Cheap, Mobile, Limited Humanoid Robot for Under $5,900

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The Chinese robotics startup Unitree is selling its new humanoid robot at a bargain price. The Unitree R1 demonstrates acrobatics and is even said to be able to speak. But does the strikingly low price offer real value or is it just for show?

With the R1, Unitree introduces a humanoid robot with an entry price of 39,999 Yuan (approximately $5,230), making it significantly cheaper than comparable models from other manufacturers. The 48 inches tall robot weighs around 55 pounds and features 26 joints, enabling movements such as handstands, cartwheels, or boxing sequences. It is powered by an 8-core processor and equipped with cameras, voice and image recognition, a four-microphone array, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. The battery is designed to last around one hour and is replaceable.

Show Instead of Service

What the videos from Unitree show looks spectacular. The R1 jumps, walks, performs gymnastics, and boxes. However, it remains unclear what happens autonomously and what is remote-controlled. Gripping hands or fine motor functions are also still missing. Skepticism is growing on social media. Many users ask: What can the R1 really do, besides show?

Unitree itself actually points out risks. The manufacturer warns against improper use and advises buyers to familiarize themselves with the system's limitations in advance. "We recommend keeping a distance from the device when it is in motion," states the official product description.

Research Platform Instead of Household Robot

With its price, the R1 is significantly cheaper than other humanoid robots like Tesla Optimus, Apollo by Apptronik, or Figure 02. Even Unitree's own G1 model cost around $16,000 at launch. As a result, the R1 is not positioned close to industrial service robots but primarily targets a different audience: research labs and developer communities.

For everyday use, the robot lacks many features: gripping hands, advanced sensors for close-range detection, long-lasting energy supply, and true autonomy. It also lacks viable application scenarios for interaction with humans. Instead, the R1 serves as a platform for research and development. Its acrobatic movements are primarily designed to attract attention.

Lone Warrior With Learning Potential

Technologically, the R1 is based on what Unitree has already implemented in its quadruped robots like the Go1 or B2: lightweight structures, compact drive technology, and a modular design. Even though the new robot can walk, kick, and even simulate a kind of conversation, it lacks the capabilities for interaction, adaptation to environments, or solving complex tasks. For now, it is more of a movement talent than a helper.

Whether this will result in a market remains uncertain. According to the manufacturer, those wishing to experiment with the R1 will receive a flexibly programmable platform with high mobility. As an entry-level option for developers, this is appealing. For the broader market, however, the R1 remains out of reach. (mc)

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