UR5e vs Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch: Cobot Comparison of Reach and Precision
The Universal Robots UR5e and the Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch weigh about the same. The OB7 Stretch reaches 400 mm further, adds a seventh axis and costs about 29% less. The UR5e carries 1 kg more and repeats far more tightly.
Quick verdict. The Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch is the better choice for lathe and machine tending, with 1250 mm reach, 7 axes, teaching by demonstration and a listed price about 29% lower. The UR5e is the better choice for precise and force-controlled work, with 5 kg payload, ±0.03 mm repeatability and the UR+ ecosystem.
UR5e and OB7 Stretch at a glance
The UR5e carries 5 kg over 850 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 20.6 kg.
The Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch carries 4 kg over 1250 mm with 7 axes, repeats to ±0.1 mm and weighs 22 kg.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR5e | Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch |
Brand | Universal Robots | Productive Robotics |
Listed price | $35,000 | $25,000 |
Payload | 5 kg | 4 kg |
Reach | 850 mm | 1250 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Axes | 6 | 7 |
Speed | 180°/s maximum joint speed on all six joints | 2 m/s |
Arm weight | 20.6 kg | 22 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | Not specified |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.2 / CB 5.5 | OB7 control computer with zero-programming teach tablet |
Price comparison
UR5e: listed from $35,000
Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch: listed from $25,000
Difference: $10,000
The OB7 Stretch costs roughly 29% less
Reach and axes
The OB7 Stretch reaches 1250 mm, 400 mm more than the UR5e, and its 7 axes let it reach into machines around doors and fixtures. It is widely used for tending lathes. Both arms weigh about 21 to 22 kg, so both suit carts and pedestals.
Payload and precision
The UR5e carries 5 kg, 1 kg more, and publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability against ±0.1 mm for the OB7 Stretch. Precise assembly and insertion favor the UR5e.
Programming and features
OB7 jobs are taught by demonstration from a tablet, with EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP and Modbus for machine communication. The UR5e has a built-in 50 N / 10 Nm force/torque sensor, 17 configurable safety functions and PolyScope with PROFINET, ROS/ROS2 and UR+ accessories.
Best applications for the UR5e
Precise assembly and insertion
Force-controlled screwdriving
Packaging with UR+ tools
Best applications for the OB7 Stretch
Lathe and CNC tending
Cart-mounted machine service
Teams without programming staff
UR5e advantages
5 kg payload
±0.03 mm repeatability
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR5e limitations
850 mm reach
About $10,000 higher listed price
OB7 Stretch advantages
1250 mm reach and 7 axes
Teaching by demonstration
About 29% lower listed price
OB7 Stretch limitations
±0.1 mm repeatability
4 kg payload
Final verdict
Choose the Productive Robotics OB7 Stretch for machine tending with long reach. Choose the UR5e for precision, payload and force control.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR5e or the OB7 Stretch?
The OB7 Stretch is listed from $25,000 and the UR5e from $35,000, a difference of $10,000.
Which robot carries more?
The UR5e carries 5 kg and the OB7 Stretch 4 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The OB7 Stretch reaches 1250 mm and the UR5e 850 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the OB7 Stretch ±0.1 mm.
How is the OB7 programmed?
Jobs are taught by demonstration through a tablet.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the OB7 Stretch for machine tending. Choose the UR5e for precision.
