how much does a robotic arm cost?

A robotic arm can cost anywhere from $6,000 to over $400,000, with the industrial robot arm cost varying based on the model and its capabilities. For instance, a robot arm that can lift 10kg and has a 1-meter reach typically ranges from $50,000 to $200,000, which is more affordable than in the past. The industrial robot arm cost depends on factors such as type, size, features, and intended use. The total expense includes purchasing, installation, tools, software, and maintenance. Buyers should clearly understand their needs and choose a reliable supplier like EVS Robotics. Requesting a quote is the best way to find the ideal robot for each specific application.

Key Takeaways

• Robotic arms can cost a lot or a little. Some basic models start at $5,000. Big industrial robots with more features can cost over $400,000. The total price is more than just the robot itself. You also pay for installation, tools, software, maintenance, and training. These extra things can add thousands of dollars. Picking the right robot depends on what you need it to do. You should think about how much it can lift, how far it can reach, and how exact it is.

Industrial Robot Arm Cost Overview

Typical Price Ranges

Industrial robots come in many shapes and sizes. Their prices can be very different. Some basic robot arms do simple jobs like moving things. These cost between $5,000 and $15,000. Advanced robot arms have more features and better accuracy. They may have extra axes or vision systems. These usually cost from $30,000 to $80,000. Custom robot arms are made for special tasks. These can cost more than $100,000. Big industrial robots do heavy work. Their price can go up to $400,000 or even higher.

The table below shows price ranges for different robot types and their main features:

Robot Type	Average Cost Range	Influencing Factors and Notes
Primary Robot Arms	$5,000 – $15,000	Basic tasks, lower complexity
Advanced Robot Arms	$30,000 – $80,000	High precision, multi-axis, vision systems
Custom Robot Arms	$100,000+	Specialized applications, tailored requirements
Average Industrial Robots	$25,000 – $100,000	Depends on functionality and complexity
Large Industrial Robots	$100,000 – $400,000+	Heavy-duty tasks, higher payload and reach
Warehouse Robots (AGVs/AMRs)	$20,000 – $50,000	Excludes integration and software costs

Different robot types have their own price ranges. SCARA robots usually cost about $7,000 to $8,000. Cylindrical robots are around $16,000. Six-axis robots are more flexible. They cost between $50,000 and $110,000. Cartesian robots are simpler and cost $5,000 to $15,000.

The cost of an industrial robot arm depends on what it will do, its size, and its features. For example, welding robot arms for small shops may cost a few thousand dollars. High-end models for big factories can cost hundreds of thousands. Refurbished robots are cheaper, often about half the price of new ones. Even though brands are different, prices for similar models are close among top companies.

Key Cost Factors

Many things can change the final cost of a robotic arm. Buyers should think about these important points:

• Type of Robot: Cartesian, Delta, SCARA, and collaborative robots all have different features and prices.

• Payload Capacity: Robots that lift heavier things cost more.

• Size and Reach: Bigger robots with longer arms cost more money.

• Degree of Automation: Robots with advanced software and sensors cost more than simple ones.

• Customization: Special features or programming make the price go up but can help work get done faster.

• Brand Reputation: Well-known brands may charge more because they are trusted and last longer.

• Additional Components: Tools, controllers, and software add to the total cost.

• Installation and Integration: Setting up the robot and connecting it to other machines can cost $5,000 to $15,000.

• Maintenance and Training: Keeping the robot working and training staff can cost over $5,000 each year.

It costs much less to run industrial robots than to pay people. For example, using a robot may cost about $4 per hour. Over time, companies save money on labor and have fewer mistakes. Robots can work all day and night. The total cost of ownership matters more than just the first price of the robot arm.

Robot Arm Cost by Type

SCARA and Six-Axis Robots

SCARA robots are used a lot in factories. They are good for fast jobs like picking and placing items. Their price is usually between $7,000 and $8,000. Six-axis robots are also called industrial articulated robots. They can move in six different ways. This helps them do things like welding, painting, and stacking. A six-axis robot costs from $50,000 to $110,000. EVS Robotics sells both SCARA and six-axis robot arms. Their six-axis robots can lift from 3 kg to several tons. These industrial articulated robots are used for many jobs. They work for small assembly and heavy lifting.

Cartesian, Cylindrical, and Delta Robots

Cartesian robots move in straight lines. They cost less because they are simple. Most Cartesian robots cost $5,000 to $15,000. Cylindrical robots have parts that spin and slide. They cost more, usually $16,000 to $40,000. This is because they can lift heavier things and reach farther. Delta robots are very fast and accurate. Their price is $20,000 to $50,000. EVS Robotics has all these robot types. Their delta robots are good for quick sorting and packing. Their Cartesian and cylindrical robots help with picking and moving things. Studies show that design and job difficulty change the price of these industrial articulated robots.

