Machine Comparison
Mazak HQR vs Mazak HQR NEO
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · CNC Lathes
Summary
The Mazak HQR and Mazak HQR NEO are both from Yamazaki Mazak's cnc lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. The Mazak HQR NEO leads in spindle power (22 kW (30 hp) per spindle vs 18.5 kW - 22 kW (25 hp - 30 hp) per spindle). The Mazak HQR NEO leads in chuck size (203 mm / 254 mm (8 in / 10 in) vs 152 mm - 254 mm (6 in - 10 in)). The Mazak HQR NEO shows specification advantages in 7 categories, though the Mazak HQR 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 | Mazak HQR | Mazak HQR NEO |
|---|---|---|
| Max Spindle Speed | 5,000 - 6,000 RPM | 5,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 18.5 kW - 22 kW (25 hp - 30 hp) per spindle | 22 kW (30 hp) per spindle ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 12 positions per turret (24 total live tool positions) | 12 positions per turret (36 total) |
| Rapid Traverse | 30 m/min X, 30 m/min Z | 30 m/min X, 30 m/min Z |
| Chuck Size | 152 mm - 254 mm (6 in - 10 in) | 203 mm / 254 mm (8 in / 10 in) ▲ |
| Bar Capacity | 42 mm - 80 mm (1.65 in - 3.15 in) | 65 mm - 80 mm (2.56 in - 3.15 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Length | 619 mm - 1,326 mm (24.375 in - 52.2 in) | 860 mm (33.86 in) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 7,500 kg (16,535 lb) ▲ | 9,500 kg (20,944 lb) |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothG | MAZATROL SmoothG3 |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 295 mm - 343 mm (11.625 in - 13.5 in) | 320 mm (12.6 in) ▲ |
| Spindle Bore | 61 mm - 91 mm (2.4 in - 3.58 in) | 76 mm / 91 mm (2.99 in / 3.58 in) ▲ |
| Spindle Count | 2 spindles (main + sub with W-axis) | 2 spindles |
| Turret Count | 2 turrets with live tooling | 3 turrets ▲ |
| X Axis Travel | 195 mm (7.68 in) | 195 mm (7.68 in) |
| Price Range | $250,000 - $420,000 ▲ | $300,000 - $500,000 |
Advantages
Mazak HQR
- Lighter at 7,500 kg (16,535 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $420,000 compared to $300,000 - $500,000
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Production shops running complex turned-milled parts needing front and back operations
Mazak HQR NEO
- More spindle power at 22 kW (30 hp) per spindle for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior chuck size at 203 mm / 254 mm (8 in / 10 in) vs 152 mm - 254 mm (6 in - 10 in)
- Superior bar capacity at 65 mm - 80 mm (2.56 in - 3.15 in) vs 42 mm - 80 mm (1.65 in - 3.15 in)
- Superior max turning length at 860 mm (33.86 in) vs 619 mm - 1,326 mm (24.375 in - 52.2 in)
- Superior max workpiece diameter at 320 mm (12.6 in) vs 295 mm - 343 mm (11.625 in - 13.5 in)
Verdict
The Mazak HQR NEO edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Spindle Power and Chuck Size. However, the Mazak HQR 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.