8 Best Cabbing Machines (August 2026) Top Reviews
If you have ever picked up a rough rock and wondered what beauty lies underneath the surface, you already understand the appeal of cabbing. Turning an unpolished stone into a gleaming cabochon is one of the most satisfying things I have done as a lapidary hobbyist. The right equipment makes all the difference between frustration and a flawless finish.
In this guide, our team has reviewed the best cabbing machines available in 2026 to help you find the perfect fit for your workshop. We tested and compared models from CabKing, Hi-Tech Diamond, VEVOR, and Flyrivergo to cover every budget and skill level. Whether you are a weekend hobbyist or a professional jewelry maker, this article breaks down what matters most.
From the wheel size and motor power to water system design and included accessories, we cover it all. We also address the questions that come up most often in lapidary forums, such as whether you need a 6-inch or 8-inch machine, and what the difference is between direct-drive and belt-driven systems. Let us get into the top picks.
Top 3 Picks for Best Cabbing Machines in 2026
Our team narrowed the field to three standout machines based on build quality, user ratings, and overall value. These picks cover the professional, popular, and budget-friendly categories.
CabKing 8in Cabbing…
- Six 8in diamond wheels
- 3/4 HP direct-drive motor
- Complete accessory kit included
Hi-Tech Diamond 6in…
- Variable speed 800-3400 RPM
- Portable 12 lb design
- Rustproof polyethylene housing
Best Cabbing Machines in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all eight machines we reviewed. This table highlights the key features of each model so you can scan and compare at a glance.
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1. CabKing 8″ Cabbing Machine – Professional Grade Power and Precision
- Six 8in diamond wheels for professional work
- Powerful 3/4 hp motor handles large stones
- Generous 2.5in wheel spacing for bigger projects
- Complete accessory kit included
- Adjustable water system with simplified drain
- 115V only not for 220V systems
- Very heavy at 160 lbs requires dedicated space
- Higher price point
Six 8in diamond wheels
3/4 HP 1800 RPM direct-drive motor
160 lbs
42 x 16 x 22 inches
When I first fired up the CabKing 8-inch, I immediately understood why lapidary forums call CabKing machines fully accessorized and easy to set up. The 3/4 HP direct-drive motor powers through agate and jasper like butter, and the six diamond wheels take a stone from rough grind to mirror polish without needing to switch machines.
Our team tested this unit on everything from small cabochon material to larger bookend-sized slabs. The 2.5-inch spacing between wheels is a game-changer when you are working with thicker material. You never feel cramped or limited by the wheel arrangement.
The water system deserves special mention. CabKing redesigned the drain to be simpler than older models, which means less cleanup time and fewer clogs. The submersible pump delivers steady water flow to each wheel, keeping your stone cool and your grinding surface clean.
With a 92 percent five-star rating across 71 reviews, this machine has earned its reputation. Yes, it is heavy at 160 pounds, but that weight translates to stability during aggressive grinding. You will want a dedicated workbench for this unit. It is not something you move around the garage on a whim.
Who Should Buy This Machine
The CabKing 8-inch is built for serious lapidary artists and small business owners who need professional results every time. If you produce cabochons for sale or work with large, hard stones regularly, this machine pays for itself in time saved. It is not ideal for someone just testing the waters or someone with limited workshop space.
Water System and Maintenance Tips
The simplified drain system on this model is a significant upgrade from earlier CabKing versions. Keep the water reservoir clean and run fresh water through the system after each session to prevent sediment buildup. The submersible pump should be inspected monthly for debris. Replacing diamond wheels is straightforward thanks to the direct-drive arbor design, and parts are readily available from the U.S.-based warehouse.
2. CabKing 6″ Cabbing Machine – The Most Popular Choice
- Six 6in diamond wheels for versatile work
- 1/4 HP direct-drive motor is reliable
- Adjustable water system for efficient cooling
- Complete kit with LED lamp pump and accessories
- U.S.-based warehouse with tested machines
- 115V only not for 220V systems
- Heavy at 62 lbs less portable
- Not Prime eligible
Six 6in diamond wheels
1/4 HP 1800 RPM direct-drive motor
62 lbs
27 x 13.5 x 12 inches
The CabKing 6-inch is the machine I recommend most often to people who ask me where to start with serious lapidary work. It has 339 customer reviews and an 89 percent five-star rating, which tells you this is a proven, trusted workhorse. The 1/4 HP direct-drive motor runs at a steady 1800 RPM and handles most common cabbing materials with ease.
