UR15 vs Rainbow Robotics RB16-900: Cobot Comparison of Speed, Reach and Price
The Universal Robots UR15 and the Rainbow Robotics RB16-900 share ±0.05 mm repeatability but suit different cells. The UR15 reaches 400 mm further, is five times faster and rated IP65. The RB16-900 carries 1 kg more in a compact envelope and costs about a quarter less.
Quick verdict. The UR15 is the better choice for high-throughput and wider cells, with 1300 mm reach, a 5 m/s tool speed and IP65. The Rainbow Robotics RB16-900 is the value choice for compact heavy handling, with 16 kg payload, a 35.5 kg arm and a listed price about 25% lower.
UR15 and RB16-900 at a glance
The UR15 carries 15 kg over 1300 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm, weighs 40.7 kg and is rated IP65.
The Rainbow Robotics RB16-900 carries 16 kg over 900 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm and weighs 35.5 kg.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR15 | Rainbow Robotics RB16-900 |
Brand | Universal Robots | Rainbow Robotics |
Listed price | $55,000 | $41,000 |
Payload | 15 kg | 16 kg |
Reach | 1300 mm | 900 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.05 mm | ±0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 5 m/s maximum TCP speed | TCP 1 m/s; joint speeds: J1 and J2 120°/s, J3 to J6 180°/s |
Arm weight | 40.7 kg | 35.5 kg |
IP rating | IP65 | Not specified |
Controller | UR control box | Rainbow Robotics CB06 standard robot control box |
Price comparison
UR15: listed from $55,000
Rainbow Robotics RB16-900: listed from $41,000
Difference: $14,000
The RB16-900 costs roughly 25% less
Reach and speed
The UR15 reaches 1300 mm, 400 mm more than the RB16-900, and Universal Robots publishes a 5 m/s maximum tool speed. Rainbow Robotics publishes a 1 m/s TCP speed for the RB16-900. For fast machine tending and pick-and-place over a wider area, the UR15 has a clear advantage.
Payload and weight
The RB16-900 carries 16 kg, 1 kg more, in a short 900 mm envelope that suits heavier parts in compact cells. It weighs 35.5 kg on a Ø196 mm base, about 5 kg less than the UR15, and mounts in any orientation.
Protection, sensing and certification
The UR15 is rated IP65 and ISO Class 4 and has a built-in ±150 N force/torque sensor. The RB series is CE, KC and TÜV SÜD certified and designed for collaborative operation per ISO/TS 15066, and runs on the CB06 control box.
Best applications for the UR15
High-speed machine tending
Pick-and-place over 1300 mm
Wet or dusty areas that need IP65
Best applications for the RB16-900
Compact heavy handling
Machine tending with heavier parts
Budget-conscious assembly cells
UR15 advantages
1300 mm reach
5 m/s maximum tool speed
IP65 and force/torque sensor
UR15 limitations
About $14,000 higher listed price
RB16-900 advantages
16 kg payload
35.5 kg arm
About 25% lower listed price
RB16-900 limitations
900 mm reach
1 m/s TCP speed
Final verdict
Choose the UR15 for reach, speed and protection. Choose the Rainbow Robotics RB16-900 for compact heavy handling at a lower price.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR15 or the Rainbow Robotics RB16-900?
The RB16-900 is listed from $41,000 and the UR15 from $55,000, a difference of $14,000.
Which robot carries more?
The RB16-900 carries 16 kg and the UR15 15 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The UR15 reaches 1300 mm and the RB16-900 900 mm.
Are they equally precise?
Yes. Both publish ±0.05 mm repeatability.
Which robot is faster?
The UR15 publishes 5 m/s and the RB16-900 a 1 m/s TCP speed.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the UR15 for speed and reach. Choose the RB16-900 for compact heavy handling on a budget.
