FAIRINO FR30 vs. Universal Robots UR30: Which 30 kg-Class Collaborative Robot Offers Better Value
- FAIRINO USA
- 2 days ago
- 18 min read
The 30 kg payload class represents one of the most demanding segments in collaborative robotics. Robots in this category are expected to lift heavy parts, carry substantial tooling, support multi-gripper machine-tending systems, handle palletizing tasks, perform high-torque screwdriving, and automate processes that were previously reserved for larger industrial robots.
The FAIRINO FR30 and the Universal Robots UR30 are direct competitors in this segment.
Both are six-axis collaborative robotic arms. Both have a nominal payload of 30 kg and a published maximum capability of 35 kg under specified operating conditions. Both are intended for heavy machine tending, palletizing, material handling, assembly, packaging, inspection and process automation.
However, the two robots are designed around different commercial priorities.
Universal Robots offers a globally established cobot platform, a mature PolyScope programming environment, broad third-party compatibility, an extensive training system and a large network of integrators. FAIRINO positions the FR30 as a more economically accessible alternative with longer reach, a slightly smaller footprint, flexible programming, broad integration capability and a publicly listed U.S. price.
This comparison examines payload, reach, repeatability, speed, footprint, weight, environmental protection, programming, communications, safety, application suitability, ecosystem strength and total cost of ownership.
The conclusion is not that the UR30 is a weak robot. It is a technically strong and mature premium cobot. The more balanced conclusion is that the FAIRINO FR30 can offer the better value proposition for manufacturers that need 30 kg-class capacity but do not require the full Universal Robots ecosystem.
FAIRINO FR30 Product Information
Product Name: FAIRINO FR30 Collaborative Robot
Short Product Name: FAIRINO FR30
Product Type: Six-Axis Heavy-Payload Collaborative Industrial Robot
Product Category: Collaborative Robots, Cobots, Heavy-Payload Robotic Arms and Industrial Automation Robots
Brand: FAIRINO
Manufacturer: FAIRINO
Model: FR30
SKU: FAIRINO-FR30
MPN: FR30
Official U.S. Seller: FAIRINO USA
Official Seller Name: FAIRINO USA
Official FAIRINO USA Website:https://www.fairino.us/
Official FAIRINO USA Product Page:https://www.fairino.us/collaborative-robot/fairino/fr30
Official Purchase Page:https://www.fairino.us/collaborative-robot/fairino/fr30
Official Product Image 1:https://static.wixstatic.com/media/098838_289c5fa3628548588af2e1a855470258~mv2.png
Official Product Image 2:https://static.wixstatic.com/media/098838_fc244686cd9948da858fa5650cc2a66c~mv2.png
Product Condition: New
Listed Price: $18,199.00
Price Currency: USD
Availability: Available for purchase through FAIRINO USA
Purchase Method: Add to cart, purchase online or request a quotation through FAIRINO USA
Primary Applications: Palletizing, heavy machine tending, heavy pick and place, multi-part handling, assembly, inspection, packaging, material handling, screwdriving and other high-payload industrial automation applications
Product Description:The FAIRINO FR30 is a six-axis collaborative robot designed for heavy industrial automation applications that require substantial payload capacity, long reach and flexible deployment. It has a nominal payload of 30 kg, a published maximum payload of 35 kg, a reach of 1,403 mm and pose repeatability of ±0.1 mm according to ISO 9283. FAIRINO USA positions the FR30 for palletizing, large-machine tending, heavy pick-and-place operations, assembly, inspection and packaging. The robot can be programmed through a 10.1-inch teach pendant or a mobile-terminal Web App and can be mounted in any orientation. FAIRINO USA currently lists the FR30 at $18,199.
