Machine Comparison
Makino a500Z vs Makino a800Z
Makino vs Makino · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a500Z and Makino a800Z are both from Makino's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Makino ecosystem. The Makino a500Z leads in max spindle speed (14,000 RPM (12K high-torque / 20K high-speed optional) vs 12,000 RPM (HSK-A63 high-speed optional)). The Makino a800Z leads in x travel (1,050 mm (41.3 in) vs 730 mm (28.7 in)). The Makino a500Z leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 50 m/min (1,969 ipm)). The Makino a800Z shows specification advantages in 7 categories, though the Makino a500Z 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a500Z | Makino a800Z |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 730 mm (28.7 in) | 1,050 mm (41.3 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 750 mm (29.5 in) | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 700 mm (27.6 in) | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 RPM (12K high-torque / 20K high-speed optional) ▲ | 12,000 RPM (HSK-A63 high-speed optional) |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW (29.5 hp) continuous | 45 kW (60.3 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 303 Nm (224 ft-lb) | 700 Nm (516 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 60 tools standard (expandable) | 80 tools standard (expandable) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ | 50 m/min (1,969 ipm) |
| Machine Weight | ~16,500 kg (36,376 lb) ▲ | ~28,000 kg (61,729 lb) |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6, SGI.5) | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6, SGI.5) |
| A Axis Range | +30° to -120° (150° total, dual direct drive) | +30° to -120° (150° total, dual direct drive) |
| C Axis Range | 360° (continuous, direct drive) | 360° (continuous, direct drive) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-A100 (HSK-A63 optional) |
| Pallet Size | 500 x 500 mm (19.7 x 19.7 in) | 800 x 630 mm (31.5 x 24.8 in) ▲ |
| Price Range | $500,000 - $750,000 ▲ | $900,000 - $1,400,000 |
Advantages
Makino a500Z
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 14,000 RPM (12K high-torque / 20K high-speed optional) 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 ~16,500 kg (36,376 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $500,000 - $750,000 compared to $900,000 - $1,400,000
Makino a800Z
- Greater x travel of 1,050 mm (41.3 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 900 mm (35.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,000 mm (39.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 45 kW (60.3 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 700 Nm (516 ft-lb) vs 303 Nm (224 ft-lb)
Verdict
The Makino a800Z edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Makino a500Z 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.