Parallel grippers do one thing, and they do it well: These robotic grippers use two synchronized jaws to grip, hold, and release objects super precisely. 

If you want something handled with lots of precision, these babies are where it’s at, but not every model is the same. For raw power and speed, go pneumatic; for precision and adaptability, go electric — your choice shapes efficiency, control, and performance. However, there’s a lot to consider, so we’ll go into each type more in-depth. 

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What parallel grippers are and how they work
• Differences between pneumatic and electric parallel grippers
• Features to keep in mind
• Key applications and industries using parallel grippers
• The best parallel grippers available today
• Installation and maintenance
• The future of parallel gripper tech
  
  

What is a parallel gripper?

Parallel grippers use two jaws that move side by side to grab, hold, and release objects smoothly — or at least, that’s the idea. 

Their design makes them perfect for handling everything from tiny circuit boards to bulky industrial parts — all with a gentle, delicate touch that would make artists jealous. 

Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Simple design, big results: The jaws move in sync, giving a stable grip without overcomplicating things. Fewer moving parts means fewer breakdowns. Parallel grippers usually have 2 fingers, but some 3-finger configurations are also out there. If it has 5 fingers, it’s most likely not a parallel gripper.
  
  
• Precision that doesn’t miss: Parallel grippers apply even pressure, making them ideal for jobs where slipping or uneven force would be a disaster.
  
  
• Stronger and smarter than other grippers: While angular and adaptive grippers overcomplicate things, parallel grippers keep it clean and reliable.

Go even more in-depth in our grippers guide. 

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How does a parallel gripper work?

Parallel grippers don’t overcomplicate things — they keep it smooth and reliable. They use two synchronized jaws that move toward or away from each other to grab and release objects. 

Depending on the type, they can run on compressed air or electric motors, giving you control over grip strength and precision.

Here’s how they make it happen:

1. A pneumatic gripper uses high pressure: Compressed air moves a piston that controls the jaws, delivering quick, powerful grips that are perfect for high-speed applications.
   
   
2. The electric gripper uses motors for next-level precision: Motors drive the jaws, which allows for fine-tuned adjustments and precise control. An electric parallel gripper is awesome when you need consistent accuracy.
   
   
3. A cylinder gripper brings the muscle: A pneumatic cylinder powers the jaws, making them a good choice for applications where high force is totes must-have.
   
   
4. Gripper fingers do the heavy lifting: The fingers (attached to the jaws) make direct contact with the object, so you get a stable and secure hold.

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Pneumatic vs. electric parallel grippers

Picking between pneumatic and electric grippers is like choosing between a turbocharged sports car and a self-driving Tesla. One’s all about speed and raw power, while the other brings brains and finesse. Both get the job done, but the way they do it? Totally different vibes.

Here’s how they go head-to-head:

Pneumatic parallel grippers: Speed

A pneumatic parallel gripper punches first and asks later: Powered by compressed air, these bad boys deliver brute-force gripping at lightning speed. Perfect for high-speed lines where every millisecond counts. SMC Corporation knows how to crank out grippers that don’t mess around.

Electric grippers: Consistent precision

Electric grippers play chess while everyone else plays checkers: Controlled by motors, they offer insane precision and can fine-tune grip force like a pro. When consistency and control matter, electric grippers flex hard.

Pneumatic parallel grippers: Strength

Need to move heavy stuff? Pneumatic gripper fingers: These grippers bring serious strength when you’re dealing with bulky, unforgiving materials. No finesse, just raw power.

Electric grippers: Better adaptability

Electric grippers switch it up: They can adapt to different object sizes without constant reconfiguration, while pneumatic grippers need more TLC when you switch things up.

Cost vs. features

It’s a trade-off: Pneumatic grippers are cheaper and low-maintenance, but electric grippers bring high-end features that justify the price tag — if you’re looking to fine-tune your operations.

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Key features to keep in mind for parallel gripper design

Not all parallel grippers play by the same rules — getting the right gripper means paying attention to the details that matter.

Here’s what separates winners from wannabes:

1. Get the grip strength dialed in: Whether it’s clamping down on metal or cradling glass, your gripper needs to apply just enough force. Too weak, and you’re dropping parts. Too strong, and you’re Hulk-smashing inventory.
   
   
2. Make sure the stroke length fits the job: If the jaws don’t open wide enough — or close tight enough — you’re looking at delays and wasted cycles. Size matters when it comes to stroke length.
   
   
3. Choose materials that can take some punishment: Heat, friction, and nonstop action wear grippers down. Stainless steel survives the grind, while lightweight alloys keep things nimble. Pick the right material or expect frequent gripper breakdowns.
   
   
4. Keep integration smooth and simple: If installing a gripper feels like walking through a maze blindfolded, you’ve got the wrong one. Opt for models that sync with your cobots, CNC machines, and automation systems without drama.
   
