Machine Comparison
Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 vs Mazak VARIAXIS i-800
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 and Mazak VARIAXIS i-800 are both from Yamazaki Mazak's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. The Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 leads in max spindle speed (18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) vs 10,000 RPM). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-800 leads in spindle power (37 kW (50 hp) at 40% ED; 30 kW (40 hp) continuous vs 22 kW (30 hp)). The Mazak VARIAXIS i-800 shows specification advantages in 5 categories, though the Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 | Mazak VARIAXIS i-800 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 630 mm (24.8 in) | 630 mm (24.8 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,100 mm (43.3 in) | 1,100 mm (43.3 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) ▲ | 10,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) | 37 kW (50 hp) at 40% ED; 30 kW (40 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (40, 80, 120 optional) | 30 tools standard (40, 80, 120 optional) |
| Control | MAZATROL Matrix 2 (SmoothAi on NEO version) | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC |
| A Axis Range | +30° to -120° | -130 to +30 degrees ▲ |
| C Axis Range | 360° (continuous) | 360 degrees (continuous) |
| Spindle Taper | #40 (BT40 / CAT40) | CAT 50 |
| Max Tool Diameter | 130 mm (5.1 in) | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Max Tool Length | 360 mm (14.2 in) | 400 mm (15.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Tool Weight | 8 kg (17.6 lb) | 20 kg (44 lb) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Size | 850 mm dia x 500 mm H (33.5 x 19.7 in) | 1,000 mm dia x 375 mm H (39.4 x 14.8 in) ▲ |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $500,000 ▲ | $450,000 - $650,000 |
Advantages
Mazak VARIAXIS i-700
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 18,000 RPM (optional 12,000 RPM high-torque) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $500,000 compared to $450,000 - $650,000
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Aerospace shops machining complex 5-axis structural parts, brackets, and manifolds that benefit from the long Y-axis stroke
Mazak VARIAXIS i-800
- More spindle power at 37 kW (50 hp) at 40% ED; 30 kW (40 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior a axis range at -130 to +30 degrees vs +30° to -120°
- Superior max tool length at 400 mm (15.7 in) vs 360 mm (14.2 in)
- Superior max tool weight at 20 kg (44 lb) vs 8 kg (17.6 lb)
- Superior max workpiece size at 1,000 mm dia x 375 mm H (39.4 x 14.8 in) vs 850 mm dia x 500 mm H (33.5 x 19.7 in)
Verdict
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-800 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Spindle Power and a axis range. However, the Mazak VARIAXIS i-700 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.