William Jack,
Unfortunately in the machining world, hobby or otherwise, You get what you pay for. If you want to machine plastic, a milling machine for under $1500 will work fine, just don't expect close tolerances. Three things to consider in your purchase: 1. Spindle. What kind of bearings, and service life at the highest rpm. 2. Ways of the X and Y Axis. What material? Dovetail or box? Adjustable for wear? 3. Leadscrews. Do they repeat? Just overall quality.
Not knowing your total situation, and you want to machine materials other than plastic and wood, I would suggest the used market. There are plenty of used, industrial milling machines, stand alone and small bed mills out there, for a fair price. Fair price = just over $3000. Then add more for phase converter. Yes, you really have to want to be in this hobby.
I suppose that's why entry level 3D printing is so popular, as you can get into it for less. But if you want to do real machining, you have to get the good stuff.
I have been a moldmaker for the last 40 years, and my home machine shop has the same equipment as my "work" shop does. I won't settle for "hobby" type of machines. They only lead to disappointment in the final product.
