Machine Comparison
Hurco BX40Ui vs Makino a500iR
Hurco vs Makino · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Hurco BX40Ui from Hurco and Makino a500iR from Makino are direct competitors in the 5-axis machining centers category. The Hurco BX40Ui leads in max spindle speed (20,000 RPM vs 14,000 RPM (20,000 RPM optional)). The Hurco BX40Ui leads in x travel (950 mm (37.4 in) vs 560 mm (22.0 in)). The Makino a500iR leads in tool capacity (60 tools standard vs 30 (arm-type ATC)). 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hurco BX40Ui | Makino a500iR |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 950 mm (37.4 in) ▲ | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 549 mm (21.6 in) | 640 mm (25.2 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 640 mm (25.2 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM ▲ | 14,000 RPM (20,000 RPM optional) |
| Spindle Power | 29 kW (38.9 hp) peak ▲ | 22 kW (29.5 hp) continuous |
| Spindle Torque | 99.3 Nm (73.2 ft-lbs) @ 2,790 RPM | 240 Nm (177 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (arm-type ATC) | 60 tools standard ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 9,400 kg (20,723 lb) ▲ | ~12,000 kg (26,455 lb) |
| Control | Hurco WinMax | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) |
| B Axis Range | -30° / +110° | 360° (continuous, direct drive) ▲ |
| Spindle Taper | HSK 63A | HSK-A63 |
| Price Range | $280,000 - $360,000 (new) | $160,000 - $260,000 (used) ▲ | $450,000 - $650,000 |
Advantages
Hurco BX40Ui
- Greater x travel of 950 mm (37.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 20,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More spindle power at 29 kW (38.9 hp) peak for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Lighter at 9,400 kg (20,723 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $280,000 - $360,000 (new) | $160,000 - $260,000 (used) compared to $450,000 - $650,000
Makino a500iR
- Greater y travel of 640 mm (25.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 640 mm (25.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior spindle torque at 240 Nm (177 ft-lb) vs 99.3 Nm (73.2 ft-lbs) @ 2,790 RPM
- Larger tool magazine with 60 tools standard capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- Superior b axis range at 360° (continuous, direct drive) vs -30° / +110°
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Hurco BX40Ui and Makino a500iR 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.