China has emerged as the world's second-largest producer of collaborative robots, with over 15 domestic manufacturers shipping internationally. In 2026, Chinese cobots offer 40-60% cost savings compared to Universal Robots and FANUC, while closing the quality gap rapidly.
This guide profiles the top 10 Chinese cobot manufacturers, compares their product lines, and helps you choose the right partner for your automation project.
1. Dobot (越疆科技)
Headquarters: Shenzhen | Founded: 2015 | Robots Deployed: 55,000+
Dobot is China's most internationally recognized cobot brand with the widest product range (CR3 through CR20). Strong presence in 140+ countries with established distributor networks.
Best For: Companies wanting Universal Robots-like quality at 40% lower cost.
Price Range: $10,000 - $30,000 (FOB China)
Key Models
| Model | Payload | Reach | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR3 | 3 kg | 620 mm | $10,000 - $13,000 |
| CR5 | 5 kg | 900 mm | $13,000 - $16,000 |
| CR10 | 10 kg | 1,300 mm | $16,000 - $20,000 |
| CR16 | 16 kg | 1,223 mm | $20,000 - $25,000 |
2. AUBO Robotics (遨博)
Headquarters: Beijing | Founded: 2015 | Global Reach: 50+ countries
AUBO's i-series closely mirrors Universal Robots' specifications, making it easy for UR users to evaluate. Programming interface (AUBO Scope) intentionally resembles URCaps.
Best For: Factories already using UR who want a cost-effective second source.
Price Range: $11,000 - $30,000
3. JAKA Robotics (节卡)
Headquarters: Shanghai | Founded: 2014
JAKA specializes in lightweight, wireless-teaching cobots. Their Zu-series allows hand-guiding programming with zero-force mode, making them exceptionally easy to deploy.
Best For: SMEs with no robotics experience who need the simplest possible setup.
Price Range: $12,000 - $28,000
4. Han's Robot (大族机器人)
Headquarters: Shenzhen | Founded: 2017 | Parent: Han's Laser ($5B+)
Backed by Han's Laser, one of China's largest industrial conglomerates. Their Elfin series features compact design and integrated vision options.
Best For: Precision applications requiring tight integration with laser/vision systems.
Price Range: $10,000 - $24,000
5. ROKAE (珞石)
Headquarters: Beijing | Founded: 2015
ROKAE leads Chinese cobots in force control technology. Their xMate series uses advanced impedance control algorithms, making them ideal for polishing, grinding, and assembly requiring precise force feedback.
Best For: Applications needing best-in-class force control (polishing, deburring, insertion).
Price Range: $14,000 - $32,000
6. Estun Robotics (埃斯顿)
Headquarters: Nanjing | Founded: 1993
China's largest industrial robot manufacturer by revenue, Estun is vertically integrated — they make their own servo motors, controllers, and reducers. This gives them a cost advantage and tight quality control.
Best For: High-volume deployments where cost per unit matters most.
Price Range: $12,000 - $25,000
7. ELITE Robot (艾利特)
Headquarters: Suzhou | Founded: 2014
ELITE's EC-series focuses on the mid-range market with solid build quality. Their robots are particularly popular in Southeast Asian markets.
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers in emerging markets.
Price Range: $11,000 - $22,000
8. Elephant Robotics (大象机器人)
Headquarters: Shenzhen | Founded: 2016
Elephant Robotics occupies a unique position as the most affordable cobot maker. Their myCobot series starts at just $3,500, targeting education, research, and light commercial use.
Best For: Education, research labs, and light-duty commercial applications.
Price Range: $3,500 - $15,000
9. Flexiv (非夕)
Headquarters: Shanghai | Founded: 2016
Flexiv's Rizon series features adaptive force control powered by AI, enabling robots to handle tasks with high uncertainty (e.g., bin picking of random objects, soft material handling).
Best For: Complex manipulation tasks requiring AI-driven adaptability.
Price Range: $25,000 - $45,000
10. SIASUN (新松)
Headquarters: Shenyang | Founded: 2000
China's oldest and largest robot company by government contracts. SIASUN's collaborative robots serve automotive, aerospace, and defense sectors.
Best For: Large enterprises needing government-backed vendor credibility.
Price Range: $15,000 - $35,000
How to Choose the Right Chinese Cobot Manufacturer
Decision Framework
| Priority | Recommended Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| Lowest cost | Elephant Robotics, Estun |
| Closest to UR quality | Dobot, AUBO |
| Best force control | ROKAE, Flexiv |
| Easiest setup | JAKA |
| Best for research/education | Elephant Robotics |
| Strongest local support (Asia) | ELITE, Han's Robot |
What to Ask Before Buying
- Distributor network — Is there a local distributor in your country for support and spare parts?
- Certifications — CE, TUV, ISO 10218-1 certification is essential for European/US markets
- Integration support — Will the manufacturer help with initial deployment?
- Warranty terms — Standard is 1-2 years; negotiate for extended warranty
- Software ecosystem — Are there plugins for grippers, vision systems, and force sensors?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chinese cobots reliable enough for 24/7 production?
Top-tier Chinese cobots (Dobot, AUBO, ROKAE) report MTBF above 30,000 hours, suitable for two-shift production. For 24/7 critical applications, request reliability data and reference customers from the manufacturer.
How do Chinese cobot prices compare to Universal Robots?
Chinese cobots are typically 40-60% cheaper than equivalent UR models. A 10 kg Chinese cobot costs $16,000-$20,000 FOB vs $35,000-$42,000 for a UR10e.
Can I get CE certification for machines using Chinese cobots?
Yes. Major Chinese cobot brands (Dobot, AUBO, JAKA, ROKAE) have CE-certified products. Your system integrator still needs to perform a risk assessment for the complete cell.
Next Steps
GrabaRobot works directly with all 10 manufacturers listed above. We provide multi-brand comparison quotes, arrange factory visits, and manage logistics.