The RB-Y1 by Rainbow Robotics is a dual-arm mobile humanoid robot designed for industrial automation, manufacturing, and logistics applications. It features dimensions of 60 x 69 x 140 cm, weighs 131 kg, and achieves a speed of 5.4 km/h with SLAM navigation and sensors including IMU, grippers, and LiDAR. This positions RB-Y1 as a robust platform for precise, repetitive tasks in dynamic industrial environments, differentiating it through its heavier build and higher speed compared to lighter service-oriented humanoids.
The Q5 by Robot Era targets elder care, child interaction, retail service, research labs, logistics, and hospitality with a lighter 70 kg frame and dimensions of 165 x 50 x 52 cm. It offers a speed of 1.5 m/s, comprehensive sensors like RGB cameras, stereo cameras, LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, IMU, gyroscope, force sensors, and temperature sensors, alongside indoor SLAM and visual SLAM navigation. Q5 stands out with its versatile control options including teleoperation, autonomous modes, and learned behaviors, suited for collaborative human-robot interactions.
Detailed Analysis

Design & Build Quality
RB-Y1 measures 60 x 69 x 140 cm and weighs 131 kg, providing a stable platform with dual 7-DoF arms and a wheeled base for industrial tasks. Q5 is taller at 165 cm but slimmer at 50 x 52 cm base with 70 kg weight, enabling agile movement in service settings. The heavier RB-Y1 suits heavy-duty manufacturing, while Q5's lighter design fits human-centric environments like elder care.

Mobility & Navigation
RB-Y1 reaches 5.4 km/h using SLAM navigation, enhanced by omnidirectional Mecanum wheels for 360-degree mobility in research and industrial spaces. Q5 achieves 1.5 m/s with indoor SLAM, visual SLAM, and LiDAR mapping, prioritizing precision in confined areas. RB-Y1 excels in speed for logistics, whereas Q5 focuses on stable navigation for indoor service applications.

Sensors & Perception
RB-Y1 includes IMU, grippers, and LiDAR for environmental awareness and manipulation in industrial settings. Q5 integrates RGB cameras, stereo cameras, LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, IMU, gyroscope, force sensors, and temperature sensors for comprehensive perception. Q5's broader sensor suite supports detailed interaction in care and retail scenarios, while RB-Y1 emphasizes core sensors for automation.

AI Capabilities
RB-Y1 supports remote, AI, and manual control with ROS and Linux, plus a full SDK for AI integration and customization in research labs. Q5 uses teleoperation, autonomous control, and learned behaviors via ROS2, proprietary OS, Python, C++, and APIs. Both enable AI development, but RB-Y1 targets industrial AI solutions, and Q5 emphasizes adaptive behaviors for service roles.

Battery & Power Efficiency
RB-Y1 offers a 3-5 year battery lifespan, suitable for extended industrial operations. Q5 provides a 4-year battery duration, aligning with continuous service demands. Both deliver long-term power, with RB-Y1's range accommodating variable heavy loads and Q5 supporting lighter, frequent use.

Use-Case Suitability
RB-Y1 targets industrial automation, manufacturing, and logistics with robust speed and payload for repetitive tasks. Q5 serves elder care, child interaction, retail, research, logistics, and hospitality through versatile sensing and collaboration. RB-Y1 fits structured industrial workflows, while Q5 adapts to dynamic human environments.

Software Ecosystem
RB-Y1 runs on ROS and Linux with an SDK for LiDAR, IMU, and gripper integration. Q5 employs ROS2, proprietary OS, Python, C++, and APIs for broad development. Q5's multi-language support aids service applications, contrasting RB-Y1's focus on industrial ROS compatibility.

Safety Features
RB-Y1 includes emergency stop, obstacle avoidance, and self-collision prevention for industrial safety. Q5 features force limiting, collision detection, emergency stop, and collaborative mode for human proximity. Both prioritize safe operation, with Q5 emphasizing force control for interaction.

Pricing & Value
RB-Y1 prices at $50,000-$100,000, reflecting its heavier build and industrial capabilities. Q5 ranges $50,000-$75,000, offering cost efficiency for service uses. Overlapping lower ends provide value, with Q5 potentially more economical for lighter applications.
Analysis Score Summary
Total Score
5
RB-Y1
VS
Based on Detailed Analysis
Total Score
13
Q5
📊 Win: 2 points | Trade-off: 1 point each
Scores are summed across every insight: a clear winner earns 2 points, while balanced trade-offs give each robot 1 point. The total reflects how often each robot outperforms the other (or shares the spotlight) throughout the detailed analysis sections.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | RB-Y1 | Q5 |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying Capacity | 6 kg | 10 |
| Deadlift Capacity | 6 kg | 20 |
| Autonomy Level | Semi-autonomous | Semi-autonomous, teleoperated |
| Price | $50,000 - $100,000 | $50,000 - $75,000 |
| Weight | 131 kg | 70 kg |
| Max Speed | 5.4 km/h | 1.5 m/s |
| Runtime | 3 hours | >4 hours |
| Battery Pack | 2.3 kWh | 50000mAh |
| Dimensions | 60 x 69 x 140 cm | 165 x 50 x 52 |
| Sensors | IMU, grippers, LiDAR | RGB cameras, stereo cameras, LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, IMU, gyroscope, force sensors, temperature sensors |
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Disclaimer
All content, comparisons, and verdicts on this website are based on our research, testing, and opinion. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or suitability of any information. Performance, specifications, and results may vary depending on usage and conditions. This website and its authors are not responsible for any decisions, actions, or outcomes based on the information provided. Always verify product details with the manufacturer before making purchase or operational decisions.
