Machine Comparison
DN Solutions HC 400 II vs Makino a120nx
DN Solutions vs Makino · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The DN Solutions HC 400 II from DN Solutions and Makino a120nx from Makino are direct competitors in the horizontal machining centers category. The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 600 mm (24 in)). The Makino a120nx leads in tool capacity (100 tools standard (expandable) vs 40 (60, 90 optional)). The Makino a120nx leads in spindle power (55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous vs 18.5/11 kW (25/15 hp)). The Makino a120nx shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the DN Solutions HC 400 II may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | DN Solutions HC 400 II | Makino a120nx |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 600 mm (24 in) | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 560 mm (22 in) | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 565 mm (22 in) | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM (12,000 RPM optional) | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 18.5/11 kW (25/15 hp) | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 353.4 Nm (261 ft-lb) | 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 40 (60, 90 optional) | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ |
| Control | FANUC 0i-Plus with iHMI | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) |
| Spindle Taper | ISO 40 (BIG-PLUS) | HSK-A100 |
| Pallet Size | 400 x 400 mm (16 x 16 in) | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ |
| Pallet Load Capacity | 400 kg (882 lb) | 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) ▲ |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 | 2 standard |
| Price Range | $200,000 - $320,000 ▲ | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 |
Advantages
DN Solutions HC 400 II
- More competitive pricing at $200,000 - $320,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
- Backed by DN Solutions's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Automotive suppliers producing small-to-medium brackets, housings, and cast components at production volume
Makino a120nx
- Greater x travel of 1,600 mm (63.0 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,350 mm (53.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,400 mm (55.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) vs 353.4 Nm (261 ft-lb)
Verdict
The Makino a120nx edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the DN Solutions HC 400 II remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.