HECTOR V2
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HECTOR V2 (Humanoid for Enhanced ConTrol and Open-source Research) is a compact, dynamic mini-humanoid testbed developed by Laser Robotics to push the limits of extreme dynamic locomotion and open-source robotics research. Standing 0.85 meters (85 cm) tall and weighing just 15 kg, HECTOR V2 features 20 actuated degrees of freedom (5 DoF per leg, 4 DoF per arm, plus actuated ankle joints). Built using topology-optimized CNC aluminum and engineering plastics, the robot achieves exceptional structural rigidity and ease of servicing. Validated under extreme real-world stress tests (including sprints across the rugged Mojave Desert), HECTOR V2 provides fully open-sourced simulation software, reinforcement learning controllers, and a modular architecture that easily switches between biped and humanoid configurations.
Quick Overview & Key Facts
HECTOR V2 is a humanoid robot made by Laser Robotics in United States, launched in 2024 and built for deep reinforcement learning locomotion benchmarks, sim-to-real transfer validation, and legged locomotion education. Its estimated price is $14,000 - $19,000 (Open-Source Research Developer Kit).
- Dimensions
- 85 cm × 36 cm × 20 cm (0.85 m standing height)
- Weight
- 15 kg (33 lbs)
- Top speed
- 1.8 m/s (6.48 km/h) high-speed dynamic running
- Handles
- Sensor payloads, lightweight tools, test weights, perception cameras
- Charging time
- 45 minutes via rapid balance charger
- Sensors
- Intel RealSense depth camera, dual high-precision 6-axis IMUs, high-resolution motor encoders, foot force contact switches
HECTOR V2 Capabilities
Inherent physical, perceptual, and cognitive abilities built into HECTOR V2.
Image Gallery
Below images are from Laser Robotics's official sources
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Robot Specifications
Values without a Confirmed badge are compiled from public sources and may not be manufacturer-verified.
Not yet published by Laser Robotics: warranty terms, safety certifications, EMC compliance, IP rating, noise level, expected lifespan, maintenance schedule, firmware version and 7 more.
Robot Timeline
Key milestones in this robot's development and rollout
USC's Dynamic Robotics and Control Lab publishes HECTOR, a Humanoid for Enhanced ConTrol and Open-source Research, showing dynamic loco-manipulation on uneven terrain.
Source: arXiv ↗
LASER Robotics, a USC spin-off led by Quan Nguyen, presents HECTOR V2, a 0.85 m, 15 kg mini-humanoid testbed for extreme dynamic behaviors.
Source: Wevolver (X) ↗
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is HECTOR V2, and what problem is it designed to solve?
HECTOR V2 is a small-scale humanoid platform from Laser Robotics, intended for control research, dynamic locomotion, and open-source humanoid development.
Q2. What are the main capabilities and key features of HECTOR V2?
According to the company, it supports biped and humanoid modes, dynamic loco-manipulation, uneven-terrain operation, and open-source simulation and control software.
Q3. Who is HECTOR V2 built for, and which industries can benefit from it?
It is aimed mainly at robotics researchers and developers, with potential use in academic labs, humanoid control studies, and related R and D settings.
Q4. Is HECTOR V2 a commercial product or still a research prototype?
Publicly available materials present it primarily as a research platform, although Laser Robotics also frames it as an open-source humanoid system for broader development.
Q5. Is HECTOR V2 currently available for purchase, and when is it expected to ship?
The public material reviewed does not clearly confirm retail availability; as of 2026, shipping details appear to depend on the company or distributor.
Q6. How does HECTOR V2 actually work in real-world environments?
According to the company and published demonstrations, it uses torque-controlled locomotion and software support for balance, walking, and manipulation on uneven terrain.
Q7. When was HECTOR V2 announced or officially launched?
HECTOR V2 was publicly shown in 2024, including at ICRA 2024, with manufacturer pages later updated in 2026.
Q8. How is HECTOR V2 different from other robots in the same category?
It is presented as a compact humanoid with modular configuration, open-source software, and a focus on dynamic locomotion research rather than general-purpose service tasks.
Q9. Does HECTOR V2 require additional development or customization after purchase?
Yes; the platform is positioned for research use, so users should expect integration, control development, and application-specific customization.
Q10. What is the future roadmap or planned upgrades for HECTOR V2?
The company has not published a detailed public roadmap; its materials emphasize ongoing open-source development and broader research use.
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