In the paper, the differences between S244 shield machine manufactured by Herrenknecht AG., which has been used for the construction of a running tunnel on line 3 of Guangzhou Mass Rapid Transit system,and No. 1638 Shield Machine manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., which has been used for the construction of a running tunnel on line 4 of Guangzhou Mass Rapid Transit system, are presented. The mentioned differences lie in the following aspects: the erection of the first negative segment ring during launching, the control of the curved boring of the shield machine, the control of the simultaneous grouting, the replacement of the cutting tools and the delivery of the segments within the shield skin scope. Furthermore, the advantages/disadvantages of the mentioned two different types of shield machines are provided. The paper can provide reference for the type selection of shield machines in shield tunnelingprojects in the future.