UR3e vs UFACTORY xArm 6: Cobot Comparison of Price, Payload and Precision
The Universal Robots UR3e and the UFACTORY xArm 6 are light 6-axis arms of almost the same weight. The xArm 6 carries more and reaches further at about a quarter of the price. The UR3e is more precise, much faster and has built-in force sensing.
Quick verdict. The UFACTORY xArm 6 is the budget choice, with 5 kg payload, 700 mm reach and a listed price about 74% lower. The UR3e is the better choice for precise production assembly, with ±0.03 mm repeatability, a 3 m/s speed and a force/torque sensor.
UR3e and UFACTORY xArm 6 at a glance
The UR3e carries 3 kg over 500 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 11.2 kg.
The xArm 6 carries 5 kg over 700 mm, repeats to ±0.1 mm and weighs 12.5 kg on a Ø126 mm base.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR3e | UFACTORY xArm 6 |
Brand | Universal Robots | UFACTORY |
Listed price | $33,800 | $8,899 |
Payload | 3 kg | 5 kg |
Reach | 500 mm | 700 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 3 m/s maximum TCP speed | 1 m/s |
Arm weight | 11.2 kg | 12.5 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | Not specified |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.5 / CB 5.6 | AC or DC control box (UFACTORY Studio) |
Price comparison
UR3e: listed from $33,800
UFACTORY xArm 6: listed from $8,899
Difference: $24,901
The UR3e listing is about 3.8 times the xArm 6 price
Payload and reach
The xArm 6 carries 5 kg, 2 kg more than the UR3e, and reaches 700 mm, 200 mm more. For light handling across a wider area, the xArm 6 has the larger envelope.
Precision and speed
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability, against ±0.1 mm for the xArm 6, and a 3 m/s maximum tool speed against 1 m/s. Fine assembly and fast cycles favor the UR3e.
Weight and sensing
Both arms weigh about 11–12.5 kg and suit benches and light frames. The UR3e has a built-in ±30 N / ±10 Nm force/torque sensor for insertion and screwdriving.
Programming and connectivity
The UR3e runs PolyScope and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2. The xArm 6 is programmed in UFACTORY Studio with graphical blocks or a Python SDK, with Ethernet, RS-485 and 16 digital inputs and outputs, and an AC or DC control box.
Best applications for the UR3e
Precise benchtop assembly
Fast pick-and-place
Force-controlled insertion and screwdriving
Best applications for the UFACTORY xArm 6
Research and education
Low-cost light handling up to 5 kg
Mobile manipulators with a DC control box
UR3e advantages
±0.03 mm repeatability
3 m/s speed
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR3e limitations
About 3.8 times the xArm 6 listed price
3 kg payload
UFACTORY xArm 6 advantages
About 74% lower listed price
5 kg payload and 700 mm reach
Python SDK
UFACTORY xArm 6 limitations
±0.1 mm repeatability
1 m/s speed
Final verdict
Choose the UFACTORY xArm 6 for low-cost light automation, research and education. Choose the UR3e for precise, fast production assembly.
The required precision usually decides this pair.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR3e or the UFACTORY xArm 6?
The xArm 6 is listed from $8,899 and the UR3e from $33,800, a difference of $24,901.
Which robot carries more?
The xArm 6 carries 5 kg and the UR3e 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The xArm 6 reaches 700 mm and the UR3e 500 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR3e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the xArm 6 ±0.1 mm.
Which robot is faster?
The UR3e publishes 3 m/s and the xArm 6 1 m/s.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the xArm 6 for budget and reach. Choose the UR3e for precision and speed.
