Is thread milling better than tapping?

Is thread milling better than tapping? 

Great question! Whether thread milling is better than tapping depends on the application—but in many cases, thread milling offers more advantages, especially in precision CNC machining or when dealing with difficult materials.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand which is better for your needs:

Thread Milling vs. Tapping

When Thread Milling Is Better:

• When working with hard materials or expensive parts (to avoid scrap from tap breakage)

• When you need high precision and excellent surface finish

• When producing multiple thread sizes with the same pitch

• When cutting blind holes where chip control is crucial

• When you want one tool for both internal and external threads

When Tapping Might Be Better:

• For simple, high-volume production of the same thread size

• On manual machines or when CNC helical interpolation is not available

• When cost per tool is a primary concern and part tolerance is less critical

Conclusion:

Thread milling is better for flexibility, precision, safety, and difficult materials.

Tapping is faster and cheaper for mass production of standard threads in easy materials.