Collaborative robots, or cobots, are increasingly used for automation solutions, but how much do they cost? According to a study of 56 cobots, prices range from around $5,000 to $65,000, depending on factors like payload, reach, and precision.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• The average cost of a cobot and the factors that impact pricing
• A comparison of prices from top cobot brands
• What to consider when choosing between new and used cobots
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Let’s dive into the details and find the best cobot for your budget.

What is the average cost of a cobot?

The average price of a cobot is $29,748, according to the study mentioned above by Qviro. Cobots with a lower payload and reach could be around $5,000 to $10,000. However, higher-end models with more workload capacity can cost from $50,000 to $65,000. 

The top models, like KUKA’s Iwa, can cost more than $100,000.

The cost is dependent on factors like payload, reach, and the kind of work you need them to do. If you need a cobot for heavy lifting or something super precise, you’re probably looking at the higher end of that price range.

On the other hand, up-and-coming companies like Standard Bots' RO1 can offer more affordable prices — it’s about half the cost of models with a comparable payload. 

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Cobot price comparison by leading manufacturers

Here’s a look at how the top cobots by different manufacturers compare when put side-by-side: 

Factors that impact cobot pricing

The price of a cobot isn’t just about the robot itself — there’s a lot more going on. 

Here’s what makes the numbers jump:

• How much it can lift: The bigger the load and the farther the reach, the steeper the price.
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• Safety features: Working with humans? Advanced safety sensors and systems like machine vision push the price up, but they’re crucial for keeping people safe. 
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• User-friendly software: The easier it is to program, the higher the upfront cost — but it’ll save you loads of time in the long run.
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• Specialized job: Got something specific like welding or packaging in mind? Cobots that can do those kinds of jobs will set you back more. 

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Used cobot pricing: Is it worth it?

Buying a used cobot could save you (on average) 20% to 40%, but there are a few considerations.

For example, this used CR15iA is only $37,500, but the new version is $51,600 (28% off). 

Why it’s a smart move:

• Save big on upfront costs: Less money upfront means more savings right away.
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• Faster ROI: You’ll see returns quicker because you didn’t blow your budget from the start.

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What to watch out for:

• Warranty worries: A shorter or non-existent warranty could lead to unexpected repair costs if your cobot breaks down.
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• More maintenance: Older models may need more upkeep, which could mean more repair costs down the line.

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Total cost of ownership (TCO) for cobots

The initial price tag is just one part of the equation. 

Let’s not forget these other costs:

• Installation and setup: You’ll need to budget to get your cobot up and running and teach your team how to use it. This depends on the specialized training required. FANUC training is over $200/hr, or over $10k for on-site development. Budget accordingly. 
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• Maintenance: Regular updates, repairs, and keeping everything in top shape aren’t free.
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• Extra gear: End-of-arm tools, sensors, and vision systems all add to the cost, but they’re often necessary. For example, a popular EOT like OnRobot is around $5000. 

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How to choose the best robot for your budget

It’s not just about buying the cheapest one — you need to think about the bigger picture. 

Here’s what matters:

• Long-term savings: It doesn’t end with the upfront price. A pricier cobot could pay for itself faster through labor savings and increased productivity.
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• Think about support: Make sure the company offers solid support in case something goes wrong. The last thing you want is your cobot sitting idle while you wait for help.
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• Future-proof your investment: Get a cobot that can grow with you. If it can handle different jobs down the road, that extra upfront cost will be worth it.

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Summing up

Cobots cover a wide price range, and the right one for you depends on what you need it to do. 

While cobot price comparisons are straightforward, you must also consider your specific application.

“Cheap” is only a term that makes sense relative to cobot capabilities — if they can do the same and have similar features, then you definitely can let your pocket guide your hand. 

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Next steps

Are you looking for a cobot that gets the job done without emptying your wallet? RO1 by Standard Bots delivers serious performance without the hefty price tag.

• Affordable as it gets: RO1 is half the price of other cobots, so you get top-notch performance without blowing your budget. Or you can lease it starting at just $5/hr. 
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• Strong and fast: With an 18kg payload, RO1 can handle even tough, heavy-duty work with nearly zero effort. 
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• No code, no hassle: You don’t need to be a tech expert to set it up. The no-code interface makes getting started super easy, as does the AI on par with GPT-4. 
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• Safety-conscious design: Packed with sensors, machine vision, and collision detection, RO1 keeps everything running smoothly and safely.

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Contact us for a risk-free 30-day trial of RO1. We’ll help you set it up and show you how to get the most out of your cobot.