UR3e vs DOBOT CR5: Small Cobot Comparison of Price, Payload and Reach
Updated: 9 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE DOBOT CR5 has the higher stated load capacity and longer stated reach. Those figures help shortlist it for heavier loads or wider layouts, but do not prove a faster production cycle. |
→ 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 CR5 Consider it when additional load capacity and reach matter. This article compares 5 kg with a published reach of 900 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 CR5 are aimed at different cell sizes. The UR3e is a compact benchtop arm. The CR5 carries 2 kg more, reaches 400 mm further and costs about a quarter less.
Quick verdict. The DOBOT CR5 offers more capability for less, with 5 kg payload, a 900 mm working radius, ±0.02 mm repeatability and a listed price about 25% lower. The UR3e is the better choice for compact benchtop and in-machine cells, with an 11.2 kg arm and built-in force sensing.
UR3e and DOBOT CR5 at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The CR5 carries 5 kg over a 900 mm working radius, with a 1096 mm maximum reach. It repeats to ±0.02 mm and weighs 25 kg. DOBOT has since introduced the CR5A as its successor.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | DOBOT CR5 |
Brand | Universal Robots | DOBOT |
Listed price | $33,800 | $25,500 |
Payload | 3 kg | 5 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 900 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 3 m/s max. TCP speed |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 25 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 (control box IP20) |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
DOBOT CR5: listed from $25,500
Difference: $8,300
The CR5 costs roughly 25% less
Payload and reach
The CR5 carries 5 kg against 3 kg and covers a 900 mm working radius against 500 mm. Machine tending and packaging tasks usually need the CR5's envelope.
Precision and speed
The CR5 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability, against ±0.03 mm for the UR3e. Both publish a 3 m/s maximum tool speed.
Weight and sensing
The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg, about 14 kg less than the CR5, and has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor.
Programming and connectivity
The UR3e runs PolyScope and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2. The CR5 is programmed in DobotStudio Pro and supports TCP/IP, Modbus TCP, Wi-Fi, EtherCAT and an RS485 tool interface.
Best applications for the UR3e
Benchtop force-controlled assembly
Robots mounted inside machines
Best applications for the DOBOT CR5
Machine tending up to 5 kg
Packaging and pick-and-place
Budget-conscious deployments
UR3e advantages
11.2 kg arm
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR3e limitations
3 kg payload and 500 mm reach
About $8,300 higher listed price
DOBOT CR5 advantages
5 kg payload and 900 mm working radius
±0.02 mm repeatability
About 25% lower listed price
DOBOT CR5 limitations
25 kg arm
Succeeded by the CR5A
Final verdict
Choose the DOBOT CR5 for more payload and reach at a lower price. Choose the UR3e for compact benchtop cells and force control.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the DOBOT CR5?
The CR5 is listed from $25,500 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $8,300.
Which robot carries more?
The CR5 carries 5 kg and the UR3e 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The CR5 has a 900 mm working radius and the UR3e reaches 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The CR5 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability and the UR3e ±0.03 mm.
Which robot is lighter?
The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg and the CR5 25 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the CR5 for payload and reach. Choose the UR3e for compact benchtop work.
