FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH vs Epson VT6L: Compact Robot Comparison
The FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH and the Epson VT6L are compact robots with different strengths. The LR Mate 200iD/4SH is a fast five-axis arm at ±0.01 mm and 19 kg. The VT6L is a six-axis all-in-one with 920 mm reach and a built-in controller, listed about 13% lower.
Quick verdict. The FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH is the better choice for fast, precise vertical pick-and-place, with ±0.01 mm and IP67. The Epson VT6L is the better value for simple six-axis handling over a larger area, with a listed price $2,100 lower.
LR Mate 200iD/4SH and VT6L at a glance
The FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH carries 4 kg over 550 mm with five axes, repeats to ±0.01 mm, weighs 19 kg, is rated IP67 and runs on the R-30iB Plus controller. FANUC lists a J5 wrist speed of 1500°/s.
The Epson VT6L carries 6 kg (3 kg rated) over 920 mm to the P point with six axes, repeats to ±0.1 mm, weighs 40 kg and lists a 0.60 s cycle time. Its controller is built into the base. Epson lists IP20 for the standard model and offers an IP67 AC version.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH | Epson VT6L |
Brand | FANUC | Epson |
Listed price | $16,000 | $13,900 |
Payload | 4 kg | 6 kg |
Reach | 550 mm | 920 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.01 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Axes | 5 | 6 |
Speed | J1 460°/s; J2 460°/s; J3 520°/s; J4 560°/s; J5 1500°/s | 0.60 s standard cycle time |
Arm weight | 19 kg | 40 kg |
IP rating | IP67 | IP20 standard; IP67 version (AC) |
Controller | R-30iB Plus series | Built-in controller |
Price comparison
FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH: listed from $16,000
Epson VT6L: listed from $13,900
Difference: $2,100
The VT6L costs roughly 13% less
Five axes against six
The LR Mate 200iD/4SH drops one wrist axis for speed, with a 1500°/s J5 axis for vertical pick-and-place. The VT6L keeps six axes, reaches 920 mm and carries 6 kg maximum, which suits angled loading and wider work areas.
Precision and controller
FANUC publishes ±0.01 mm against ±0.1 mm from Epson. The VT6L has its controller inside the base; the LR Mate 200iD/4SH uses an external R-30iB Plus with FANUC's vision and safety options.
Weight and protection
The LR Mate 200iD/4SH weighs 19 kg, less than half the 40 kg VT6L. FANUC rates it IP67; Epson's standard VT6L is IP20, with an IP67 AC version available.
Best applications for the LR Mate 200iD/4SH
High-speed pick-and-place
Packaging
Precise small-part handling
Best applications for the Epson VT6L
Simple six-axis handling
Machine loading where ±0.1 mm is enough
Low-cost first automation projects
LR Mate 200iD/4SH advantages
±0.01 mm repeatability
19 kg arm
IP67 protection
LR Mate 200iD/4SH limitations
About $2,100 higher listed price
Five axes
Epson VT6L advantages
About 13% lower listed price
Six axes and 920 mm reach
Built-in controller
Epson VT6L limitations
±0.1 mm repeatability
Final verdict
Choose the FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH for fast, precise pick-and-place. Choose the Epson VT6L for simple six-axis handling.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC LR Mate 200iD/4SH or the Epson VT6L?
The VT6L is listed from $13,900 and the LR Mate 200iD/4SH from $16,000, a difference of $2,100.
How many axes do they have?
The LR Mate 200iD/4SH has five axes; the VT6L six.
Which robot is more precise?
The LR Mate 200iD/4SH publishes ±0.01 mm and the VT6L ±0.1 mm.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The VT6L reaches 920 mm; the LR Mate 200iD/4SH 550 mm.
How heavy are they?
The LR Mate 200iD/4SH weighs 19 kg; the VT6L 40 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the LR Mate 200iD/4SH for precision. Choose the VT6L for simple six-axis handling.