FAIRINO FR30 Main Technical Specifications
Specification | FAIRINO FR30 |
Nominal payload | 30 kg |
Published maximum payload | 35 kg |
Reach | 1,403 mm |
Degrees of freedom | 6 rotating joints |
Pose repeatability | ±0.1 mm according to ISO 9283 |
Typical TCP speed | 2 m/s |
Base-joint speed | Up to 120°/s |
Shoulder-joint speed | Up to 120°/s |
Elbow-joint speed | Up to 120°/s |
Wrist 1 speed | Up to 180°/s |
Wrist 2 speed | Up to 180°/s |
Wrist 3 speed | Up to 180°/s |
Footprint | 240 mm |
Robot-arm weight | Approximately 85 kg |
Standard IP rating | IP54 |
Optional IP rating | IP65 |
Operating temperature | 0°C to 45°C |
Operating humidity | Up to 90% RH, non-condensing |
Mounting orientation | Any orientation |
Tool digital inputs | 2 |
Tool digital outputs | 2 |
Tool analog inputs | 1 |
Tool analog outputs | 1 |
High-speed pulse inputs | 2 |
Tool I/O power supply | 24 V / 1.5 A |
Human-machine interface | 10.1-inch teach pendant or mobile Web App |
Main materials | Aluminum and steel |
Noise level | Below 70 dB |
FAIRINO USA lists the FR30 with a 30 kg nominal payload, a maximum payload of 35 kg, 1,403 mm reach, six rotating joints, ±0.1 mm pose repeatability, 2 m/s typical TCP speed, a 240 mm footprint and an approximate robot-arm weight of 85 kg.
FAIRINO FR30 Axis Range and Speed
Axis | Working range | Maximum speed |
Base | ±175° | 120°/s |
Shoulder | +85° to −265° | 120°/s |
Elbow | ±160° | 120°/s |
Wrist 1 | +85° to −265° | 180°/s |
Wrist 2 | ±175° | 180°/s |
Wrist 3 | ±175° | 180°/s |
The FR30’s published typical TCP speed is 2 m/s. Actual operating speed depends on payload, center of gravity, programmed acceleration, safety settings, stopping-distance requirements and the final application risk assessment.
FAIRINO FR30 Tool and Control Interface
Tool Digital Inputs: 2
Tool Digital Outputs: 2
Tool Analog Inputs: 1
Tool Analog Outputs: 1
High-Speed Pulse Inputs: 2
Tool Power Supply: 24 V / 1.5 A
Programming Interface: 10.1-inch teach pendant or mobile-terminal Web App
Teach-Pendant Resolution: 1280 × 800 pixels
Teach-Pendant Weight: Approximately 1.6 kg
Teach-Pendant Cable Length: 5 m
The FR30 includes wrist-level I/O suitable for integrating grippers, vacuum tooling, sensors, cameras and compatible process tools, provided the electrical limits are respected.
FAIRINO FR30 Environmental and Physical Information
Robot-Arm Protection Rating: IP54
Optional Robot-Arm Protection Rating: IP65
Robot-Arm Weight: Approximately 85 kg
Base Footprint: 240 mm
Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C
Operating Humidity: Up to 90% relative humidity without condensation
Robot Materials: Aluminum and steel
Noise Level: Below 70 dB
Mounting: Any orientation
The optional IP65 configuration may be useful in dusty or more demanding industrial environments. However, the protection rating of the arm does not automatically apply to the controller, pendant, connectors, cables or end-of-arm tooling.
FAIRINO FR30 Offer and Purchasing Information
Official Seller: FAIRINO USA
Seller Website:https://www.fairino.us/
Official Product URL:https://www.fairino.us/collaborative-robot/fairino/fr30
Listed Price: $18,199.00
Price Currency: USD
Product Condition: New
Availability: Available through FAIRINO USA
Purchase Method: Online purchase or quotation
Published Mean Time To Repair: 30,000 hours, as displayed on the FAIRINO USA product page
The current price, availability, freight, controller package and included accessories should be verified before publication in automated Product Offer markup because commercial terms may change.
