo KF 28 Top increases capacity and robustness compared to the KF 25. Drilling up to 25mm, longer table (700x180mm) with 490mm X-travel. 0.90 kW DC motor with 2-stage gearbox (50–2600 rpm). Includes digital display, LED, and EMC filter.
Key specifications: 63mm face milling, 25mm end milling, MT3 taper, ±90° inclinable head, 135 kg weight. Concentricity ≤0.015mm.
Pros: On offer (-10%), long table, MT3, integrated LED.
Cons: No automatic feed, requires space.
Recommended for: Light workshops, maintenance, repetitive work on long pieces.
4. Bernardo BF 30 N Super – Standard Workshop (€3,220)
The Bernardo BF 30 N Super is designed for professional applications: slot milling, surfacing, boring. Drilling up to 30mm, 840x210mm table with 585/225mm travel. 2-stage gearbox with continuous speed 50–3000 rpm. Threading reversal included.
Key specifications: 75mm face milling, MT3 taper, 1.1 kW motor, digital speed and travel display, 208 kg weight. Adjustable dovetail guides on X, Y, Z.
Pros: 30mm capacity, large table, robust 208 kg structure.
Cons: 230V only, no automatic axis feed.
Recommended for: Standard mechanical workshops, light carpentry, single productions.
5. Bernardo FM 45 HSV – Professional Transition (€3,436 instead of €3,818)
The Bernardo FM 45 HSV marks the transition to industrial machines. 2-stage motor with 12 speeds (75–3200 rpm), automatic spindle feed (0.10/0.18/0.26 mm/rev), integrated threading device. 308 kg cast iron structure to eliminate vibrations.
Key specifications: 32mm steel drilling / 40mm cast iron drilling, 80mm milling, MT4 taper, 800x240mm table, 555/225mm travel, ±60° inclinable head.
Pros: On offer (-10%), automatic spindle feed, 12 speeds, MT4.
Cons: Requires 400V, significant footprint, no 3-axis DRO.
Recommended for: Transition from artisanal to industrial, workshops with 400V.
6. Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario – Top Drill-Milling Machine (€8,076)
The Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario represents the pinnacle of drill-milling machines. Delta VFD-E inverter for continuous variable speed, ES-12V 3-axis digital display, automatic X-axis feed, centralized lubrication, integrated cooling system. Professional ISO 30 taper.
Key specifications: 32mm/40mm drilling, 80mm milling, 800x240mm table, 420/200mm travel, 1.5 kW motor with frequency converter, 455 kg weight.
Pros: 3-axis DRO, inverter, ISO 30, cooling, automatic X-feed.
Cons: High price for a drill-milling machine, reduced Y-travel compared to BF 30.
Recommended for: Professional workshops, precision machining, small series production.
7. Bernardo UWF 80 E Vario – Entry Universal Milling Machine (€13,298)
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The Bernardo UWF 80 E Vario is the entry-level universal milling machine. Dual spindle (vertical with inverter + horizontal), ISO 40 taper, tilting table ±45°, tilting head ±90°. ES-12H 3-axis digital display and automatic feeds on X and Y included.
Key specifications: 1000x240mm table, 590/175/320mm travel, vertical speed 75–2000 rpm (Vario), horizontal speed 60–1350 rpm (9 steps), 2.2 kW + 1.5 kW motors, 1010 kg weight.
Pros: Dual spindle, ISO 40, tilting table, inverter on vertical spindle.
Cons: Limited Y-axis travel (175mm), requires a solid foundation.
Recommended for: Workshops upgrading to universal milling machines, angular machining.
8. Bernardo UWF 110 – Structured Workshop (€16,989)
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The Bernardo UWF 110 offers a 360° swiveling universal head for complex machining from any angle. Automatic feeds on X and Y with positioning motor on Z. 1380 kg gray cast iron structure, oil-bath gears for smooth operation.
Key specifications: 1120x260mm table, 600/250/400mm travel, ISO 40 taper, 11 speeds (45–1660 rpm), 2.2 kW motor, ES-12H 3-axis DRO included.
Pros: 360° head, Z-axis positioning motor, massive structure.
Cons: Non-continuously variable speed, demanding price.
Recommended for: Structured mechanical workshops, carpentry, simple molds.
9. Bernardo MFM 250 Super – Maximum Versatility (€16,379)
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The Bernardo MFM 250 Super is the most versatile multifunctional milling machine in the catalog. Swiveling, tilting, and rotating universal head. Continuously variable speed 60–4200 rpm with mechanical brake. Automatic feeds on all 3 axes. 800mm X-axis travel for long workpieces.
