Kinova Link 6 Review: Specs, Price and Applications of the 6 kg Collaborative Robot
Updated: 2 days ago
The Kinova Link 6 is a 6-axis collaborative robot with a maximum payload of 6 kg, a reach of 1149 mm and ±0.1 mm repeatability, listed from USD 39,500. 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 Kinova Link 6 is a 6-axis collaborative robot for industrial automation with a continuous full-range payload of 6 kg. Maximum reach is 1149 mm, repeatability is within 0.1 mm and the TCP travels at up to 2.0 m/s. Every joint rotates through ±360°, and both arm and controller are sealed to IP54. The arm weighs 23.45 kg and can be mounted in any orientation. It is listed from USD 39,500.
Kinova Link 6 at a Glance
Maximum payload: 6 kg
Reach: 1149 mm
Axes: 6
Repeatability: ±0.1 mm
Speed: 2.0 m/s maximum TCP speed
Weight: : 23.45 kg including 5 m cable. Protection rating: IP54 (arm and controller). Power supply: 110-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Joint speeds: 180 °/s (joints 1-3), 300 °/s (joints 4-6). Joint range: ±360° on each joint. Installation orientation: all. Operating temperature: 0 to 40 °C
Controller: Kinova Link 6 controller (Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, 17.6 kg, IP54)
Price: from USD 39,500
Kinova Link 6 Technical Specifications
The table below lists the published specifications of the Kinova Link 6.
Specification | Kinova Link 6 |
Manufacturer | Kinova |
Model | Link 6 |
Robot type | 6-axis collaborative robot |
Maximum payload | 6 kg |
Reach | 1149 mm |
Axes | 6 |
Repeatability | ±0.1 mm |
Speed | 2.0 m/s maximum TCP speed |
Controller | Kinova Link 6 controller (Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, 17.6 kg, IP54) |
Interfaces | USB 3.0, Ethernet, Modbus TCP/IP, 8 digital inputs, 8 digital outputs, 4 analog I/O, 8 safety inputs, 8 safety outputs, wrist: 8 digital I/O, 2 analog I/O, 24 V / 4 A supply, ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6 flange |
Certifications | ISO 10218-1:2011, ISO 13849-1 PL d / Cat. 3 |
Starting price | From USD 39,500 |
Detailed Technical Data
Weight: 23.45 kg including 5 m cable. Protection rating: IP54 (arm and controller). Power supply: 110-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Joint speeds: 180 °/s (joints 1-3), 300 °/s (joints 4-6). Joint range: ±360° on each joint. Installation orientation: all. Operating temperature: 0 to 40 °C
Design and Build Quality
The Link 6 is a 6-axis collaborative robot made by Kinova. Published build data: Weight: 23.45 kg including 5 m cable. Protection rating: IP54 (arm and controller). Power supply: 110-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Joint speeds: 180 °/s (joints 1-3), 300 °/s (joints 4-6). Joint range: ±360° on each joint. Installation orientation: all. Operating temperature: 0 to 40 °C.
Programming and Software
Controller and Software
Published controller for the Link 6: Kinova Link 6 controller (Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, 17.6 kg, IP54). Programming interfaces, software licences and simulation tools vary by package, so confirm what is included before ordering.
Industrial Communication
Published interfaces are USB 3.0, Ethernet, Modbus TCP/IP, 8 digital inputs, 8 digital outputs, 4 analog I/O, 8 safety inputs, 8 safety outputs, wrist: 8 digital I/O, 2 analog I/O, 24 V / 4 A supply and ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6 flange.
Kinova Link 6 Applications and Use Cases
Typical applications for the Link 6 are research, assistive robotics, inspection, laboratory automation and mobile manipulation.
Research
The Link 6 is used as a research platform in universities and labs.
Assistive robotics
The Link 6 is used for assistive robotics within its 6 kg payload and 1149 mm reach.
Inspection
The Link 6 presents parts to cameras and gauges, or carries the sensor to the part.
Kinova Link 6 Price and Value
The Kinova Link 6 is listed from USD 39,500 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
6 kg maximum payload with a 1149 mm reach
Speed: 2.0 m/s maximum TCP speed
Collaborative design for work near people, subject to a risk assessment
Wide choice of communication interfaces
Cons
Repeatability of ±0.1 mm is wider than on smaller precision robots
The 6 kg maximum payload includes the end effector
End effectors, safety equipment and integration are quoted separately
Who Should Buy the Kinova Link 6?
The Kinova Link 6 fits manufacturers that want a robot working near people without full fencing, subject to a risk assessment.
See the full Kinova Link 6 product listing on All Things Cobots.
Kinova Link 6 FAQ
How much does the Kinova Link 6 cost?
The Kinova Link 6 is listed from USD 39,500 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 Kinova Link 6?
The Link 6 has a maximum payload of 6 kg and a reach of 1149 mm.
How accurate is the Kinova Link 6?
Its published repeatability is ±0.1 mm.
How many axes does the Kinova Link 6 have?
The Link 6 has 6 axes.
How is the Kinova Link 6 programmed?
Programming is done with Kinova's own software. Confirm the included interfaces and SDKs with the supplier.
Which controller does the Kinova Link 6 use?
Published controller: Kinova Link 6 controller (Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, 17.6 kg, IP54).
How much does the Kinova Link 6 weigh?
Published weight: 23.45 kg including 5 m cable. Protection rating: IP54 (arm and controller). Power supply: 110-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz. Joint speeds: 180 °/s (joints 1-3), 300 °/s (joints 4-6). Joint range: ±360° on each joint. Installation orientation: all. Operating temperature: 0 to 40 °C.
Is the Kinova Link 6 a collaborative robot?
Yes. The Link 6 is a collaborative robot. Every collaborative application still needs its own risk assessment.
What is the Kinova Link 6 used for?
Typical applications are research, assistive robotics, inspection, laboratory automation and mobile manipulation.
Specifications and prices are based on manufacturer and distributor information. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
