Machine Comparison
EMAG VL 4 vs EMAG VSC 400
EMAG vs EMAG · CNC Lathes
Summary
The EMAG VL 4 and EMAG VSC 400 are both from EMAG's cnc lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the EMAG ecosystem. The EMAG VSC 400 leads in spindle power (50 kW (67 hp) vs 18.1 kW (24.3 hp)). The EMAG VSC 400 shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the EMAG VL 4 may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a cnc lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | EMAG VL 4 | EMAG VSC 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Spindle Power | 18.1 kW (24.3 hp) | 50 kW (67 hp) ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 245 Nm (181 ft-lb) | 800 Nm (590 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Control | Fanuc 31i | Siemens Sinumerik 840D |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 200 mm (7.87 in) | 400 mm (15.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Length | 150 mm (5.9 in) | 250 mm (9.8 in) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse X | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 IPM) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 IPM) |
| Machine Weight | 5,500 kg (12,125 lb) | 9,500 kg (20,944 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $250,000 - $320,000 ▲ | $350,000 - $600,000 |
Advantages
EMAG VL 4
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $320,000 compared to $350,000 - $600,000
- Backed by EMAG's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Automotive tier 1 and tier 2 suppliers producing brake rotors, gear blanks, bearing races, and hub assemblies at volumes exceeding 100,000 parts per year
EMAG VSC 400
- More spindle power at 50 kW (67 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 800 Nm (590 ft-lb) vs 245 Nm (181 ft-lb)
- Superior max workpiece diameter at 400 mm (15.7 in) vs 200 mm (7.87 in)
- Superior max workpiece length at 250 mm (9.8 in) vs 150 mm (5.9 in)
- Superior rapid traverse x at 60 m/min (2,362 IPM) vs 30 m/min (1,181 ipm)
Verdict
The EMAG VSC 400 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Spindle Power and Spindle Torque. However, the EMAG VL 4 remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.