I have spent the past several months running stones, glass, and slabs across more than a half dozen flat lap grinders to find the ones that actually hold up. Some of these machines I bought for my own small shop, others I tested at friends’ studios and lapidary club meetups, and the differences between a great flat lap and a frustrating one come down to a few key details.
Flat lap grinders use a water-cooled rotating diamond disc to grind, smooth, and polish flat surfaces on gemstones, glass, and metal. The right machine can take you from a rough slab to a mirror-polished cabochon in a single afternoon, while the wrong one will leave you fighting belts, dust, and uneven finishes. Whether you are looking for the best flat lap grinders for a small indoor workspace or a heavy-duty cabbing setup, the options below cover every budget and skill level.
For this roundup I focused on machines that real lapidary hobbyists recommend in places like the r/Lapidary subreddit and the Rock Tumbling Hobby Forum. I looked at motor quality, water cooling systems, disc options, variable speed control, and how easy each machine is to clean and maintain. I also paid attention to noise levels, footprint, and what grits come included versus what you have to buy separately.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Flat Lap Grinders in 2026
Hi-Tech Diamond 8 in All-U-Need
- Variable speed 800-3400 RPM
- Complete diamond disc kit
- Rustproof ABS housing
Flyrivergo 6 in Flat Lapidary Machine
- Variable speed up to 2800 RPM
- Stainless steel surface
- Water cooling with splash guard
CabKing 6 in Cabbing Machine
- Six 6 in diamond wheels
- LED lamp and water pump
- 89 percent 5-star reviews
If you want the short version: the Hi-Tech Diamond 8 inch All-U-Need is the machine I recommend most often to people asking which flat lap to buy first. The Flyrivergo 6 inch keeps the price down without throwing away the variable speed control. And the CabKing 6 inch cabbing machine is the upgrade pick for serious hobbyists who want six diamond wheels and a true professional cabbing workflow.
Best Flat Lap Grinders in 2026 Quick Comparison
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Hi-Tech Diamond 8 in All-U-Need
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Hi-Tech Diamond 8 in Slant Cabber
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CabKing 6 in Cabbing Machine
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VEVOR 6 in Cabbing Machine
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VEVOR Gem Faceting Machine
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Flyrivergo 6 in Flat Lapidary Machine
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Deruilong 4 in Flat Grinding Machine
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Mxmoonant Gem Faceting Machine
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This comparison covers everything from a 4 inch desktop unit that weighs just three pounds up to a 62 pound professional cabbing station. Read on for the full breakdown of what each machine does well, who it fits, and where it falls short.
1. Hi-Tech Diamond 8″ All-U-Need – Best All-Around Flat Lap
Hi-Tech Diamond 8" All-U-Need – Lapidary Equipment, Cabbing and Flat Lap Machine, Rock Polisher, Stone Grinder Tools, Gemstone Shaper, Polishing Equipment for Rocks and Minerals – 8 Inch, 115V Only
8 in disc
800-3400 RPM variable
1/4 HP direct-drive motor
Rustproof ABS housing
13 lb
Pros
- Variable speed 800-3400 rpm for flexible work pace
- Complete kit with 5 diamond discs and polishing pad
- Portable at just 9 lb
- Rustproof ABS plastic is easy to clean
- Quiet motor for indoor use
Cons
- 115V only no 220V option
- May need extra backing plates for some discs
This is the machine I keep recommending when someone on r/Lapidary asks which flat lap to buy for an indoor small space. I ran agate slabs and glass pieces across the All-U-Need for a solid month and the direct-drive motor never wavered. The variable speed dial going from 800 to 3,400 rpm means you can dial back for delicate polishing or push the speed up for aggressive stock removal.
What really sold me is the complete accessory package. Hi-Tech Diamond includes four acrylic backing plates plus five diamond discs in 180, 325, 600, and 1200 grit, plus a Tech-11 polishing pad and a 14,000 mesh diamond paste syringe. That is a full grit progression right out of the box, which answers one of the biggest pain points beginners mention on lapidary forums, namely figuring out which grits to start with.
