Machine Comparison
Hurco TM6i vs Hurco TM8i
Hurco vs Hurco · CNC Lathes
Summary
The Hurco TM6i and Hurco TM8i are both from Hurco's cnc lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Hurco ecosystem. The Hurco TM8i leads in max spindle speed (4,500 RPM vs 3,500 RPM). The Hurco TM8i leads in x travel (200 mm (7.9 in) vs 165 mm (6.5 in)). The Hurco TM8i leads in rapid traverse (24 m/min (945 ipm) vs 20 m/min (787 ipm)). The Hurco TM8i shows specification advantages in 10 categories, though the Hurco TM6i 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 cnc lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hurco TM6i | Hurco TM8i |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 165 mm (6.5 in) | 200 mm (7.9 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 305 mm (12 in) | 455 mm (17.9 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 3,500 RPM | 4,500 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 11.2 kW (15 hp) | 13.4 kW (18 hp) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 20 m/min (787 ipm) | 24 m/min (945 ipm) ▲ |
| Chuck Size | 6 in (152 mm) | 8 in (203 mm) ▲ |
| Bar Capacity | 42 mm (1.65 in) | 51 mm (2.0 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Diameter | 254 mm (10 in) | 356 mm (14 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Length | 305 mm (12 in) | 455 mm (17.9 in) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 2,300 kg (5,070 lb) ▲ | 3,400 kg (7,500 lb) |
| Control | Hurco WinMax | Hurco WinMax |
| Swing Over Bed | 410 mm (16.1 in) | 533 mm (21 in) ▲ |
| Spindle Nose | A2-5 | A2-6 |
| Turret Stations | 12 | 12 |
| Price Range | $55,000 - $80,000 ▲ | $65,000 - $95,000 |
Advantages
Hurco TM6i
- Lighter at 2,300 kg (5,070 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $55,000 - $80,000 compared to $65,000 - $95,000
- Backed by Hurco's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Job shops running high-mix, low-volume small turned parts where setup time matters more than cycle time
Hurco TM8i
- Greater x travel of 200 mm (7.9 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 455 mm (17.9 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 4,500 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More spindle power at 13.4 kW (18 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 24 m/min (945 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
Verdict
The Hurco TM8i edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Z Travel. However, the Hurco TM6i 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.