Machine Comparison
Mazak UN vs Mazak VC-Ez
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak UN and Mazak VC-Ez are both from Yamazaki Mazak's vertical machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. The Mazak UN leads in max spindle speed (12,000 RPM vs 10,000 RPM). The Mazak UN leads in x travel (1,020 mm (40.2 in) vs 762 mm (30 in)). The Mazak UN leads in tool capacity (30 (arm-type ATC) vs 20 (arm-type ATC)). On paper, the Mazak UN 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 | Mazak UN | Mazak VC-Ez |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,020 mm (40.2 in) ▲ | 762 mm (30 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) ▲ | 410 mm (16.1 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 460 mm (18.1 in) | 460 mm (18.1 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM ▲ | 10,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 18.5 kW (25 hp) ▲ | 11 kW (15 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (arm-type ATC) ▲ | 20 (arm-type ATC) |
| Table Size | 1,200 x 500 mm (47.2 x 19.7 in) ▲ | 900 x 400 mm (35.4 x 15.7 in) |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothG CNC | MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC |
| Spindle Taper | BT 40 | BT 40 |
| Max Table Load | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) ▲ | 400 kg (882 lb) |
| Guide Type | Linear roller guides (all axes) | Linear roller guides (all axes) |
| Price Range | $110,000 - $155,000 | $75,000 - $110,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Mazak UN
- Greater x travel of 1,020 mm (40.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 510 mm (20.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 12,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More spindle power at 18.5 kW (25 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Larger tool magazine with 30 (arm-type ATC) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Mazak VC-Ez
- More competitive pricing at $75,000 - $110,000 compared to $110,000 - $155,000
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Job shops stepping up from manual mills to CNC for the first time and wanting a reputable brand with conversational programming
Verdict
The Mazak UN holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Mazak UN's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Mazak VC-Ez 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.