Machine Comparison
Makino F9 vs Makino iQ300
Makino vs Makino · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino F9 and Makino iQ300 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 iQ300 leads in max spindle speed (45,000 RPM vs 14,000 RPM). The Makino F9 leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 400 mm (15.7 in)). The Makino iQ300 leads in tool capacity (40 vs 30 (60 optional)). On paper, the Makino F9 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 vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino F9 | Makino iQ300 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,200 mm (47.2 in) ▲ | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 RPM | 45,000 RPM ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (60 optional) | 40 ▲ |
| Table Size | 1,800 x 1,200 mm (70.9 x 47.2 in) ▲ | 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in) |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (SGI.5) | Makino Professional 6 |
| Spindle Taper | CAT50 (HSK-A100 optional) | HSK-E32 |
| Max Workpiece Size | 1,800 x 1,200 x 500 mm (70.9 x 47.2 x 19.7 in) ▲ | 600 x 580 x 190 mm (23.6 x 22.8 x 7.5 in) |
| Table Load Capacity | 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) ▲ | 100 kg (220 lb) |
| Max Tool Diameter | 120 mm (4.72 in) ▲ | 20 mm (0.79 in) |
| Price Range | $375,000 - $550,000 | $350,000 - $500,000 ▲ |
Advantages
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
- Greater z travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 1,800 x 1,200 mm (70.9 x 47.2 in) vs 600 x 400 mm (23.6 x 15.7 in)
- Superior max workpiece size at 1,800 x 1,200 x 500 mm (70.9 x 47.2 x 19.7 in) vs 600 x 580 x 190 mm (23.6 x 22.8 x 7.5 in)
Makino iQ300
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 45,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Larger tool magazine with 40 capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $500,000 compared to $375,000 - $550,000
Verdict
The Makino F9 holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Makino F9's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Makino iQ300 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.