Machine Comparison
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 vs Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 and Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO 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 NEO leads in x travel (730 mm (28.7 in) [i-700 NEO] vs 350 mm (13.78 in)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 leads in tool capacity (145 tools standard (expandable to 505) vs 30 standard (40, 80, 120 optional)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO shows specification advantages in 5 categories, though the Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 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 | Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.78 in) | 730 mm (28.7 in) [i-700 NEO] ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.65 in) | 1,050 mm (41.3 in) [i-700 NEO] ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.08 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) [i-700 NEO] ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM (18K / 25K / 30K RPM optional) | 12,000 RPM [i-600], 18,000 RPM [i-700], 10,000 RPM [i-800] |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW / 30 hp (40% ED); 15 kW continuous | 22 kW / 30 hp [i-700 NEO] |
| Tool Capacity | 145 tools standard (expandable to 505) ▲ | 30 standard (40, 80, 120 optional) |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC |
| Rotary Indexing | 0.0001° increments (A and C axes) | 0.0001 degree increments (A and C axes) |
| Spindle Taper | BIG-PLUS BT40 (HSK-A63 / HSK-F63 optional) | BT40 [i-600], BIG-PLUS No.40 [i-700], BIG-PLUS No.50 [i-800] |
| Spindle Drive | Built-in motor | Built-in motor with core cooling |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 350 mm (13.78 in) | 700 mm (27.6 in) [i-600], 850 mm (33.5 in) [i-700], 1,000 mm (39.4 in) [i-800] ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Height | 315 mm (12.40 in) | 450 mm (17.7 in) [i-600], 500 mm (19.7 in) [i-700], 415 mm (16.3 in) [i-800] ▲ |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $550,000 ▲ | $375,000 - $650,000 |
Advantages
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300
- Larger tool magazine with 145 tools standard (expandable to 505) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $550,000 compared to $375,000 - $650,000
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers running lights-out production of implants, surgical instruments, and orthopedic components
Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO
- Greater x travel of 730 mm (28.7 in) [i-700 NEO] accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,050 mm (41.3 in) [i-700 NEO] accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) [i-700 NEO] accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior max workpiece diameter at 700 mm (27.6 in) [i-600], 850 mm (33.5 in) [i-700], 1,000 mm (39.4 in) [i-800] vs 350 mm (13.78 in)
- Superior max workpiece height at 450 mm (17.7 in) [i-600], 500 mm (19.7 in) [i-700], 415 mm (16.3 in) [i-800] vs 315 mm (12.40 in)
Verdict
The Mazak VARIAXIS i NEO edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 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.