Robot Type	Price Range	Typical Use Cases
Cartesian	$5,000 – $15,000	Pick-and-place, assembly
Cylindrical	$16,000 – $40,000	Handling, machine tending
Delta	$20,000 – $50,000	Fast sorting, packaging

Collaborative and Refurbished Options

Collaborative robots, or cobots, are safe to use near people. Their price is between $30,000 and $60,000. These industrial articulated robots are made to be safe and easy to use. EVS Robotics has collaborative robot arms that can lift 12 kg or 20 kg. These cobots help with putting things together, checking items, and light lifting. Refurbished industrial robots cost less money. They are often 40-60% cheaper than new ones. This helps small businesses start using robots without spending too much. Both collaborative and refurbished robots are used in many jobs, like making electronics and food.

Hidden Robotic Arm Cost

Installation and Integration

Many people look at the price of the robot arm. They often forget about installation and integration costs. These hidden costs can make the total cost much higher. Setting up a robotic arm usually needs expert help. The job’s difficulty, robot type, and factory layout change the final price. The table below lists common hidden costs:

Hidden Cost Category	Description	Typical Cost Range
Installation Fees	Setup of robotic arm, complexity-dependent	$5,000 to $15,000
End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT)	Grippers, sensors, and other tooling for tasks	$2,000 to $10,000
Maintenance, Software Updates	Recurring expenses including upkeep and licensing	$5,000 or more annually
Training	Workforce training, sometimes expert-led classes	Up to $10,000 per course
Downtime During Setup	Production downtime for integration and programming	Indirect cost (varies)
Compatibility Adjustments	Modifications or software for system integration	Indirect cost (varies)

Tooling, Software, and Training

Tooling, software, and training are big parts of the total cost. The right end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) changes what the robot can do. It also changes how much it costs. Easy software makes programming faster. This means less time is needed for training. Training helps workers use the robot, fix problems, and keep it running. Good training and support lower downtime. This saves money over time.

• Tooling changes how the robot works and its price.

• Simple software and easy programming mean less training is needed.

• Training helps workers use the robot better and avoid stops.

• Support services like installation and training help control costs.

• Robot as a Service (RaaS) puts software, maintenance, and training in one monthly fee. This makes costs easier to plan.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Robotic arms need regular maintenance and sometimes upgrades to work well. These costs are part of the total cost of ownership. Studies show each maintenance visit can cost $1,200 to $3,000. Yearly maintenance is usually 5% to 12% of the robot’s first price. For a $100,000 robot, this is $5,000 to $12,000 each year. Using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts helps robots last longer. This also means fewer breakdowns. Maintenance contracts can lower emergency repair costs by about 35%. Robots with torque sensors break less often, so repairs cost less.

Cost-Saving Tips for Industrial Robots

Refurbished and Leasing Options

Many companies want to spend less when they add robots. Refurbished and leasing choices can help save money.

• Refurbished robot arms cost much less than new ones, about 40-60% less. For example, a refurbished six-axis robot may cost $22,000 but works like new.

• Leasing a robot means you do not pay a lot at once. Some companies lease a six-axis robot for only $5 per hour.

• Used and refurbished robots are ready faster, so factories can use them sooner.

• These robots are good for the earth because they reuse machines and make less trash.

• Almost 40% of factory robots are used or refurbished, so many businesses trust them.

Picking a cheaper industrial robot this way helps small companies use robots.

Choosing the Right Industrial Robot Arm

To pick the right robot arm, look at what the job needs. Companies should check how much weight the robot can lift, how far it can reach, how fast it moves, and how well it repeats tasks. These things help the robot do jobs like welding or moving parts.
Experts use facts and their own ideas to compare robots. They look at price, how much the robot can carry, how exact it is, and how easy it is to program. Some use special ways like cluster analysis or ranking to find the best robot for your money. EVS Robotics gives help, custom options, and setup services to help buyers choose well.

Budgeting and Financing

A good budget plan is more than just the robot’s price.

1. Start with how much the robot costs.

2. Add money for setup, workspace changes, and special tools.

3. Plan for fixing and taking care of the robot.

4. Include training for workers.

5. Save extra money for surprises.

6. Think about loans, leasing, or grants to help pay.

7. Compare all costs with the money the robot saves.

Flexible budgets help companies change plans if they need to. Getting a quote from a trusted supplier like EVS Robotics helps buyers plan and control costs.

The price of an industrial robot arm can be very different. Some are basic, while others are advanced. Buyers should not just look at the first price. They also need to think about extra and future costs. Industry facts show:

• 82% of companies have surprise equipment problems every year.

• Predictive maintenance can lower downtime by half and save 20% in costs.

• Upgrading old robots can cut surprise downtime by almost half.

Smart buyers look at different choices and think about what they will need later. They should get a clear quote from trusted suppliers like EVS Robotics. A quote made just for them helps make a good choice.

Read related articles

How Does The Robotic Arm Work ?

A Comprehensive Guide To Types Of Robotic Arms