Mazak VC-Ez X

$175,000 - $275,000 Updated 2026-03-13

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

12,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

CAT No.40

Tool Capacity

30 standard (50 optional)

Table Size

19.69"

Rapid Traverse

36 m/min (1,417 ipm)

Max Workpiece ⌀

400 mm [16X], 500 mm [20X]

Overview

The Mazak VC-Ez X series is a Kentucky-built entry-level 5-axis machining center designed for simplicity, fast installation, and accessible operation. Available in two table sizes - the VC-Ez 16X (400 mm / 15.75 in) and VC-Ez 20X (500 mm / 19.7 in) - the series targets shops that need basic 5-axis capability without the complexity and cost of the VARIAXIS lineup.

Both models run a 12,000 RPM spindle with CAT No.40 taper. The standard 30-tool magazine is expandable to 50 tools. The trunnion-style table provides A-axis tilt from -120 to +30 degrees and 360-degree continuous C-axis rotation with 0.0001-degree indexing.

The MX Hybrid Roller Guideway system on all linear axes balances rigidity with speed. Thermal Shield technology monitors and compensates for thermal drift during extended runs. The MAZATROL SmoothEz5 CNC with its 15-inch touchscreen is designed for operators who may not have extensive 5-axis experience, with conversational programming that simplifies setup.

Designed and manufactured at Mazak's Florence, Kentucky facility, the VC-Ez X series emphasizes quick installation and minimal floor prep. Optional automation includes collaborative robots (cobots) and Mazak's Mill Assist system for basic unattended loading. The compact footprint keeps floor space requirements modest for shops adding their first 5-axis machine.

The VC-Ez X sits below the VARIAXIS j in Mazak's hierarchy, trading the roller gear cam rotary drives and higher spindle options for a significantly lower price point and simpler operation. For shops running 3+2 positioning work on aluminum and mild steels, it delivers the access angles without the premium.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Models Available	VC-Ez 16X, VC-Ez 20X
Table Size 16x	400 mm (15.75 in) diameter
Table Size 20x	500 mm (19.7 in) diameter
A Axis Range	+30 to -120 degrees
C Axis Range	360 degrees continuous
Rotary Indexing	0.0001 degree increments
Max Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Spindle Taper	CAT No.40
Tool Capacity	30 standard (50 optional)
Max Workpiece Diameter	400 mm [16X], 500 mm [20X]
Table Load Capacity	200 kg (441 lb) [16X], 300 kg (661 lb) [20X]
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 technology
Manufactured In	Florence, Kentucky, USA
Table Size	19.69"
Tool Shank	CAT No. 40
Max Spindle Speed	12000 min-1(rpm)

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Lowest-cost entry into Mazak 5-axis machining, well below the VARIAXIS j and i series
Built in Kentucky with fast domestic delivery and installation support
SmoothEz5 CNC with 15-inch touch simplifies operation for shops new to 5-axis
Compact footprint and minimal floor prep requirements for space-constrained shops
Cobot and Mill Assist automation options provide basic unattended loading at low cost
Thermal Shield technology provides thermal compensation typically found on more expensive machines

Limitations

12,000 RPM max with no high-speed spindle option limits high-speed aluminum machining
CAT No.40 taper without BIG-PLUS face contact reduces tool rigidity vs VARIAXIS models
30-tool standard (50 max) constrains complex multi-tool parts
No roller gear cam rotary drives - less positioning accuracy than VARIAXIS series
SmoothEz5 control lacks the AI features and full capability of SmoothAi

Best For

Shops buying their first 5-axis machine and wanting a proven, simple, domestically built platform Job shops adding 3+2 positioning capability for multi-surface parts in aluminum and mild steels Small manufacturers needing 5-axis access angles without premium machine investment Training environments where operator-friendly controls reduce the 5-axis learning curve Shops wanting Mazak quality and support at an entry-level price point

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a VC-Ez X cost?

New VC-Ez 16X starts around $175,000. The VC-Ez 20X with 50-tool magazine and cobot automation runs $225,000-$275,000. Significantly less than the VARIAXIS j at $225,000+.

02 VC-Ez X vs VARIAXIS j?

VC-Ez X is simpler and cheaper with SmoothEz5 control and standard roller guides. VARIAXIS j has roller gear cam rotary drives, SmoothAi option, and higher spindle options. Choose VC-Ez X for basic 3+2; VARIAXIS j for full simultaneous 5-axis.

03 Is it made in the USA?

Yes. The VC-Ez X series is designed and manufactured at Mazak Florence, Kentucky. This means faster delivery, easier parts sourcing, and domestic service support.

04 Can it do simultaneous 5-axis?

Yes, though it excels at 3+2 positioning work. The SmoothEz5 CNC supports simultaneous 5-axis interpolation but lacks the AI-assisted features of SmoothAi for complex contouring applications.