UR3e vs FAIRINO FR3: 3 kg Cobot Comparison of Price, Precision and Speed
Updated: 8 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Both are compared at 3 kg. FAIRINO FR3 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 FAIRINO FR3 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 622 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 FAIRINO FR3 are 3 kg benchtop cobots on almost the same base size. The FR3 reaches further and repeats more tightly at a fraction of the price. The UR3e is lighter, faster and has built-in force sensing.
Quick verdict. The FAIRINO FR3 is the value choice, with a listed price about 80% lower, 122 mm more reach and ±0.02 mm repeatability. The UR3e is the better choice for fast and force-controlled benchtop work, with a 3 m/s tool speed, an 11.2 kg arm and continuous wrist rotation.
UR3e and FAIRINO FR3 at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg on a Ø128 mm base. Its final wrist joint can rotate continuously.
The FR3 carries 3 kg over 622 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm and weighs about 15 kg on a 128 mm base. Each joint has closed-loop torque feedback for collision detection and hand-guiding.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | FAIRINO FR3 |
Brand | Universal Robots | FAIRINO |
Listed price | $33,800 | $6,799 |
Payload | 3 kg | 3 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 622 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 1 m/s |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 15 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP66 |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
FAIRINO FR3: listed from $6,799
Difference: $27,001
The UR3e listing is about 5 times the FR3 price
Reach and precision
The FR3 reaches 622 mm, 122 mm more than the UR3e's 500 mm, which helps when parts sit across a wider bench or fixture. FAIRINO also publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability, against ±0.03 mm for the UR3e, so fine electronics placement and pin insertion are well within reach of both arms.
Speed and wrist rotation
Universal Robots publishes a 3 m/s maximum tool speed for the UR3e, and its final joint rotates continuously, which suits screwdriving and spinning tasks. FAIRINO publishes a 1 m/s speed for the FR3. In short-cycle pick-and-place, the UR3e's speed can shorten cycle times noticeably, while for slower assembly the difference matters less.
Weight and footprint
The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg, about 4 kg less than the FR3, and both arms sit on a base of about 128 mm. Both fit on a workbench, a small cart or inside a machine enclosure, and the lighter UR3e is easier to mount on a wall or a light frame.
Sensing and safety
The UR3e has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor at the tool flange and a safety system certified to EN ISO 13849-1 (PLd, Category 3). The FR3 uses torque feedback in every joint for collision detection and smooth hand-guiding, which supports safe work next to operators.
Programming and connectivity
The UR3e runs PolyScope and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2, with access to the UR+ accessory ecosystem. The FR3 is programmed through a graphical interface on a 10.1-inch teach pendant or a web app, with drag teaching, and FAIRINO provides SDKs for developers.
Best applications for the UR3e
Fast benchtop pick-and-place
Force-controlled insertion and screwdriving
Robots mounted inside machines
Best applications for the FAIRINO FR3
Precise electronics assembly on a budget
Education and research labs
Multi-station benchtop automation
UR3e advantages
3 m/s maximum tool speed
Built-in force/torque sensor
11.2 kg arm
UR3e limitations
About 5 times the FR3 listed price
500 mm reach
FAIRINO FR3 advantages
About 80% lower listed price
622 mm reach
±0.02 mm repeatability
FAIRINO FR3 limitations
1 m/s speed
About 15 kg arm
Final verdict
Choose the FAIRINO FR3 for precise benchtop automation at a very low price. Choose the UR3e when cycle time, force control and the UR+ ecosystem justify the higher cost.
Both arms suit small parts close to the robot, so the decision mostly comes down to speed and force sensing against budget.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the FAIRINO FR3?
The FR3 is listed from $6,799 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $27,001.
Do both robots carry 3 kg?
Yes. Both are rated for 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The FR3 reaches 622 mm and the UR3e 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The FR3 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability and the UR3e ±0.03 mm.
Which robot is faster?
The UR3e publishes a 3 m/s maximum tool speed. The FR3 publishes 1 m/s.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the FR3 for value and precision. Choose the UR3e for speed and force control.