   
5. Look for adaptability when things get unpredictable: Operations aren’t always the same. Grippers with swappable fingers or adjustable jaws handle shape-shifting workloads without slowing down the line.

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Use cases for parallel grippers

Parallel grippers are more widely used than you think, and they’re always making noise in industries where precision is make-or-break. Here’s where they’re making a difference:

Electronics manufacturing keepin’ it steady

Parallel grippers are a go-to for handling delicate electronics like circuit boards and semiconductors. Siemens uses automated systems equipped with lightweight grippers to get super-consistent, error-free PCB assembly in its smart factories.

Automotive assembly lines that (almost) never miss

In the automotive world, grippers manage everything from placing engine components to positioning gears. BMW uses automated systems using 3D-printed parallel grippers to maintain precision and speed on the production line.

Packaging and logistics where speed is queen

Parallel grippers help with sorting, packing, and palletizing in high-volume warehouses. Amazon’s fulfillment centers use arms with robotic grippers to reduce order processing times and improve logistics efficiency.

Material handling that never slows down

From fragile glassware to bulky industrial components, parallel grippers keep operations flowing smoothly. FANUC’s robotic systems use grippers to move materials efficiently across industries.

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The best parallel grippers on the market

Picking the right parallel gripper is about finding the one that handles your operation like a champ. 

Here’s a rundown of the top options:

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Need just pneumatic grippers? This list of the best 5 pneumatic grippers has you covered. 

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Installation & maintenance of parallel grippers

Parallel grippers can last — but only if you install and maintain them properly. Skipping some steps leads to misaligned jaws, weaker grips, and unexpected failures.

Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:

1. Mount and align like a boss: Secure the gripper to the end effector with perfect alignment. Even minor misalignment causes major headaches down the line.
   
   
2. Calibrate stroke and force settings: Dial in the right stroke length and gripping force for your materials. Too much pressure? You’re breaking stuff. Too little? Parts slip.
   
   
3. Lubricate moving parts regularly: Pneumatic grippers need consistent lubrication to prevent wear. Skip this, and you’re asking for noisy, grinding failures.
   
   
4. Inspect for jaw wear and seal damage: Regularly check for worn seals, misaligned jaws, or air leaks. Catching these early prevents catastrophic breakdowns.
   
   
5. Update software for electric grippers: Firmware updates improve precision, fix bugs, and extend lifespan. Ignoring updates means reduced performance.
   

Expect 5–7 solid years from pneumatic grippers: With routine lubrication and part replacements, pneumatic grippers can handle 5–7 years of high-intensity work before needing a rebuild. Electric grippers can last longer, up to 10 years. 

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The future of parallel gripper technology

Parallel grippers are also leveling up. With AI in the driver’s seat and smarter designs taking center stage, the next wave of grippers is going to be faster, more adaptive, and impossible to beat.

Here’s what’s coming down the pipeline:

• AI grippers that learn on the fly: Future grippers won’t just follow commands — they’ll analyze data, predict the best grip, and adjust in real time. Fewer mistakes, faster results.
  
  
• Adaptive jaws ready for anything: Say goodbye to swapping grippers for different shapes. Next-gen models will auto-adjust to irregular objects, handling weird shapes like pros.
  
  
• Cobots and grippers teaming up smarter: Cobots paired with AI-driven grippers will take on complex jobs with ease. Better control, improved safety, and zero guesswork.
  
  
• Self-monitoring that calls its own shots: Future grippers will diagnose wear and tear before things go south. No surprises, no downtime — just smooth, continuous operations.
  
  
• Enhanced safety that doesn’t blink: Built-in sensors will take human-robot collaboration to the next level. These grippers will react faster, detect obstacles more accurately, and make sure everything stays safe.

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Summing up

Parallel grippers aren’t a nice-to-have — they’re the real-deal backbone of modern automation. 

If you’re serious about keeping your automation ahead of the curve, investing in the right parallel gripper is a move that guarantees results.

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Next steps with Standard Bots

RO1 by Standard Bots isn’t just a robotic arm — it’s a perfect six-axis cobot, with universal 8-pin connectors that work effortlessly with established brands like OnRobot. 

• Affordable and adaptable: Best-in-class automation at half the price of competitors; leasing starts at just $5/hour.
  
  
• Precision and strength: Repeatability of ±0.025 mm and an 18 kg payload make it ideal for CNC, assembly, and material handling, and a lot more.
  
  
• AI-driven and user-friendly: No-code framework means anyone can program RO1 — no engineers, no complicated setups. And its AI on par with GPT-4 means it keeps learning on the job.
  
  
• Safety-minded design: Machine vision and collision detection let RO1 work side by side with human operators.

Book your risk-free, 30-day onsite trial today and see how RO1 can take your factory automation to the next level.