September 15, 2025 BY
IN Blogs , CNC Machinery

When running a small manufacturing shop, an entrepreneur faces different challenges. One of those challenges is choosing the right CNC machine for their operations. The problem arises because there are machines that are affordable for small sized shops but can’t provide the high end machining services, while the machines that can provide that high end performance are not affordable.

But every problem has a solution, and if your problem is the same as we mentioned, then we have the solution to it too. We have utilized CNC machines that offer an affordable price and are also capable of delivering high-end machining performance. Although we have multiple such machines, in this blog, we will be talking about the best Okuma models that can be used by small machining shops.

Best Okuma Models for Small Sized Machining Shops:

Here are some of the best Okuma models of CNC machines that you can choose as a small machining shop owner:

  1. Okuma GENOS L Series: This is one of the most well known lathe series of Okuma in the market. These machines are considered one of the best entry-level lathes on the market. These lathes are designed for precision machining of small and medium sized parts, have a compact design, and also come at an affordable price.
    Key  features of the GENOS L series:

    • Features like sub spindle and option y-axis for multitasking.
    • OSP-P300L control with touchscreen interface for easy programming.
    • Swing over bed up to 300mm and max turning length of 1,000mm (model-dependent).
    • The machines have integrated spindle motors for quick response and better machining capacity.
    • Thermo friendly concept for better thermal stability and less distortion during machining.

    Advantages of GENOS L series machines:

    • This machine series costs less than the other premium lathes of Okuma.
    • These machines are compact in design, which helps in saving floor area for small sized shops.
    • You can do several types of machining operations using these machines.
    • The control system has a user friendly interface, and can be operated by newbie operators too.

    Disadvantages of GENOS L series machines:

    • This is not the right machine series for heavy duty applications.
    • Limited high end features compared to the other advanced lathes of Okuma.
  2. Okuma GENOS M Series: The Okuma GENOS M series is a vertical machining center series that definitely features in the best Okuma models list. They are celebrated by machinists all around the world for their top notch performance while being an affordable machine series, and the capability to perform different types of applications.
    Key features of GENOS M series:

    • They have double column construction, which provides exceptional rigidity.
    • 15,000 RPM spindle with CAT40 taper for high-speed machining.
    • They have a 32-tool magazine automatic tool changer, which helps in faster operations.
    • Thermally stable cast-iron construction and optimized thermal management.
    • The machines have an advanced collision avoidance feature via the OSP control system.

    Advantages of GENOS M series:

    • The machines show strong performance for small batch work and prototyping.
    • The compact design helps to integrate the machines in small shop areas.
    • The high speed spindle and tool changer help in increasing the overall productivity of the machining shop.
    • Thermal compensation ensures ±0.005mm accuracy, outperforming many competitors.

    Disadvantages of GENOS M series machines:

    • The machines may consume more power than other entry level mills of other brands.
    • The machines might not be capable of machining large workpieces.
  3. Okuma LB EX Series: The main reason a small shop should choose LB EX series CNC machines is because heavier turning operations and high rigidity, while having a very compact machine design. Okuma markets these machines with their Thermo-Friendly Concept and PREX spindle motors.
    Key features of Okuma LB EX series machines:

    • The slanted box bed construction of these machines provides rigidity and thermal stability.
    • The high torque PREX spindle motors, which are well known for their heavy cuts.
    • The capability of integration with automation features, like bar feeders.
    • The machines have dual turret options for simultaneous machining work.
    • OSP-P500 control on newer LB models for integration and operator comfort.

    Advantages of Okuma LB EX machines:

    • The machines have a great turning envelope while being small shop friendly.
    • The robust build of these machines helps with the longevity of the machines.
    • Can handle tough materials and heavy cuts.
    • The machines are generally celebrated as reliable machines by their users.

    Disadvantages of Okuma LB EX machines:

    • These machines are a bit costly when considered for a small machine, but buying a used one can help you save big.
    • The advanced features of these machines will need well trained operators.
  4. Okuma MULTUS U Series: A small shop that is expanding to multitasking should definitely check machines of the Okuma MULTUS U series. This machine definitely comes in the list of the best Okuma models for small shops because it can perform different operations like turning and milling in the same machine, which saves the cost of the shop and also increases the scope of services.
    Key features of Okuma MULTUS U series CNC machines:

    • B-axis heads for 5-axis simultaneous machining.
    • They have a high speed spindle of 12000 RPM, which can perform different operations efficiently.
    • The machines feature collision avoidance software that helps in better precision machining.
    • They have lower turrets for support.
    • The series has compact machine options like U4000, which is fit for tight shop floors.

    Advantages of MULTUS U series CNC machines:

    • Reduces the need for multiple machines and setups.
    • They have high rigidity, which helps in maintaining tight tolerances.
    • The control system helps in advanced programming, which helps in innovation.
    • The multitasking features help the shops to take up more complex operations.

    Disadvantages of MULTUS U series CNC machines:

    • These machines are premium machines, so buying a new model will cost you a fortune. Buying a used model can help you save a lot.
    • You will need highly skilled operators to run the machines.

Conclusion:

All of these machines are some of the best Okuma models, and definitely the right models for small sized machining shops. But Okuma is a high end brand, so buying a new machine can be a wrong decision for a small shop or startup, so the best thing to do is go with the used machines in our collection of Okuma CNC machines.