Deep Robotics Lite 3 vs Unitree Go2: two quadrupeds, two visions

Quadrupedal robots are no longer just technological demonstrators. They can be found in universities, research laboratories and even in some industrial environments. Among the models attracting the most attention today, two names often come up: Deep Robotics’ Lite 3 and Unitree’s Go2.

At first glance, they share quite a few similarities: compact size, high agility and research orientation. But when you take a closer look, they don’t quite meet the same needs.

Deep Robotics' Lite 3: a quadruped that goes beyond the laboratory

The Lite 3 is not just a robot designed to “play” with quadrupedal locomotion. Deep Robotics designed it as a serious work platform, capable of supporting both teaching and applied research projects.

In terms of hardware, it is quite robust for a quadruped in this category. It can carry a payload of up to 7.5 kg and its design allows it to operate in environments that are slightly more complex than those found in a simple laboratory. The Pro and Pro LiDAR versions come with powerful computers (Jetson Xavier or Orin depending on the configuration) and native compatibility with ROS/ROS2, which facilitates integration into existing research projects. It also comes with a remote control that transmits the video stream generated by the robot in real time.

Another strong point of the Lite 3 is its openness: LiDAR, cameras, multiple interfaces (USB, HDMI, Ethernet), software extensions, etc. It can be customised and serve as a true development platform. You can work on autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, environment reconstruction or even people tracking.

In short, the Lite 3 is designed to last and evolve with your projects.

The Unitree Go2: making quadrupeds accessible

For its part, Unitree’s Go2 plays in a different league. It is probably one of the most popular quadrupeds around at the moment, precisely because it is much more accessible.

Its price makes it an attractive solution for universities or laboratories with tight budgets. But that’s not its only advantage: the Go2 is designed to be fun and flexible. It can perform a whole range of movements (jumps, dances, rolls, etc.), making it a very popular robot for teaching or entertainment. It is also equipped with a few interactive features (speaker, LED strip) that add a small educational dimension.

That said, its use remains more limited. The Go2 is perfect for discovering quadrupedal robotics, testing algorithms or prototyping ideas, but it is not designed to operate in demanding environments or to serve as a basis for industrial projects.

Lite 3 vs Go2: summary of differences

	Lite 3 (Deep Robotics)	Go2 (Unitree)
Target audience	Advanced research, industry-related applications	Teaching, academic research
Robustness	Solid, usable in complex environments	Lighter, mainly suitable for indoor use
Software	Complete, ready-to-use application, ROS/ROS compatibility and complete SDK	Rather simplistic application and complete SDK
Sensors	LiDAR, cameras, various extensions	LiDAR, cameras, various extensions
Scalability	Can be adapted to real-world scenarios	Remains focused on educational R&D
Budget	Less than €15k fully equipped	Consumer version available at a low price

Two different philosophies

The Go2 is an excellent entry point: easy to use, affordable and perfect for introducing students to mobile robotics or testing perception algorithms.

The Lite 3, on the other hand, has a different ambition. It is a more robust, more open quadruped that can support advanced research projects and even serve as a gateway to industrial applications.

Conclusion

The two robots have different philosophies, and that is what makes them interesting. One focuses on accessibility and discovery, the other on robustness and openness to practical applications.

The choice will therefore depend mainly on your objectives and your means:

Marine Senecat

Content Manager at Génération Robots