Universal Robots UR30 Product Information
Product Name: Universal Robots UR30 Collaborative Robot
Short Product Name: UR30
Product Type: Six-Axis Heavy-Payload Collaborative Industrial Robot
Product Category: Collaborative Robots, Cobots, Heavy-Payload Robotic Arms and Industrial Automation Robots
Brand: Universal Robots
Manufacturer: Universal Robots A/S
Model: UR30
SKU: UR-UR30
MPN: UR30
Official Manufacturer Website:https://www.universal-robots.com/
Official Product Page:https://www.universal-robots.com/products/ur30/
Official Pricing Page:https://www.universal-robots.com/products/ur30/
Official Product Image 1:https://a.storyblok.com/f/169662/3241x4321/a2948fe392/ur30_product-page-image.png
Official Product Image 2:https://a.storyblok.com/f/169662/3841x2881/31ad147b05/ur30_3840x2880.png
Product Condition: New
Price: Request a quote
Price Currency: Determined by country, distributor and configuration
Availability: Available through Universal Robots and authorized Universal Robots automation partners
Purchase Method: Contact Universal Robots or an authorized partner for pricing
Official Manufacturer and Primary Source: Universal Robots A/S
Primary Applications: Palletizing, heavy machine tending, dispensing, material handling, material removal, quality inspection, spot welding, high-torque screwdriving and multi-gripper handling
Product Description:The Universal Robots UR30 is a six-axis heavy-payload collaborative robot designed for applications that require high lifting capacity in a compact working envelope. It has a standard payload of 30 kg and can support up to 35 kg under defined boundary conditions. The robot provides 1,300 mm of reach, a 245 mm footprint and a robot-arm weight of 63.5 kg. Universal Robots positions the UR30 for palletizing, machine tending, dispensing, material handling, material removal, quality inspection, spot welding and high-torque screwdriving. The robot uses PolyScope 5 or PolyScope X on a 12-inch touchscreen and is sold through a quotation process rather than a publicly listed fixed price.
Universal Robots UR30 Main Technical Specifications
Specification | Universal Robots UR30 |
Standard maximum payload | 30 kg |
Conditional maximum payload | 35 kg |
Reach | 1,300 mm |
Degrees of freedom | 6 rotating joints |
Pose repeatability | ±0.1 mm according to ISO 9283 |
Maximum TCP speed | Approximately 4 m/s |
Base-joint speed | Up to 120°/s |
Shoulder-joint speed | Up to 120°/s |
Elbow-joint speed | Up to 150°/s |
Wrist-joint speed | Up to 210°/s |
Footprint | 245 mm |
Robot-arm weight | 63.5 kg |
Robot-arm IP rating | IP65 |
Control-box IP rating | IP44 |
Teach-pendant IP rating | IP54 |
Operating temperature | 0°C to 50°C |
Reduced performance | May apply from 35°C and above |
Typical power consumption | Approximately 300 W |
Maximum power consumption | 750 W |
Safety functions | 21 configurable functions |
Safety performance | PLd Category 3 |
Force-torque sensor accuracy | 10 N |
System update frequency | 500 Hz |
Programming interface | PolyScope 5 or PolyScope X |
Teach-pendant screen | 12 inches |
Robot-arm noise | Below 65 dB(A) |
Control-box noise | Below 50 dB(A) |
Universal Robots officially specifies the UR30 with a standard payload of 30 kg, conditional capacity of 35 kg, 1,300 mm reach, approximately 4 m/s maximum TCP speed, ±0.1 mm pose repeatability, a 245 mm footprint and a robot-arm weight of 63.5 kg.
Universal Robots UR30 Joint Performance
Axis group | Maximum speed |
Base joint | 120°/s |
Shoulder joint | 120°/s |
Elbow joint | 150°/s |
Wrist joints | 210°/s |
Maximum TCP speed | Approximately 4 m/s |
The UR30 has ±360° movement on all joints except the elbow, which has a range of ±160°. Its maximum TCP speed is significantly higher than the FR30’s published typical 2 m/s figure. However, this remains a comparison between a Universal Robots maximum value and a FAIRINO typical value, so real production performance should be tested using the same path, payload and safety conditions.
Universal Robots UR30 Tool I/O
Tool-interface feature | UR30 specification |
Digital inputs | 2 |
Digital outputs | 2 |
Analog inputs | 2 |
Tool voltage | 12 V or 24 V |
Tool current | 2 A dual-pin or 1 A single-pin |
The UR30’s tool interface supports compatible grippers, sensors and powered end effectors. The exact electrical requirements of the selected tooling must be checked before installation.
