Machine Comparison
Makino a120nx vs Makino a51nx
Makino vs Makino · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a120nx and Makino a51nx are both from Makino's horizontal machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Makino ecosystem. The Makino a51nx leads in max spindle speed (14,000 RPM vs 8,000 RPM). The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 560 mm (22.0 in)). The Makino a51nx leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 42 m/min (1,654 ipm)). On paper, the Makino a120nx edges ahead with advantages in 7 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 horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a120nx | Makino a51nx |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ | 640 mm (25.2 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ | 640 mm (25.2 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM | 14,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ | 22 kW (30 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) ▲ | 240 Nm (177 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ | 60 (expandable to 120/180) |
| Rapid Traverse | 42 m/min (1,654 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ |
| Accuracy | ±0.004 mm (±0.00016 in) | ±0.003 mm |
| Repeatability | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) | ±0.002 mm |
| Machine Weight | ~52,000 kg (114,640 lb) | 7,800 kg (17,200 lb) ▲ |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) | Makino Professional 6 (Fanuc-based) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A100 | HSK-A63 |
| Pallet Size | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ | 400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in) |
| Price Range | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 | $250,000 - $350,000 ▲ |
Advantages
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 240 Nm (177 ft-lb)
Makino a51nx
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 14,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- Lighter at 7,800 kg (17,200 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $350,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
Verdict
The Makino a120nx holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Makino a120nx's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Makino a51nx 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.