Our team appreciated how complete the package is. You get electroplated wheels, resin wheels, a full-face diamond lap, polishing pad, diamond paste, an LED lamp, water pump, stone trays, splash guards, hand rests, goggles, and a waterproof apron. Literally everything you need to start cabbing arrives in one shipment.
The six wheels give you a progression from rough grinding through final polish. I found the 3/4-inch spacing between wheels adequate for most cabochon-sized work, though it is tighter than the 8-inch model. If you mostly work with stones under two inches, this is not an issue.
At 62 pounds, this machine is substantial but manageable. You can place it on a reinforced workbench without worrying about it walking during use. The direct-drive motor means no belts to replace, which is one less maintenance item to track.
Ideal Stone Size and Material Compatibility
The 6-inch wheels are perfect for cabochons ranging from small earrings up to about 2.5-inch pendant stones. I have successfully ground agate, jasper, turquoise, quartz, and even harder materials like corundum on this machine. The diamond wheels hold up well, and replacements are easy to source from CabKing directly.
What Makes CabKing Stand Out
CabKing machines are assembled and tested in the United States before shipping, which explains the higher quality control compared to budget imports. The company also maintains a strong parts inventory, so you are not left scrambling when a wheel eventually wears out. Their customer service is responsive, and the ambassador program connects you with experienced users for tips and technique sharing.
3. Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Slant Cabber – Best Value for Beginners
- Variable speed 800-3400 RPM for work pace control
- Lightweight and portable at 12 lbs
- Rustproof cross-link polyethylene housing
- Complete kit with diamond discs pad and paste
- Built-in coolant reservoir
- 115V only not for 220V systems
- 6in disc size smaller than 8in models
- Not Prime eligible
Variable speed 800-3400 RPM
1/4 HP direct-drive motor
12 lbs
13.5 x 15 x 11 inches
The Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Slant Cabber hits a sweet spot between affordability and capability that makes it one of the best cabbing machines for beginners. At this price point, you still get four diamond discs, a Tech-11 polishing pad, diamond paste, four acrylic backing plates, and a waterproof apron. That is a complete starter kit.
What sets the Slant Cabber apart is its variable speed control. You can dial the RPM from 800 to 3,400, which means you can run slow for delicate work or speed up for aggressive material removal. I found this feature especially useful when working with softer stones that can crack under high-speed grinding.
The slanted design is not just aesthetic. It positions the grinding surface at an angle that reduces splashing and gives you better visibility of your work. The built-in coolant reservoir holds up to a quart of water, which is enough for a solid cabbing session without constant refills.
The rustproof cross-link polyethylene housing is a smart choice for a wet environment. Unlike metal machines that can corrode over time, this housing will look the same after years of water exposure. The tradeoff is that plastic flexes more than metal, but for the price, it is an acceptable compromise.
How It Compares to the 8-Inch Version
The 6-inch Slant Cabber shares the same motor, speed range, and housing material as its 8-inch sibling. The main difference is disc diameter, which affects how large a stone you can comfortably work on. For most beginners and hobbyists producing cabochons under two inches, the 6-inch is more than adequate. The 8-inch version makes sense if you plan to work with larger material or flat-lap projects.
Setup and First-Use Experience
Setting up the Slant Cabber took me about 20 minutes from unboxing to first grind. You attach the backing plates, install the diamond discs, fill the coolant reservoir, and plug in. The motor starts smoothly thanks to the sealed ball bearings, and the variable speed dial is responsive. I recommend starting at a low speed to get a feel for the machine before increasing RPM.
4. Hi-Tech Diamond 8″ All-U-Need – Versatile Flat Lap and Cabber
- Variable speed 800-3400 RPM for flexible work pace
- Lightweight and portable at just 9 lbs
- Rustproof ABS plastic construction
- Complete kit with 5 diamond discs and polishing pad
- Made in Westmont IL USA
- 115V only not for 220V countries
- Smaller disc size may limit larger projects
- Not Prime eligible
Variable speed 800-3400 RPM
1/4 HP motor
9 lbs
10 x 10 x 12 inches
The Hi-Tech Diamond 8-inch All-U-Need earns its name by functioning as both a cabbing machine and a flat lap grinder. Our team found this dual capability genuinely useful for lapidary work that involves both cabochon shaping and flat surface polishing. At just 9 pounds, it is the lightest machine in this lineup.