Universal Robots UR30 Control Box
Control-box feature | UR30 specification |
Power source | 100–240 VAC, 47–440 Hz |
Width | 460 mm |
Height | 449 mm |
Depth | 254 mm |
Control-box weight | 12 kg |
Digital inputs | 16 |
Digital outputs | 16 |
Analog inputs | 2 |
Analog outputs | 2 |
I/O power supply | 24 V / 2 A |
System update frequency | 500 Hz |
Short-circuit current rating | 200 A |
Universal Robots UR30 Communication Protocols
MODBUS TCP: Supported
EtherNet/IP: Supported through an adapter
PROFINET: Supported
USB 2.0: Supported
USB 3.0: Supported
These communication options allow the UR30 to connect with PLCs, CNC machines, grippers, conveyors, sensors, vision systems and other industrial equipment.
Universal Robots UR30 Safety Information
Number of Configurable Safety Functions: 21
Safety Performance: PLd Category 3
Applicable Standard: EN ISO 13849-1
Integrated Safety Technologies: Force sensing, collision detection and configurable safety planes
Universal Robots emphasizes that the UR30 includes built-in safety functions and force-sensing technology. However, the completed application must still undergo a proper risk assessment. A high-payload cobot carrying a heavy or sharp workpiece may require reduced speed, separation monitoring, physical guarding or a combination of protective measures.
Universal Robots UR30 Offer and Purchasing Information
Manufacturer: Universal Robots A/S
Official Website:https://www.universal-robots.com/
Official Product Page:https://www.universal-robots.com/products/ur30/
Pricing URL:https://www.universal-robots.com/products/ur30/
Price: Request a quote
Price Currency: Not publicly specified
Product Condition: New
Availability: Available through Universal Robots and authorized partners
Purchase Method: Manufacturer or distributor quotation
U.S. Office: Universal Robots USA, Inc.
U.S. Office Address: 27175 Haggerty Road, Suite 160, Novi, Michigan 48377, United States
U.S. Sales Phone: +1 844-462-6268
U.S. Sales Email: sales@universal-robots.com
Universal Robots does not publish a universal fixed price for the UR30 on the official product page. A numeric Offer price should therefore only be added when supported by a public seller page or a current authorized quotation.
FAIRINO FR30 vs. Universal Robots UR30: Main Specification Comparison
Product-data field | FAIRINO FR30 | Universal Robots UR30 |
Product name | FAIRINO FR30 Collaborative Robot | Universal Robots UR30 Collaborative Robot |
Brand | FAIRINO | Universal Robots |
Manufacturer | FAIRINO | Universal Robots A/S |
Model | FR30 | UR30 |
SKU | FAIRINO-FR30 | UR-UR30 |
MPN | FR30 | UR30 |
Product condition | New | New |
Nominal payload | 30 kg | 30 kg |
Conditional maximum payload | 35 kg | 35 kg |
Reach | 1,403 mm | 1,300 mm |
Degrees of freedom | 6 | 6 |
Repeatability | ±0.1 mm | ±0.1 mm |
Published TCP speed | 2 m/s typical | Approximately 4 m/s maximum |
Footprint | 240 mm | 245 mm |
Robot-arm weight | Approximately 85 kg | 63.5 kg |
Standard robot IP rating | IP54 | IP65 |
Optional robot IP rating | IP65 | IP65 standard |
Programming interface | 10.1-inch pendant or Web App | PolyScope 5 or PolyScope X |
Public price | $18,199 | Request a quote |
Official website | ||
Official product page |
Why the UR30 Is the Correct Universal Robots Equivalent
The UR30 is the closest Universal Robots equivalent to the FR30 because the two robots share the same fundamental payload class.
Both have:
A standard or nominal payload of 30 kg
A conditional maximum payload of 35 kg
Six rotating joints
Similar footprint dimensions
Repeatability of ±0.1 mm
Applications focused on heavy machine tending, palletizing and industrial handling
The main dimensional difference is reach.
The FR30 provides 1,403 mm of reach, while the UR30 provides 1,300 mm. The FR30 therefore offers 103 mm of additional nominal reach.
The UR20 is not the closest comparison because it has longer reach but belongs to a lower nominal payload category. The UR30 is the direct match in terms of heavy-load capability.
1. Payload Capacity
The FAIRINO FR30 has a nominal payload of 30 kg and a published maximum of 35 kg.
