Telepresence Robots: Complete Guide to Remote Presence Solutions [2026]

The way we work, learn, and receive healthcare has fundamentally changed. As organizations embrace hybrid models and remote collaboration, telepresence robots have emerged as the ultimate solution for maintaining human connection across distances. Unlike standard video conferencing, these mobile robotic platforms give remote users a physical presence—allowing them to move freely, interact naturally, and participate as if they were actually there.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about telepresence robots in 2026: how they work, the leading models on the market, pricing comparisons, and how to calculate ROI for your organization.

What Is a Telepresence Robot?

A telepresence robot is a remotely controlled, mobile robotic device equipped with a camera, display screen, microphone, and speaker that allows a user to interact with people and navigate physical spaces from a remote location. Think of it as your digital avatar—a robot body you can "pilot" from anywhere in the world through a web browser or mobile app.

Unlike traditional video conferencing where you're confined to a fixed camera angle, telepresence robots offer:

• Mobility: Move freely through offices, hospitals, factories, or classrooms
• Physical presence: Stand at eye level with colleagues during conversations
• Autonomous navigation: Many models can navigate independently around obstacles
• Spontaneous interaction: Drop by someone's desk or join impromptu hallway conversations

The global telepresence robot market is experiencing explosive growth, projected to reach USD 989 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of approximately 14.86%. This surge is driven by the permanent shift to hybrid work, advances in 5G connectivity, and increasing adoption in healthcare and education sectors.

Primary Use Cases for Telepresence Robots

Remote Work and Business

For distributed teams, telepresence robots transform how remote employees participate in office life. Rather than being a face on a screen in a conference room, remote workers can:

• Join spontaneous discussions and brainstorming sessions
• Tour facilities and inspect equipment
• Attend trade shows and networking events
• Conduct factory floor inspections
• Participate in team-building activities

Companies like Google, Microsoft, and Intel have deployed fleets of telepresence robots to keep their distributed workforces connected. For more on how robotics is transforming the workplace, check out our dedicated guide.

Healthcare and Telemedicine

The healthcare sector has become one of the largest adopters of telepresence technology. Medical telepresence robots enable:

• Remote patient consultations: Specialists can examine patients in rural or underserved areas
• ICU monitoring: Doctors can make rounds without physical exposure risks
• Family visits: Loved ones can "visit" patients in isolation or long-term care
• Medical education: Students can observe procedures remotely
• Mental health services: Therapists can provide more personal teletherapy sessions

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated healthcare adoption dramatically, with hospitals using telepresence robots to minimize exposure while maintaining patient care. Learn more about how robots are revolutionizing healthcare in our comprehensive healthcare robotics guide.

Education

Telepresence robots are transforming educational experiences for students who cannot physically attend school:

• Homebound students: Children with chronic illness or disabilities can attend classes
• International collaboration: Students can participate in exchange programs virtually
• Campus tours: Prospective students can explore universities remotely
• STEM education: Hands-on robotics experiences for distributed classrooms

Schools from K-12 to universities are deploying telepresence robots to ensure no student is left behind. For an in-depth look at educational applications, see our guide on robots in education.

Top Telepresence Robots in 2026: Complete Comparison

The telepresence robot market features several established players, each targeting different use cases and budgets. Here's our comprehensive breakdown of the leading options:

Double 3 by Double Robotics

Best for: Business and enterprise environments

Double Robotics pioneered the modern telepresence robot market and continues to lead with the Double 3. This self-driving robot features an array of 3D sensors for autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Key Features:

• Click-to-drive interface with mixed reality overlay
• Two 13MP cameras with unified pan-tilt-zoom
• Six beamforming microphones for superior audio
• Self-driving with automatic obstacle avoidance
• Height-adjustable (47-60 inches)
• 4-hour battery life with auto-docking

Price: $4,499 (includes charging dock)

Ohmni by OhmniLabs

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers and home use

Recognized by ZDNET as the "best budget telepresence robot," Ohmni offers excellent value without compromising on essential features. Made in the USA, Ohmni robots are known for their reliability and ease of setup.

Key Features:

• 13MP zoom camera for detailed views
• Wide-angle navigation camera
• One-click connection via web browser
• Adjustable height
• Quick setup (minutes, not hours)
• 14-day money-back guarantee

Price: $2,000-$4,095 (depending on model)

Cloud Subscription: $300-$780/year

Ava 500 by Ava Robotics

Best for: Large enterprise deployments

Ava Robotics, an iRobot spinoff, offers the most sophisticated enterprise-grade telepresence solution. The Ava robot features truly autonomous navigation—users simply click a destination on a map, and Ava drives itself there.

Key Features:

• Full autonomous navigation with LIDAR mapping
• Cisco Webex integration for enterprise video
• Height-adjustable display
• Advanced obstacle detection and avoidance
• Enterprise-grade security
• Fleet management capabilities

Price: ~$32,000 (purchase) or $1,000-$2,500/month (lease)

Beam Pro by Awabot (formerly Suitable Technologies)

Best for: Healthcare and high-security environments

The Beam product line, now owned by Blue Ocean Robotics and distributed by Awabot, remains a gold standard in telepresence. Originally created by Suitable Technologies (a Willow Garage spinoff), Beam robots are trusted by Fortune 500 companies and healthcare institutions worldwide.

