How much do Robots Cost?
How much do robots cost? This tool evaluates robotic cost and helps determine how long it typically takes to recover your investment. By closely examining these factors, you can make a more informed decision regarding the costs associated with robotics.
Robotics ROI Calculator
Estimate complete robotic cell cost, annual savings, payback period and ROI by application.
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ROI Results
Robotic Cost
Industrial robots typically range from £15,000 to over £50,000+ depending on their type, size, and function. Generally, collaborative robots (cobots) and smaller industrial arms are less expensive, while high-payload or high-precision models come at a premium. In addition to the robot itself, extra costs arise from tooling, safety systems, integration, and programming, often bringing the total cost of a robotic cell to between £25,000 and £50,000+. The overall price largely depends on task complexity, production volume, and required performance.
Formulas to calculate Robotic System ROI
On the calculation formulas, we intend to provide an example to give an idea of the robotic investment vs when the robot will pay back. Therefore, these numbers vary according to equipment required, commissioning & robot installation or current costs.
Current Cost
- Yearly Cost = 1 (employee) * 2 (shift) * 60,000 (salary & benefits) + 9,000 (downtime) + 10,000 (scrap) = 130,000
Robot Investment
- Potential Investment = Industrial Robot Cost + EOAT + Turntable + Control Panel + Robot Training + Programming + Commissioning & project management + Cell Guarding + All equipment (if needed) = 65,000
Future Scenario
- Yearly Cost = 0.5 (employee) * 2 (shift) * 60,000 (salary) + 1,000 (downtime) + 2,000 (scrap) = 63,000
Cost Savings
- Savings= Yearly Cost (80,000) – Potential Costs + Production Improvements (63,000) = 67,000
Robot Payback
- ROI = Robot Investment (65,000) / Savings amount (67,000) = Payback [years] = 0.97 years
Use our robot calculator to estimate all costs involved
It is not an easy task because every project is unique and it is based on the company’s needs
Current Robot Cost
Robots are efficient and deliver consistent results, providing reliability for business owners. However, many people often wonder about the cost of industrial robots. So, how much do they actually cost?
First, evaluate the current labour costs related to manual work. It is essential for the company to define the specific robotic tasks they wish to automate.
The current costs include:
- Number of employees per shift
- Number of shifts per day
- Annual cost of employees
- Costs associated with downtime
- Expenses for scrap parts
Robotic System Investment
Second, obtain at least three quotes from a robot integration company. Ensure that the integrator manages the scope document for accurate quotations that align with your company’s requirements.
The investment in the robotic system cell must comply with safety standards and include any additional equipment necessary for the robotic application. We recommend selecting high-quality components and equipment, as they offer better reliability.
How to start in Robotic Automation?
Basic robot systems usually do not include advanced technology, for example, vision systems or complex or multiple control panels. However, if the company require these or other automated equipment must consult with a robot integrator.
Element Robotic Investment
- Industrial Robot – Select a new industrial arm or refurbished robots, based on your budget. A refurbished robot is reliable and can last up to 20 years if properly maintained.
- Integrated turntable
- End-of-arm tooling (grippers, spindles, etc.)
- Robot Control Panel (electrical design, control panel construction and testing)
- Mechanical installation
- Trajectory robot programming if needed
- Robot training if required
- Integration and commissioning expenses
- Cell guarding (including safety devices)
Future Scenario
There is no need to lay off staff who handle manual tasks. The robot can take on repetitive jobs, allowing employees to acquire new skills, such as:
- Operating the industrial robotic arm.
- Programming the robot.
- Focusing on valuable tasks like quality assurance.
- Maintaining the robot.
Employees often fear job loss, but they soon recognize the benefits of robotics. We recommend that staff continue to learn new skills, as this leads to improved job opportunities.
Explore Robotic Solutions for Cost Savings
When Does ROI Robot Cost Pay Off?