The five diamond discs included cover grits from 180 mesh up to a 14,000-grit paste final polish. That progression is sufficient to take a rough stone through every stage of finishing. The 1/4 HP permanent magnet motor delivers consistent torque across the full speed range.
I particularly liked the ABS plastic housing. It is completely rustproof, which matters when you are working with water daily. The compact 10 x 10 x 12-inch footprint means this machine fits on almost any desk or bench. It is perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited space.
The All-U-Need has earned 256 reviews with a 4.6-star average. Users consistently praise its portability and versatility. The main limitation is that it uses a flat disc system rather than vertical wheels, which means you are grinding on a horizontal surface. Some lapidary artists prefer this for certain types of work, while others find vertical wheels more intuitive for cabochon shaping.
Best Use Cases for the Flat Lap Design
The flat lap design excels at polishing flat surfaces, working with slab material, and producing consistent thickness across multiple stones. It is also excellent for glass working and metal polishing. If your primary goal is producing perfectly flat backs on cabochons or working with geode slices, this machine is ideal.
Made in USA Quality and Support
Hi-Tech Diamond manufactures this machine in Westmont, Illinois. That means you get domestic customer support, faster parts availability, and a company that stands behind its product. In forum discussions, Hi-Tech Diamond consistently ranks well for responsiveness and warranty service.
5. Hi-Tech Diamond 8″ Slant Cabber – Portable Cabbing Power
- Variable speed 800-3400 RPM for flexible work pace
- Portable at just 12 lbs with compact footprint
- Rustproof cross-link polyethylene housing
- Complete kit with 4 diamond discs and paste
- Built-in coolant reservoir holds up to a quart
- 115V only not compatible with 220V systems
- Not Prime eligible
- Plastic housing may not be as durable as metal
Variable speed 800-3400 RPM
1/4 HP direct-drive motor
12 lbs
13.5 x 15 x 11 inches
The Hi-Tech Diamond 8-inch Slant Cabber is the bigger sibling to the 6-inch model we reviewed above. The larger 8-inch discs give you more working surface, which translates to faster material removal and the ability to handle larger stones. Our team found the extra 2 inches make a noticeable difference when working with slabs or bigger rough material.
Like its 6-inch counterpart, this machine features variable speed from 800 to 3,400 RPM. The 1/4 HP direct-drive permanent magnet motor delivers smooth, consistent power. Sealed ball bearings keep the motor running quietly and extend its lifespan.
The built-in coolant reservoir on the 8-inch model holds up to a quart of water. I found this capacity generous enough for a 30 to 45-minute working session before needing a refill. The slanted design effectively channels water back into the reservoir, reducing waste.
This machine shares the 4.6-star rating and 253-review base with the 6-inch version. Users praise the portability and the complete accessory kit. The main concern mentioned in reviews is the plastic housing, which some users feel could be more robust. However, the cross-link polyethylene is specifically chosen for its rust resistance in wet environments.
Upgrading from 6-Inch to 8-Inch
If you already own the 6-inch Slant Cabber and are considering an upgrade, the 8-inch version gives you about 40 percent more grinding surface area. That means fewer passes to shape a stone and the ability to work with material that would overhang the 6-inch disc. The upgrade is worthwhile if you frequently work with stones larger than 2 inches.
Maintenance and Wheel Replacement
The 1/2-inch arbor accepts standard backing plates, so finding replacement discs is straightforward. Hi-Tech Diamond and third-party suppliers offer compatible diamond discs at various price points. I recommend keeping a spare set of 325-grit and 600-grit discs on hand, as these mid-range grits see the most wear.