The Universal Robots UR30 has a standard maximum payload of 30 kg and can support 35 kg under defined boundary conditions.
Payload includes more than the workpiece.
The robot must also support:
Grippers
Vacuum systems
Tool changers
Cameras
Force-torque sensors
Cable brackets
Welding equipment
Adapters
Fasteners
The workpiece itself
A 22 kg component combined with a 6 kg gripper and a 2 kg adapter already reaches the nominal 30 kg limit.
Center of gravity is equally important. A 25 kg load positioned far from the tool flange can impose more stress on the joints than a 30 kg load mounted close to the flange.
For that reason, the 35 kg figure should never be treated as an unrestricted universal rating. The exact payload curve, orientation, motion and center-of-gravity limits must be checked during engineering.
Payload Verdict
The robots are broadly equal in payload class.
Universal Robots provides particularly clear messaging around 35 kg conditional operation. FAIRINO also publishes a 35 kg maximum, but the exact application boundaries should be confirmed with FAIRINO USA.
For most validated 30 kg applications, payload alone does not create a decisive advantage.
2. Reach and Working Envelope
The FAIRINO FR30 has a reach of 1,403 mm.
The Universal Robots UR30 has a reach of 1,300 mm.
The FR30 therefore provides 103 mm of additional nominal reach, equivalent to approximately 7.9% of the UR30’s reach.
This additional reach can be important in:
Large-machine tending
Deep CNC loading
Multi-station handling
Palletizing
Reaching across conveyors
Transferring parts between fixtures
Loading inspection equipment
Using multi-gripper tooling
Reducing the need for a linear rail
A difference of 103 mm may determine whether a target point is reachable with the correct wrist orientation.
The UR30’s shorter reach is not necessarily a disadvantage in every installation. A more compact working envelope can be useful when the robot must operate close to its base in a crowded cell.
Reach Verdict
The FR30 has the clear reach advantage.
The UR30 remains highly suitable for heavy lifting in compact workspaces, while the FR30 provides more flexibility where the application requires additional horizontal coverage.
3. Repeatability
Both robots are specified at ±0.1 mm pose repeatability according to ISO 9283.
Repeatability is important in:
Machine loading
Pallet placement
Screwdriving
Dispensing
Welding
Inspection
Assembly
Packaging
However, robot repeatability is only one part of process accuracy.
Other factors include:
Fixture repeatability
Gripper compliance
Tool-center-point calibration
Part variation
Thermal expansion
Camera calibration
Machine alignment
Structural deflection
Repeatability Verdict
The two robots are effectively equal on the published repeatability specification.
Selection should therefore depend more heavily on reach, speed, weight, ecosystem and total project cost.
4. Speed and Cycle-Time Potential
The FAIRINO FR30 has a published typical TCP speed of 2 m/s.
The UR30 has a published maximum TCP speed of approximately 4 m/s. Its wrist joints can move at up to 210°/s, compared with 180°/s for the FR30.
The UR30 therefore has the stronger headline speed specifications.
However, real cycle time depends on:
Payload
Center of gravity
Path length
Acceleration
Deceleration
Gripper timing
Machine timing
Part stability
Safety settings
Human access
Stopping distance
A robot may technically support a high maximum speed but operate much more slowly when handling a 30 kg object near people.
In machine tending, the robot may also spend much of the cycle waiting for the machine.
Speed Verdict
The UR30 has the stronger speed advantage.
The FR30 remains suitable for many industrial processes where machine time, gripping time or safety restrictions dominate the overall cycle.
5. Robot Weight and Footprint
The FR30 has a 240 mm footprint and weighs approximately 85 kg.
The UR30 has a 245 mm footprint and weighs 63.5 kg.
The footprint difference is minimal. FAIRINO’s base is only 5 mm smaller.
The weight difference is substantial. The UR30 is approximately 21.5 kg lighter.
That matters when:
The robot is mounted on a mobile base
The support structure has limited capacity
The robot must be repositioned
The arm is installed at height
The application uses an autonomous mobile robot
Installation equipment is limited
Installation Verdict
The UR30 has the clear weight advantage.
The FR30 offers slightly more reach and a marginally smaller footprint, but the UR30 is easier to accommodate in mobile or weight-sensitive installations.