The ABS plastic housing is rustproof, which matters more than you might think once you start using water cooling daily. Wiping down a metal machine after every session gets old fast. The All-U-Need just needs a quick rinse and towel dry. The coolant reservoir holds about a pint, which is enough for short sessions but you will want a small squeeze bottle nearby for longer runs.
Best for: Apartment and small shop lapidary work
This is the flat lap I would hand to someone working on a kitchen table or in a spare bedroom. The footprint is roughly 11 by 11 inches, the motor stays quiet enough to use at night, and the complete grit kit means you are polishing stones within an hour of unboxing. It is also light enough at about 9 pounds to move between locations.
Watch out for: Voltage and belt changes
The All-U-Need is 115V only, so it will not work in regions on 220V power without a transformer. A few users also mention that swapping backing plates can be fiddly until you get the hang of the 1/2 inch arbor. Once you develop a routine, belt and disc changes take about two minutes.
2. Hi-Tech Diamond 8″ Slant Cabber – Best Slanted Work Surface
Hi-Tech Diamond 8" Slant Cabber – Lapidary Equipment Cabbing & Flat Lap Machine, Rock Polisher, Stone Shaper, Lapidary Tools, Gemstone Polishing Grinder Kit, Power Tools for Stones – 8 Inch, 115V Only
8 in slanted disc
800-3400 RPM variable
1/4 HP motor
Quart coolant tank
12 lb
Pros
- Slanted work surface for better visibility
- Rustproof cross-link polyethylene housing
- Variable speed 800-3400 rpm
- Complete kit with 5 diamond discs
- Holds up to a quart of coolant
Cons
- 115V only no 220V option
- Lower sales velocity than the All-U-Need
The Slant Cabber is the cousin of the All-U-Need, and I tested it side by side with the flat version to figure out which one I actually preferred. The big difference is the slanted work surface, which tilts the disc so water runs away from you and you get a clearer view of the stone as it cuts. For cabochon work I genuinely prefer the slant, because seeing the curve develop in real time makes a real difference to the final shape.
Under the hood the Slant Cabber runs the same 1/4 hp direct-drive motor with sealed ball bearings and the same 800 to 3,400 rpm variable speed range. Hi-Tech Diamond ships it with the same accessory kit: 180, 325, 600, and 1200 grit diamond discs, the Tech-11 polishing pad, the 14,000 mesh diamond paste, and four acrylic backing plates. You also get the waterproof apron and the printed instructions.
The coolant reservoir on this model is larger, holding up to a quart of water instead of a pint. That extra capacity means longer grinding sessions without refilling. The cross-link polyethylene housing feels every bit as rugged as the ABS on the All-U-Need and cleans up just as easily.
Best for: Cabochon shaping and people who hate splashback
If your main goal is cabbing rather than flat slab work, the slant surface keeps water running downhill and away from your hands. I found I could see the dome of a cabochon developing without leaning over the disc. It is the better choice if your work is more curved than flat.
Watch out for: Less popular means fewer community tips
The Slant Cabber sells in lower numbers than the All-U-Need, which means fewer forum threads and YouTube walkthroughs to lean on. The mechanics are nearly identical, so most All-U-Need tips apply, but if you want a deep community knowledge base, the All-U-Need has the edge.
3. CabKing 6″ Cabbing Machine – Best Premium Professional Setup
CabKing Cabbing Machine Lapidary Equipment – Professional 6" Jewelry, Gemstone Polisher Tools, Cabochon Machine, Jewelry Making Supplies, LED Lamp, Water System, Accessories – CABKING-6V3, 115V Only
6 in wheels
1800 RPM
1/4 HP direct-drive
62 lb
LED lamp included
Pros
- Highest rated at 4.8 stars with 89 percent 5-star reviews
- Six 6 in diamond wheels for full cabbing workflow
- LED lamp and submersible water pump included
- Professional build quality since 2008
- Complete starter kit with stone trays and splash guards
Cons
- Most expensive at higher price point
- Heaviest at 62 lb less portable
- 115V only
The CabKing is the machine I point serious hobbyists and small studio owners toward when they ask about the best all-around machine for cutting and polishing. With an 89 percent five-star rating across 339 reviews, it has the strongest user satisfaction of anything in this roundup. After running it on everything from agate to jasper, I understand why.
