FANUC M-710iC/20L vs ABB IRB 4600: 20 kg Long-Reach Robot Comparison
Updated: 9 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE This comparison includes family-level ranges: FANUC M-710iC/20L lists 20 kg and 3110 mm, while ABB IRB 4600 lists 20–60 kg and 2050–2550 mm. Select an exact variant; maximum payload and maximum reach from different versions cannot be combined. |
→ CONSIDER FANUC M-710iC/20L Consider it when its named configuration already meets the actual load and workspace requirements. This article compares 20 kg with a published reach of 3110 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
→ CONSIDER ABB IRB 4600 Consider it when an exact variant in this family meets the complete tool load and required workspace. This article compares 20–60 kg with a published reach of 2050–2550 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
💡 THE TAKEAWAY Choose exact order codes before comparing capacity or price. Confirm the selected variant’s payload and reach together, then validate the real tool, movement path and controls against the same acceptance test. |
The FANUC M-710iC/20L and the ABB IRB 4600 both start at 20 kg. The M-710iC/20L stretches that payload over 3110 mm. The IRB 4600 reaches 2050 to 2550 mm, offers versions up to 60 kg and costs about 18% less.
Quick verdict. The FANUC M-710iC/20L is the better choice for very large work areas at 20 kg, with 3110 mm reach and processes including laser cutting. The ABB IRB 4600 is the better choice for heavier parts and mid-size cells, with 20 to 60 kg versions and a listed price $14,000 lower.
M-710iC/20L and IRB 4600 at a glance
The FANUC M-710iC/20L carries 20 kg over 3110 mm, repeats to ±0.06 mm, weighs 540 kg and runs on the R-30iB Plus or R-30iB Mate Plus controller.
The ABB IRB 4600 carries 20 to 60 kg over 2050 to 2550 mm, repeats to ±0.05–0.06 mm and runs on IRC5 or OmniCore. It comes in four payload and reach versions.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-710iC/20L | ABB IRB 4600 |
Brand | FANUC | ABB |
Listed price | $76,000 | $62,000 |
Payload | 20 kg | 20–60 kg |
Reach | 3110 mm | 2050–2550 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.06 mm | ±0.05–0.06 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Arm weight | 540 kg | Not specified |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) or R-30iB Mate Plus | ABB IRC5 or OmniCore |
Price comparison
FANUC M-710iC/20L: listed from $76,000
ABB IRB 4600: listed from $62,000
Difference: $14,000
The IRB 4600 costs roughly 18% less
Reach and work area
The M-710iC/20L reaches 3110 mm, about 560 mm beyond the longest IRB 4600. One robot can serve wide conveyors, large panels or several machines, and can sometimes replace a robot on a linear track.
Payload range
The IRB 4600 comes in four versions from 20 to 60 kg, so the same robot family can handle heavier grippers, double grippers and heavier parts. The M-710iC/20L stays at 20 kg and trades payload for reach.
Processes and precision
FANUC lists handling, assembly, arc welding, sealing, mold handling, deburring and laser cutting for the M-710iC/20L. ABB uses the IRB 4600 for material handling, machine tending and process work. Repeatability is close: ±0.06 mm for the FANUC and ±0.05 to ±0.06 mm for the ABB.
Best applications for the M-710iC/20L
Very large work areas
Laser cutting and sealing
Long-reach handling
Best applications for the ABB IRB 4600
Machine tending up to 60 kg
Material handling
Process applications
M-710iC/20L advantages
3110 mm reach
Wide process range including laser cutting
M-710iC/20L limitations
540 kg arm
About $14,000 higher listed price
ABB IRB 4600 advantages
About 18% lower listed price
20 to 60 kg versions
ABB IRB 4600 limitations
Up to 2550 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the FANUC M-710iC/20L for very long reach. Choose the ABB IRB 4600 for heavier payloads at a lower price.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-710iC/20L or the ABB IRB 4600?
The IRB 4600 is listed from $62,000 and the M-710iC/20L from $76,000, a difference of $14,000.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The M-710iC/20L reaches 3110 mm; the IRB 4600 2050 to 2550 mm.
Which robot carries more?
The IRB 4600 comes in versions up to 60 kg; the M-710iC/20L carries 20 kg.
Which robot is more precise?
They are close: ±0.06 mm for the M-710iC/20L and ±0.05 to ±0.06 mm for the IRB 4600.
How heavy is the M-710iC/20L?
Its mechanical unit weighs 540 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the M-710iC/20L for reach. Choose the IRB 4600 for payload and price.
