I wouldn't spend £2k on a manual machine like the Amadeal or any other Chinese-based machine because it's like building on quicksand.? Like any good structure, the foundation is everything and if this is poor the whole thing is a pointless exercise that quickly becomes a money pit that is difficult to get out of without blowing lots of cash.

If you need a small mill then look for a good second-hand Denford or Boxford that has good quality bases and components. Then spend a little on bringing them up to date with more modern controls and electronics.

If you have more room then look to buying an older purpose-built CNC machine with outdated or blown controllers, such as Bridgeport interact, etc, and then update with modern electronics. This way you start with a solid foundation built on good old cast iron. You still get enjoyment with the conversion or update and learn about the machine but without the stress from all the pitfalls which can and do come from converting a manual mill to CNC.

However, £3.5K isn't enough to do this properly even if you go with the Chinese manual route. My advice is to save your money, add more to it and look for some old iron.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/175030848...waAoMFEALw_wcB