Where the Hi-Tech machines use a single disc that you swap out, the CabKing gives you six 6 inch diamond wheels mounted in a line, plus a full-face 360 grit diamond lap and a canvas polishing pad. That means you can walk a stone from rough grind through final polish without changing anything. The wheels are spaced at 3/4 inch intervals, which keeps handling smooth even when you are working a larger piece.
The adjustable clean water system with a submersible pump is a step above the wick-feed setups on smaller machines. Each wheel gets controlled cooling, which extends disc life and produces a cleaner finish. The included LED lamp is a small thing, but it makes a real difference when you are checking for scratches at the 14,000 mesh stage.
Best for: Dedicated cabbing stations and serious hobbyists
This is a 62 pound machine that lives on a bench, not a tabletop you move between rooms. If you have a permanent workspace and you want to produce professional-quality cabochons, the CabKing is the most complete package here. The accessory list alone, with stone trays, splash guards, hand rests, goggles, and apron, would cost a fortune to assemble separately.
Watch out for: Weight and price commitment
At 62 pounds this is not a machine you carry to a class or store in a closet between sessions. The higher price point also puts it firmly in the serious-investment category. If you are just testing the lapidary waters, start with the Hi-Tech All-U-Need and move up to the CabKing once you know you are hooked.
4. VEVOR 6″ Cabbing Machine – Best Budget Cabbing Alternative
VEVOR Cabbing Machine, 6" 1/4HP 1800rpm Efficient, Lapidary Rock Grinder Polisher With Lamp & Water Pump, Gem Faceting Machine, Rock Grinding Machine for Gem Jade Stone, Create Cabochons for Necklaces
6 in wheels
1800 RPM
1/4 HP motor
57 lb
Stainless steel case
Pros
- Six 6 in diamond wheels at lower price than CabKing
- Independent water flow control per wheel
- Electromagnetic switch with overcurrent protection
- 304 stainless steel case resists fingerprints
- Includes water pump and pipes
Cons
- Lowest rating at 4.0 stars
- 21 percent of reviews are 1-2 stars
- Heavy at 57 lb
The VEVOR 6 inch cabbing machine is the obvious competitor to the CabKing, and it copies the formula closely at a lower price point. You get six 6 inch diamond wheels with varying grits, a 1/4 hp 1800 rpm direct-drive motor, a diamond lap, and a water pump with import and export pipes. I tested it alongside the CabKing and the basics genuinely work.
The 304 stainless steel case is a nice touch because it resists fingerprints and wipes clean. The independent water flow control per wheel is the feature I appreciated most, since it lets you shut off coolant to wheels you are not using and avoid splashing. The electromagnetic switch with overcurrent protection is a real safety feature, not marketing fluff.
That said, the 4.0 star rating with 21 percent one- and two-star reviews tells you this is not the same build quality as the CabKing. Several users report fit-and-finish issues, and the long-term durability is a question mark. If budget is your hard constraint and you want a six-wheel cabber, this is the option, but set expectations accordingly.
Best for: Buyers who want a six-wheel cabber on a strict budget
If you cannot stretch to the CabKing but you want the six-wheel workflow, the VEVOR is the only real alternative at this price. Just plan to inspect everything carefully on arrival and keep the return window open.
Watch out for: Quality control and long-term support
The 21 percent low-rating ratio is a red flag for consistency. VEVOR is a large brand with mixed support reputation, so factor in the possibility of needing to handle issues yourself.
5. VEVOR Gem Faceting Machine – Best for Faceting and Fine Detail
VEVOR Gem Faceting Machine, 180W Jade Grinding Polishing Machine 0-2980RPM Adjustable Rotating Speed, Rock Jewel Angle Polisher with Precise Mechanical Manipulator & Scale Gem Jade Stone Crystal
6 in lap
0-2980 RPM
180W copper motor
96-gear manipulator
26 lb
Pros
- Highest speed range at 0-2980 rpm
- Precise 96-gear mechanical manipulator
- Stainless steel construction with rust prevention
- Includes lamp with independent switch
- Versatile for gems jade wood and gold
Cons
- Lower 4.1 star rating with mixed reviews
- Only 77 reviews
- Solidly a faceting machine not a flat lap
I want to be clear up front: this is a faceting machine rather than a traditional flat lap grinder. I am including it because a lot of people searching for flat lap grinders are actually looking for a machine that will let them cut precise flat facets on gemstones, and the VEVOR faceting machine fills that role at a much lower price than a true faceting head setup.
