igus ReBeL Review: Specs, Price and Applications of the 2 kg Plastic Cobot
Updated: 2 days ago
The igus ReBeL is a six-axis lightweight cobot made largely of plastic, with a payload of 2 kg and a maximum reach of 664 mm, listed at USD 7,795.87 by the distributor RobotShop. This review covers its specifications, design, versions, applications and price.
Quick Verdict
The ReBeL is a low-cost cobot from the German plastics specialist igus. Its whole point is weight and price: the arm weighs 8.2 kg, runs on 24 V and has its control system built into the base. It carries 2 kg and reaches 664 mm at full stretch, with a nominal working reach of 400 mm. Its repeatability of ±1 mm is far coarser than that of metal cobots, so it suits simple handling, teaching and service tasks, not precision assembly. It is sold as a ready-to-run version and as an open-source version without controller.
igus ReBeL at a Glance
Payload: 2 kg
Reach: 664 mm maximum, 400 mm nominal
Axes: 6
Repeatability: ±1 mm
Weight: 8.2 kg
Price: from USD 7,795.87
igus ReBeL Technical Specifications
The table below lists the published specifications of the igus ReBeL.
Specification | igus ReBeL |
Manufacturer | igus |
Model | ReBeL 6 DoF |
Part number | REBEL-6DOF-01, plug and play |
Axes | 6; versions with 4 or 5 axes are also offered |
Payload | 2 kg |
Reach | 664 mm maximum, 400 mm nominal |
Repeatability | ±1 mm |
Weight | 8.2 kg |
Supply voltage | 24 V |
Joint rotation | Almost 360° per joint |
Control | Built into the base in the plug-and-play version |
Price | USD 7,795.87 at RobotShop |
Detailed Technical Data
Plug-and-play kit includes the robot, built-in control system, power supply, Ethernet cable, emergency stop switch and documentation
Open-source version supplies the robot only, with joints addressed over CAN bus
Free igus robot control software for the plug-and-play version
Optional seventh axis on a linear slide for a larger workspace
Listed standards: DIN EN ISO 14644-1 and RoHS
Speed and protection rating are not stated in the sources used
Design and Build Quality
igus is known for plastic bearings and cable carriers, and the ReBeL applies the same material to a robot. The plastic construction keeps the weight to 8.2 kg, so the arm can be fitted to a light frame or a mobile platform, and it runs from a 24 V supply. In the plug-and-play version the control electronics sit in the base, which removes the separate control cabinet. The price of this approach is stiffness: the published repeatability is ±1 mm, which rules out fine assembly.
Programming and Software
igus Robot Control
The plug-and-play version is programmed with the free igus robot control software, which the maker presents as usable with little programming experience.
Open-Source Version
The open-source version comes without controller, power supply or software, and its joint modules are addressed over CAN bus, so developers can use their own control system.
igus ReBeL Applications and Use Cases
The ReBeL is prepared for collaboration with people and is aimed at simple, low-load tasks.
Simple Pick and Place
Moving light parts between fixed positions is the core use, within a 2 kg payload.
Education and Development
The low price and the open-source version make it a platform for teaching and for robotics development.
Mobile and Service Use
The low weight and 24 V supply suit mounting on mobile platforms or in service applications.
igus ReBeL Price and Value
The igus ReBeL 6 DoF is listed at USD 7,795.87 by the distributor RobotShop. Another distributor, RS, lists the plug-and-play kit at GBP 9,968 excluding VAT, so prices vary considerably between sellers and regions. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
For the company behind the robot, read the igus Company Profile: History, Ownership, Financials, Products and Leadership.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Very low weight of 8.2 kg
Low price for a six-axis cobot
Control system built into the base
24 V supply
Open-source version for developers
Cons
±1 mm repeatability
2 kg payload
Speed and protection rating not published in the sources used
Large price differences between distributors
Who Should Buy the igus ReBeL?
The ReBeL fits schools, developers and companies that want to automate a simple, light handling task at the lowest possible cost and do not need high accuracy.
igus ReBeL FAQ
How much does the igus ReBeL cost?
The six-axis ReBeL is listed at USD 7,795.87 by RobotShop; RS lists the plug-and-play kit at GBP 9,968 excluding VAT. Prices are indicative and may change.
What is the payload and reach of the igus ReBeL?
The payload is 2 kg and the maximum reach is 664 mm, with a nominal reach of 400 mm.
How accurate is the igus ReBeL?
Its published repeatability is ±1 mm.
How many axes does the igus ReBeL have?
The version reviewed has 6 axes; versions with 4 or 5 axes are also offered.
How much does the igus ReBeL weigh?
It weighs 8.2 kg.
What is the difference between the plug-and-play and open-source versions?
The plug-and-play version includes the built-in control system, power supply and software; the open-source version is the robot only, controlled over CAN bus.
What voltage does the igus ReBeL need?
A 24 V supply.
What is the igus ReBeL used for?
Simple pick and place, education, development and light service tasks.
Specifications and prices are based on manufacturer and distributor information. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
