What does CNC turning cost in 2026? Prices per material and quantity
Turning is the cheapest machining process for rotationally symmetric parts. Here is what shafts, bushings and rollers realistically cost, from 1 piece to 5,000+.
- CNC turning in the Benelux typically costs €15–€120 per part, which is 20–30% below CNC milling for rotationally symmetric parts. The roughly €60 setup per order is why a single prototype is relatively expensive and why unit price drops about 45% from 100 pieces.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is CNC turning cheaper than milling?
- In turning the workpiece rotates and the tool stays still, so a single set-up removes material very quickly. Milling needs more set-ups, more tool changes and more machine time for the same shape. For shafts, bushings and flanges that is a 20–30% price difference.
- When does turned work get expensive?
- As soon as milled features appear — flats, cross-holes, keyways — the part moves to a second machine or to a mill-turn centre. Extra setup applies and the price converges with milling. Long slender shafts (L/D > 10) also cost more because they need support.
- What tolerances do you hold when turning?
- We work to ISO 2768-m by default. Fine machining takes us to ±0.025 mm and Ra 0.2 µm, and ±0.01 mm is achievable after engineering review. On diameters, tight tolerances are relatively cheaper in turning than in milling.
- Is Swiss-type turning worth it for my part?
- From roughly 500 pieces of small precision work (Ø < 32 mm), Swiss turning becomes attractive: cycle time per part drops sharply and unit price can fall another 20–40%. State your annual volume in the request and we will price both scenarios.
- Do you turn plastics as well?
- Yes — POM, PA6, PEEK and polycarbonate are routine. Plastic stock is roughly 30% cheaper than aluminium but needs adapted cutting parameters and sometimes a stress-relief step to guarantee dimensional stability.