Key specifications: 1370x254mm table, 800/410/330mm travel, ISO 40 taper, 3 spindle feeds (0.038/0.076/0.152 mm/rev), hardened and ground guides, 1255 kg weight.
Pros: Vario speed up to 4200 rpm, 3-axis feed, ample travel.
Cons: Significant footprint (1800x2000mm), no horizontal spindle.
Recommended for: Those seeking maximum versatility in a single machine.
10. Bernardo UWF 150 – Industrial Top Range (€27,835)
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The Bernardo UWF 150 is the most powerful universal milling machine in the catalog. Dual spindle with ISO 50 taper (vertical and horizontal), both with 4.0 kW motors. 8 automatic feeds on all axes with integrated rapid traverse. Massive cast iron structure weighing 2250 kg.
Key specifications: 1650x360mm table, 1350/290/390mm travel, 12 speeds per spindle, rapid feeds up to 1290 mm/min, ES-12H 3-axis DRO, central lubrication.
Pros: ISO 50, dual 4 kW motors, 1350mm X-travel, rapid traverse on all axes.
Cons: Significant investment, requires reinforced floor.
Recommended for: Series production, industrial workshops, large workpieces.
How to Choose the Right Metal Milling Machine
1. Drill-mill or universal milling machine?
Drill-mills (KF, BF, FM) are compact, cheaper, and fit into small spaces. Universal milling machines (UWF, MFM) offer larger tables, greater travel, and dual spindles for complex machining. If you work on pieces over 500mm or need horizontal milling, opt for universal machines.
2. Table dimensions and travel
The table determines the maximum size of the workpiece that can be machined. X/Y travel defines movement without repositioning. For long pieces, wide X-travel is needed (the UWF 150 goes up to 1350mm). For wide pieces, Y-travel matters (the MFM 250 offers 410mm).
3. Spindle taper: MT vs ISO
Morse Taper (MT2, MT3, MT4) tapers are common on drill-mills and use inexpensive tools. ISO 30, 40, or 50 tapers are standard on universal machines and offer greater rigidity with professional tool holders. ISO 50 is necessary for large diameter milling cutters.
4. Speed: fixed or variable (Vario)?
Fixed-speed milling machines have selectable gears. Vario models use inverters for continuous adjustment without stopping the machine. Vario technology costs more but increases productivity and versatility, especially when working with different materials.
5. Automatic feeds
Automatic spindle feed is useful for deep drilling. Automatic feeds on the X/Y/Z axes are essential for milling slots and surfacing. UWF and MFM series universal machines include feeds on all axes.
6. Digital display (DRO)
The 3-axis digital readout (DRO) shows the exact position of the table and spindle. It increases precision and productivity. The ES-12 V/H models included with Bernardo machines are reliable and easy to use.
Which Milling Machine to Choose for Your Budget?
Budget up to €2,500 – Advanced Artisans and Hobbyists
Recommended choice: Bernardo KF 25 D Vario at €1,988
Variable speed, digital display, threading, and ±90° head for less than €2,000. The best value for money to start milling.
Budget €2,500–€4,000 – Light Workshop
Recommended choice: Bernardo FM 45 HSV at €3,436 (on offer)
Automatic spindle feed, 12 speeds, 308 kg structure. The transition to industrial machines at a discounted price.
Budget €5,000–€10,000 – Professional
Recommended choice: Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario at €8,076
Top of the range drill-mills: inverter, 3-axis DRO, ISO 30, integrated cooling. For those who want the most without moving to universal machines.
Budget €10,000–€20,000 – Structured Workshop
Recommended choice: Bernardo UWF 110 at €16,989 (precision) or MFM 250 Super at €16,379 (versatility)
UWF 110 for 360° head and machining from any angle. MFM 250 for Vario speed up to 4200 rpm and ample travel.
Budget over €25,000 – Industrial
Recommended choice: Bernardo UWF 150 at €27,835
Dual ISO 50 spindle with 4 kW each, 1350mm X-travel, rapid traverse on all axes. For series production and voluminous workpieces.
Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Milling Machines
What is the difference between a drill-mill and a universal milling machine?
A drill-mill is a compact machine that combines the functions of a drill press and a vertical milling machine. It weighs 50–500 kg and costs €1,000–€8,000. A universal milling machine is larger (1000–2500 kg), has a wider table, greater travel, and often a dual spindle (vertical + horizontal). It costs €10,000–€30,000 and is used for industrial machining.
