Mazak VC-Ez 16X

$175,000 - $225,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

12,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

CAT No. 40

Tool Capacity

30 standard (50 optional)

Rapid Traverse

36 m/min (1,417 ipm)

Max Workpiece ⌀

400 mm (15.75 in)

table diameter

400 mm (15.75 in)

Overview

The Mazak VC-Ez 16X is the compact model in the VC-Ez X entry-level 5-axis machining center series, built at Mazak's Florence, Kentucky facility. The 16X features a 400 mm (15.75 in) diameter trunnion-style rotary table that provides full 5-axis positioning and simultaneous interpolation, giving shops their first step into multi-axis machining on a proven Mazak platform.

The trunnion table delivers A-axis tilt from -120 to +30 degrees and 360-degree continuous C-axis rotation with 0.0001-degree indexing resolution. This configuration handles 3+2 positioning work efficiently and supports simultaneous 5-axis contouring for more complex geometries. Maximum workpiece diameter is 400 mm (15.75 in) with a table load capacity of 200 kg (441 lb).

The 12,000 RPM CAT No. 40 spindle provides reliable cutting power for aluminum, mild steel, and alloy steels. The standard 30-tool magazine is expandable to 50 tools for shops running complex multi-tool parts. Rapid traverse hits 36 m/min on all linear axes via the MX Hybrid Roller Guideway system.

The MAZATROL SmoothEz5 CNC with 15-inch touchscreen is specifically designed for operators who may not have extensive 5-axis experience. The conversational programming interface simplifies part setup while still supporting full G-code for complex toolpaths generated by CAM systems. Thermal Shield technology monitors and compensates for thermal drift.

New VC-Ez 16X machines start around $175,000 and reach $225,000 with options including cobot automation, Mill Assist loading, expanded tool magazine, and probing packages. The 16X sits well below the VARIAXIS j series in price, making it the most affordable entry into Mazak 5-axis machining.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Table Diameter	400 mm (15.75 in)
A Axis Range	+30 to -120 degrees
C Axis Range	360 degrees continuous
Rotary Indexing	0.0001 degree increments
Max Workpiece Diameter	400 mm (15.75 in)
Table Load Capacity	200 kg (441 lb)
Max Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Spindle Taper	CAT No. 40
Tool Capacity	30 standard (50 optional)
Rapid Traverse Rate	36 m/min (1,417 ipm)
CNC Control	MAZATROL SmoothEz5 CNC
Display	15-inch touchscreen
Guideway Type	MX Hybrid Roller Guideway
Thermal Compensation	Thermal Shield
Manufactured In	Florence, Kentucky, USA

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Most affordable entry into Mazak 5-axis machining, significantly less than the VARIAXIS j series
Trunnion-style table with 0.0001-degree indexing provides precise 3+2 positioning and simultaneous 5-axis capability
SmoothEz5 CNC with 15-inch touchscreen simplifies 5-axis operation for shops new to multi-axis machining
Built in Kentucky with fast domestic delivery, installation support, and local service from Mazak North America
Compact footprint and minimal floor prep for shops adding their first 5-axis machine to an existing floor plan
Cobot and Mill Assist automation options enable basic unattended operation at modest additional cost

Limitations

12,000 RPM max with no high-speed spindle option limits surface speeds for high-speed aluminum finishing
200 kg table load restricts workpiece weight, limiting steel and cast iron part sizes on the rotary table
400 mm workpiece diameter is tight for larger 5-axis parts; the 20X offers a larger table for more flexibility
CAT No. 40 taper without BIG-PLUS face contact provides less tool rigidity than VARIAXIS models
SmoothEz5 control lacks the AI-assisted features and full capability of SmoothAi on premium Mazak 5-axis machines

Best For

Shops buying their first 5-axis machine and wanting a simple, proven, domestically built Mazak platform Medical device and aerospace manufacturers running small 5-axis components under 400 mm diameter Job shops adding 3+2 positioning capability for multi-surface access on compact parts Training environments where the SmoothEz5 interface reduces the 5-axis learning curve for new operators Prototype and model shops producing complex geometries in small quantities

Frequently Asked Questions

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

New VC-Ez 16X machines start around $175,000 for base configurations. Adding the 50-tool magazine, cobot automation, probing, and through-spindle coolant pushes the price to $225,000. This is significantly less than the VARIAXIS j at $225,000+.

02 VC-Ez 16X vs VC-Ez 20X - which should I choose?

The 20X has a larger 500 mm diameter table with 300 kg load capacity vs the 16X at 400 mm and 200 kg. Choose the 16X if your parts fit within 400 mm diameter and you want the lowest-cost 5-axis entry. Choose the 20X for larger parts or heavier fixtures.

03 Can the VC-Ez 16X do simultaneous 5-axis machining?

Yes. The SmoothEz5 CNC supports full simultaneous 5-axis interpolation. However, the machine excels at 3+2 positioning work. For complex simultaneous 5-axis contouring applications, the VARIAXIS series offers more advanced control features and higher rotary axis performance.

04 Is the VC-Ez 16X made in the USA?

Yes. The VC-Ez X series is designed and manufactured at Mazak's Florence, Kentucky facility. This means faster delivery, easier parts sourcing, and domestic service support compared to machines built in Japan.