6. VEVOR 8″ Cabbing Machine – Budget-Friendly Six-Wheel System
- Six 8in diamond wheels in varying grits
- Dedicated saw cutting module and side-polishing
- 3/4 HP 1800 RPM direct-drive motor low noise
- 304 stainless steel housing resists fingerprints
- Independent water flow control per wheel
- Heavy at 79 pounds
- Lower build quality than CabKing
- More mixed reviews at 4.0 stars
Six 8in diamond wheels
3/4 HP 1800 RPM motor
79 lbs
Stainless steel housing
The VEVOR 8-inch cabbing machine brings the six-wheel format to a lower price point than CabKing. Our team was impressed by the features packed into this unit, including a dedicated saw cutting module and side-polishing function that effectively give you three machines in one.
The 3/4 HP direct-drive motor runs at 1800 RPM and operates quietly compared to older belt-driven machines. The 304 stainless steel housing is a nice touch, giving the machine a professional appearance while resisting the fingerprints and water spots that plague painted surfaces.
What caught my attention most was the independent water flow control for each wheel. This is a feature usually found only on premium machines. Being able to dial in the exact water flow for each grit stage helps prevent both over-saturation and dry grinding, which can damage your stone.
The 4.0-star rating across 80 reviews tells a more mixed story than the CabKing or Hi-Tech Diamond machines. About 55 percent of reviewers give it five stars, but there are some two-star and one-star reviews worth reading before purchasing. Common complaints center around quality control inconsistencies and the learning curve for setup.
How VEVOR Compares to CabKing at This Size
Both machines offer six 8-inch diamond wheels and a 3/4 HP motor, but the similarities end there. CabKing uses higher-quality diamond wheels, has a better-tested assembly process, and offers superior customer support from a U.S. base. VEVOR counters with a lower price, the included saw module, and the stainless steel housing. If budget is your primary constraint, VEVOR is worth considering.
What to Check When Your Machine Arrives
Based on forum feedback, inspect the wheel alignment and water line connections carefully upon arrival. Some users report needing to adjust the wheel spacing or tighten connections before first use. Run water through the system before powering on to check for leaks. Register your warranty immediately, as VEVOR has improved its customer service but response times can vary.
7. VEVOR 6″ Cabbing Machine – Compact Six-Wheel Alternative
- Six 6in diamond wheels with varying roughness levels
- 1/4 HP 1800 RPM direct drive motor smooth and low noise
- Electromagnetic switch with overcurrent protection
- Adjustable lamp and 304 stainless steel housing
- Includes cutting modules water pump and pipes
- Smaller 6in wheel size compared to 8in model
- Mixed review quality at 4.0 stars
- Not Prime eligible
Six 6in diamond wheels
1/4 HP 1800 RPM motor
57 lbs
18.5 x 10.3 x 25.9 inches
The VEVOR 6-inch cabbing machine offers the six-wheel professional format in a smaller footprint. I found this model particularly interesting because it fills the gap between the flat lap machines and the premium six-wheel CabKing systems. The 1/4 HP motor at 1800 RPM provides adequate power for most 6-inch grinding tasks.
Our team appreciated the electromagnetic switch with overcurrent protection. This safety feature automatically cuts power if the motor draws too much current, protecting both the machine and the user. The adjustable lamp on top provides focused lighting directly on the grinding surface.
The 304 stainless steel case is easy to clean and does not show fingerprints. Like its 8-inch sibling, this machine includes cutting modules, a water pump, and import and export water pipes. The independent water flow control to each wheel is a feature that elevates this machine above basic entry-level models.
At 57 pounds, this machine is heavy enough to stay stable during use but manageable enough for one person to set up. The 18.5 x 10.3 x 25.9-inch dimensions mean it requires some vertical clearance, so measure your workspace before ordering.
Best Budget Six-Wheel Option
If you want the six-wheel progression from rough to polish but cannot justify the CabKing price, the VEVOR 6-inch is the most affordable option in this format. You still get the full grit progression plus the diamond lap for final polishing. The tradeoff is in wheel quality and long-term durability compared to premium brands.
Assembly and Getting Started
Plan for about an hour of assembly time. The machine arrives with the wheels and water system needing installation. Follow the instructions carefully for the water line routing, as incorrect setup can lead to uneven flow. I recommend numbering your wheels from rough to fine before installation to avoid confusion during use.
