FANUC M-20iD/12L vs Yaskawa AR1440: 12 kg Robot Comparison
Updated: 12 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Both are compared at 12 kg. FANUC M-20iD/12L has the longer stated reach, which may help reach separated fixtures; it does not guarantee access at every tool angle. |
→ CONSIDER FANUC M-20iD/12L Consider it when extra reach is useful while the compared load capacity is the same. This article compares 12 kg with a published reach of 2272 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
→ CONSIDER Yaskawa Motoman AR1440 Consider it when its stated load and reach already cover your task and its controls fit your equipment. This article compares 12 kg with a published reach of 1440 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
💡 THE TAKEAWAY Choose the robot that handles your actual tool and part through the required path, with controls and support your team can use. Compare complete installation quotes, rather than arm-only prices. |
The FANUC M-20iD/12L and the Yaskawa Motoman AR1440 both carry 12 kg. The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm for large parts. The AR1440 reaches 1440 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 150 kg and is listed at about a third of the price.
Quick verdict. The Yaskawa AR1440 is the better value for welding within 1.44 m, with ±0.02 mm and a listed price $37,500 lower. The FANUC M-20iD/12L is the better choice for large parts and multi-process cells that need 2.27 m reach.
M-20iD/12L and AR1440 at a glance
The FANUC M-20iD/12L carries 12 kg over 2272 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm, weighs 250 kg and runs on the R-30iB Plus or R-30iB Mate Plus controller.
The Yaskawa Motoman AR1440 carries 12 kg over 1440 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 150 kg and runs on the YRC1000 controller.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-20iD/12L | Yaskawa Motoman AR1440 |
Brand | FANUC | Yaskawa Motoman |
Listed price | $58,000 | $20,500 |
Payload | 12 kg | 12 kg |
Reach | 2272 mm | 1440 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Arm weight | 250 kg | 150 kg |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) or R-30iB Mate Plus | YRC1000 |
Price comparison

FANUC M-20iD/12L: listed from $58,000
Yaskawa AR1440: listed from $20,500
Difference: $37,500
The AR1440 costs roughly 65% less
Reach

The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm, about 830 mm beyond the 1440 mm of the AR1440. That covers large fixtures, long seams and wide conveyors. The AR1440 suits compact weld cells with one or two small positioners.
Precision and weight
Yaskawa publishes ±0.02 mm for the AR1440, against ±0.03 mm for the M-20iD/12L. The AR1440 weighs 150 kg against 250 kg, which simplifies wall or ceiling mounting.
Processes and controllers

FANUC lists the M-20iD/12L for handling, assembly, arc welding, sealing, mold handling and deburring on the R-30iB Plus or Mate Plus. Yaskawa builds the AR1440 for arc welding, spot welding, cutting, handling and machine tending on the YRC1000.
Best applications for the M-20iD/12L
Long-reach welding and sealing
Large part handling
FANUC-standardized cells
Best applications for the Yaskawa AR1440

Compact arc welding cells
Cutting
Wall or ceiling-mounted welding
M-20iD/12L advantages
2272 mm reach
Wide process range
M-20iD/12L limitations
About $37,500 higher listed price
250 kg arm
Yaskawa AR1440 advantages
About 65% lower listed price
±0.02 mm repeatability
150 kg arm
Yaskawa AR1440 limitations
1440 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the Yaskawa AR1440 for compact welding. Choose the FANUC M-20iD/12L for large parts.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-20iD/12L or the Yaskawa AR1440?
The AR1440 is listed from $20,500 and the M-20iD/12L from $58,000, a difference of $37,500.
Do both carry 12 kg?
Yes.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm; the AR1440 1440 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The AR1440 publishes ±0.02 mm and the M-20iD/12L ±0.03 mm.
How heavy are they?
The M-20iD/12L weighs 250 kg; the AR1440 150 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the AR1440 for compact welding. Choose the M-20iD/12L for large parts.



