Cobots transform the way businesses operate. They offer safety, ease of use, and the ability to work directly alongside people. But before you choose one, you’ll likely ask the same question many others do: how much does a cobot really cost? The answer goes beyond the sticker price. You need to factor in setup, tooling, and system integration. In this blog, we break down the full cost of owning a cobot, explain what influences pricing, and help you make a well-informed decision based on your specific needs and goals.
What is a Cobot?
A cobot, or collaborative robot, is a type of robot designed to work safely alongside humans.
Safe by Design:
Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots come with built-in sensors. If someone gets too close, they slow down or stop to prevent accidents, no safety cage required.
A Helpful Teammate:
Cobots are built to take on repetitive or physically tiring tasks. They can hand you tools, move objects, or complete consistent actions without losing focus or getting tired.
Easy to Use:
Most cobots feature user-friendly controls and can be programmed without coding. Some even allow you to teach them by simply moving the arm into position.
Fits Anywhere, Helps Anyone:
Compact and flexible, cobots fit easily into tight spaces and suit businesses of any size. From small workshops to large factories, they’re used to boost efficiency, reduce worker fatigue, and improve safety, making them a valuable part of any modern workspace.
To learn more about Cobots, check out this article:
Average Cobot Price:
Based on our analysis, at Qviro, of 56 cobots, the average price of a cobot is €27,158. This gives a general idea of what businesses can expect to pay when entering the world of collaborative robotics. However, prices can vary depending on specific features, especially payload capacity.
How Payload Affects Price:
There is a clear, linear relationship between a cobot’s payload and its price. The more weight a cobot can lift, the more it typically costs. This makes sense, higher payload capacity usually means stronger motors, sturdier materials, and more engineering.
Price Examples by Payload:
To put this into perspective, here are some average price estimates based on payload:
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5 kg payload – around €25,000
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10 kg payload – around €35,000
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15 kg payload – around €45,000
An illustration of cobot prices being linearly related to its payload capabilities.
Market Challenges: Cheap Cobots with Heavy Lifting:
As the cobot market grows, some manufacturers are offering models with relatively low prices and surprisingly high payload capacities. These products may look like strong value on the surface, but the goal behind them is often market share, not long-term performance or support. By offering aggressive pricing, these companies aim to attract attention quickly, even if it means sacrificing profit or durability.
The Real Cost of a Cobot:
While a cobot might seem affordable at first glance, the total investment is often much higher. In many cases, the true cost ends up being two to three times more than the price of the cobot arm alone. This is due to additional components, integration needs, and setup time that are rarely included in the base price.
What Adds to the Price?
There are several cost factors to keep in mind beyond the cobot arm itself. These include end-of-arm tooling like grippers or suction systems, software licenses, integration with your existing production line, and the time or expertise required to get everything running smoothly.
Simple Applications Are Cheaper:
For straightforward tasks such as basic pick-and-place, a simple two-finger gripper may be all that’s needed. These setups are typically easier to install, require minimal programming, and cost less overall. The integration process is usually faster as well.
Complex Jobs Raise the Budget:
More advanced tasks, such as bin picking or part identification, require more investment. These applications may need machine vision systems, specialized software, and custom grippers. As a result, they tend to be more expensive and take longer to set up.
Installation and Flexibility Matter:
Cobots that are easy to install and flexible to configure can help reduce costs. If you can add new tools or change tasks without deep programming or external support, you’ll save both time and money. Cobots that work on stable, unchanging production lines also tend to keep costs lower over time.
Focus on the Total Picture:
When evaluating cobot options, it’s important to look beyond the base price. Consider the full cost of ownership, including accessories, integration, and application-specific needs. A low-cost cobot might fit your budget today, but taking a complete view of the investment will help you make a smarter decision for the long term.
Conclusion:
When investing in a cobot, it’s important to look beyond the base price. While some models may offer attractive upfront costs, the total expense often includes tooling, integration, and setup. Cobots with higher payloads or advanced features can bring great value, but they may also require a bigger budget. Simpler applications tend to cost less, especially when using easy-to-install systems. The key is to assess your specific needs and understand the full picture before making a decision. By considering all factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a cobot that delivers real efficiency, reliability, and return on investment.
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To the qviro.com owner, Your posts are always well received by the community.