UR3e vs Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor: Force-Sensing Cobot Comparison
The Universal Robots UR3e and the Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor both serve precise contact work, at similar listed prices. The Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor adds a seventh axis, far more reach and very fine force sensing. The UR3e is the compact, light and precise benchtop arm.
Quick verdict. The Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor is the better choice for delicate force-controlled tasks, with 0.03 N force sensing accuracy, 7 axes, 919 mm reach and IP65. The UR3e is the better choice for compact benchtop cells, with an 11.2 kg arm, ±0.03 mm repeatability and a $1,200 lower listed price.
UR3e and Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor carries 4 kg over 919 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm, weighs 21 kg and is rated IP65.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor |
Brand | Universal Robots | Flexiv |
Listed price | $33,800 | $35,000 |
Payload | 3 kg | 4 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 919 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 7 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 1.0 m/s typical TCP linear speed |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 21 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP65 |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | Flexiv Hesper robot controller (12 kg, 423 × 230 × 230 mm, IP20, 500 W) |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor: listed from $35,000
Difference: $1,200
The UR3e costs roughly 3% less
Force sensing
Flexiv fits an additional force/torque sensor at the wrist, with a published force sensing accuracy of 0.03 N and a maximum TCP force of 150 N. That suits polishing, delicate insertion, connector mating and testing. The UR3e has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor at the flange, which covers standard insertion and screwdriving.
Axes, reach and payload
The Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor has 7 axes and reaches 919 mm, 419 mm more than the UR3e, with 1 kg more payload. The seventh axis lets it work around fixtures and reach into tight spaces while keeping the tool orientation.
Precision, speed and weight
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and a 3 m/s maximum tool speed. Flexiv publishes ±0.05 mm and a 1.0 m/s typical TCP linear speed. The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg, about half the Rizon arm, and suits benches and in-machine mounting.
Best applications for the UR3e
Compact benchtop assembly
Screwdriving and pick-and-place
Robots inside machines
Best applications for the Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor
Polishing and surface finishing
Delicate insertion and connector mating
Testing and inspection with contact
UR3e advantages
11.2 kg arm
±0.03 mm repeatability
About $1,200 lower listed price
UR3e limitations
500 mm reach
6 axes
Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor advantages
0.03 N force sensing accuracy
7 axes and 919 mm reach
IP65
Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor limitations
21 kg arm
Separate 12 kg Hesper controller
Final verdict
Choose the Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor when the task depends on fine force control or a seventh axis. Choose the UR3e for compact, precise benchtop automation.
The listed prices are close, so the application decides this comparison.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the Flexiv Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor?
The UR3e is listed from $33,800 and the Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor from $35,000, a difference of $1,200.
Which robot has finer force sensing?
Flexiv publishes 0.03 N force sensing accuracy for the Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor. The UR3e has a ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor.
How many axes do they have?
The Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor has 7 axes and the UR3e 6.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor reaches 919 mm and the UR3e 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor ±0.05 mm.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the Rizon 4 + F/T Sensor for force-controlled tasks. Choose the UR3e for compact benchtop work.
