Machine Comparison
Mazak VARIAXIS C vs Mazak VARIAXIS i
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak VARIAXIS C and Mazak VARIAXIS i are both from Yamazaki Mazak's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. The Mazak VARIAXIS C leads in x travel (600 mm (23.6 in) [C-600], 730 mm (28.7 in) [C-700] vs 510 mm (20.1 in) [i-500] to 900 mm (35.4 in) [i-1050]). On paper, the Mazak VARIAXIS C 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Mazak VARIAXIS C | Mazak VARIAXIS i |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) [C-600], 730 mm (28.7 in) [C-700] ▲ | 510 mm (20.1 in) [i-500] to 900 mm (35.4 in) [i-1050] |
| Y-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) [C-600], 1,050 mm (41.3 in) [C-700] ▲ | 560 mm (22.0 in) [i-500] to 1,050 mm (41.3 in) [i-1050] |
| Z-Axis Travel | 560 mm (22.0 in) [C-600], 600 mm (23.6 in) [C-700] ▲ | 510 mm (20.1 in) [i-500] to 750 mm (29.5 in) [i-1050] |
| Tool Capacity | 30 standard (40, 60, 80, 120 optional) | 30 standard (40, 80, 120 optional) |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC | MAZATROL Matrix 2 |
| Models Available | C-600, C-700 ▲ | i-500, i-1050, i-700T, i-800T, i-1050T |
| A Axis Range | +30 to -120 degrees | +30 to -120 degrees |
| C Axis Range | 360 degrees continuous | 360 degrees continuous |
| Rotary Indexing | 0.0001 degree increments | 0.0001 degree increments |
| Spindle Taper | BIG-PLUS No.40 | BIG-PLUS No.40 [i-500], CAT No.40 [i-700T], CAT No.50 [i-800T/i-1050] |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 730 mm [C-600], 850 mm [C-700] ▲ | 500 mm (19.7 in) [i-500] to 1,250 mm (49.2 in) [i-1050] |
| Max Workpiece Height | 450 mm [C-600], 500 mm [C-700] ▲ | 350 mm (13.8 in) [i-500] to 900 mm (35.4 in) [i-1050] |
| Table Load Capacity | 500 kg (1,102 lb) [C-600], 700 kg (1,543 lb) [C-700] ▲ | 400 kg (882 lb) [i-500] to 1,200 kg (2,646 lb) [i-1050] |
| Rapid Traverse Xy | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $550,000 | $300,000 - $700,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Mazak VARIAXIS C
- Greater x travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) [C-600], 730 mm (28.7 in) [C-700] accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 800 mm (31.5 in) [C-600], 1,050 mm (41.3 in) [C-700] accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 560 mm (22.0 in) [C-600], 600 mm (23.6 in) [C-700] accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior models available at C-600, C-700 vs i-500, i-1050, i-700T, i-800T, i-1050T
- Superior max workpiece diameter at 730 mm [C-600], 850 mm [C-700] vs 500 mm (19.7 in) [i-500] to 1,250 mm (49.2 in) [i-1050]
Mazak VARIAXIS i
- More competitive pricing at $300,000 - $700,000 compared to $350,000 - $550,000
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Aerospace manufacturers machining complex structural parts requiring simultaneous 5-axis
Verdict
The Mazak VARIAXIS C holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Mazak VARIAXIS C's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Mazak VARIAXIS i 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.