FANUC M-10iD/8L vs ABB IRB 1600: Robot Comparison at the Same Price
The FANUC M-10iD/8L and the ABB IRB 1600 are both listed from $42,000 but trade reach against payload. The M-10iD/8L reaches 2032 mm with 8 kg. The IRB 1600 carries up to 10 kg over up to 1450 mm and repeats more tightly in its standard version.
Quick verdict. The FANUC M-10iD/8L is the better choice for long-reach welding, sealing and handling, with 2032 mm reach and a wide process range. The ABB IRB 1600 is the better choice for compact machine tending and handling with up to 10 kg, with ±0.02 mm repeatability on its standard versions.
M-10iD/8L and IRB 1600 at a glance
The FANUC M-10iD/8L carries 8 kg over 2032 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm, weighs 180 kg and runs on the R-30iB Plus or R-30iB Mate Plus controller.
The ABB IRB 1600 carries 6 or 10 kg over 1200 or 1450 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm (±0.05 mm for the 10 kg long-reach version) and runs on IRC5 or OmniCore.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-10iD/8L | ABB IRB 1600 |
Brand | FANUC | ABB |
Listed price | $42,000 | $42,000 |
Payload | 8 kg | 6–10 kg |
Reach | 2032 mm | 1200–1450 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02–0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Arm weight | 180 kg | Not specified |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) or R-30iB Mate Plus | ABB IRC5 or OmniCore |
Price comparison

FANUC M-10iD/8L: listed from $42,000
ABB IRB 1600: listed from $42,000
Difference: none at list price
At the same listed price, reach and payload decide the comparison.
Reach

The M-10iD/8L reaches 2032 mm, about 580 mm beyond the longest IRB 1600. It covers large parts, long weld seams and wide conveyors from one position. The IRB 1600 suits compact cells.
Payload and precision
The IRB 1600 carries up to 10 kg, 2 kg more than the M-10iD/8L. ABB publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability for the standard IRB 1600 versions and ±0.05 mm for the 10 kg long-reach version; FANUC publishes ±0.03 mm for the M-10iD/8L.
Processes and installation

FANUC lists handling, assembly, arc welding, sealing, mold handling and deburring for the M-10iD/8L. It weighs 180 kg and needs a solid foundation. ABB uses the IRB 1600 for machine tending, material handling and process applications.
Best applications for the FANUC M-10iD/8L

Long-reach arc welding and sealing
Handling of large parts
Mold handling and deburring
Best applications for the ABB IRB 1600
Compact machine tending
Handling up to 10 kg
Process applications
FANUC M-10iD/8L advantages
2032 mm reach
Wide process range
FANUC M-10iD/8L limitations
180 kg arm
8 kg payload
ABB IRB 1600 advantages
Up to 10 kg payload
±0.02 mm on standard versions
ABB IRB 1600 limitations
Up to 1450 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the FANUC M-10iD/8L for long reach. Choose the ABB IRB 1600 for compact cells with heavier parts.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-10iD/8L or the ABB IRB 1600?
Both are listed from $42,000.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-10iD/8L reaches 2032 mm; the IRB 1600 up to 1450 mm.
Which robot carries more?
The IRB 1600 carries up to 10 kg; the M-10iD/8L 8 kg.
Which robot is more precise?
The standard IRB 1600 publishes ±0.02 mm; the M-10iD/8L ±0.03 mm.
How heavy is the M-10iD/8L?
Its mechanical unit weighs 180 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the M-10iD/8L for reach. Choose the IRB 1600 for compact cells.