What does ISO 30, ISO 40, or ISO 50 taper mean?
The ISO taper is the standard for professional tool holders. The number indicates the cone diameter: ISO 30 (small) for drill-mills, ISO 40 (medium) for standard universal machines, ISO 50 (large) for heavy-duty universal machines. Larger tapers offer greater rigidity and allow for larger diameter milling cutters.
What is the purpose of automatic spindle feed?
Automatic feed lowers the spindle at a constant speed during drilling, without manual intervention. It ensures uniform deep holes, reduces drill bit wear, and improves finish. Typical values are 0.10–0.30 mm/rev. Useful for series drilling and tapping.
What is DRO (3-Axis Digital Display)?
DRO (Digital Read Out) is a display that shows the real-time position of the table and spindle on the X, Y, and Z axes. It allows for positioning the workpiece with hundredth-millimeter precision without manual calculations. Bernardo models include the ES-12 system with a backlit LCD display.
Is 400V three-phase power required?
Compact drill-mills (KF 20, KF 25, KF 28, BF 30) operate on 230V single-phase. Larger models (FM 45, FM 55, all UWF and MFM) require 400V three-phase for their more powerful motors. Check for three-phase line availability before purchasing machines over 300 kg.
What accessories are needed to get started?
Basic accessories include: a milling vise with parallel jaws, a set of HSS milling cutters (end mills and slot drills), tool holders compatible with the taper (MT or ISO), a dial indicator for alignments. For slot milling, shank-type milling cutters are needed. For aluminum machining, coolant is recommended.
Conclusion
The choice of metal milling machine depends on the type of work, the size of the parts, and the available budget. For craftsmen and small workshops, the Bernardo KF 25 D Vario offers the best compromise between functionality and price. For professional use with precision requirements, the FM 55 HTC Vario integrates all modern technologies in a manageable format. For industrial production, the UWF 110, MFM 250, or UWF 150 universal milling machines guarantee performance and reliability over time.
The Bernardo UWF 80 E Vario is the entry-level universal milling machine. Dual spindle (vertical with inverter + horizontal), ISO 40 taper, tilting table ±45°, tilting head ±90°. ES-12H 3-axis digital display and automatic feeds on X and Y included.
Key specifications: 1000x240mm table, 590/175/320mm travel, vertical speed 75–2000 rpm (Vario), horizontal speed 60–1350 rpm (9 steps), 2.2 kW + 1.5 kW motors, 1010 kg weight.
Pros: Dual spindle, ISO 40, tilting table, inverter on vertical spindle.
Cons: Limited Y-axis travel (175mm), requires a solid foundation.
Recommended for: Workshops upgrading to universal milling machines, angular machining.
The Bernardo UWF 110 offers a 360° swiveling universal head for complex machining from any angle. Automatic feeds on X and Y with positioning motor on Z. 1380 kg gray cast iron structure, oil-bath gears for smooth operation.
Key specifications: 1120x260mm table, 600/250/400mm travel, ISO 40 taper, 11 speeds (45–1660 rpm), 2.2 kW motor, ES-12H 3-axis DRO included.
Pros: 360° head, Z-axis positioning motor, massive structure.
Cons: Non-continuously variable speed, demanding price.
Recommended for: Structured mechanical workshops, carpentry, simple molds.
The Bernardo MFM 250 Super is the most versatile multifunctional milling machine in the catalog. Swiveling, tilting, and rotating universal head. Continuously variable speed 60–4200 rpm with mechanical brake. Automatic feeds on all 3 axes. 800mm X-axis travel for long workpieces.
Key specifications: 1370x254mm table, 800/410/330mm travel, ISO 40 taper, 3 spindle feeds (0.038/0.076/0.152 mm/rev), hardened and ground guides, 1255 kg weight.
Pros: Vario speed up to 4200 rpm, 3-axis feed, ample travel.
Cons: Significant footprint (1800x2000mm), no horizontal spindle.
Recommended for: Those seeking maximum versatility in a single machine.
The Bernardo UWF 150 is the most powerful universal milling machine in the catalog. Dual spindle with ISO 50 taper (vertical and horizontal), both with 4.0 kW motors. 8 automatic feeds on all axes with integrated rapid traverse. Massive cast iron structure weighing 2250 kg.
Key specifications: 1650x360mm table, 1350/290/390mm travel, 12 speeds per spindle, rapid feeds up to 1290 mm/min, ES-12H 3-axis DRO, central lubrication.
