Canon's 5nm chip making machine is 10 times cheaper than ASML's machine

According to Bloomberg, Canon CEO Fujio Mitarai admitted that the new technology solution is inferior in performance to traditional lithography machines but offers some advantages. Compared to ASML's 5nm technology equipment, Canon's machine is 10 times cheaper.

While the final decision on pricing has yet to be made, it will make chipmaking more affordable for small businesses. Mitarai also said that even large contract manufacturers are willing to opt for the new 5nm chipmaking machines.

Not only is it cheaper, Mitarai also boasts that their 5nm chipmaking machines consume 10 times less energy than ASML’s extreme ultraviolet lithography equipment. With environmental concerns becoming increasingly important, cutting power consumption is not only good for the environment, but also helps manufacturers cut energy costs.

Canon has reportedly spent 10 years developing nano-chip printing technology, which does not involve projecting photomasks onto silicon wafers. Although nano-chip printing technology is not on the Japanese government's sanctions list for Chinese companies, Canon executives believe the company will still not be able to supply 5nm chip-making machines to Chinese customers. The reason is that this could allow Chinese companies to produce chips "smaller" than 14nm - which is not welcomed by the Japanese, US and Dutch governments.