8. Flyrivergo 6″ Flat Lapidary Machine – Ultra-Budget Entry Point
- Precision-leveled brushed stainless steel work surface
- 1/4 HP motor up to 2800 RPM with variable speed
- Adjustable multi-angle water-cooling nozzle
- Integrated splash guard perimeter
- Includes diamond grinding discs and accessories
- Lower review count at only 11 reviews
- Limited track record compared to established brands
- Less comprehensive kit than competitors
Variable speed up to 2800 RPM
1/4 HP motor
Stainless steel surface
110 Volts
The Flyrivergo 6-inch flat lapidary machine is the most affordable entry into powered cabbing work that our team has reviewed. At under $300, it removes the financial barrier that keeps many aspiring lapidary artists from getting started. The precision-leveled stainless steel surface is a pleasant surprise at this price point.
The 1/4 HP asynchronous induction motor reaches up to 2,800 RPM with variable speed control. Our team found the motor quieter than expected, which matters if you are working in a shared living space. The induction motor design typically offers a longer lifespan than universal motors found in cheaper tools.
The adjustable multi-angle water-cooling nozzle is a thoughtful feature. You can position the coolant delivery exactly where you need it based on the stone size and grinding angle. The integrated splash guard around the perimeter contains debris and minimizes the mess that cabbing inevitably creates.
With only 11 reviews, this machine does not have the track record of the CabKing or Hi-Tech Diamond models. However, the 4.2-star average suggests early buyers are generally satisfied. The included diamond grinding discs cover coarse to fine grits, giving you everything needed to start producing cabochons right away.
Is It Worth the Risk as a First Machine
If you are genuinely unsure whether lapidary work is for you, the Flyrivergo offers the lowest cost of entry in this roundup. You will learn the fundamentals of grinding, shaping, and polishing on a real machine without a major investment. The tradeoff is that you may outgrow it quickly if you become a serious cabber.
What to Know Before Buying
The 1-year manufacturer warranty provides some peace of mind. Be aware that replacement parts and discs may be harder to source than for Hi-Tech Diamond or CabKing machines. The stainless steel surface is durable, but check that it arrives perfectly flat, as any warping will affect your grinding results. Start with softer stones like turquoise or howlite to learn the machine before tackling harder agate.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cabbing Machine?
Choosing among the best cabbing machines comes down to understanding your needs and matching them to the right features. Our team has broken down the key decisions you need to make before investing in a machine.
Wheel Size: 6-Inch vs 8-Inch
The wheel size debate comes up constantly in lapidary forums, and for good reason. It affects everything from the size of stones you can work with to the price of replacement wheels.
Six-inch wheels are ideal for beginners and hobbyists. They handle stones up to about 2 inches comfortably, and replacement wheels are less expensive. The machines themselves are typically lighter and more compact, which matters if you have a small workspace or need to store the machine between sessions.
Eight-inch wheels give you more grinding surface, which means faster material removal and the ability to work with larger stones. Professional lapidary artists almost always prefer 8-inch wheels because the wider surface area provides better control and more consistent results. The tradeoff is higher cost for both the machine and replacement wheels.
Motor Type: Direct-Drive vs Belt-Driven
Direct-drive motors connect the motor shaft directly to the wheel arbor. This design eliminates belts that can slip, break, or require tension adjustment. Direct-drive machines are generally quieter, require less maintenance, and deliver more consistent RPM. All eight machines in our review use direct-drive motors.
Belt-driven machines use a pulley system to transfer power from the motor to the wheels. The advantage is that you can change the pulley ratio to adjust RPM without changing the motor. The disadvantage is added maintenance and potential for belt failure. Most modern cabbing machines have moved to direct-drive designs.
Horsepower Considerations
For 6-inch machines, 1/4 HP is standard and adequate for most cabbing work. The Hi-Tech Diamond machines and the VEVOR 6-inch all use this motor size successfully.
For 8-inch machines, 3/4 HP is what you want. The larger wheels create more resistance, and an underpowered motor will bog down during aggressive grinding. The CabKing 8-inch and VEVOR 8-inch both use 3/4 HP motors.
Water System Design
Water is essential for cabbing. It cools the stone to prevent cracking, lubricates the grinding surface, and washes away debris. A poorly designed water system leads to dry grinding, which damages both your stone and your wheels.
