FANUC M-900iB/280L vs Yaskawa GP280L: 280 kg Robot Comparison
The FANUC M-900iB/280L and the Yaskawa Motoman GP280L are direct competitors: 280 kg over about 3.1 m. The GP280L is listed at a little over half the price. FANUC publishes more of the data a buyer needs, including repeatability, weight and IP ratings.
Quick verdict. The Yaskawa GP280L is the better value for 280 kg long-reach handling, with a listed price $70,000 lower. The FANUC M-900iB/280L is the better choice when published precision, protection data and FANUC integration matter.
M-900iB/280L and GP280L at a glance
The FANUC M-900iB/280L carries 280 kg over 3103 mm, repeats to ±0.1 mm, weighs 1600 kg and runs on the R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) controller. FANUC rates the body IP54 (IP56 optional) and the wrist and J3 arm IP67.
The Yaskawa Motoman GP280L carries 280 kg over 3114 mm and runs on the YRC1000 controller. Repeatability and arm weight are not given in our review data.
Main specification comparison
Specification | FANUC M-900iB/280L | Yaskawa Motoman GP280L |
Brand | FANUC | Yaskawa Motoman |
Listed price | $150,000 | $80,000 |
Payload | 280 kg | 280 kg |
Reach | 3103 mm | 3114 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.1 mm | Not specified |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Arm weight | 1600 kg | Not specified |
IP rating | IP54 body (IP56 optional); IP67 wrist and J3 arm | Not specified |
Controller | R-30iB Plus (A- or B-cabinet) | YRC1000 |
Price comparison
FANUC M-900iB/280L: listed from $150,000
Yaskawa GP280L: listed from $80,000
Difference: $70,000
The GP280L costs roughly 47% less
Same envelope
Both carry 280 kg, with reach of 3103 mm for FANUC and 3114 mm for Yaskawa. That suits heavy press tending, engine and casting handling and large fixtures.
Published data
FANUC publishes ±0.1 mm repeatability, a 1600 kg mechanical weight and IP ratings of IP54 for the body, optional IP56, and IP67 for wrist and J3 arm. For the GP280L, check repeatability and weight with Yaskawa before planning foundations and tolerances.
Installation and controllers
The M-900iB/280L mounts on the floor, upside-down or at an angle and runs on the R-30iB Plus. Yaskawa runs the GP280L on the YRC1000 and positions it for handling, machine tending and assembly.
Best applications for the M-900iB/280L
Heavy press tending
Casting and engine handling
FANUC-standardized lines
Best applications for the Yaskawa GP280L
Heavy long-reach handling
Machine tending
Heavy assembly
M-900iB/280L advantages
Full published data
IP67 wrist and J3 arm
M-900iB/280L limitations
About $70,000 higher listed price
1600 kg arm
Yaskawa GP280L advantages
About 47% lower listed price
3114 mm reach
Yaskawa GP280L limitations
Repeatability and weight not in our review data
Final verdict
Choose the Yaskawa GP280L for value. Choose the FANUC M-900iB/280L for documented precision and protection.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the FANUC M-900iB/280L or the Yaskawa GP280L?
The GP280L is listed from $80,000 and the M-900iB/280L from $150,000, a difference of $70,000.
Do both carry 280 kg?
Yes.
Which robot has the longer reach?
They are almost equal: 3114 mm and 3103 mm.
What is the M-900iB/280L repeatability?
FANUC publishes ±0.1 mm.
What IP rating does the M-900iB/280L have?
IP54 body (IP56 optional), IP67 wrist and J3 arm.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the GP280L for value. Choose the M-900iB/280L for documented precision.
