Yamazaki Mazak Vertical Machining Centers

Mazak VC-Ez 16

$65,000 - $95,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

X Travel

560 mm (22.0 in)

Y Travel

360 mm (14.2 in)

Z Travel

410 mm (16.1 in)

Max Spindle

12,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

CAT No. 40

Tool Capacity

20 (arm-type ATC)

Overview

The Mazak VC-Ez 16 is the most compact model in the VC-Ez entry-level vertical machining center series, designed and manufactured at Mazak's Florence, Kentucky facility. The 16 designation reflects the machine's smaller X-travel class, making it the right fit for shops machining compact parts that do not need the full envelope of the VC-Ez 20 or 26.

The VC-Ez 16 runs a 12,000 RPM CAT No. 40 spindle with 11 kW (15 hp) of power. The 20-station arm-type ATC delivers fast tool changes and keeps cycle times competitive. Table dimensions of 950 x 360 mm (37.4 x 14.2 in) accommodate typical job shop fixtures and vise setups for small-to-medium parts. Maximum table load is 300 kg (661 lb).

Axis travels measure 560 x 360 x 410 mm (22.0 x 14.2 x 16.1 in), providing a focused work envelope that matches the compact footprint. Rapid traverse of 36 m/min on all axes keeps non-cutting time short. The MX Hybrid Roller Guideway system on all linear axes delivers smooth motion and accurate positioning.

The MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC control features a touchscreen interface with conversational programming that simplifies operation for shops transitioning from manual equipment. SmoothEz retains the core MAZATROL conversational capabilities while streamlining the interface for operators with less CNC experience. The control accepts both MAZATROL and EIA/ISO G-code programs.

New VC-Ez 16 machines start around $65,000 to $95,000 depending on options. The compact footprint and accessible price point make it one of the most affordable paths into Mazak ownership, competing with the Haas Mini Mill 2, Brother Speedio S300X2, and Fanuc ROBODRILL in the small-envelope VMC segment.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	560 mm (22.0 in)
Y-Axis Travel	360 mm (14.2 in)
Z-Axis Travel	410 mm (16.1 in)
Max Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Spindle Taper	CAT No. 40
Spindle Motor Power	11 kW (15 hp)
Tool Capacity	20 (arm-type ATC)
Table Size	64.17" × 28.35"
Max Table Load	300 kg (661 lb)
Rapid Traverse Rate	36 m/min (1,417 ipm)
CNC Control	MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC
Guide Type	MX Hybrid Roller Guideway (all axes)
Machine Weight	3,200 kg (7,055 lb) approx.
Manufactured In	Florence, Kentucky, USA
Tool Shank	CAT No. 40
Max Spindle Speed	12000 min-1(rpm)

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Most compact and affordable model in the VC-Ez series, providing an accessible entry point into Mazak CNC ownership
12,000 RPM CAT 40 spindle handles aluminum and mild steel parts common in small job shop environments
Arm-type ATC with 20 stations delivers faster tool changes than carousel-based systems on competing entry-level VMCs
MAZATROL SmoothEz conversational programming reduces the learning curve for operators stepping up from manual machines
Compact footprint fits into space-constrained shops without sacrificing build quality or control sophistication
Built at Mazak Florence, Kentucky for fast domestic delivery and local service support

Limitations

560 mm (22 in) X-travel limits part size significantly compared to the VC-Ez 20 and larger models
11 kW (15 hp) spindle restricts heavy roughing in steel and cast iron to conservative feeds and speeds
300 kg table load limits fixture weight for shops running heavier workpieces or multi-part setups
Entry-level positioning means fewer options and automation packages compared to VCN series machines

Best For

Small job shops machining compact aluminum and mild steel parts that need Mazak quality at an entry-level price Medical device and electronics manufacturers running small precision components on a reliable platform Shops with limited floor space that need a capable VMC with a compact footprint Educational and training facilities that want production-grade equipment with an approachable control system Prototype shops and model makers producing small batches of detailed parts

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new Mazak VC-Ez 16 cost?

New VC-Ez 16 machines start around $65,000 for base configurations and reach $95,000 with options like through-spindle coolant, probing, and chip conveyor. This makes it the most affordable vertical machining center in Mazak's current lineup.

02 How does the VC-Ez 16 compare to the VC-Ez 20?

The VC-Ez 20 offers significantly more X-travel (762 mm vs 560 mm) and a larger table. Both share the same 12,000 RPM spindle and SmoothEz control. Choose the 16 for smaller parts where floor space is a priority; the 20 for more versatile envelope.

03 What control does the VC-Ez 16 use?

The MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC, a streamlined touchscreen control with conversational programming. It supports both MAZATROL conversational and EIA/ISO G-code, making it accessible for operators new to CNC while still capable for experienced programmers.

04 Is the VC-Ez 16 suitable for steel cutting?

Yes, for light-to-medium cutting in mild and alloy steels. The 11 kW spindle handles drilling, tapping, and contouring effectively. For aggressive roughing in harder steels, the larger VC-Ez models or VCN series with more spindle power would be more appropriate.