UR16e vs Techman TM16: 16 kg Cobot Comparison of Price, Precision and Vision
Updated: 2 days ago
The Universal Robots UR16e and the Techman TM16 are close twins on paper: both carry 16 kg, both reach about 900 mm and both weigh about 32–33 kg. The differences are in sensing, precision, speed and price.
Quick verdict. The Techman TM16 is the value choice, with built-in vision, a 4 m/s speed and a listed price about 30% lower. The UR16e is the better choice for precise and force-controlled heavy tasks, with ±0.05 mm repeatability and a ±160 N force/torque sensor.
Availability note (October 2026): Techman Robot is discontinuing the TM16 (HW3.2 series). Final orders close on December 1, 2026 in Europe and March 31, 2027 elsewhere. Techman has not named a direct replacement.
UR16e and Techman TM16 at a glance
The UR16e carries 16 kg over 900 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm and weighs 33.1 kg.
The TM16 carries 16 kg over 917 mm, repeats to ±0.1 mm and weighs 32 kg.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR16e | Techman TM16 |
Brand | Universal Robots | Techman |
Listed price | $59,300 | $41,500 |
Payload | 16 kg | 16 kg |
Reach | 900 mm | 917 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.05 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 4 m/s |
Arm weight | 33.1 kg | 32 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 (control box IP32) |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | TM control box, programmed with TMflow |
Price comparison
UR16e: listed from $59,300
Techman TM16: listed from $41,500
Difference: $17,800
The TM16 costs roughly 30% less
Payload and reach
Both robots carry 16 kg, and their reach differs by only 17 mm. They fit the same compact cells, so the choice depends on the sensing approach and the tolerance the task requires.
Precision and speed
The UR16e publishes ±0.05 mm repeatability, twice as tight as the TM16's ±0.1 mm. Techman publishes a 4 m/s maximum speed for the TM16, against 3 m/s for the UR16e.
Vision versus force sensing
The TM16's built-in vision system locates and identifies parts without an external camera, which simplifies machine tending with variable part positions. The UR16e's ±160 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor supports heavy screwdriving, pressing and finishing.
Programming and connectivity
The UR16e runs PolyScope and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2, with UR+ accessories. The TM16 is programmed in Techman's flowchart-based TMflow and publishes RS-232, Ethernet, Modbus TCP/RTU and 16 digital inputs and outputs. Both arms are rated IP54.
Best applications for the UR16e
Heavy screwdriving and nutrunning
Precise placement of heavy parts
Plants with existing UR cells
Best applications for the Techman TM16
Vision-guided heavy handling
Machine tending with variable part positions
Budget-conscious deployments
UR16e advantages
±0.05 mm repeatability
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR+ ecosystem
UR16e limitations
About $17,800 higher listed price
Techman TM16 advantages
About 30% lower listed price
Built-in vision system
4 m/s speed
Techman TM16 limitations
±0.1 mm repeatability
Final verdict
Choose the Techman TM16 for vision-guided heavy handling at a lower price. Choose the UR16e for precision and force-controlled heavy tasks.
Since the arms are almost the same size, either can replace the other in an existing layout.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR16e or the Techman TM16?
The TM16 is listed from $41,500 and the UR16e from $59,300, a difference of $17,800.
Do both robots carry 16 kg?
Yes. Both are rated for 16 kg.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR16e publishes ±0.05 mm repeatability and the TM16 ±0.1 mm.
Which robot is faster?
The TM16 publishes 4 m/s and the UR16e 3 m/s.
Which robot has built-in vision?
The TM16 has a vision system built into the arm.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the TM16 for vision and value. Choose the UR16e for precision and force control.