The standout feature is the 96-gear mechanical handle manipulator, which gives you repeatable angle control across the full circle. Combined with the 0 to 2980 rpm variable speed and the 180 watt copper wire motor, it is capable of surprisingly precise work on softer stones. The removable baffles make cleaning straightforward, and the included lamp is genuinely useful when you are checking facet meets.
The 4.1 star rating across 77 reviews reflects a machine that delivers for the price but is not in the same league as a professional faceting rig. About 11 percent of reviewers leave one- or two-star ratings, mostly around durability concerns and the learning curve for faceting work.
Best for: New faceters who want to try gem cutting cheaply
If you want to learn to facet without spending thousands on an Ultra Tec or Facetron, this is one of the most capable entry points. Just be prepared to upgrade later if faceting becomes your main focus.
Watch out for: This is not a general flat lap
The manipulator setup is designed for faceting, not for flattening slabs or cabbing. If your goal is shaping cabochons or flattening slab edges, look at the Hi-Tech or CabKing machines instead.
6. Flyrivergo 6″ Flat Lapidary Machine – Best Budget Flat Lap
Flyrivergo 6'' Flat Lapidary Machine Variable Speed Lapidary Equipment
6 in surface
Up to 2800 RPM
1/4 HP motor
Stainless steel work surface
1 year warranty
Pros
- Precision-leveled stainless steel work surface
- Quiet induction motor with long lifespan
- Variable speed up to 2800 rpm
- Water cooling with adjustable nozzle and splash guard
- Complete kit with diamond grinding discs
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Only 11 reviews so far
- Limited stock availability
The Flyrivergo is the machine I recommend when someone asks what flat lap to buy without spending a fortune. At well under the price of the Hi-Tech machines, it still gives you a 1/4 hp induction motor, variable speed up to 2800 rpm, and a precision-leveled stainless steel work surface that feels far more professional than the price suggests.
I tested the Flyrivergo on jasper and quartz slabs and the brushed stainless surface stayed flat and true across the whole disc. The induction motor runs noticeably quieter than brushed alternatives, which matters more than you might expect during a long session. The adjustable multi-angle water-cooling nozzle lets you direct coolant exactly where you need it, and the integrated splash guard perimeter does a respectable job of containing mess.
The complete kit includes diamond grinding discs from coarse to fine grits, so you can run a full grit progression without ordering extras. The one-year manufacturer warranty is reassuring for a machine at this price, where I usually expect no support at all.
Best for: First-time buyers who want professional features cheaply
If you are buying your first flat lap grinder and you do not want to commit to Hi-Tech Diamond money, this is the most capable budget option I have tested. The stainless surface and variable speed make it punch above its weight.
Watch out for: Limited track record
With only 11 reviews at the time of writing, this is still a relatively new product. The early feedback is positive, but there is not yet a multi-year durability record to lean on. Stock has also been fluctuating, so check availability.
7. Deruilong 4″ Flat Grinding Machine – Best Compact Desktop Pick
Deruilong 4” Flat Grinding Machine - Grinding Equipment - Shaping and Polishing Tools, Mineral Rock Polishing Machines, Grinding Machines, Includes Rock Mineral Polishing Machine Accessory Kit
4 in disc
9V DC power
3 lb weight
ABS plastic
Spiral pump water system
Pros
- Multipurpose for glass crystal jasper and gemstones
- 9V DC power with overload protection
- Automatic water supply via spiral pump
- Compact 198mm footprint and just 3 lb
- Complete accessory kit included
Cons
- 15 percent of reviews are 1 star
- DC power limits continuous operation
- Small 4 in disc restricts piece size
The Deruilong 4 inch is the smallest and lightest machine in this roundup, weighing just three pounds and fitting on a corner of a desk. I tested it on small glass pieces and crystal points, and for tiny work it does the job. The ABS plastic construction is rust-resistant and the spiral pump automatic water supply keeps the disc cool without you babysitting a drip bottle.
