Summary

R1 Designed for global developer research and engagement, R1 is considered a game-changing product that will reshape the market and accelerate ecosystem growth.

Although both the Unitree R1 and G1 humanoid robots fall into the category of embodied intelligence, they exhibit significant differences in design philosophy, technical implementation, and market positioning. From a professional perspective, these distinctions go beyond a simple comparison of parameters and highlight fundamental differences in task performance capabilities, commercial application potential, and product maturity.

Arm Degrees of Freedom (DOF)

A robotic arm's DOF ​​is a key indicator of its kinematic redundancy. A 5-DOF arm is typically sufficient to position and orient its end-effector in 3D space, but its motion paths are relatively fixed and constrained. The G1's 7-DOF arm, however, introduces an additional redundant joint. This redundancy is crucial as it allows the arm to change its configuration while maintaining the end-effector's position and orientation constant. This means the G1 can navigate around obstacles and find optimal paths in confined or complex environments to perform manipulation tasks. This gives the G1 a level of flexibility and adaptability that the R1 lacks, particularly in applications such as industrial assembly or precision laboratory operations, where path planning is critical.

Single arm payload

Payload capacity is a direct measure of a robot's power performance and structural rigidity. The G1's 3 kg payload not only allows it to handle heavier objects, but, more importantly, it allows it to maintain high precision and stability even when operating near its payload limit. In industrial applications, such as handling tools, components, or sorting materials, a higher payload capacity translates into greater operational efficiency and a wider range of compatible tasks. Compared to the R1, the G1 demonstrates superior practicality and reliability in scenarios requiring the handling of moderately heavy loads.

Degrees of freedom in life

DOF (typically yaw, pitch, and roll) is a key factor influencing the overall motor coordination and upper body workspace of a humanoid robot. A 3-DOF design, like that of the G1, allows the robot to precisely adjust its center of gravity and torso posture during arm movements. This expands the arm's working range and improves overall dynamic stability. As a result, the G1 can perform tasks over a wider range or in confined spaces with a more optimized posture, reducing unnecessary movements and improving efficiency. The 2-DOF design of the R1 is relatively limited in posture adjustment and workspace.

Battery life

Battery life is a key operational parameter that determines a robot's operational efficiency and practical utility. The G1's two-hour battery life, double that of the R1, allows it to complete longer continuous tasks with less frequent charging. In commercial and industrial installations, this significantly reduces downtime for charging, thus increasing task coverage and overall productivity. This represents a decisive advantage for commercial customers seeking high efficiency and low operating costs.

Conclusion

Based on this detailed analysis, the Unitree G1 demonstrates clear superiority over the R1 in key robotic performance parameters, including manipulation dexterity, payload capacity, motor coordination, and battery life. These technical advantages enable the G1 to handle more complex and demanding commercial and industrial applications.