![[BUYING GUIDE] How to Choose the Right Industrial Robot?](/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/Industrial-Robot-1000x625.jpg)
Choosing the right industrial robot is no longer a simple matter of automation—it defines the efficiency, safety, and future scalability of your production. From assembly lines to packaging and material handling, understanding robot types, capabilities, and integration requirements is essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.
Industrial robots are versatile, multifunction technicians, reprogrammable on 2 or more axes. Industrial robots are designed to move materials, parts or tools through variable and programmable movements in order to accomplish various tasks. Thanks to their flexibility, industrial robots are used in all industrial sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose an industrial robot?
Start by defining the tasks the robot needs to perform, the required precision, payload capacity, and working environment. Compare robot types, number of axes, reach, speed, and integration options with existing equipment.
Why choose a cartesian robot?
Cartesian robots are ideal for linear movements, such as pick-and-place, packaging, or CNC operations. They offer high precision along X, Y, and Z axes and are often cost-effective for structured environments.
When should you choose a SCARA robot?
SCARA robots excel in horizontal movements with high speed and repeatability. They are perfect for assembly, picking, and placing components where vertical movement is limited.
Why choose an articulated robot?
Articulated robots offer a wide range of motion and flexibility due to their rotary joints. They are suitable for complex tasks such as welding, painting, material handling, and 3D assembly.
Why choose a parallel robot?
Parallel robots, like delta robots, are lightweight, fast, and precise for high-speed pick-and-place tasks. They are commonly used in food processing, packaging, and electronics assembly.
How to choose the number of axes for a robot?
The number of axes determines a robot’s degrees of freedom. Choose 3-axis robots for simple linear tasks, 4–5 axes for limited rotation tasks, and 6 or more axes for complex, multi-directional operations.
What are the most common uses for robots?
Industrial robots are widely used for welding, painting, assembly, packaging, material handling, inspection, and palletizing across automotive, electronics, pharmaceutical, and logistics sectors.
How to calculate the dimensions of an industrial robot?
Consider the robot’s reach, work envelope, payload, and required clearance around the robot. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it fits your workspace while allowing full motion without collisions.
Market trend: collaborative robots?
Collaborative robots (cobots) are gaining popularity because they work safely alongside humans without extensive guarding. They are flexible, easy to program, and suitable for small-batch production or shared workspaces.
How much does an industrial robot cost?
Prices vary widely depending on type, payload, precision, and accessories. Entry-level robots start around $20,000–$30,000, while advanced articulated robots can cost $100,000 or more. Factor in installation, programming, and maintenance costs.
Industrial Robot Comparison: Specs, Advantages & Approx. Cost
| Brand & Model | Type | Payload | Reach | Repeatability | Approx. Price (new) | Advantages & Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KUKA KR 6 R900‑2 | Articulated (Compact) | 6.7 kg | 901 mm | ±0.02 mm | ≈ €32,000 |
|
| KUKA LBR iiwa 14 R820 | Collaborative (Cobot) | 14 kg | 820 mm | ±0.05 mm | ≈ €50,000–€60,000 |
|
| Yaskawa Motoman GP8 | Articulated | 8 kg | 0.7–0.9 m | ±0.02–0.03 mm | ≈ $15,000–$20,000 |
|
| Yaskawa Motoman HC10 | Collaborative (Cobot) | 10 kg | 1.1 m | ±0.05 mm | ≈ $35,000–$45,000 |
|
| ABB IRB 1200 | Articulated | 5–10 kg | 900 mm–1.45 m | ±0.02 mm | ≈ $25,000–$40,000 |
|
| ABB YuMi IRB 14000 | Collaborative | 0.5 kg per arm | 0.6–0.8 m | ±0.02 mm | ≈ $45,000–$60,000 |
|
| Fanuc LR Mate 200iD | Articulated (Compact) | 7 kg | 0.9 m | ±0.02 mm | ≈ $30,000–$35,000 |
|
| Fanuc CR-7iA | Collaborative | 7 kg | 0.9 m | ±0.05 mm | ≈ $40,000–$50,000 |
|
| Kawasaki RS007N | Articulated | 7 kg | 0.7 m | ±0.02 mm | ≈ $18,000–$25,000 |
|
| Kawasaki duAro 6 | Collaborative (SCARA-style dual arm) | 6 kg per arm | 0.4–0.5 m | ±0.02 mm | ≈ $35,000–$45,000 |
|
| Delta Robot (Generic) | Parallel / Delta | ~3 kg | 0.6 m | ±0.03 mm | Varies |
|
Checklist: Key Considerations Before Buying an Industrial Robot
- Define the tasks and applications the robot will perform
- Determine required payload, reach, and precision
- Choose the appropriate robot type (Cartesian, SCARA, Articulated, Parallel, or Collaborative)
- Decide on the number of axes based on task complexity and flexibility needs
- Check compatibility with existing production equipment and software
- Evaluate safety features, including sensors and compliance with relevant standards
- Compare total cost of ownership, including installation, programming, maintenance, and energy consumption
- Verify manufacturer support, warranty, and spare parts availability
- Assess workspace dimensions, robot footprint, and clearance for full motion
- Consider future scalability and potential need for collaborative or multi-robot setups
What Experts Told Us
As industrial robotics transform manufacturing, the insights of those at the forefront are invaluable. In this section, leading experts share their perspectives on how robots are improving productivity, enhancing safety, and redefining the way humans and machines work together on the factory floor.
— Jocelyn Peynet, General Manager at Universal Robots France
— Elias Lucas Möckel, Project Manager at KUKA
— Jacques Dupenloup, Sales Director at Stäubli
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