A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Robotic Arms

Robotic arms have transformed industries like automation, manufacturing, and healthcare. Whether it’s assembling vehicles or conducting precise surgical operations, robotic arms deliver exceptional speed, accuracy, and reliability in repetitive or intricate tasks. These powerful tools drive productivity in modern sectors thanks to advanced engineering. However, not all robotic arms are the same—different types are engineered for specific purposes depending on their movement, flexibility, and alertness.

In this post, we’ll break down the most common types of robotic arms, their unique capabilities, and where they’re most effectively applied.

1. Cartesian Robotic Arm

Also referred to as gantry robots, these arms operate along three linear axes: X, Y, and Z. Their motion follows straight lines along each axis, offering exceptional precision and control.

Key Features:

• Simple mechanical structure

• High precision in linear motion

• Ideal for pick-and-place tasks, 3D printing, and CNC machines

Best For:

Applications that demand high accuracy within a limited motion range, such as packaging, material handling, and industrial automation.

2. SCARA Robot (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm)

Common in industrial automation, SCARA robots are designed for assembly operations. They feature two rotary joints for horizontal movement while maintaining vertical stiffness.

Key Features:

• Fast and accurate in horizontal movement

• Limited vertical flexibility

• Compact layout

Best For:

Jobs like assembly, loading/unloading, and high-speed pick-and-place tasks, especially in electronics and automotive industries.

3. Articulated Robotic Arm

Among the most flexible and human-like, these robotic arms feature multiple rotary joints (typically four to six or more) for multidirectional movement.

Key Features:

• High flexibility and motion range

• Mimics human arm movement

• Performs complex tasks

Best For:

Tasks like welding, painting, packaging, palletizing, and assembly in automotive and manufacturing sectors.

4. Delta Robotic Arm

Recognizable by their spider-like design, Delta robots excel in speed and precision for lightweight tasks. They utilize three arms connected to universal joints at the base.

Key Features:

• Lightweight and extremely fast

• High-speed performance for small payloads

• Excellent repeatability

Best For:

Food packaging, pharmaceutical sorting, and quick pick-and-place jobs in areas requiring both hygiene and speed.

5. Cylindrical Robotic Arm

This type moves within a cylindrical workspace, combining a rotary base with both linear and rotational joints for vertical and axial movements.

Key Features:

• Simpler mechanics than articulated robots

• Suitable for tasks without complex motion

• Limited motion range

Best For:

Basic assembly systems, machine tool handling, or spot welding in defined cylindrical areas.

6. Polar (Spherical) Robotic Arm

Featuring a twisting base and a mix of rotary and linear joints, polar robotic arms function within a spherical working envelope.

Key Features:

• Operates in a spherical space

• Compact design

• Longer reach with fewer joints

Best For:

Uses like die casting, material handling, and injection molding—especially in curved or limited spaces.

7. Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

Designed to safely operate alongside people, cobots often feature articulated arm structures combined with smart sensors, vision systems, and built-in safety protocols.

Key Features:

• Advanced safety features

• Easy to use and deploy

• Adaptable to various environments

Best For:

Light-duty tasks, collaborative assembly, small-batch production, and any setting prioritizing flexibility and safety.

Conclusion

Each type of robotic arm offers distinct strengths suited to specific industries and tasks. When choosing a robotic arm for your operation, it’s important to evaluate factors such as speed, load capacity, precision, and the working environment. With the right tool solutions, be it a high-speed Delta robotic arm for food packaging or a collaborative robot designed for safe human interaction, the appropriate arm can significantly enhance efficiency, minimize errors, and streamline your web development workflow.

As robotics technology evolves, these arms will continue to grow more adaptive, precise, and essential to future innovation.