Pros: ISO 50, dual 4 kW motors, 1350mm X-travel, rapid traverse on all axes.
Cons: Significant investment, requires reinforced floor.
Recommended for: Series production, industrial workshops, large workpieces.
Drill-mills (KF, BF, FM) are compact, cheaper, and fit into small spaces. Universal milling machines (UWF, MFM) offer larger tables, greater travel, and dual spindles for complex machining. If you work on pieces over 500mm or need horizontal milling, opt for universal machines.
The table determines the maximum size of the workpiece that can be machined. X/Y travel defines movement without repositioning. For long pieces, wide X-travel is needed (the UWF 150 goes up to 1350mm). For wide pieces, Y-travel matters (the MFM 250 offers 410mm).
Morse Taper (MT2, MT3, MT4) tapers are common on drill-mills and use inexpensive tools. ISO 30, 40, or 50 tapers are standard on universal machines and offer greater rigidity with professional tool holders. ISO 50 is necessary for large diameter milling cutters.
Fixed-speed milling machines have selectable gears. Vario models use inverters for continuous adjustment without stopping the machine. Vario technology costs more but increases productivity and versatility, especially when working with different materials.
Automatic spindle feed is useful for deep drilling. Automatic feeds on the X/Y/Z axes are essential for milling slots and surfacing. UWF and MFM series universal machines include feeds on all axes.
The 3-axis digital readout (DRO) shows the exact position of the table and spindle. It increases precision and productivity. The ES-12 V/H models included with Bernardo machines are reliable and easy to use.
Recommended choice: Bernardo KF 25 D Vario at €1,988
Variable speed, digital display, threading, and ±90° head for less than €2,000. The best value for money to start milling.
Recommended choice: Bernardo FM 45 HSV at €3,436 (on offer)
Automatic spindle feed, 12 speeds, 308 kg structure. The transition to industrial machines at a discounted price.
Recommended choice: Bernardo FM 55 HTC Vario at €8,076
Top of the range drill-mills: inverter, 3-axis DRO, ISO 30, integrated cooling. For those who want the most without moving to universal machines.
Recommended choice: Bernardo UWF 110 at €16,989 (precision) or MFM 250 Super at €16,379 (versatility)
UWF 110 for 360° head and machining from any angle. MFM 250 for Vario speed up to 4200 rpm and ample travel.
Recommended choice: Bernardo UWF 150 at €27,835
Dual ISO 50 spindle with 4 kW each, 1350mm X-travel, rapid traverse on all axes. For series production and voluminous workpieces.
A drill-mill is a compact machine that combines the functions of a drill press and a vertical milling machine. It weighs 50–500 kg and costs €1,000–€8,000. A universal milling machine is larger (1000–2500 kg), has a wider table, greater travel, and often a dual spindle (vertical + horizontal). It costs €10,000–€30,000 and is used for industrial machining.
The ISO taper is the standard for professional tool holders. The number indicates the cone diameter: ISO 30 (small) for drill-mills, ISO 40 (medium) for standard universal machines, ISO 50 (large) for heavy-duty universal machines. Larger tapers offer greater rigidity and allow for larger diameter milling cutters.
Automatic feed lowers the spindle at a constant speed during drilling, without manual intervention. It ensures uniform deep holes, reduces drill bit wear, and improves finish. Typical values are 0.10–0.30 mm/rev. Useful for series drilling and tapping.
DRO (Digital Read Out) is a display that shows the real-time position of the table and spindle on the X, Y, and Z axes. It allows for positioning the workpiece with hundredth-millimeter precision without manual calculations. Bernardo models include the ES-12 system with a backlit LCD display.
Compact drill-mills (KF 20, KF 25, KF 28, BF 30) operate on 230V single-phase. Larger models (FM 45, FM 55, all UWF and MFM) require 400V three-phase for their more powerful motors. Check for three-phase line availability before purchasing machines over 300 kg.
Basic accessories include: a milling vise with parallel jaws, a set of HSS milling cutters (end mills and slot drills), tool holders compatible with the taper (MT or ISO), a dial indicator for alignments. For slot milling, shank-type milling cutters are needed. For aluminum machining, coolant is recommended.
The choice of metal milling machine depends on the type of work, the size of the parts, and the available budget. For craftsmen and small workshops, the Bernardo KF 25 D Vario offers the best compromise between functionality and price. For professional use with precision requirements, the FM 55 HTC Vario integrates all modern technologies in a manageable format. For industrial production, the UWF 110, MFM 250, or UWF 150 universal milling machines guarantee performance and reliability over time.
