UR3e vs Hanwha HCR-5A: Cobot Comparison of Payload, Reach and Price
Updated: 10 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Hanwha HCR-5A 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 Hanwha HCR-5A Consider it when additional load capacity and reach matter. This article compares 5 kg with a published reach of 915 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 Hanwha HCR-5A serve different cell sizes. The HCR-5A carries 2 kg more, reaches 415 mm further, is sealed to IP66 and costs about 17% less. The UR3e is the compact, precise and fast benchtop arm.
Quick verdict. The Hanwha HCR-5A offers more envelope for less, with 5 kg payload, 915 mm reach, IP66 and a listed price about 17% lower. The UR3e is the better choice for compact benchtop and in-machine cells, with ±0.03 mm repeatability, an 11.2 kg arm and a 3 m/s tool speed.
UR3e and HCR-5A at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The Hanwha HCR-5A carries 5 kg over 915 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm, weighs 21 kg and is rated IP66.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | Hanwha HCR-5A |
Brand | Universal Robots | Hanwha |
Listed price | $33,800 | $28,000 |
Payload | 3 kg | 5 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 915 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 1 m/s linear speed; joint speeds up to 180°/s |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 21 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP66 |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | HC-S2DC controller, 450 x 470 x 223 mm, 17.6 kg, 100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz, 1 kW; 12.1-inch teach pendant |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
Hanwha HCR-5A: listed from $28,000
Difference: $5,800
The HCR-5A costs roughly 17% less
Payload and reach
The HCR-5A carries 5 kg against 3 kg and reaches 915 mm against 500 mm. Machine tending, packaging and conveyor tasks usually need the HCR-5A's larger envelope.
Precision and speed
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and a 3 m/s maximum tool speed. Hanwha publishes ±0.05 mm, a 1 m/s linear speed and joint speeds up to 180°/s for the HCR-5A. Precise electronics assembly and fast pick-and-place favor the UR3e.
Weight, protection and tooling
The UR3e weighs 11.2 kg, about half the HCR-5A, and has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor. The HCR-5A is sealed to IP66, sits on a Ø150 mm base, and has two wrist tool connectors with 24 V power, digital I/O, analog inputs and RS-485.
Best applications for the UR3e
Precise benchtop assembly
Fast pick-and-place
Robots inside machines
Best applications for the HCR-5A
Machine tending up to 5 kg
Wet or dusty areas that need IP66
Wall or ceiling mounted cells
UR3e advantages
±0.03 mm repeatability
11.2 kg arm
3 m/s maximum tool speed
UR3e limitations
3 kg payload and 500 mm reach
About $5,800 higher listed price
HCR-5A advantages
5 kg payload and 915 mm reach
IP66
About 17% lower listed price
HCR-5A limitations
21 kg arm
1 m/s linear speed
Final verdict
Choose the Hanwha HCR-5A for payload, reach and protection at a lower price. Choose the UR3e for compact, precise and fast benchtop work.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the Hanwha HCR-5A?
The HCR-5A is listed from $28,000 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $5,800.
Which robot carries more?
The HCR-5A carries 5 kg and the UR3e 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The HCR-5A reaches 915 mm and the UR3e 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the HCR-5A ±0.05 mm.
Which robot has better protection?
The HCR-5A is rated IP66 and the UR3e IP54.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the HCR-5A for payload and reach. Choose the UR3e for compact precise work.