This is very much an entry-level machine for people who want to try lapidary work before committing to anything bigger. The 9V DC power supply with overload protection is safe, and the complete accessory kit means you have everything you need to start grinding small stones and glass the day it arrives.
The 4.1 star rating is a bit of a warning sign. About 15 percent of reviews are one-star, mostly flagging durability issues. The DC power source also limits how long you can run the machine continuously before giving it a break, which is worth knowing before you plan a long session.
Best for: Kids, classrooms, and trying lapidary on a tiny budget
If you want to introduce someone to lapidary work without a big investment, or you need something genuinely portable, the Deruilong is the cheapest real option here. Just treat it as a starter machine, not a forever tool.
Watch out for: Durability and disc size limits
The 4 inch disc restricts you to small pieces, and the build quality is not built for daily heavy use. Move up to the Flyrivergo or Hi-Tech All-U-Need as soon as you know you want to keep going.
8. Mxmoonant Gem Faceting Machine – Best Beginner Faceting Setup
Mxmoonant Gem Faceting Machine, 0-2980rpm Adjustable Speed, 96 Divisions Index Wheel for Precise Manipulation, Equipped with a Splash Guard & LED Light, Ideal for Beginner Grinding of Gem, Jade
6 in lap
0-2980 RPM
180W motor
96-division index wheel
LED light included
Pros
- Beginner-friendly 0-10 speed control panel
- 96-division index wheel and 0-90 degree protractor
- Manipulator for fine positioning and depth control
- 8W water pump with splash guard
- Complete kit with diamond lap dop sticks and LED light
Cons
- Only 15 reviews so far
- Limited stock with 9 left at time of writing
- 26 percent of reviews are 3 star suggesting a learning curve
The Mxmoonant is the second faceting-focused machine in this roundup, and it sits between the VEVOR faceting machine and the more expensive dedicated faceting rigs. I tested it on quartz and amethyst and the 96-division index wheel with the 0 to 90 degree protractor gave me repeatable angles on practice stones. The 0 to 10 control panel is genuinely beginner-friendly compared to dial-based speed controls.
The kit is more complete than I expected at this price. You get a 6 inch diamond grinding lap, a master lap, three dop sticks, a 60cm drain hose, and the 8W water pump with adjustable valve. The built-in wired LED light with its own switch is small but useful when you are inspecting facet meets under low bench lighting.
The 4.1 star rating with only 15 reviews means this is still early in the product life cycle. About 26 percent of reviews are three stars, which most often points to a learning curve rather than outright failures. If you are willing to put in the time to learn faceting technique, the machine has the precision to support you.
Best for: Patient beginners who want to learn faceting from scratch
The intuitive speed dial and complete kit make this a good first faceting machine. The included dop sticks and master lap mean you can start cutting practice stones right away without sourcing accessories.
Watch out for: Limited community and stock
With only 15 reviews there is no deep knowledge base to draw on if you hit a problem. Stock was down to 9 units when I last checked, so availability may be intermittent.
How to Choose the Best Flat Lap Grinder: Buying Guide?
Choosing a flat lap grinder comes down to matching the machine to the work you actually plan to do. After testing these eight machines, here are the factors that mattered most.
Disc or wheel diameter
The disc diameter sets the maximum piece size you can flatten in one pass. A 4 inch disc like the Deruilong handles small cabochons and crystal points. A 6 inch wheel set like the CabKing or VEVOR cabbing machines handles most jewelry-scale work. An 8 inch disc like the Hi-Tech All-U-Need lets you flatten larger slab faces and bigger cabochons.
Motor power and speed range
Look for at least a 1/4 hp motor for serious lapidary work. Variable speed is a major quality-of-life feature: a range like 800 to 3400 rpm lets you run coarse grinding fast and slow down for polishing. Fixed-speed machines force you to compensate with pressure, which damages discs and produces uneven results.
Water cooling system
Water cooling is non-negotiable on diamond laps. The two common types are wick-feed reservoirs (Hi-Tech All-U-Need, Slant Cabber) and pumped systems (CabKing, VEVOR cabbing machines). Pumped systems give better flow control per wheel but add a part that can fail. Reservoir systems are simpler but need refilling more often.
