For new lathe options the PM1022 / 1030 seems to be popular and offers more than many others of that size. It is one of the more expensive options though.
Grizzly offers a slightly cheaper 10x22 but it has a threaded spindle which some dislike, is actually a 9-1/2" swing vs 10" and lacks the power feed on the cross slide.
The 9x19 or 9x20 is another popular lathe of roughly the same size, but several hundred dollars cheaper. It shares many features good and bad with the Grizzly 10x22 lathes. Definitely a step above the 7x class lathes, but not as nice a machine as the PM lathes. Used these are rather common and can be found for $1000 or less if you get lucky.
The new vs vintage debate is unending, but small vintage lathes can have significant advantages over a small new lathe as there are many small vintage lathes that were available with a quick change gear box, but very few new ones under 12" that have one. The only lathe smaller than 12" I am aware of that comes with a QCGB is the Grizzly Southbend Heavy 10 starting at $9000.
For what you will pay for a PM 1030 (often less) you can get a likely get nice vintage 9 or 10" lathe, Atlas, Logan, Southbend etc with more features, but at the risk of wear and hidden damage. New does have the benefit of not getting a prior owners problems with it.