When robot investments pay off depends on several factors, including the type of robot, the application, and the business context. Here’s a structured breakdown:
2. Factors Influencing Payoff Timing
| Factor | Impact on Payoff |
|---|---|
| Type of robot | Industrial robots (welding, palletising) usually have faster ROI than collaborative robots because of higher throughput. |
| Application complexity | Simple tasks (pick-and-place, palletising) show payback in months, while complex tasks (painting, assembly) may take longer due to programming and setup. |
| Production volume | High-volume production spreads the cost over more units → faster ROI. Low-volume production may delay payoff. |
| Labour cost | Higher local labour costs accelerate ROI, as robots replace expensive human labour. |
| Maintenance & downtime | Reliable robots with low maintenance costs pay off faster. Unexpected downtime can delay ROI. |
| Flexibility needs | Robots that handle multiple tasks reduce future costs of adding new lines, increasing long-term ROI. |
1. Understanding ROI for Robotics
The return on investment (ROI) associated with robotic systems is typically evaluated by analysing the time required for the cumulative costs (including acquisition, installation, programming, training, and maintenance) to be balanced by the savings or additional revenue generated from the implementation of robotics.
Key components of ROI calculation:
- Initial costs: Acquisition of robotic hardware, end-of-arm tooling, system integration, software development, and operator training.
- Operational savings: Reduced labour costs, increased production throughput, lower scrap/rework rates, and a reduction in workplace injuries.
- Revenue gains: Faster production cycles, improved product quality, shorter lead times, and the introduction of new operational capabilities.
4. Tips to Improve ROI
- Focus on high-volume tasks for quick results.
- Ensure complete integration to prevent idle robots.
- Provide training to help operators manage and enhance robot usage.
- Use modular or collaborative robots for versatility in production.
- Track key metrics like cycle time, downtime, scrap rates, and labor savings.
3. Typical Payback Periods
- Simple tasks (like packaging and palletising): 6–18 months
- Moderate tasks (such as machine tending and assembly): 1–2 years
- Complex tasks (including welding, painting, and quality inspection): 2–5 years
A palletising robot costing £50,000 can replace 1–2 full-time workers. With monthly savings of £3,000 from labour and operations, you’ll see a return on investment in about 14–17 months.
Cost-Effective Robotics: ROI Over Time
Robotic applications that replace repetitive manual labour are usually the most cost-effective and provide quick ROI. These applications often require little custom tooling and can run multiple shifts, making them a great starting point for manufacturers new to robotics.
- Palletising / Depalletising
ROI: 6–12 months
Quick return due to labor replacement and easy integration. - Machine Tending
ROI: 6–15 months
Good return from better machine uptime and unattended operation. - Robotic Welding
ROI: 12–24 months
Medium ROI; higher initial cost but notable savings at scale. - Robotic Painting / Coating
ROI: 18–36 months
Longer payback because of safety and compliance costs; consistent long-term benefits. - Assembly / Pick-and-Place
ROI: 18–30 months
ROI changes based on part uniformity, vision requirements, and product design. - Inspection / Quality Automation
ROI: 24–36 months
Slowest return; savings come from less scrap, rework, and ensuring compliance.
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Advantages of Robotic Systems
One operator can manage 2 to 3 industrial robots depending on their tasks. Additionally, employee salaries and the number of shifts may stay the same.
- Higher quality products
- Faster delivery times
- Less scrap
- Cost savings
Satisfied customers, employees, and employers
Now is a great time to invest in industrial robots, as prices have decreased in recent years. Reconditioned robots are also a viable option for companies on a budget.
Phoenix provides clear solutions for industrial robot automation. Our goal is to ensure customer satisfaction, which includes support during the sales process, commissioning, and after the sale.
robotic turnkey solutions at affordable price
Phoenix provides robotic turnkey solutions for clients. We design and install robotic cells globally for a range of applications including welding, milling, painting, and assembly robots. We assist clients in reducing costs by offering support throughout the automation process and after commissioning. Discover more about Robotic Manufacturing, Manufacturing Automation, and Robotic Automation.