Choosing between two used collaborative robots for manufacturing or lab automation often comes down to how much payload you need and how much you can spend. The Rethink Robotics Sawyer and the Universal Robots UR5e are both proven cobots with different strengths. The Sawyer sells for $6,995 with a gripper included, while the UR5e is listed at $21,000. Your decision hinges on whether the UR5e's higher payload and tighter repeatability justify the extra $14,005.
Quick verdict: Choose the Sawyer if you want a 7-axis arm with long reach and built-in vision for education or lighter machine tending. Choose the UR5e if you need 5 kg payload, ±0.03 mm repeatability, and the most widely deployed cobot in the world, and you can afford the higher price.
| Feature | Rethink Robotics Sawyer | Universal Robots UR5e |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $6,995 | $21,000 |
| Payload | 4 kg | 5 kg |
| Reach | 900 mm | 850 mm |
| Axes | 7 | 6 |
| Key extras | Gripper included, built-in vision, force sensing in each joint | 6-axis force/torque sensor, ±0.03 mm repeatability, PolyScope touchscreen |
| Condition | Used | Used, low hours |
Where the Sawyer wins: It costs $14,005 less, includes a gripper, offers a longer 900 mm reach, and its 7-axis design with per-joint force sensing plus built-in vision makes it well suited for inspection and pick-and-place tasks. The Intera 5.3 software and ROS SDK modes give multiple programming paths.
Where the UR5e wins: It handles a heavier 5 kg payload, repeats to ±0.03 mm, and its 6-axis force/torque sensor supports force-sensitive tasks like insertion and polishing. The 12-inch PolyScope touchscreen makes hand-guiding straightforward, and its compact Ø 149 mm footprint mounts in any orientation.
Rethink Robotics Sawyer Collaborative Robot - New Bios (Gripper Included)
The Sawyer is a 7-axis used cobot from Rethink Robotics with a 4 kg payload and 900 mm reach. It includes an electric parallel gripper, and its joints have force sensing. A built-in vision system helps it place parts on inspection systems or load CNC machines. Programming can be done through Intera 5.3 software or via SDK mode with ROS. The bios battery in the controller was recently changed. The main limitation is the 4 kg payload, which is lighter than the UR5e's 5 kg capacity. At $6,995, the Sawyer costs significantly less than the UR5e, making it an affordable choice for education or lighter manufacturing tasks. For applications that fit within its payload envelope, the Sawyer offers a strong mix of reach, vision, and price.
Universal Robots UR5e Collaborative Robot (Cobot) - 5 kg Payload, Low Hours
The UR5e is a used 6-axis cobot from Universal Robots with a 5 kg payload and 850 mm reach. Its integrated 6-axis force/torque sensor and ±0.03 mm repeatability make it suitable for precision insertion, polishing, screwdriving, and lab automation. Programming uses the 12-inch PolyScope touchscreen, so you can hand-guide the arm to teach waypoints without prior robotics experience. The compact Ø 149 mm footprint can mount in any orientation. The main limitation is the $21,000 asking price, which is $14,005 more than the Sawyer. For that higher price, you get a greater payload, tighter repeatability, and the familiarity of the most widely deployed cobot in the world. If your tasks demand the extra payload and precision, the UR5e is a compelling choice.
Final choice by use case: For CNC loading, packaging pick-and-place, and STEM education on a tight budget, the Sawyer with its gripper and vision system is the clear pick. For precision assembly, force-sensitive tasks, and laboratory automation where repeatability matters more than cost, the UR5e is worth the higher investment. If you only need to move parts under 4 kg and want the lowest entry price, the Sawyer is the better value.
