Machine Comparison
Citizen Cincom A20 vs Citizen Cincom R04
Citizen Machinery vs Citizen Machinery · Swiss-Type Lathes
Summary
The Citizen Cincom A20 and Citizen Cincom R04 are both from Citizen Machinery's swiss-type lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Citizen Machinery ecosystem. The Citizen Cincom A20 leads in rapid traverse (32 m/min vs 30 m/min (all axes)). On paper, the Citizen Cincom A20 edges ahead with advantages in 6 of the compared specifications, though real-world performance depends heavily on your specific applications and workholding. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a swiss-type lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Citizen Cincom A20 | Citizen Cincom R04 |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Traverse | 32 m/min ▲ | 30 m/min (all axes) |
| Control | Citizen CNC | Mitsubishi Meldas (Citizen software) |
| Max Bar Capacity | 20 mm (0.787 in) ▲ | 4 mm (0.157 in) |
| Max Machining Diameter | 20 mm (0.787 in) ▲ | 4 mm (0.157 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 165 mm (6.5 in) ▲ | 40 mm (1.57 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM (up to 15,000 RPM on select variants) | 20,000 RPM ▲ |
| Main Spindle Power | 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 HP) ▲ | 0.75 / 1.1 kW (1 / 1.5 HP) |
| Power Consumption | 7.1 kVA ▲ | 4 kVA |
| Price Range | $100,000 - $180,000 | $80,000 - $150,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Citizen Cincom A20
- Faster rapid traverse at 32 m/min reduces non-cutting time between operations
- Superior max bar capacity at 20 mm (0.787 in) vs 4 mm (0.157 in)
- Superior max machining diameter at 20 mm (0.787 in) vs 4 mm (0.157 in)
- Superior max machining length at 165 mm (6.5 in) vs 40 mm (1.57 in)
- Superior main spindle power at 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 HP) vs 0.75 / 1.1 kW (1 / 1.5 HP)
Citizen Cincom R04
- Superior main spindle speed at 20,000 RPM vs 10,000 RPM (up to 15,000 RPM on select variants)
- More competitive pricing at $80,000 - $150,000 compared to $100,000 - $180,000
- Backed by Citizen Machinery's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Watch and clock manufacturers producing stems, pivots, pinions, and precision movement components up to 4mm diameter
Verdict
The Citizen Cincom A20 holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Citizen Cincom A20's strengths in areas like Rapid Traverse and max bar capacity align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Citizen Cincom R04 may still win on dealer proximity, existing tooling compatibility, or specific features that matter most to your applications. Request quotes from both dealers and, if possible, run your actual parts on each machine before deciding.