Machine Comparison
Haas CL-1 vs Haas SB-28
Haas Automation vs Haas Automation · CNC Lathes
Summary
The Haas CL-1 and Haas SB-28 are both from Haas Automation's cnc lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Haas Automation ecosystem. The Haas CL-1 leads in max spindle speed (6,000 RPM vs 3,200 RPM). The Haas SB-28 leads in tool capacity (12-station bolt-on turret vs 8-station automatic turret). The Haas SB-28 leads in spindle power (29.8 kW (40 hp) vs 3.7 kW (5 hp)). The Haas SB-28 shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the Haas CL-1 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 | Haas CL-1 | Haas SB-28 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM ▲ | 3,200 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 3.7 kW (5 hp) | 29.8 kW (40 hp) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 8-station automatic turret | 12-station bolt-on turret ▲ |
| Bar Capacity | 25.4 mm (1.0 in) | 74 mm (2.9 in) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 907 kg (2,000 lb) ▲ | 7,711 kg (17,000 lb) |
| Control | Haas Next Generation Control (NGC) | Haas Next Generation Control (NGC) |
| Max Cutting Diameter | 127 mm (5 in) | 349 mm (13.75 in) ▲ |
| Max Cutting Length | 102 mm (4 in) | 711 mm (28 in) ▲ |
| Spindle Nose | 5C collet ▲ | A2-6 |
| X Axis Travel | 127 mm (5 in) | 318 mm (12.5 in) ▲ |
| Z Axis Travel | 152 mm (6 in) | 711 mm (28 in) ▲ |
| Coolant Capacity | 57 L (15 gal) | 208 L (55 gal) ▲ |
| Price Range | $45,000 - $55,000 ▲ | $75,000 - $100,000 |
Advantages
Haas CL-1
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 6,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Lighter at 907 kg (2,000 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- Superior spindle nose at 5C collet vs A2-6
- More competitive pricing at $45,000 - $55,000 compared to $75,000 - $100,000
Haas SB-28
- More spindle power at 29.8 kW (40 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Larger tool magazine with 12-station bolt-on turret capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- Superior bar capacity at 74 mm (2.9 in) vs 25.4 mm (1.0 in)
- Superior max cutting diameter at 349 mm (13.75 in) vs 127 mm (5 in)
- Superior max cutting length at 711 mm (28 in) vs 102 mm (4 in)
Verdict
The Haas SB-28 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Spindle Power and Tool Capacity. However, the Haas CL-1 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.