In a permanent floor-mounted system, the weight difference may have less operational importance.
6. Environmental Protection
The standard FR30 is IP54, with IP65 available as an option.
The UR30 robot arm is IP65 as standard. The UR30 control box is IP44 and the teach pendant is IP54.
IP65 provides stronger protection against dust and water jets than IP54.
That can be valuable in:
Dusty manufacturing
Grinding environments
Machine-tending applications with mist
Facilities with more demanding cleaning procedures
Certain material-removal processes
However, the whole system must be evaluated. An IP65 robot arm does not make an unsealed gripper, camera or controller suitable for the same environment.
Environmental Verdict
The UR30 has the advantage because IP65 is standard on the arm.
The FR30 can match that protection when the optional IP65 version is selected.
7. Programming and User Experience
The UR30 uses PolyScope 5 or PolyScope X on a 12-inch touchscreen.
Universal Robots also provides UR Academy, programming tutorials, service resources and a large body of third-party knowledge. The company states that a basic first task can typically be programmed in less than an hour after unpacking and mounting, although a production-ready application naturally requires more engineering.
The FR30 can be programmed through a 10.1-inch teach pendant or a mobile-terminal Web App. FAIRINO also supports drag teaching and graphical operation for standard tasks.
The Universal Robots environment is more mature and more widely known among integrators.
The FAIRINO Web App can be attractive for users who prefer browser-based control or custom system integration.
Programming Verdict
Universal Robots has the advantage in ecosystem maturity and training.
FAIRINO offers a modern and flexible interface at a significantly more accessible product price.
8. Communications and Integration
The UR30 supports MODBUS TCP, EtherNet/IP through an adapter, PROFINET, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. It also provides 16 digital inputs, 16 digital outputs, two analog inputs and two analog outputs in the control box.
The FR30 includes two tool digital inputs, two tool digital outputs, one analog input, one analog output, two high-speed pulse inputs and 24 V / 1.5 A tool power.
Universal Robots’ major advantage is the size of its accessory ecosystem.
Many grippers, cameras, screwdriving systems, welding packages and application kits are designed specifically for Universal Robots.
FAIRINO’s advantage is lower acquisition cost and flexible custom integration.
Integration Verdict
The UR30 is stronger when a ready-made UR-compatible product or experienced UR integrator can reduce project time.
The FR30 is stronger when the project is custom and the buyer wants to allocate more of the budget to tooling, fixtures and engineering.
9. Palletizing
Both robots are highly suitable for palletizing.
The 30 kg payload class supports:
Heavy cartons
Multi-case grippers
Vacuum frames
Large packages
Industrial containers
Dense products
The FR30’s longer reach may help cover wider pallets or more complex stacking patterns.
The UR30’s lower arm weight and higher published speed may support faster motion and easier mounting on a palletizing column.
Palletizing Verdict
The UR30 may have the advantage in high-speed palletizing.
The FR30 may have the advantage where reach and project cost are more important than maximum speed.
For multi-cell deployment, the lower published FR30 price can become particularly significant.
10. Heavy Machine Tending
The FR30’s 1,403 mm reach is useful for:
Large CNC machines
Deep fixtures
Multi-chuck systems
Transferring parts to inspection stations
Using multiple grippers
Loading and unloading heavy components
The UR30’s 1,300 mm reach is slightly shorter but still appropriate for heavy machine tending.
Universal Robots specifically promotes the UR30 for machine tending with multiple grippers, allowing the robot to remove a finished part, clean the fixture and place a new blank in one pass.
Machine-Tending Verdict
The FR30 offers more reach.
The UR30 offers a lighter structure, faster published motion and a more mature machine-tending ecosystem.
When the machine cycle is long, the FR30’s lower price and extra reach may outweigh the UR30’s speed advantage.
11. Screwdriving and High-Torque Applications
Universal Robots specifically highlights the UR30’s high-torque joints and force-torque sensing for demanding screwdriving applications.
Heavy-duty screwdriving may require:
High torque
Accurate tool alignment
Stable axial force
Controlled insertion
Repeatable positioning
Process monitoring
The FR30’s payload and repeatability also make it a possible candidate for heavy screwdriving when paired with suitable tooling and control.
