UR30 vs Standard Bots Thor: 30 kg Cobot Comparison of Reach, Precision and Price
The Universal Robots UR30 and the Standard Bots Thor are 30 kg, IP65 cobots with the same 4 m/s top speed. The Thor reaches 700 mm further, repeats far more tightly and costs about 17% less. The UR30 is much lighter and more compact.
Quick verdict. The Standard Bots Thor is the better choice for palletizing and long-reach heavy handling, with 2000 mm reach, ±0.025 mm repeatability and a listed price about 17% lower. The UR30 is the better choice for compact heavy tasks such as screwdriving and machine tending, with a 63.5 kg arm and 1300 mm reach.
UR30 and Standard Bots Thor at a glance
The UR30 carries 30 kg over 1300 mm, repeats to ±0.1 mm, weighs 63.5 kg and is rated IP65.
The Standard Bots Thor carries 30 kg over 2000 mm, repeats to ±0.025 mm, weighs 79 kg and is rated IP65.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR30 | Standard Bots Thor |
Brand | Universal Robots | Standard Bots |
Listed price | $59,600 | $49,500 |
Payload | 30 kg | 30 kg |
Reach | 1300 mm | 2000 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.1 mm | ±0.025 mm |
Axes | 6 | Not specified |
Speed | 4 m/s maximum TCP speed | 4 m/s |
Arm weight | 63.5 kg | 79 kg |
IP rating | IP65 | IP65 |
Price comparison
UR30: listed from $59,600
Standard Bots Thor: listed from $49,500
Difference: $10,100
The Thor costs roughly 17% less
Reach and precision
Both arms carry 30 kg and move at up to 4 m/s. The Thor reaches 2000 mm, 700 mm more than the UR30, and publishes ±0.025 mm repeatability against ±0.1 mm. Standard Bots states that the Thor holds its full payload at collaborative speeds across the whole work envelope.
Weight and footprint
The UR30 weighs 63.5 kg, about 15.5 kg less than the Thor, and its 1300 mm envelope suits compact cells for heavy screwdriving, machine tending and material handling. The Thor stands on a 296 mm base and is aimed at palletizing, machine tending and welding.
Integration and programming
The Thor supports EtherNet/IP and fieldbus connections and is programmed without code. The UR30 runs PolyScope with PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, ROS/ROS2 and UR+ accessories. Standard Bots does not list the Thor's axes, mounting options or certifications on its product page.
Best applications for the UR30
Heavy screwdriving and nutrunning
Compact heavy machine tending
Cells with limited floor space
Best applications for the Standard Bots Thor
Palletizing over 2000 mm
Long-reach heavy machine tending
Welding with heavy torches
UR30 advantages
63.5 kg arm
Compact 1300 mm envelope
UR+ ecosystem
UR30 limitations
About $10,100 higher listed price
±0.1 mm repeatability
Standard Bots Thor advantages
2000 mm reach
±0.025 mm repeatability
About 17% lower listed price
Standard Bots Thor limitations
79 kg arm
Axes and certifications not published
Final verdict
Choose the Standard Bots Thor for long-reach palletizing and precision at a lower price. Choose the UR30 for compact heavy tasks and a lighter arm.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR30 or the Standard Bots Thor?
The Standard Bots Thor is listed from $49,500 and the UR30 from $59,600, a difference of $10,100.
Do both robots carry 30 kg?
Yes. Both are rated for 30 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The Standard Bots Thor reaches 2000 mm and the UR30 1300 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The Standard Bots Thor publishes ±0.025 mm repeatability and the UR30 ±0.1 mm.
Are both rated IP65?
Yes. Both arms are rated IP65.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the Thor for palletizing and reach. Choose the UR30 for compact heavy tasks.
