Weight classes

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Combat robots compete against robots of similar weight. Weight classes define the maximum weight that a bot can have in order to compete in a given category. Competition rules are generally strict regarding weight and require that a bot "weigh in" in a fully configured state at the event before being allowed to fight.

A weight class will frequently be defined with a minimum weight limit in addition to the maximum. This usually precludes bots from fighting in the next class up, although special circumstances and competitor consent will sometimes allow this to happen.

Choosing a weight class is an important step early on in the design process. As a general rule, heavier robots cost more to build than lighter ones. All weapon types can be found in any weight class. The dynamics of fighting vary greatly with size, but people find excitement in watching all classes fight. Reducing an unexpected overweight condition to 'make weight' can be a challenge for builders of all skill levels.

Not all events support all weight classes. Many allow only smaller bots due to limitations in arena size or venue type. Generally, the larger the event, the more weight classes it will support.

Weight classes in combat robotics are similar to the conventions of sports such as boxing and wrestling. Other types of robotic competitions classify entrants by various means such as physical volume. See Paradigms of Robotic Combat.

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Common weight classes

Robots 30 pounds and under are known as sublight classes, and the 50g to 6 pound classes are referred to as insect classes.

  • Nanoweight - 50g. A class almost exclusive to European combat robots. AKA Fleaweight. *
  • Fairyweight - 150g. Also known as "Skeeterweight" and "UK Antweight". Popular in Europe, the class has only recently gained a foothold in the United States.
  • Antweight - 1lb. One of the most popular and competitive classes. New builders commonly start in this class due to low costs, easy availability of parts, and a large number of tournaments.
  • Beetleweight - 3lb. More weaponry and power can be designed into this class, which is usually ran alongside antweights due to similar containment requirements.
  • Mantisweight - 6lb. A recently created intermediate class between Beetleweights and Hobbyweights. Coincides with 3kg (6.6 lbs) sumo robots. *
  • Hobbyweight - 12lb. Another popular and extremely competitive class across the country due to availability of parts and small arena requirements. Also a common "starter" class.
  • BBIQ Mini - 15lb. Exclusive to the Battlebots IQ competition. *
  • Featherweight - 30lb. The largest "Sublight" class.
  • Sportsman - 30lb with limited weapons to reduce damage and inspire creativity in design.
  • Lightweight (LW) - 60lb. The lightest of the classic Battlebots weight classes. This class commonly marks the transition from R/C hobby equipment to specialized or custom parts.
  • Middleweight (MW) - 120lb.
  • Heavyweight (HW) - 220lb. This is generally regarded as the premier class. ComBots has increased the prize purse in it's annual heavyweight event to $10,000 in order to encourage more HW robots.
  • Super-Heavyweight (SHW) - 340lb. The largest common weight class. Machines in this class reach into industrial parts, easily output multiple horsepower and require very strong arenas.
  • Mechwars Megaweight - 390lb. This class is exclusive to the Twin Cities Mechwars competition. *

* Weight class not recognized by the Robot Fighting League.

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