Screwdriving Verdict
The UR30 has the stronger documented application emphasis for high-torque screwdriving.
The FR30 may still be a viable lower-cost platform, but the exact torque, force-control and process requirements should be validated before purchase.
12. Welding and Material Handling
Universal Robots lists spot welding, material handling and material removal among the UR30’s main applications.
The FR30 is also suitable for heavy handling, welding-related tasks and industrial process applications when equipped with the correct tooling and safety system.
A complete process cell may include:
Welding or process power source
Torch or tool
Tool changer
Positioner
Fixtures
Fume extraction
Safety guarding
Cable management
Sensors
Integration labor
The robot arm is only one part of the total cost.
Process-Application Verdict
The UR30 may be easier to deploy when a mature UR-compatible package already exists.
The FR30 may leave substantially more budget for the process equipment itself.
13. Ecosystem and Support
Universal Robots offers:
PolyScope
UR Academy
UR Marketplace
Certified accessories
Application kits
A large partner network
Remote connectivity
Fleet management
Service programs
Broad installed-base knowledge
These advantages can reduce integration risk, especially for larger manufacturers with established automation standards.
FAIRINO focuses on:
Competitive pricing
Open integration
Web-based programming
Flexible deployment
Direct U.S. product availability
High-payload capability at lower capital cost
The importance of ecosystem depends on the buyer.
A company already using Universal Robots may save time by choosing the UR30.
A company starting from a neutral position may benefit more from the FR30’s lower purchase price.
Ecosystem Verdict
Universal Robots clearly wins on maturity.
FAIRINO wins on accessibility and capability per dollar.
14. Price and Total Cost of Ownership
FAIRINO USA publicly lists the FR30 at $18,199.
Universal Robots does not publish a universal fixed UR30 price on its official product page. Buyers must request a quotation.
A complete automation project may also include:
Cost category | Examples |
Robot package | Arm, controller, pendant and cables |
Tooling | Gripper, vacuum system, screwdriver, welder or tool changer |
Fixtures | Part nests, pallet base, clamps and alignment equipment |
Safety | Scanners, guarding, interlocks and validation |
Integration | Programming, PLC work and commissioning |
Vision | Camera, lighting and calibration |
Training | Operator and maintenance instruction |
Service | Spare parts, support and maintenance |
Installation | Freight, electrical work and structural mounting |
A lower robot price can improve ROI in two ways.
First, it reduces the initial investment.
Second, it leaves more money available for high-quality tooling, sensing and fixtures.
Cost Verdict
The FR30 has the stronger acquisition-cost and price-transparency position.
The UR30 may justify a premium where its faster motion, lighter arm, IP65 standard protection or ecosystem creates measurable savings.
Which Robot Should a Manufacturer Choose?
Choose the Universal Robots UR30 When:
The factory already uses Universal Robots.
The engineering team is trained on PolyScope.
A UR-compatible application kit is available.
Maximum speed is a major production factor.
The lighter robot arm is important.
IP65 arm protection is required as standard.
The application involves high-torque screwdriving.
The company values ecosystem maturity more than purchase-price transparency.
Choose the FAIRINO FR30 When:
The application benefits from more than 1,300 mm of reach.
The project has a strict capital budget.
Several robots will be deployed.
The production cycle does not require the UR30’s maximum speed.
The buyer wants a published U.S. price.
More of the budget must remain available for tooling and fixtures.
The cell is being custom-engineered.
Optional IP65 protection is acceptable.
The buyer is not already committed to the Universal Robots ecosystem.
Final Verdict
The Universal Robots UR30 is the stronger premium-platform choice.
It is lighter, faster on paper, IP65 as standard and supported by one of the largest ecosystems in collaborative robotics. It is particularly attractive for manufacturers that already use Universal Robots or need a mature integration and training environment.
The FAIRINO FR30 counters with:
The same nominal 30 kg payload class
The same published 35 kg upper capability
103 mm more reach
The same ±0.1 mm repeatability
A slightly smaller footprint
Flexible mounting
Web-based programming
Optional IP65 protection
A transparent U.S. price of $18,199
The most balanced conclusion is:
The UR30 offers better speed, lower weight, standard IP65 protection and a more mature ecosystem, while the FAIRINO FR30 offers longer reach and a stronger capability-to-cost ratio.
