UR5e vs Techman TM5-700: 5–6 kg Cobot Comparison of Precision, Vision and Price
Updated: 2 days ago
The Universal Robots UR5e and the Techman TM5-700 are mid-size cobots of almost the same weight. The UR5e reaches further and is more precise. The TM5-700 carries a little more, moves faster, has built-in vision and costs about a fifth less.
Quick verdict. The Techman TM5-700 is the value choice for vision-guided handling, with 6 kg payload, a 4 m/s speed, a built-in camera and a listed price about 21% lower. The UR5e is the better choice for precise and force-controlled work, with ±0.03 mm repeatability and 104 mm more reach.
Availability note (October 2026): Techman Robot is discontinuing the TM5-700 (HW3.2 series). Final orders close on December 1, 2026 in Europe and March 31, 2027 elsewhere. Techman recommends the TM7S as its replacement.
UR5e and Techman TM5-700 at a glance
The UR5e carries 5 kg over 850 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 20.6 kg. The UR7e takes its place in the current Universal Robots range.
The TM5-700 carries 6 kg over 746 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm, weighs 22 kg and has a vision system built into the arm.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR5e | Techman TM5-700 |
Brand | Universal Robots | Techman |
Listed price | $35,000 | $27,800 |
Payload | 5 kg | 6 kg |
Reach | 850 mm | 746 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.03 mm | ±0.05 mm |
Axes | 6 | 6 |
Speed | 180°/s maximum joint speed on all six joints | 4 m/s |
Arm weight | 20.6 kg | 22 kg |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 (control box IP32) |
Controller | UR control box CB 5.2 / CB 5.5 | TM control box, programmed with TMflow |
Price comparison
UR5e: listed from $35,000
Techman TM5-700: listed from $27,800
Difference: $7,200
The TM5-700 costs roughly 21% less
Payload and reach
The TM5-700 carries 6 kg, 1 kg more than the UR5e. The UR5e reaches 850 mm, 104 mm more than the TM5-700. The extra kilogram helps with heavier grippers, while the extra reach helps with wider fixtures.
Precision and speed
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability, against ±0.05 mm for the TM5-700. Techman publishes a 4 m/s maximum speed for the TM5-700, which helps in fast pick-and-place cycles.
Vision versus force sensing
The TM5-700's built-in vision system can find parts, read codes and inspect features without adding a camera. The UR5e's 50 N / 10 Nm force/torque sensor supports insertion, press-fit and screwdriving with controlled force, and its safety system offers 17 configurable functions.
Programming and connectivity
The UR5e runs PolyScope with hand-guided teaching and supports Modbus TCP, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP, with UR+ accessories. The TM5-700 is programmed in Techman's flowchart-based TMflow and publishes RS-232, Ethernet, Modbus TCP/RTU, 16 digital inputs and outputs in the control box and 4 at the tool flange.
Best applications for the UR5e
Precise assembly and insertion
Force-controlled screwdriving
Projects built on UR+ accessories
Best applications for the Techman TM5-700
Vision-guided pick-and-place
Inspection and code reading
Fast handling up to 6 kg
UR5e advantages
±0.03 mm repeatability
850 mm reach
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR5e limitations
About $7,200 higher listed price
Techman TM5-700 advantages
About 21% lower listed price
6 kg payload and 4 m/s speed
Built-in vision system
Techman TM5-700 limitations
746 mm reach
Final verdict
Choose the Techman TM5-700 for vision-guided handling at a lower price. Choose the UR5e for precision, reach and force control.
Both arms weigh about 21–22 kg and fit the same carts and pedestals.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR5e or the Techman TM5-700?
The TM5-700 is listed from $27,800 and the UR5e from $35,000, a difference of $7,200.
Which robot carries more?
The TM5-700 carries 6 kg and the UR5e 5 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The UR5e reaches 850 mm and the TM5-700 746 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the TM5-700 ±0.05 mm.
Which robot has built-in vision?
The TM5-700 has a vision system built into the arm.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the TM5-700 for vision and value. Choose the UR5e for precision and force control.
