UR3e vs JAKA Zu 3: 3 kg Cobot Comparison of Price, Precision and Speed
The Universal Robots UR3e and the JAKA Zu 3 are compact 3 kg cobots of almost the same weight and the same IP54 rating. The Zu 3 reaches further, repeats more tightly and costs less than half as much. The UR3e is twice as fast and has built-in force sensing.
Quick verdict. The JAKA Zu 3 is the value choice for small-part assembly, with 626 mm reach, ±0.02 mm repeatability and a listed price about 56% lower. The UR3e is the better choice for fast and force-controlled benchtop work, with a 3 m/s tool speed and a ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor.
UR3e and JAKA Zu 3 at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The JAKA Zu 3 carries 3 kg over 626 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm, weighs 12 kg and is rated IP54.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | JAKA Zu 3 |
Brand | Universal Robots | JAKA |
Listed price | $33,800 | $15,000 |
Payload | 3 kg | 3 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 626 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 1.5 m/s |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 12 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | JAKA StandardCab control cabinet |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
JAKA Zu 3: listed from $15,000
Difference: $18,800
The JAKA Zu 3 costs roughly 56% less
Reach and precision
Both arms carry 3 kg. The Zu 3 reaches 626 mm, 126 mm more, and publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability against ±0.03 mm for the UR3e. Small-part assembly, screwdriving and dispensing suit both arms.
Speed and cycle time
Universal Robots publishes a 3 m/s maximum tool speed for the UR3e, twice the 1.5 m/s JAKA publishes for the Zu 3. For high-volume pick-and-place, the UR3e can shorten cycle times.
Sensing and software
The UR3e has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor with continuous rotation on its final joint, and runs PolyScope with PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, ROS/ROS2 and UR+ accessories. The Zu 3 can be mounted at any angle and runs on the JAKA StandardCab control cabinet.
Best applications for the UR3e
Fast benchtop pick-and-place
Force-controlled insertion
Robots inside machines
Best applications for the JAKA Zu 3
Small-part assembly
Screwdriving and dispensing
Budget-conscious benchtop cells
UR3e advantages
3 m/s maximum tool speed
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR+ ecosystem
UR3e limitations
About $18,800 higher listed price
500 mm reach
JAKA Zu 3 advantages
About 56% lower listed price
626 mm reach
±0.02 mm repeatability
JAKA Zu 3 limitations
1.5 m/s maximum speed
Final verdict
Choose the JAKA Zu 3 for precise small-part work at less than half the price. Choose the UR3e for speed and force-controlled benchtop work.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the JAKA Zu 3?
The JAKA Zu 3 is listed from $15,000 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $18,800.
Do both robots carry 3 kg?
Yes. Both are rated for 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The JAKA Zu 3 reaches 626 mm and the UR3e 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The JAKA Zu 3 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability and the UR3e ±0.03 mm.
Which robot is faster?
The UR3e publishes 3 m/s and the JAKA Zu 3 1.5 m/s.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the JAKA Zu 3 for value and precision. Choose the UR3e for speed and force control.
