The myCobot 280 M5Stack is a compact, lightweight 6-axis collaborative robotic arm weighing under 1kg. Recognized by IEEE as one of the world’s smallest robot arms, it's engineered for AI education, robotics research, makers, and light-duty automation. With a 250g payload and 280mm working radius, this desktop cobot supports ROS, Python, and multiple platforms for limitless possibilities in development and application.
Key Features
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Compact & Lightweight – Weighs less than 1kg, perfect for desktop robotics and portable use
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6 Degrees of Freedom – Delivers ±0.5mm repeatability using 6 efficient servo motors
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Powerful Core – Dual ESP32 processors ensure stable and flexible control
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Cross-Platform Compatibility – Supports Android, Windows, macOS, Linux via USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth
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Supports ROS1 & ROS2 – Enables advanced simulation and path planning with MoveIt integration
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Open Programming Ecosystem – Works with Python, C++, C#, Arduino, and more
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Fully Programmable – Use Blockly, UIFlow, or RoboFlow for visual or code-based control
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AI Expansion Ready – Add-on AI Kit for machine vision and smart object recognition
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Extensive End Effector Options – Modular Lego-style interface supports various tools and customization
Use Cases & Scenarios
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Education & AI Research
Perfect for students and labs learning Python, ROS, and robotic control principles. -
Creative Projects
Enables drawing, writing, engraving, and painting with intuitive motion control.
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Pick & Place Automation
Precise positioning and gamepad support make it great for sorting and movement tasks.
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DIY Robotics
A favorite among makers for its modular design and plug-and-play expansion options.
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Compound Robots
Combine with myAGV mobile chassis to build compound robots with mobility and manipulation capabilities.
Robot Specifications
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DOF: 6 servo motors
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Payload: Up to 250g
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Working Radius: 280mm
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Repeat Accuracy: ±0.5mm
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Core Controller: 2 × ESP32
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Integrated Matrix Display: 5×5 RGB LED
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Screen: 2" LED display
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Buttons: 3 customizable
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Connectivity: USB / Wi-Fi / Bluetooth
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Programming: Python, Arduino, C++, Blockly, UIFlow
Supported Software
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RoboFlow: Drag-and-teach interface for fast setup
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myBlockly: Visual block-based programming
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UIFlow: M5Stack ecosystem integration
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MoveIt (ROS): Advanced robotics simulation, path planning & object avoidance
Highlights
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10,000+ users across 50+ countries
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Featured on IEEE and supported by leading robotics communities
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Designed for rapid prototyping and advanced robotics development
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Supports multiple platforms and programming languages
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Trusted by schools, research labs, and professional creators worldwide
Recommended for
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Robotics learners & educators
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Developers building automation systems
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Research teams exploring AI and ROS
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Makers creating DIY robotic projects
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Competitions, demos, and creative workshops
Package Contents
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myCobot 280 Robotic Arm (M5Stack Edition)
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Power Adapter & USB Cable
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Instruction Manual
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Mounting Base (optional accessories sold separately)
2023 vs. 2020 – Version Comparison
Still using an older myCobot? Here’s why the 2023 version is the better choice for modern robotics development:
Product Features | myCobot 2023 Support | myCobot 2020 Support |
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Kinematics Algorithm Update | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
Gitbook | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
GamePad Control | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
App Control | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
myStudio | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
myBlock | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
ROS 1 | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
ROS 2 | Supported (LST) | Supported (LST) |
System Firmware Upgrade | Ongoing | Ended: 2023.09.30 |
Software Maintenance | Ongoing | Ended: 2023.09.30 |
Security Vulnerability Repair | Ongoing | Ended: 2023.09.30 |
Note: “LST” refers to Long Support Term – the feature is maintained across both versions. However, the 2020 version is no longer receiving critical firmware, maintenance, or security updates.
Why Choose the 2023 Version?
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Continued updates and security support
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Compatible with the latest software ecosystem
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Future-proof for education, research, and innovation
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Recommended for all new development and deployment
Reference
Get Users Tutorial On Gitbook (Recommended reading)