FANUC M-20iD/25 vs Yaskawa AR1730: 25 kg Robot Comparison
Updated: 12h
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Both are compared at 25 kg. FANUC M-20iD/25 has the longer stated reach, which may help reach separated fixtures; it does not guarantee access at every tool angle. |
→ CONSIDER FANUC M-20iD/25 Consider it when extra reach is useful while the compared load capacity is the same. This article compares 25 kg with a published reach of 1831 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
→ CONSIDER Yaskawa Motoman AR1730 Consider it when its stated load and reach already cover your task and its controls fit your equipment. This article compares 25 kg with a published reach of 1730 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/25 and the Yaskawa Motoman AR1730 share nearly the same specification: 25 kg, ±0.02 mm and 250 kg arms. The M-20iD/25 reaches about 100 mm further. The AR1730 is a dedicated welding robot listed at well under half the price.
Quick verdict. The Yaskawa AR1730 is the better value for 25 kg arc welding, with a listed price $36,500 lower. The FANUC M-20iD/25 is the better choice for multi-process cells with handling, sealing and deburring, or for FANUC plants.
M-20iD/25 and AR1730 at a glance
The FANUC M-20iD/25 carries 25 kg over 1831 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 250 kg and runs on the R-30iB Plus or R-30iB Mate Plus controller.
The Yaskawa Motoman AR1730 carries 25 kg over 1730 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 250 kg and runs on the YRC1000 controller.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-20iD/25 | Yaskawa Motoman AR1730 |
Brand | FANUC | Yaskawa Motoman |
Listed price | $60,000 | $23,500 |
Payload | 25 kg | 25 kg |
Reach | 1831 mm | 1730 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.02 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Arm weight | 250 kg | 250 kg |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) or R-30iB Mate Plus | YRC1000 |
Price comparison

FANUC M-20iD/25: listed from $60,000
Yaskawa AR1730: listed from $23,500
Difference: $36,500
The AR1730 costs roughly 61% less
Same envelope

Both carry 25 kg, repeat to ±0.02 mm and weigh 250 kg. The M-20iD/25 reaches 1831 mm, about 101 mm beyond the 1730 mm of the AR1730. In most cells the difference is small.
Process focus
Yaskawa builds the AR1730 for arc welding, spot welding and cutting, with heavy torches and wire feeders on the arm. FANUC lists the M-20iD/25 for handling, assembly, arc welding, sealing, mold handling and deburring, which suits cells that combine several processes.
Installation and controllers

The M-20iD/25 mounts on the floor, upside-down or at an angle and runs on the R-30iB Plus or Mate Plus. The AR1730 installs on the floor, wall, ceiling or tilted and runs on the YRC1000.
Best applications for the M-20iD/25

Multi-process cells
25 kg handling and sealing
FANUC-standardized lines
Best applications for the Yaskawa AR1730
Heavy-torch arc welding
Cutting
Wall or ceiling-mounted welding
M-20iD/25 advantages
1831 mm reach
Wide process range
M-20iD/25 limitations
About $36,500 higher listed price
Yaskawa AR1730 advantages
About 61% lower listed price
Same 25 kg and ±0.02 mm
Yaskawa AR1730 limitations
1730 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the Yaskawa AR1730 for welding value. Choose the FANUC M-20iD/25 for multi-process cells.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-20iD/25 or the Yaskawa AR1730?
The AR1730 is listed from $23,500 and the M-20iD/25 from $60,000, a difference of $36,500.
Do both carry 25 kg?
Yes.
Which robot is more precise?
Both publish ±0.02 mm.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-20iD/25 reaches 1831 mm; the AR1730 1730 mm.
Do they weigh the same?
Yes, both weigh 250 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the AR1730 for welding. Choose the M-20iD/25 for multi-process cells.



