Franka Research 3 Review: Specs, Price and Applications of the 3 kg Collaborative Robot
Updated: 2 days ago
The Franka Research 3 is a 7-axis collaborative robot with a maximum payload of 3 kg, a reach of 855 mm and <±0.1 mm repeatability, listed from USD 29,800. This review covers its full specifications, design, programming options, applications and price, so you can decide whether it fits your automation project.
Quick Verdict
The Franka Research 3 is a 7-axis force-sensitive robot arm built for robotics and AI research. It has a payload of 3 kg, a maximum reach of 855 mm and a pose repeatability better than ±0.1 mm. Link-side torque sensors in all seven joints and the 1 kHz Franka Control Interface give direct low-level access to the arm. The arm weighs about 17.8 kg, reaches end-effector speeds of up to 2 m/s and is rated IP40. It is listed from USD 29,800.
Franka Research 3 at a Glance
Maximum payload: 3 kg
Reach: 855 mm
Axes: 7
Repeatability: <±0.1 mm
Speed: 2 m/s maximum end-effector speed
Weight: : approx. 17.8 kg. Protection rating: IP40. Power supply: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Power consumption: approx. 80 W. Link-side torque sensors in all 7 axes. Mounting flange: DIN ISO 9409-1-A50. Installation position: upright. Joint velocity limits: 150 °/s (A1-A4), 301 °/s (A5-A7). Operating temperature: +5 to +45 °C
Controller: Franka 19-inch controller (355 × 483 × 89 mm, approx. 7 kg, IP20)
Price: from USD 29,800
Franka Research 3 Technical Specifications
The table below lists the published specifications of the Franka Research 3.
Specification | Franka Research 3 |
Manufacturer | Franka Robotics |
Model | Franka Research 3 |
Robot type | 7-axis collaborative robot |
Maximum payload | 3 kg |
Reach | 855 mm |
Axes | 7 |
Repeatability | <±0.1 mm |
Speed | 2 m/s maximum end-effector speed |
Controller | Franka 19-inch controller (355 × 483 × 89 mm, approx. 7 kg, IP20) |
Interfaces | Ethernet (TCP/IP), 1 kHz Franka Control Interface (FCI), Modbus/TCP, OPC UA, end-effector connector, 2 digital inputs and 2 digital outputs (24 V) |
Certifications | EN ISO 10218-1:2011, EN ISO 13849-1:2015 PL d / Cat. 3 |
Starting price | From USD 29,800 |
Detailed Technical Data
Weight: approx. 17.8 kg. Protection rating: IP40. Power supply: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Power consumption: approx. 80 W. Link-side torque sensors in all 7 axes. Mounting flange: DIN ISO 9409-1-A50. Installation position: upright. Joint velocity limits: 150 °/s (A1-A4), 301 °/s (A5-A7). Operating temperature: +5 to +45 °C
Design and Build Quality
The Franka Research 3 is a 7-axis collaborative robot made by Franka Robotics. Published build data: Weight: approx. 17.8 kg. Protection rating: IP40. Power supply: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Power consumption: approx. 80 W. Link-side torque sensors in all 7 axes. Mounting flange: DIN ISO 9409-1-A50. Installation position: upright. Joint velocity limits: 150 °/s (A1-A4), 301 °/s (A5-A7). Operating temperature: +5 to +45 °C.
Programming and Software
Controller and Software
Published controller for the Franka Research 3: Franka 19-inch controller (355 × 483 × 89 mm, approx. 7 kg, IP20). Franka robots are programmed in the browser-based Desk interface, and the Franka Control Interface (FCI) gives researchers low-level real-time access. Programming interfaces, software licences and simulation tools vary by package, so confirm what is included before ordering.
Industrial Communication
Published interfaces are Ethernet (TCP/IP), 1 kHz Franka Control Interface (FCI), Modbus/TCP, OPC UA, end-effector connector, 2 digital inputs and 2 digital outputs (24 V).
Franka Research 3 Applications and Use Cases
Typical applications for the Franka Research 3 are robotics research, AI manipulation, force control and laboratory automation.
Robotics research
The Franka Research 3 is used for robotics research within its 3 kg payload and 855 mm reach.
AI manipulation
The Franka Research 3 is used for AI manipulation within its 3 kg payload and 855 mm reach.
Force control
The Franka Research 3 is used for force control within its 3 kg payload and 855 mm reach.
Franka Research 3 Price and Value
The Franka Research 3 is listed from USD 29,800 on All Things Cobots. The controller, end effectors, safety equipment and integration affect the final price and are quoted separately. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
Pros and Cons
Pros
3 kg maximum payload with a 855 mm reach
Speed: 2 m/s maximum end-effector speed
Collaborative design for work near people, subject to a risk assessment
Seventh axis adds flexibility in tight cells
Graphical programming environment
Cons
Repeatability of <±0.1 mm is wider than on smaller precision robots
The 3 kg maximum payload includes the end effector
End effectors, safety equipment and integration are quoted separately
Who Should Buy the Franka Research 3?
The Franka Research 3 fits manufacturers that want a robot working near people without full fencing, subject to a risk assessment.
See the full Franka Research 3 product listing on All Things Cobots.
Franka Research 3 FAQ
How much does the Franka Research 3 cost?
The Franka Research 3 is listed from USD 29,800 on All Things Cobots. The price is indicative and may change, and it does not include end effectors, safety equipment or integration.
What is the payload and reach of the Franka Research 3?
The Franka Research 3 has a maximum payload of 3 kg and a reach of 855 mm.
How accurate is the Franka Research 3?
Its published repeatability is <±0.1 mm.
How many axes does the Franka Research 3 have?
The Franka Research 3 has 7 axes.
How is the Franka Research 3 programmed?
Franka robots are programmed in the browser-based Desk interface, and the Franka Control Interface (FCI) gives researchers low-level real-time access.
Which controller does the Franka Research 3 use?
Published controller: Franka 19-inch controller (355 × 483 × 89 mm, approx. 7 kg, IP20).
How much does the Franka Research 3 weigh?
Published weight: approx. 17.8 kg. Protection rating: IP40. Power supply: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Power consumption: approx. 80 W. Link-side torque sensors in all 7 axes. Mounting flange: DIN ISO 9409-1-A50. Installation position: upright. Joint velocity limits: 150 °/s (A1-A4), 301 °/s (A5-A7). Operating temperature: +5 to +45 °C.
Is the Franka Research 3 a collaborative robot?
Yes. The Franka Research 3 is a collaborative robot. Every collaborative application still needs its own risk assessment.
What is the Franka Research 3 used for?
Typical applications are robotics research, AI manipulation, force control and laboratory automation.
Specifications and prices are based on manufacturer and distributor information. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