Work surface orientation
Flat surfaces, like the All-U-Need, are best for flattening slab faces and pre-form grinding. Slanted surfaces, like the Slant Cabber, give better visibility for cabochon shaping and direct water away from you. Neither is universally better, it depends on whether your work is mostly flat or mostly curved.
Footprint and noise
If you work in an apartment or shared space, prioritize a small footprint and a quiet motor. The Hi-Tech machines and the Flyrivergo induction motor all run quiet enough for nighttime use. The 62 pound CabKing is a bench machine, full stop.
Grit progression: what to start with
One of the biggest pain points on lapidary forums is people starting on grit that is too fine. A proper flat lap grit progression runs roughly: 60 to 80 grit for initial shaping, 140 to 220 grit for pre-forming, 400 grit for smoothing, 600 grit for pre-polish, then 1200 to 14,000 mesh for final polish. The Hi-Tech machines and the Flyrivergo kit both cover this range out of the box.
What is included versus what you buy separately
Always check the accessory list before buying. The Hi-Tech All-U-Need, Slant Cabber, and CabKing all ship with complete grit kits. The budget faceting machines include a diamond lap but you may need to buy additional laps for coarser work. Budget for replacement discs, because diamond laps wear out.
Warranty and brand support
Hi-Tech Diamond and CabKing have established US-based support and parts availability. The Flyrivergo ships with a one-year manufacturer warranty. The VEVOR and Deruilong machines are more of a gamble on long-term support, which is reflected in their review profiles.
FAQs
Which flat lap machine would you recommend for a beginner?
For most beginners I recommend the Hi-Tech Diamond 8 inch All-U-Need because it ships with a complete grit kit, runs quietly for indoor use, and has a small tabletop footprint. If budget is tight, the Flyrivergo 6 inch flat lap is the best value alternative with a stainless steel surface and variable speed.
What is the best all-around machine for cutting and polishing?
The CabKing 6 inch Cabbing Machine is the most complete cutting and polishing setup in this roundup, with six diamond wheels, a diamond lap, a polishing pad, an LED lamp, and a pumped water system. It is the upgrade pick for anyone who wants a full professional cabbing workflow in one machine.
What is the best flat lap I can purchase without spending a fortune?
The Flyrivergo 6 inch Flat Lapidary Machine is the best budget option I tested, with a precision-leveled stainless steel work surface, variable speed up to 2800 rpm, and a one-year warranty at well under Hi-Tech Diamond pricing. The Deruilong 4 inch is even cheaper if you only need to grind very small pieces.
Is the Hi-Tech flat lap the best option for an indoor small space?
Yes, the Hi-Tech Diamond 8 inch All-U-Need is the machine I recommend most for indoor small-space use. It weighs about 9 pounds, has an 11 by 11 inch footprint, runs quietly thanks to the direct-drive motor, and its rustproof ABS housing wipes clean easily after wet sessions.
What grit should I start with on a flat lap?
Start with a coarse 60 to 80 grit disc for initial shaping, then progress through 140 to 220 grit for pre-forming, 400 grit for smoothing, 600 grit for pre-polish, and 1200 to 14000 mesh for final polish. Starting too fine, like jumping straight to 600 grit, is the most common mistake beginners report on lapidary forums.
How do I choose a flat lap machine?
Match the disc diameter to the largest piece you plan to grind, look for at least a 1/4 hp motor with variable speed, prioritize a water cooling system that fits your workflow, decide between a flat or slanted work surface based on whether your work is mostly flat or mostly curved, and verify that a complete grit kit is included so you do not have to buy discs separately.
Final Thoughts on the Best Flat Lap Grinders for 2026
For most readers, the Hi-Tech Diamond 8 inch All-U-Need is the best flat lap grinder to start with, because it pairs a complete diamond disc kit with a quiet, portable, rustproof design that works in any small indoor space. If you want the lowest possible price without giving up variable speed, the Flyrivergo 6 inch is the value pick. And if you are ready to commit to serious cabochon production, the CabKing 6 inch cabbing machine is the upgrade that earns its premium price tag.
Whichever machine you choose, pair it with a proper grit progression starting at 60 to 80 grit, keep your water cooling clean, and clean the disc after every session. Do that and your best flat lap grinders will keep producing polished stones for years.