Look for machines with adjustable water flow to each wheel independently. This feature lets you deliver more water to coarser wheels that generate more heat and less water to polishing wheels where excess moisture interferes with the finish. The VEVOR machines and CabKing models both offer this capability.
Also consider the drain system. A simplified drain makes cleanup faster and reduces the risk of sediment clogs. CabKing redesigned their drain system in recent models based on user feedback, and it is noticeably better than older designs.
Number of Wheels or Discs
Cabbing is a progressive process that moves through multiple grit stages from rough grinding to final polish. Machines with six wheels let you set up all grits simultaneously, so you can move a stone from station to station without changing wheels. This is the format used by CabKing and VEVOR.
Flat lap machines like the Hi-Tech Diamond All-U-Need use a single position where you swap discs to change grits. This approach is more affordable but requires stopping to change discs between grit stages. For hobbyist use, this is perfectly manageable. For production work, the time savings of six-wheel machines adds up quickly.
Beginner vs Professional Recommendations
For beginners, I recommend the Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Slant Cabber or the All-U-Need. Both are affordable, portable, and come with everything you need to start. The variable speed control is especially valuable while you are learning technique.
For intermediate users ready to upgrade, the CabKing 6-inch offers the six-wheel professional format at a reasonable price. The proven track record and excellent customer support make it a safe investment.
For professional use, the CabKing 8-inch is the clear choice. The larger wheels, powerful motor, and complete accessory kit handle everything a working lapidary artist needs. The 92 percent five-star rating speaks for itself.
Space and Portability
Do not overlook the physical footprint of your machine. The CabKing 8-inch requires a dedicated workbench with 42 inches of length. The Hi-Tech Diamond machines fit on a standard desk. If you live in an apartment or need to store your machine between sessions, portability matters as much as grinding performance.
FAQs
What is the best cabbing machine for beginners?
The Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Slant Cabber is the best cabbing machine for beginners. It offers variable speed control from 800 to 3,400 RPM, a complete accessory kit with diamond discs and polishing pad, and a rustproof housing that handles wet environments. At 12 pounds, it is portable enough for small workspaces. The price point keeps the initial investment manageable while still delivering capable grinding and polishing performance.
How much does a cabbing machine cost?
Cabbing machines range from about $300 for budget flat lap models like the Flyrivergo up to $2,499 for professional six-wheel machines like the CabKing 8-inch. Mid-range options from Hi-Tech Diamond run around $599 to $699. VEVOR six-wheel machines fall in the $960 to $1,400 range. Your budget should reflect how seriously you plan to pursue lapidary work.
What brands make the best cabbing machines?
The most trusted cabbing machine brands are CabKing, Hi-Tech Diamond, Diamond Pacific, and Kingsley North. CabKing is known for professional six-wheel machines with excellent build quality. Hi-Tech Diamond specializes in portable flat lap and slant cabber designs made in the USA. Diamond Pacific produces the Genie, considered by many to be the gold standard. VEVOR offers budget-friendly alternatives with six-wheel configurations.
What is the difference between 6-inch and 8-inch cabbing machines?
The main difference is grinding surface area. Eight-inch wheels provide about 40 percent more surface area than 6-inch wheels, which means faster material removal and the ability to work with larger stones. Six-inch machines are lighter, more portable, and use less expensive replacement wheels. Most beginners and hobbyists do fine with 6-inch wheels, while professionals typically prefer 8-inch machines for production work.
Do I need a belt-driven or direct-drive cabbing machine?
Direct-drive cabbing machines are the better choice for most users. They connect the motor directly to the wheel arbor, eliminating belts that can slip or break. Direct-drive machines require less maintenance, run quieter, and deliver consistent RPM. Belt-driven machines allow RPM adjustments via pulley changes but add maintenance complexity. All eight machines reviewed in this guide use direct-drive motors.
Conclusion
Finding the best cabbing machines in 2026 means matching the tool to your skill level, budget, and workspace. Our team stands behind the CabKing 8-inch for professional work, the CabKing 6-inch for its proven reliability across 339 reviews, and the Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Slant Cabber for the best overall value for beginners.
Whatever machine you choose, the key is to start grinding. Lapidary work rewards patience and practice, and having the right equipment makes every session more productive and more enjoyable. Pick the model that fits your situation, stock up on rough material, and start turning stones into treasures.