Hardinge GX-480

$55,000 - $85,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

X Travel

480 mm (18.9 in)

Y Travel

380 mm (15.0 in)

Z Travel

400 mm (15.7 in)

Spindle Taper

BT 40

Tool Capacity

Table Size

600 x 380 mm (23.6 x 15.0 in)

Overview

The Hardinge GX-480 is a compact vertical machining center from the GX series, which was developed through Hardinge's acquisition of Bridgeport and represents the company's precision milling lineup. With X/Y/Z travels of 480 x 380 x 400 mm (18.9 x 15.0 x 15.7 in), the GX-480 is the smallest member of the GX family, targeting precision shops that need a VMC with superior spindle accuracy in a space-efficient footprint.

The GX-480 features a direct-drive spindle rated at 10,000 RPM with 7.5 kW (10 hp) continuous power through a BT 40 taper. The direct-drive design eliminates belt vibration, delivering smoother surface finishes and more consistent spindle runout compared to belt-driven alternatives in this size class. Hardinge's precision spindle engineering, derived from decades of lathe manufacturing, translates to spindle runout specifications that exceed typical production VMC benchmarks.

The work table measures 600 x 380 mm (23.6 x 15.0 in) with T-slots on standard centers and supports workpiece loads up to 300 kg (661 lb). A 20-tool automatic tool changer provides tool-to-tool change times of approximately 2.5 seconds. Rapid traverse rates of 36 m/min (1,417 ipm) on all axes ensure efficient non-cutting moves. The machine structure uses a C-frame design with linear guideways for smooth, fast axis motion.

Running on Fanuc 0i-MF Plus or Siemens 828D control, the GX-480 provides standard G-code programming with conversational options. New GX-480 machines price between $55,000 and $85,000, making them accessible for small precision shops, educational facilities, and dedicated machining cells. The machine competes with the Haas Mini Mill 2, Brother TC-S2DN, and Hurco VM10i in the compact VMC segment.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	480 mm (18.9 in)
Y-Axis Travel	380 mm (15.0 in)
Z-Axis Travel	400 mm (15.7 in)
Table Size	600 x 380 mm (23.6 x 15.0 in)
Max Table Load	300 kg (661 lb)
Spindle Taper	BT 40
Spindle Speed	10,000 RPM
Spindle Motor Power	7.5 kW (10 hp)
Spindle Drive	Direct drive
Tool Capacity	20
Tool Change Time	2.5 sec (tool-to-tool)
Rapid Traverse Rate	36 m/min (1,417 ipm)
Positioning Accuracy	±0.005 mm
Repeatability	±0.003 mm
CNC Control	Fanuc 0i-MF Plus
Machine Weight	3,200 kg (7,055 lb)

Specifications sourced from hardinge.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Direct-drive spindle eliminates belt vibration for superior surface finish and runout compared to belt-driven competitors in this size class
Compact footprint makes the GX-480 suitable for space-constrained precision shops and dedicated machining cells
Hardinge's precision spindle engineering delivers accuracy specifications above typical production VMC benchmarks
Accessible pricing from $55K puts precision VMC capability within reach of small shops and educational institutions
36 m/min rapid traverse on all axes provides efficient non-cutting moves for good cycle time performance
BT 40 tooling compatibility provides access to the broadest range of standard tool holders and cutting tools

Limitations

480 mm X-travel is compact, limiting workpiece size and multi-part fixture capability compared to larger VMCs
7.5 kW spindle power is modest, limiting aggressive roughing in hard materials and heavy material removal rates
20-tool ATC may be limiting for complex multi-tool programs; competitors like the Haas Mini Mill offer 20+1
Hardinge's smaller dealer network compared to Haas may result in longer service response times in some regions

Best For

Precision mold and die shops producing small inserts, EDM electrodes, and tooling components where surface finish and accuracy are critical Medical device manufacturers machining small housings, brackets, and instrument components requiring tight tolerances Educational institutions and training facilities needing a production-grade compact VMC for CNC education Dedicated machining cells where the GX-480 handles specific small-part operations alongside larger production VMCs Prototype and R&D shops producing small precision components in low volumes where accuracy matters more than material removal rate

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new Hardinge GX-480 cost?

New GX-480 machines price between $55,000 and $85,000 depending on control choice and options. The Fanuc 0i-MF Plus configuration is typically at the lower end. Options including through-spindle coolant, 4th axis prep, probing, and chip conveyor increase the price toward the upper range.

02 How does the GX-480 compare to the Haas Mini Mill?

The Haas Mini Mill offers similar compact travels (406 x 305 x 254 mm) but with less Z-travel. The GX-480 has a larger work envelope overall and Hardinge's direct-drive spindle advantage. The Haas has a significantly larger dealer network and lower entry price. For pure precision, the GX-480 has the edge; for value and support, Haas is the safer choice.

03 Can a 4th axis be added to the GX-480?

Yes. The GX-480 supports 4th axis integration with factory preparation packages. Standard rotary tables from Haas, Tsudakoma, and Nikken mount directly to the T-slot table. The Fanuc control includes 4th axis software when the preparation option is specified.

04 What spindle options are available?

The standard GX-480 spindle is a 10,000 RPM direct-drive unit with 7.5 kW power. Higher-speed spindle options up to 15,000 RPM may be available for aluminum-intensive work. Through-spindle coolant is available as an option for improved chip evacuation in deep hole operations.