UR5e vs Techman TM5-900: Cobot Comparison of Payload, Reach and Vision
Updated: 2 days ago
The Universal Robots UR5e and the Techman TM5-900 have similar reach and weight. The UR5e carries more and is more precise. The TM5-900 reaches a little further, moves faster and has built-in vision at a slightly lower price.
Quick verdict. The UR5e is the better choice for heavier tools and precise work, with 1 kg more payload and ±0.03 mm repeatability. The Techman TM5-900 is the better choice for vision-guided tasks, with a built-in camera, a 4 m/s speed and a listed price about 13% lower.
Availability note (October 2026): Techman Robot is discontinuing the TM5-900 (HW3.2 series). Final orders close on December 1, 2026 in Europe and March 31, 2027 elsewhere. Techman recommends the TM5S as its replacement.
UR5e and Techman TM5-900 at a glance
The UR5e carries 5 kg over 850 mm, repeats to ±0.03 mm and weighs 20.6 kg.
The TM5-900 carries 4 kg over 946 mm, repeats to ±0.05 mm and weighs 22 kg.
Main specification comparison
Specification | Universal Robots UR5e | Techman TM5-900 |
Brand | Universal Robots | Techman |
Listed price | $35,000 | $30,300 |
Payload | 5 kg | 4 kg |
Reach | 850 mm | 946 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 TM5-900: listed from $30,300
Difference: $4,700
The TM5-900 costs roughly 13% less
Payload and reach
The UR5e carries 5 kg, 1 kg more than the TM5-900. The TM5-900 reaches 946 mm, 96 mm more. For heavier grippers the UR5e has more margin, and for wider layouts the TM5-900 has more envelope.
Precision and speed
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability, against ±0.05 mm for the TM5-900. Techman publishes a 4 m/s maximum speed for the TM5-900.
Vision versus force sensing
The TM5-900's built-in vision system handles part location, code reading and simple inspection without an external camera. The UR5e's 50 N / 10 Nm force/torque sensor and 17 configurable safety functions support precise, force-controlled assembly.
Programming and connectivity
The UR5e runs PolyScope with UR+ accessories and supports Modbus TCP, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP. The TM5-900 is programmed in Techman's flowchart-based TMflow and publishes RS-232, Ethernet, Modbus TCP/RTU and 16 digital inputs and outputs. Both arms are rated IP54.
Best applications for the UR5e
Precise assembly and insertion
Machine tending up to 5 kg
Force-controlled screwdriving
Best applications for the Techman TM5-900
Vision-guided pick-and-place
Inspection and code reading
Fast light handling
UR5e advantages
5 kg payload
±0.03 mm repeatability
Built-in force/torque sensor
UR5e limitations
About $4,700 higher listed price
Techman TM5-900 advantages
Built-in vision system
946 mm reach and 4 m/s speed
About 13% lower listed price
Techman TM5-900 limitations
4 kg payload
Final verdict
Choose the UR5e for payload, precision and force control. Choose the Techman TM5-900 for vision-guided handling with a little more reach.
Both arms fit the same cells, so the sensing approach is the main decision.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the UR5e or the Techman TM5-900?
The TM5-900 is listed from $30,300 and the UR5e from $35,000, a difference of $4,700.
Which robot carries more?
The UR5e carries 5 kg and the TM5-900 4 kg.
Which robot has the longer reach?
The TM5-900 reaches 946 mm and the UR5e 850 mm.
Which robot is more precise?
The UR5e publishes ±0.03 mm repeatability and the TM5-900 ±0.05 mm.
Which robot has built-in vision?
The TM5-900 has a vision system built into the arm.
Which robot should I buy?
Choose the UR5e for precision and payload. Choose the TM5-900 for vision.
