Machine Comparison
Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si vs Hurco VC500i
Hurco vs Hurco · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si and Hurco VC500i are both from Hurco's vertical machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Hurco ecosystem. The Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si leads in x travel (3,200 mm (126 in) vs 520 mm (20.5 in)). The Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si leads in spindle power (37 kW (50 HP) continuous vs 11.5 kW (15.4 hp) peak). On paper, the Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si edges ahead with advantages in 5 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 vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si | Hurco VC500i |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 3,200 mm (126 in) ▲ | 520 mm (20.5 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 2,600 mm (102.4 in) ▲ | 450 mm (17.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 920 mm (36.2 in) ▲ | 400 mm (15.8 in) |
| Spindle Power | 37 kW (50 HP) continuous ▲ | 11.5 kW (15.4 hp) peak |
| Tool Capacity | 40 tools | 40 (arm-type ATC) |
| Control | Hurco WinMax with 5-axis Transform Plane | Hurco WinMax |
| Max Table Load | 4,000 kg (8,818 lb) on trunnion ▲ | 250 kg (550 lb) |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 50 | CAT 40 / Big Plus |
| Price Range | $600,000 - $800,000 (new) | $350,000 - $550,000 (used) | $200,000 - $270,000 (new) | $110,000 - $180,000 (used) ▲ |
Advantages
Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si
- Greater x travel of 3,200 mm (126 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 2,600 mm (102.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 920 mm (36.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 37 kW (50 HP) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior max table load at 4,000 kg (8,818 lb) on trunnion vs 250 kg (550 lb)
Hurco VC500i
- More competitive pricing at $200,000 - $270,000 (new) | $110,000 - $180,000 (used) compared to $600,000 - $800,000 (new) | $350,000 - $550,000 (used)
- Backed by Hurco's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers producing implants, instruments, and prosthetics requiring full 5-axis access
Verdict
The Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Hurco DCX3226HT 5Si's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Hurco VC500i 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.