FANUC M-10iD/8L vs Epson VT6L: Robot Comparison of Reach and Price
The FANUC M-10iD/8L and the Epson VT6L sit far apart in size and price. The M-10iD/8L carries 8 kg over 2032 mm at ±0.03 mm. The VT6L carries 6 kg over 920 mm, has a built-in controller, weighs 40 kg and is listed about 67% lower.
Quick verdict. The Epson VT6L is the better value for simple handling within 0.9 m, with a built-in controller and a listed price $28,100 lower. The FANUC M-10iD/8L is the better choice for 2 m reach, tighter repeatability and multi-machine cells.
M-10iD/8L and VT6L 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. FANUC rates the body IP54 and the wrist and J3 arm IP67.
The Epson VT6L carries 6 kg (3 kg rated) over 920 mm to the P point, 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 M-10iD/8L | Epson VT6L |
Brand | FANUC | Epson |
Listed price | $42,000 | $13,900 |
Payload | 8 kg | 6 kg |
Reach | 2032 mm | 920 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | J1 210°/s; J2 210°/s; J3 220°/s; J4 430°/s; J5 450°/s; J6 720°/s | 0.60 s standard cycle time |
Arm weight | 180 kg | 40 kg |
IP rating | IP54 body; IP67 wrist and J3 arm | IP20 standard; IP67 version (AC) |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) or R-30iB Mate Plus | Built-in controller |
Price comparison
FANUC M-10iD/8L: listed from $42,000
Epson VT6L: listed from $13,900
Difference: $28,100
The VT6L costs roughly 67% less
Reach and payload
The M-10iD/8L reaches 2032 mm, more than twice the 920 mm of the VT6L, and carries 8 kg against 6 kg. It can serve two machines or a long conveyor from one base. The VT6L covers a single station.
Precision and controller
FANUC publishes ±0.03 mm for the M-10iD/8L against ±0.1 mm for the VT6L. The VT6L has its controller inside the base; the M-10iD/8L uses an external R-30iB Plus or Mate Plus with FANUC's vision and safety options.
Weight and protection
The VT6L weighs 40 kg against 180 kg for the M-10iD/8L. FANUC rates the M-10iD/8L wrist and J3 arm IP67; Epson's standard VT6L is IP20, with an IP67 AC version available.
Best applications for the M-10iD/8L
Long-reach handling
Dispensing and sealing
Multi-machine tending
Best applications for the Epson VT6L
Simple single-station handling
Machine loading where ±0.1 mm is enough
Low-cost first automation projects
M-10iD/8L advantages
2032 mm reach
±0.03 mm repeatability
8 kg payload
M-10iD/8L limitations
About $28,100 higher listed price
180 kg arm
Epson VT6L advantages
About 67% lower listed price
Built-in controller
40 kg arm
Epson VT6L limitations
±0.1 mm repeatability
920 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the Epson VT6L for simple, low-cost handling. Choose the FANUC M-10iD/8L for reach and precision.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-10iD/8L or the Epson VT6L?
The VT6L is listed from $13,900 and the M-10iD/8L from $42,000, a difference of $28,100.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-10iD/8L reaches 2032 mm; the VT6L 920 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The M-10iD/8L publishes ±0.03 mm and the VT6L ±0.1 mm.
How heavy are they?
The M-10iD/8L weighs 180 kg; the VT6L 40 kg.
Which robot carries more?
The M-10iD/8L carries 8 kg; the VT6L 6 kg maximum.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the VT6L for simple handling. Choose the M-10iD/8L for reach.
