Universal Robots Lineup Compared: UR3e, UR5e, UR10e & UR16e

Universal Robots dominates the collaborative robot market with over 75,000 cobots deployed worldwide. Their e-Series lineup comprises four models, each designed for different payload and reach requirements. Here is how they compare and which one suits your application.

UR3e: The Tabletop Specialist

The smallest in the range, the UR3e is designed for desktop assembly, polishing, glueing, and light testing tasks. Its compact 500 mm reach makes it ideal for electronics assembly lines where workspace is tight. The UR3e also features infinite rotation on the wrist joint, useful for screwdriving applications. Best for: electronics assembly, laboratory automation, small parts handling.

UR5e: The Versatile Workhorse

The UR5e is the most popular cobot globally for good reason. Its 5 kg payload and 850 mm reach cover the majority of light manufacturing tasks including pick-and-place, machine tending, quality inspection, and packaging. It strikes the best balance between capability and size, fitting into existing workstations without major modifications. Best for: general manufacturing, machine tending, packaging.

UR10e: The Long-Reach Champion

With a 1,300 mm reach and 12.5 kg payload, the UR10e handles larger workpieces and reaches across wider workstations. It is the preferred choice for palletising, large-format machine tending, and tasks requiring access to multiple stations from a single mounting point. The longer reach comes with a heavier arm, requiring a more robust mounting solution. Best for: palletising, large machine tending, multi-station tasks.

UR16e: The Heavy Lifter

The UR16e packs the highest payload into a compact form factor, handling 16 kg with a 900 mm reach. It is designed for heavy-duty tasks like heavy part handling, tightening large bolts, and polishing heavy components that the other models cannot manage. Despite its strength, it maintains the same safety features and programming interface as the rest of the e-Series. Best for: heavy parts, automotive assembly, robust machine tending.

Choosing the Right Model

Start with your payload requirement and reach envelope. If your heaviest part weighs under 5 kg and is within 850 mm, the UR5e is the default choice. If you need to reach further, choose the UR10e. If your parts are heavier, the UR16e is your answer. If space is extremely limited and parts are under 3 kg, the UR3e fits the bill. Through roboTED, you can trial multiple models on short-term hire before committing to a RaaS subscription.