Machine Comparison
Starrag LX 021 vs Starrag SIP 5000
Starrag vs Starrag · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Starrag LX 021 and Starrag SIP 5000 are both from Starrag's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Starrag ecosystem. The Starrag LX 021 leads in max spindle speed (30,000 RPM vs 20,000 RPM). The Starrag SIP 5000 leads in x travel (700 mm (27.6 in) vs 400 mm (15.75 in)). The Starrag SIP 5000 leads in tool capacity (40 tools standard (up to 120 optional) vs 30 (standard disk magazine), up to 90). These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. 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 | Starrag LX 021 | Starrag SIP 5000 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.75 in) | 700 mm (27.6 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 200 mm (7.87 in) | 530 mm (20.9 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 410 mm (16.14 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 30,000 RPM ▲ | 20,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 20 kW (27 hp) | 28 kW (37.5 hp) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (standard disk magazine), up to 90 | 40 tools standard (up to 120 optional) ▲ |
| Control | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl | Heidenhain TNC 640 |
| A Axis Range | 360° (continuous) ▲ | +30° / -120° tilting |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A40 | HSK-A63 |
| Price Range | $600,000 - $1,000,000 ▲ | $900,000 - $1,400,000 |
Advantages
Starrag LX 021
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 30,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Superior a axis range at 360° (continuous) vs +30° / -120° tilting
- More competitive pricing at $600,000 - $1,000,000 compared to $900,000 - $1,400,000
Starrag SIP 5000
- Greater x travel of 700 mm (27.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 530 mm (20.9 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 500 mm (19.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 28 kW (37.5 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Larger tool magazine with 40 tools standard (up to 120 optional) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Starrag LX 021 and Starrag SIP 5000 trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.