FANUC M-20iD/12L vs Yaskawa GP12: 12 kg Robot Comparison
Updated: 10 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 GP12 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 GP12 both carry 12 kg. The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm. The GP12 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 GP12 is the better value for handling and machine tending within 1.44 m, with ±0.02 mm and a listed price $38,000 lower. The FANUC M-20iD/12L is the better choice for wide cells and process work that need 2.27 m reach.
M-20iD/12L and GP12 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 GP12 carries 12 kg over 1440 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 150 kg and runs on the YRC1000 or YRC1000micro controller.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-20iD/12L | Yaskawa Motoman GP12 |
Brand | FANUC | Yaskawa Motoman |
Listed price | $58,000 | $20,000 |
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 / YRC1000micro |
Price comparison

FANUC M-20iD/12L: listed from $58,000
Yaskawa GP12: listed from $20,000
Difference: $38,000
The GP12 costs roughly 66% less
Reach and cell size

The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm, about 830 mm beyond the GP12, and serves several machines or wide conveyors from one base. The GP12 reaches 1440 mm and suits single-machine tending and compact assembly cells.
Precision and weight
Yaskawa publishes ±0.02 mm for the GP12, against ±0.03 mm for the M-20iD/12L. The GP12 weighs 150 kg against 250 kg and can run on the compact YRC1000micro.
Processes

FANUC lists the M-20iD/12L for handling, assembly, arc welding, sealing, mold handling and deburring. Yaskawa positions the GP12 for handling, machine tending, assembly, packaging, inspection and dispensing.
Best applications for the M-20iD/12L
Multi-machine tending
Welding and sealing large parts
Wide conveyor handling
Best applications for the Yaskawa GP12

Single-machine tending
Assembly and packaging
Dispensing
M-20iD/12L advantages
2272 mm reach
Welding and sealing capability
M-20iD/12L limitations
About $38,000 higher listed price
250 kg arm
Yaskawa GP12 advantages
About 66% lower listed price
±0.02 mm repeatability
150 kg arm
Yaskawa GP12 limitations
1440 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the Yaskawa GP12 for compact handling. Choose the FANUC M-20iD/12L for reach.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-20iD/12L or the Yaskawa GP12?
The GP12 is listed from $20,000 and the M-20iD/12L from $58,000, a difference of $38,000.
Do both carry 12 kg?
Yes.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-20iD/12L reaches 2272 mm; the GP12 1440 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The GP12 publishes ±0.02 mm and the M-20iD/12L ±0.03 mm.
How heavy are they?
The M-20iD/12L weighs 250 kg; the GP12 150 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the GP12 for compact handling. Choose the M-20iD/12L for reach.