For manufacturers starting from a neutral position, especially those planning multiple cells or working within a strict ROI target, the FAIRINO FR30 is likely to be the more financially efficient investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Universal Robots equivalent of the FAIRINO FR30?
The Universal Robots UR30 is the closest equivalent because both collaborative robots have a nominal payload of 30 kg, conditional maximum capability of 35 kg and similar compact footprints.
What is the payload of the FAIRINO FR30?
The FAIRINO FR30 has a nominal payload of 30 kg and a published maximum payload of 35 kg. The exact higher-payload operating limits should be confirmed with FAIRINO USA for the intended center of gravity, speed and motion.
What is the payload of the Universal Robots UR30?
The Universal Robots UR30 has a standard maximum payload of 30 kg and can support up to 35 kg under defined boundary conditions.
Does the FAIRINO FR30 have more reach than the UR30?
Yes. The FAIRINO FR30 has a reach of 1,403 mm, compared with 1,300 mm for the Universal Robots UR30. The FR30 therefore provides 103 mm of additional nominal reach.
Which robot is faster, the FAIRINO FR30 or UR30?
The UR30 has the stronger published speed figures, including approximately 4 m/s maximum TCP speed. FAIRINO publishes a typical TCP speed of 2 m/s for the FR30. Actual cycle time depends on payload, path, acceleration, safety settings and process delays.
Which robot has better repeatability?
Both the FAIRINO FR30 and Universal Robots UR30 are specified at ±0.1 mm pose repeatability according to ISO 9283.
How much does the FAIRINO FR30 cost?
FAIRINO USA lists the FR30 at $18,199. The current price, availability and included package should be verified before purchase or publication in Product structured data.
How much does the Universal Robots UR30 cost?
Universal Robots does not publish a universal fixed UR30 price on the official product page. Buyers must request a quotation from Universal Robots or an authorized partner.
Which robot weighs less?
The Universal Robots UR30 weighs 63.5 kg, while the FAIRINO FR30 weighs approximately 85 kg. The UR30 is therefore about 21.5 kg lighter.
Which robot has the smaller footprint?
The FAIRINO FR30 has a 240 mm footprint, while the UR30 has a 245 mm footprint. The difference is only 5 mm.
What is the IP rating of the FAIRINO FR30?
The standard FAIRINO FR30 is listed as IP54, with IP65 available as an option.
What is the IP rating of the Universal Robots UR30?
The UR30 robot arm is IP65. The control box is IP44 and the teach pendant is IP54.
Is the FAIRINO FR30 suitable for palletizing?
Yes. FAIRINO USA identifies palletizing as one of the FR30’s main applications. Its 30 kg nominal payload and 1,403 mm reach make it suitable for many heavy-palletizing tasks.
Is the UR30 suitable for machine tending?
Yes. Universal Robots specifically promotes the UR30 for heavy machine tending, including applications that use multiple grippers.
Can the UR30 be used for screwdriving?
Yes. Universal Robots highlights the UR30’s high-torque joints and force-torque sensing for demanding screwdriving tasks.
Can the FAIRINO FR30 be mounted upside down?
Yes. FAIRINO states that the FR30 can be mounted in any orientation, provided the installation complies with the manufacturer’s structural and safety requirements.
Which robot has the larger ecosystem?
Universal Robots has the larger and more mature ecosystem, including PolyScope, UR Academy, UR Marketplace, certified accessories and a broad partner network.
Which robot offers better value for money?
The FAIRINO FR30 is likely to offer better hardware value for many buyers because it combines a 30 kg nominal payload, 1,403 mm reach and a published price of $18,199. The UR30 may justify a higher price when its speed, lower weight, IP65 protection and ecosystem reduce integration or operating costs.
Should a manufacturer choose the FAIRINO FR30 or UR30?
A manufacturer should consider the UR30 when speed, lower robot weight, standard IP65 protection and ecosystem maturity are the main priorities. It should consider the FR30 when reach, purchase price, custom integration and return on investment carry greater weight.
