I bought some 1" OD stainless Steel this week, and the flex difference is pretty obvious. I didn’t setup the dial indicator but took some quick pictures.
I had 6’ lengths of tubing supported on both ends and hung a 10lb weight form the center point. I took a picture from as level as I could get to illustrate the flex.
The standard EMT that we/I have been using was a bit more rigid than the .0185" stainless curtain rod (too weak the bearings left a groove on the first pass).
The 316l stainless did better what I tested what was sold as .049" and .083" wall thickness. The .049" is much better than the EMT but really close to the .080" and about $10 cheaper per 6’.
I would recommend .050" if you want to upgrade your machine and have some money to spend.