Machine Comparison
Makino a120nx vs Makino MCD2018
Makino vs Makino · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a120nx and Makino MCD2018 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 MCD2018 leads in max spindle speed (20,000 RPM vs 8,000 RPM). The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 800 mm (31.5 in)). The Makino MCD2018 leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 42 m/min (1,654 ipm)). 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 horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a120nx | Makino MCD2018 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ | 550 mm (21.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM | 20,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ | 22 kW (29.5 hp) continuous |
| Tool Capacity | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ | 60 tools |
| Rapid Traverse | 42 m/min (1,654 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ |
| Accuracy | ±0.004 mm (±0.00016 in) | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) |
| Repeatability | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) | ±0.001 mm (±0.00004 in) |
| Machine Weight | ~52,000 kg (114,640 lb) | ~13,500 kg (29,762 lb) ▲ |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6, SGI.5) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A100 | HSK-A63 |
| Pallet Size | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ | 500 x 500 mm (19.7 x 19.7 in) |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 standard | 2 standard |
| Price Range | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 | $450,000 - $650,000 ▲ |
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
- Larger tool magazine with 100 tools standard (expandable) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Makino MCD2018
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 20,000 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 ~13,500 kg (29,762 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $450,000 - $650,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Makino a120nx and Makino MCD2018 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.