Head to head
FANUC M-900iB/700 vs KUKA KR 500 FORTEC
A specification duel across payload, reach, precision, and footprint, with a plain read on which arm suits which job.
Heavy-payload giant for press tending and casting
Very heavy payload robot for large component handling
Specification duel
Green marks the stronger figure. Unconfirmed specs are shown but not scored.
The verdict
The specs separate them here: the FANUC M-900iB/700 carries more, 700 kg to the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC's 500 kg. If precision drives the job, the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC holds the tighter repeatability at ±0.08 mm. They run different controllers, the FANUC M-900iB/700 on the R-30iB Plus and the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC on the KR C5, so whichever platform your team already programs and stocks parts for is a real tiebreaker. Both are aimed at material handling, with the FANUC M-900iB/700 stretching to machine tending and the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC to palletizing and press tending.
- Very high payload for a standard six-axis arm
- Rigid structure holds accuracy under heavy loads
- Long service life in foundry and press duty
- Wide selection of heavy-duty EOAT partners
- Very high payload capacity
- Stiff frame holds accuracy under heavy load
- Suited to multi shift heavy industry use
- Wide range of end of arm tooling support
Common questions
- Which has more payload, the FANUC M-900iB/700 or the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC?
- The FANUC M-900iB/700 has more payload at 700 kg versus 500 kg.
- Which reaches farther?
- The FANUC M-900iB/700 has more reach at 2832 mm versus 2826 mm.
- Which is more precise?
- The KUKA KR 500 FORTEC holds tighter repeatability at ±0.08 mm.
- Should I choose the FANUC M-900iB/700 or the KUKA KR 500 FORTEC?
- Match the pick to the job. The FANUC M-900iB/700 is a 6-axis industrial arm at 700 kg and 2832 mm. The KUKA KR 500 FORTEC is a 6-axis industrial arm at 500 kg and 2826 mm.