The Global Robot Marketplace recently conducted a poll to gauge industry expectations regarding the most dominant robot type over the next five years. The results offer fascinating insights into where the robotics industry might be headed.

robotics in next 5 years

Robotics domination over the next five years

Poll Results Summary:

  • Industrial Robots – 33%

  • Collaborative Robots (Cobots) – 32%

  • Mobile Robots (Mobots) – 19%

  • Humanoid Robots (Hobots) – 16%

As shown in the chart, Industrial Robots lead the forecast, but just barely. Collaborative Robots are hot on their heels with only a 1% difference. This neck-and-neck race reflects a shifting paradigm in manufacturing and automation: while traditional industrial robots continue to dominate large-scale, high-speed manufacturing, cobots are carving out their niche in flexible, human-friendly environments.

Interpretation and Market Trends:

  • Industrial Robots (33%)
    Still considered the workhorse of factories worldwide, industrial robots are valued for their speed, precision, and durability. Their dominance is especially strong in automotive and electronics manufacturing.

  • Collaborative Robots (32%)
    Cobots are the rising stars. Their ability to work safely alongside humans and their ease of programming make them ideal for small and medium enterprises aiming for quick automation with minimal infrastructure changes.

  • Mobile Robots (19%)
    With the rise of smart logistics and warehouse automation, mobile robots—including AGVs and AMRs—are expanding fast. Their relatively lower vote may reflect their more specialized role compared to arm-based robots.

  • Humanoid Robots (16%)
    Although still in their early stages, humanoid robots show promise for service industries, healthcare, and public interaction. The lower vote percentage suggests skepticism about their near-term scalability and affordability.

Conclusion:

While industrial robots remain the frontrunners, the future appears to be leaning heavily toward flexibility, safety, and human-machine collaboration. Collaborative robots may soon close the gap or even surpass industrial robots in key sectors—especially as AI integration and safety standards continue to evolve.

This poll provides a valuable snapshot of industry sentiment, reminding us that while history matters, innovation shapes the future.