Abstract In recent years, multiple-attribute decision-making (MADM) methods have gathered significant interest from researchers across various scientific fields. In the case of mechanical part machining when faced with conflicting objectives, these methods have become essential in the selection of necessary cutting parameters. The integration of these techniques with multi-objective optimization procedures has proven effective in leading to an efficient solution to a multi-attribute decision-making problem. The present study falls within this context. Its primary objective being the determination of the optimal cutting parameters that reduces tool vibration, minimizes surface roughness along withmaximizing material removal rate during the turning of Inconel 718 using a coated carbide cutting tool grade (GC1105). These various objectives have been achieved through combining the principal component analysis (PCA) method to the measurement of alternatives and ranking according to the compromise solution (MARCOS), and MARCOS method coupled with the Taguchi SN ratio. The results obtained demonstrated that both methods generated the same combination of optimal cutting parameters that achieve the aforementioned objectives and represented by a nose radius r = 0.8 mm, a cutting speed Vc = 70 mm min−1, a feed rate f = 0.08 mm rev−1, and a depth of cut ap = 0.3 mm.