UR5e vs Elite Robots EC63: Cobot Comparison of Price, Payload and Precision
The Universal Robots UR5e and the Elite Robots EC63 cover light automation at very different price points. The UR5e carries more and reaches further. The EC63 is smaller, lighter and more precise, and costs about half as much.
Quick verdict. The UR5e is the better choice when the task needs 5 kg, 850 mm of reach or force control. The Elite EC63 is the value choice for precise benchtop work, with ±0.02 mm repeatability and a listed price about 52% lower.
UR5e and Elite Robots EC63 at a glance
The UR5e carries 5 kg over 850 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 20.6 kg.
The EC63 carries 3 kg over 624 mm, repeats to ±0.02 mm and weighs 13 kg.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR5e | Elite Robots EC63 |
Brand | Universal Robots | Elite Robots |
Listed price | $35,000 | $16,700 |
Payload | 5 kg | 3 kg |
Reach | 850 mm | 624 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 180°/s maximum joint speed on all six joints | 2.0 m/s |
Arm weight | 20.6 kg | 13 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.2 / CB 5.5 | Control cabinet, IP44, 100–240 VAC |
Price comparison
UR5e: listed from $35,000
Elite Robots EC63: listed from $16,700
Difference: $18,300
The EC63 costs roughly 52% less
Payload and reach
The UR5e carries 5 kg, 2 kg more than the EC63, and reaches 850 mm, 226 mm more. Heavier grippers and machine-side work usually need the UR5e.
Precision and weight
Elite publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability for the EC63, against ±0.03 mm for the UR5e. The EC63 weighs 13 kg on a Ø128 mm base, about 8 kg less than the UR5e, and mounts at any angle.
Sensing and safety
The UR5e has a built-in 50 N / 10 Nm force/torque sensor and 17 configurable safety functions certified to EN ISO 13849-1 (PLd, Category 3).
Programming and connectivity
The UR5e runs PolyScope with UR+ accessories and supports Modbus TCP, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP. The EC63 publishes Modbus TCP/RTU, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET and CC-Link as a slave device, plus RS485/RS232. Both arms are rated IP54.
Best applications for the UR5e
Machine tending up to 5 kg
Force-controlled screwdriving
Packaging and kitting
Best applications for the Elite Robots EC63
Precise benchtop assembly
Low-cost light pick-and-place
Education and labs
UR5e advantages
5 kg payload and 850 mm reach
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR+ ecosystem
UR5e limitations
About $18,300 higher listed price
Elite Robots EC63 advantages
About 52% lower listed price
±0.02 mm repeatability
13 kg arm
Elite Robots EC63 limitations
3 kg payload and 624 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the UR5e for more payload, reach and force control. Choose the Elite EC63 for precise, light automation at about half the price.
The required payload is usually the deciding factor.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR5e or the Elite EC63?
The EC63 is listed from $16,700 and the UR5e from $35,000, a difference of $18,300.
Which robot carries more?
The UR5e carries 5 kg and the EC63 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The UR5e reaches 850 mm and the EC63 624 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The EC63 publishes ±0.02 mm repeatability and the UR5e ±0.03 mm.
Which robot is lighter?
The EC63 weighs 13 kg and the UR5e 20.6 kg.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the UR5e for payload and reach. Choose the EC63 for value and precision.
