Machine Comparison
Makino F5 vs Makino F8
Makino vs Makino · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino F5 and Makino F8 are both from Makino's vertical machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Makino ecosystem. The Makino F5 leads in max spindle speed (20,000 RPM (30,000 RPM optional) vs 14,000 RPM). The Makino F8 leads in x travel (1,300 mm (51.2 in) vs 900 mm (35.4 in)). The Makino F8 shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the Makino F5 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 vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino F5 | Makino F8 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 900 mm (35.4 in) | 1,300 mm (51.2 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM (30,000 RPM optional) ▲ | 14,000 RPM |
| Tool Capacity | 30 | 30 (60 optional) |
| Table Size | 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) | 1,500 x 1,000 mm (59.1 x 39.4 in) ▲ |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) | Makino Professional 6 (SGI.5) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 (HSK-F63 on 30K option) | CAT40 (HSK-A63 optional) |
| Tool Change Time | 1.3 sec (tool-to-tool) | 6 sec ▲ |
| Max Tool Weight | 8 kg (17.6 lb) | 8 kg (17.6 lb) |
| Table Load Capacity | 1,000 kg (2,204 lb) | 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $180,000 - $300,000 ▲ | $275,000 - $425,000 |
Advantages
Makino F5
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 20,000 RPM (30,000 RPM optional) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More competitive pricing at $180,000 - $300,000 compared to $275,000 - $425,000
- Backed by Makino's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Mold and die shops finishing hardened tool steel cavities where surface quality directly impacts part quality and eliminates secondary polishing
Makino F8
- Greater x travel of 1,300 mm (51.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,000 mm (39.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 1,500 x 1,000 mm (59.1 x 39.4 in) vs 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in)
- Superior tool change time at 6 sec vs 1.3 sec (tool-to-tool)
Verdict
The Makino F8 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Makino F5 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.