Machine Comparison
Makino F8 vs Makino F9
Makino vs Makino · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino F8 and Makino F9 are both from Makino's vertical machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Makino ecosystem. The Makino F9 leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 1,300 mm (51.2 in)). The Makino F9 shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the Makino F8 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 vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino F8 | Makino F9 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,300 mm (51.2 in) | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) | 1,200 mm (47.2 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 RPM | 14,000 RPM |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (60 optional) | 30 (60 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 36,000 mm/min (1,417 ipm) | 36,000 mm/min (1,417 ipm) |
| Table Size | 1,500 x 1,000 mm (59.1 x 39.4 in) | 1,800 x 1,200 mm (70.9 x 47.2 in) ▲ |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (SGI.5) | Makino Professional 6 (SGI.5) |
| Spindle Taper | CAT40 (HSK-A63 optional) | CAT50 (HSK-A100 optional) |
| Max Workpiece Size | 1,500 x 1,000 x 500 mm (59.1 x 39.4 x 19.7 in) | 1,800 x 1,200 x 500 mm (70.9 x 47.2 x 19.7 in) ▲ |
| Table Load Capacity | 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) | 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) ▲ |
| Cutting Feedrate | 20,000 mm/min (787 ipm) | 20,000 mm/min (787 ipm) |
| Tool Change Time | 6 sec | 6 sec |
| Max Tool Diameter | 80 mm (3.15 in) | 120 mm (4.72 in) ▲ |
| Price Range | $275,000 - $425,000 ▲ | $375,000 - $550,000 |
Advantages
Makino F8
- More competitive pricing at $275,000 - $425,000 compared to $375,000 - $550,000
- Backed by Makino's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Die and mold shops machining medium to large mold bases, cavity inserts, and core blocks in P20, H13, and tool steels
Makino F9
- Greater x travel of 1,600 mm (63.0 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,200 mm (47.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 1,800 x 1,200 mm (70.9 x 47.2 in) vs 1,500 x 1,000 mm (59.1 x 39.4 in)
- Superior max workpiece size at 1,800 x 1,200 x 500 mm (70.9 x 47.2 x 19.7 in) vs 1,500 x 1,000 x 500 mm (59.1 x 39.4 x 19.7 in)
- Superior table load capacity at 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) vs 3,000 kg (6,614 lb)
Verdict
The Makino F9 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Makino F8 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.