Machine Comparison
Citizen Cincom B12 vs Citizen Cincom B16
Citizen Machinery vs Citizen Machinery · Swiss-Type Lathes
Summary
The Citizen Cincom B12 and Citizen Cincom B16 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. These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. 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 B12 | Citizen Cincom B16 |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Mitsubishi Meldas (Citizen software) | Mitsubishi Meldas (Citizen software) |
| Max Bar Capacity | 12 mm (0.472 in) | 12 mm (0.472 in) |
| Max Machining Diameter | 12 mm (0.472 in) | 12 mm (0.472 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 135 mm (5.31 in) | 135 mm (5.31 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM | 12,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Power | 2.2 kW (3 HP) | 2.2 kW (3 HP) |
| Spindle Bore | 20 mm (0.787 in) | 20 mm (0.787 in) |
| Rotary Tool Speed | 4,500 RPM | 4,500 RPM |
| Number Of Tools | 12 | 13 - 16 ▲ |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (Removable Guide Bushing option) | Yes (Removable Guide Bushing option) |
| Machine Weight | 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) | 1,150 kg (2,535 lbs) ▲ |
| Price Range | $60,000 - $110,000 ▲ | $80,000 - $140,000 |
Advantages
Citizen Cincom B12
- More competitive pricing at $60,000 - $110,000 compared to $80,000 - $140,000
- Backed by Citizen Machinery's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Shops entering the Swiss-type turning market looking for the lowest-cost Citizen platform with full factory support
Citizen Cincom B16
- Superior number of tools at 13 - 16 vs 12
- Superior machine weight at 1,150 kg (2,535 lbs) vs 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs)
- Backed by Citizen Machinery's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Shops needing complete-part Swiss machining at the lowest possible dual-spindle price point from a major manufacturer
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Citizen Cincom B12 and Citizen Cincom B16 trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.