Machine Comparison
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC vs Mazak VARIAXIS i-700
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC and Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 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 i-700 leads in max spindle speed (18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) vs 12,000 RPM (18K / 25K / 30K optional)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 leads in x travel (630 mm (24.8 in) vs 350 mm (13.78 in)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC leads in tool capacity (145 standard (expandable to 505) vs 30 (40, 80, 120 optional)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 shows specification advantages in 4 categories, though the Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC 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 | Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC | Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.78 in) | 630 mm (24.8 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.65 in) | 1,100 mm (43.3 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.08 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM (18K / 25K / 30K optional) | 18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW / 30 hp (40% ED) | 22 kW (30 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | 145 standard (expandable to 505) ▲ | 30 (40, 80, 120 optional) |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC | MAZATROL Matrix 2 (SmoothAi on NEO version) |
| Spindle Taper | BIG-PLUS BT40 (HSK-A63 / HSK-F63 optional) | #40 (BT40 / CAT40) |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $550,000 | $350,000 - $500,000 |
Advantages
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC
- Larger tool magazine with 145 standard (expandable to 505) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers running lights-out production of implants and surgical instruments
Mazak VARIAXIS i-700
- Greater x travel of 630 mm (24.8 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,100 mm (43.3 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
Verdict
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC 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.