UR5e vs Hanwha HCR-3A: Cobot Comparison of Price, Payload and Protection
Updated: 12 hours ago
IN A NUTSHELL
🔎 THE KEY DIFFERENCE Universal Robots UR5e 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 UR5e Consider it when additional load capacity and reach matter. This article compares 5 kg with a published reach of 850 mm; include the gripper and part in the load. |
→ CONSIDER Hanwha HCR-3A 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 630 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 UR5e and the Hanwha HCR-3A cover different working areas. The UR5e carries 2 kg more, reaches 220 mm further and repeats more tightly. The HCR-3A is lighter, sealed to IP66 and costs about a third less.
Quick verdict. The UR5e is the better choice when the task needs 5 kg, 850 mm of reach or force control. The Hanwha HCR-3A is the value choice for confined spaces and harsh conditions, with a 13 kg arm, IP66 and a listed price about 33% lower.
UR5e and HCR-3A at a glance
The UR5e carries 5 kg over 850 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 20.6 kg.
The Hanwha HCR-3A carries 3 kg over 630 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm, weighs 13 kg and is rated IP66.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR5e | Hanwha HCR-3A |
Brand | Universal Robots | Hanwha |
Listed price | $35,000 | $23,300 |
Payload | 5 kg | 3 kg |
Reach | 850 mm | 630 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 180°/s maximum joint speed on all six joints | 1 m/s linear speed; joint speeds up to 360°/s |
Arm weight | 20.6 kg | 13 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP66 |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.2 / CB 5.5 | 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
UR5e: listed from $35,000
Hanwha HCR-3A: listed from $23,300
Difference: $11,700
The HCR-3A costs roughly 33% less
Payload, reach and precision
The UR5e carries 5 kg, 2 kg more, and reaches 850 mm, 220 mm more than the HCR-3A. It also publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability against ±0.05 mm. Machine tending and packaging with heavier grippers usually need the UR5e.
Weight, footprint and protection
The HCR-3A weighs 13 kg on a Ø128 mm base, about 7.6 kg less than the UR5e, and is sealed to IP66 against IP54 for the UR5e. Its sixth joint rotates without limit, and Hanwha supports floor, wall and ceiling mounting.
Sensing and connectivity
The UR5e has a built-in 50 N / 10 Nm force/torque sensor and 17 configurable safety functions, and supports PROFINET with PROFIsafe, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and ROS/ROS2. The HCR-3A runs on the HC-S2DC controller with a 12.1-inch teach pendant and communicates over TCP/IP and Modbus TCP.
Best applications for the UR5e
Machine tending up to 5 kg
Force-controlled screwdriving
Packaging and kitting
Best applications for the HCR-3A
Confined workspaces
Wet or dusty areas that need IP66
Budget-conscious light handling
UR5e advantages
5 kg payload and 850 mm reach
±0.03 mm repeatability
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR5e limitations
About $11,700 higher listed price
IP54 rating
HCR-3A advantages
About 33% lower listed price
13 kg arm
IP66
HCR-3A limitations
3 kg payload and 630 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the UR5e for payload, reach and force control. Choose the Hanwha HCR-3A for compact, protected and lower-cost light handling.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR5e or the Hanwha HCR-3A?
The HCR-3A is listed from $23,300 and the UR5e from $35,000, a difference of $11,700.
Which robot carries more?
The UR5e carries 5 kg and the HCR-3A 3 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The UR5e reaches 850 mm and the HCR-3A 630 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the HCR-3A ±0.05 mm.
Which robot has better protection?
The HCR-3A is rated IP66 and the UR5e IP54.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the UR5e for payload and reach. Choose the HCR-3A for value and protection.
