In 2016, DATRON introduced the neo, a compact, high-speed milling machine designed to deliver precision tolerances in a small footprint—ideal for prototyping and low-volume production. It was paired with our intuitive DATRON next touchscreen control, developed to make CNC machining accessible even to non-machinists. The combination quickly became a success, enabling R&D teams, startups, and design companies to bring machining capabilities in-house at an affordable price.
Over time, we enhanced the neo to meet growing customer demands, adding a more robust construction, increased functionality, and higher performance. While these upgrades improved capabilities, they also raised the machine’s cost. To offer customers more flexibility, we developed the new DATRON neo product line, available in three models— DATRON neo Entry, DATRON neo, and DATRON neo Pro—each designed for different applications and budgets. The machines look very similar, except that the neo entry is a lighter grey color. All models share the same machining area, compact footprint, and use the next control software.
DATRON neo Entry
Essential Performance at the Lowest Cost
The DATRON neo Entry is the most affordable model in the new lineup, built for light prototyping, startups, and educational environments with limited budgets.
Key features:
- 12-station tool changer with tool length measurement
- Supports tooling up to 6 mm diameter
- 1 kW spindle, up to 27,000 rpm
- 3D touch probe
- Feed rates up to 12 m/min
- 2.5-liter coolant tank
- Lightweight gantry construction
While capable of machining aluminum and other materials with good tolerances, the DATRON neo Entry cannot be upgraded with advanced options such as the AR setup camera, 4th rotary axis, higher-capacity spindles, or software options such as protected areas and user management. It’s best suited for users who need an affordable, entry-level system without plans for future expansion.
DATRON neo
Balanced Capability and Flexibility
The DATRON neo was further developed from the proven Series 2 platform with upgraded rigidity, dynamics, and finish quality. It’s an excellent choice for most prototyping and small-production environments.
Key features:
- 2 kW spindle, up to 40,000 rpm
- 24-station tool changer
- 3D touch probe and status light
- AR setup camera for fast, simplified job setup
- 5-liter coolant tank (optional upgrade to 10 liters)
- Feed rates up to 28 m/min
- Support for add-ons like a 4th rotary axis, dust extraction, and an ionization bar
This model combines ease of use with expandability via software and hardware upgrades, offering a solid balance of performance, flexibility, and price.
DATRON neo Pro
Precision for High-Volume, Tight-Tolerance Production
The DATRON neo Pro is the most advanced model, engineered for demanding production environments that require the highest accuracy.
Key features:
- All the capabilities of the DATRON neo
- Linear scales (absolute encoders) on all three axes
- Higher accuracy, enabling machining tolerances in the 10–20 micron range
- Automatic compensation for thermal growth, particularly in the Z-axis
The DATRON neo Pro is ideal for applications like microfluidics, waveguides, and other industries requiring ultra-precise, high-volume machining.
Backward Compatibility
Programs created for Series 2 neo machines remain compatible with the new family of machines. For the DATRON neo Entry, higher feed rates or spindle speeds will automatically default to their maximums (12 m/min and 27,000 rpm). Due to its 12-tool magazine, tool position reassignment may be needed. The DATRON neo and DATRON neo Pro will generally run existing programs without modification.
A Commitment to Innovation
From the first neo, your customer feedback has driven our continuous improvements. Now, with three distinct models, DATRON offers a machine tailored to every stage of your growth—from prototyping to production—while reaffirming our commitment to innovation and leadership in high-speed machining.
