UR3e vs DOBOT CR3: 3 kg Cobot Comparison of Price, Reach and Precision
Updated: 8 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Both are compared at 3 kg. DOBOT CR3 has the longer stated reach, which may help reach separated fixtures; it does not guarantee access at every tool angle. |
→ CONSIDER Universal Robots UR3e Consider it when its stated load and reach already cover your task and its controls fit your equipment. This article compares 3 kg with a published reach of 500 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
→ CONSIDER DOBOT CR3 Consider it when extra reach is useful while the compared load capacity is the same. This article compares 3 kg with a published reach of 620 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
💡 THE TAKEAWAY Check the real tool, movement path and safety assessment before choosing. A collaborative label does not make every task safe without guarding; compare complete installation quotes. |
The Universal Robots UR3e and the DOBOT CR3 are 3 kg cobots for benchtop assembly, testing and light handling. The CR3 reaches further, repeats more tightly and costs about a third less. The UR3e is lighter, faster and has built-in force sensing.
Quick verdict. The DOBOT CR3 is the value choice, with a listed price about 34% lower, a 620 mm working radius and ±0.02 mm repeatability. The UR3e is the better choice for force-controlled benchtop work, with an 11.2 kg arm and a 3 m/s tool speed.
UR3e and DOBOT CR3 at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The CR3 carries 3 kg over a 620 mm working radius, with a 795 mm maximum reach. It repeats to ±0.02 mm and weighs 16.5 kg. DOBOT has since introduced the CR3A as its successor.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | DOBOT CR3 |
Brand | Universal Robots | DOBOT |
Listed price | $33,800 | $22,200 |
Payload | 3 kg | 3 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 620 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 2 m/s max. TCP speed |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 16.5 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 (control box IP20) |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | Not specified |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
DOBOT CR3: listed from $22,200
Difference: $11,600
The CR3 costs roughly 34% less
Reach and precision
The CR3's 620 mm working radius is 120 mm more than the UR3e's 500 mm. DOBOT publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability, against ±0.03 mm for the UR3e.
Speed and force sensing
Universal Robots publishes a 3 m/s maximum tool speed for the UR3e, against 2 m/s for the CR3. The UR3e also has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor.
Weight and mounting
The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg on a Ø128 mm base, about 5 kg less than the CR3. Both arms are rated IP54.
Programming and connectivity
The UR3e runs PolyScope and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2. The CR3 is programmed in DobotStudio Pro and supports TCP/IP, Modbus TCP, Wi-Fi, EtherCAT and an RS485 tool interface.
Best applications for the UR3e
Force-controlled benchtop assembly
Robots mounted inside machines
Fast small-part handling
Best applications for the DOBOT CR3
Budget-conscious benchtop automation
Precise electronics assembly
Education and lab automation
UR3e advantages
11.2 kg arm
3 m/s maximum tool speed
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR3e limitations
About $11,600 higher listed price
500 mm reach
DOBOT CR3 advantages
About 34% lower listed price
620 mm working radius
±0.02 mm repeatability
DOBOT CR3 limitations
2 m/s maximum tool speed
Succeeded by the CR3A
Final verdict
Choose the DOBOT CR3 for value and precision. Choose the UR3e for speed, a lighter arm and force control.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the DOBOT CR3?
The CR3 is listed from $22,200 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $11,600.
Do both robots carry 3 kg?
Yes. Both are rated for 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The CR3 has a 620 mm working radius and the UR3e reaches 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The CR3 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability and the UR3e ±0.03 mm.
Which robot is faster?
The UR3e publishes 3 m/s and the CR3 2 m/s.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the CR3 for value and precision. Choose the UR3e for speed and force control.