Key Features:

• 17-inch widescreen display
• Wide-angle camera with digital zoom
• Military-grade encryption for secure communications
• Intuitive driving controls
• Crash avoidance technology
• Auto-docking for charging

Price: $15,000-$16,000 (BeamPro)

GoBe Robot by Blue Ocean Robotics

Best for: Sustainability-focused organizations

GoBe Robots positions itself as the eco-friendly choice, emphasizing CO2 reduction through reduced business travel. Part of Blue Ocean Robotics' portfolio (which also includes UVD disinfection robots), GoBe combines environmental consciousness with robust telepresence capabilities.

Key Features:

• 4K zoomable camera
• Wide-angle front camera for navigation
• Smooth, quiet operation
• Easy-to-use web interface
• Designed for corporate environments
• Focus on sustainability metrics

Price: Contact for quote (typically $10,000-$15,000)

VGo

Best for: Healthcare and education

VGo has carved out a strong niche in healthcare and education with its reliable, enterprise-grade platform. The robot features lights and auto-answering capabilities that make it particularly suited for institutional deployments.

Key Features:

• Two-way audio and video
• Onboard lights for visibility
• Auto-answer mode for scheduled sessions
• Height-adjustable
• Robust construction for institutional use

Price: $4,875+

PadBot Series by Inbot Technology

Best for: Budget-friendly consumer and SMB use

The PadBot series offers some of the most affordable telepresence options on the market, with models ranging from consumer-friendly prices to professional-grade solutions.

Key Features:

• Multiple models for different needs
• Crash avoidance and anti-falling features
• Tablet-based display
• Ships internationally from China

Price: $1,427-$14,899 (depending on model)

Telepresence Robot Pricing Comparison Table

Telepresence Robots vs. Video Conferencing: Pros and Cons

While Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet have become ubiquitous, telepresence robots offer distinct advantages—and some trade-offs—compared to traditional video conferencing:

Advantages of Telepresence Robots

1. Physical Presence and Mobility

You're not stuck in one spot. Walk through the office, visit different departments, or conduct facility tours. This mobility creates engagement opportunities impossible with static video calls.

2. Eye-Level Interaction

Height-adjustable displays put you at eye level with colleagues, creating more natural, equal conversations rather than looking down from a wall-mounted screen.

3. Spontaneous Engagement

Roll up to someone's desk for a quick chat or join an impromptu whiteboard session. These "water cooler" moments are crucial for culture and collaboration.

4. Better Engagement and Attention

People pay more attention to a robot moving toward them than a video tile on a screen. Studies show telepresence robots increase meeting engagement significantly.

5. Hands-Free Operation

Modern robots navigate autonomously or with simple click-to-drive interfaces, freeing you to focus on conversation rather than controls.

Disadvantages of Telepresence Robots

1. Higher Cost

Even budget models cost $1,500+, compared to free video conferencing software. Enterprise solutions can reach $30,000+.

2. Physical Limitations

Stairs, narrow doorways, and uneven surfaces can limit where robots can go. Most are designed for flat, indoor environments.

3. Setup and Maintenance

Robots require charging, occasional software updates, and physical maintenance—more overhead than a Zoom subscription.

4. Network Dependencies

Robots require reliable WiFi coverage throughout the facility. Dead zones mean your robot presence disappears.

5. Social Awkwardness

Some people find interacting with robots uncomfortable initially. There's a learning curve for everyone involved.

Calculating Business ROI for Telepresence Robots

For businesses considering telepresence robots, understanding the return on investment is crucial. Here's how to calculate it:

Cost Factors

• Hardware: $1,500-$32,000 per robot
• Cloud/Software subscriptions: $300-$1,000/year
• IT setup and integration: Variable
• Maintenance: ~5-10% of purchase price annually

Savings Factors

Travel Cost Reduction

The average business trip costs $1,200-$2,500. If a telepresence robot eliminates even 10-15 trips per year, it can pay for itself within 1-2 years.

Example calculation:

• Robot cost: $5,000
• Average trip saved: $1,500
• Trips replaced per year: 5
• Annual savings: $7,500
• ROI: 150% in year one

Productivity Gains

Remote executives using telepresence robots report 20-40% more effective collaboration compared to video conferencing alone. Factor in:

• Reduced travel time (average business trip wastes 2-3 workdays)
• More meetings possible per day
• Better decision-making from improved communication

Environmental Benefits

GoBe Robots calculates that each robot can eliminate up to 3.1 tons of CO2 emissions per person annually. For organizations with sustainability goals, this represents quantifiable ESG value.

Industry-Specific ROI Considerations

Healthcare: Calculate specialist consultation fees, reduced patient transfers, and infection control benefits.

Manufacturing: Value remote inspections, reduced downtime from faster expert access, and quality control improvements.

Education: Consider student retention rates, tuition from homebound students, and reduced substitute teacher costs.

Where to Buy Telepresence Robots

Purchasing a telepresence robot is straightforward with several options:

Direct from Manufacturers

• Double Robotics: doublerobotics.com
• OhmniLabs: ohmnilabs.com
• Ava Robotics: avarobotics.com
• Awabot (Beam): awabot.com
• GoBe Robots: gobe.blue-ocean-robotics.com

Authorized Retailers

• TelepresenceRobots.com: Specializes in telepresence with comparison tools and expert guidance
• B&H Photo Video: Carries Double Robotics products
• Wellbots: Premium robotics retailer
• Dynamism: Japanese robotics specialist with US distribution

Enterprise Procurement

For enterprise deployments, work directly with manufacturers for:

• Volume discounts
• Custom integration
• Fleet management tools
• Extended warranties
• Training and support packages

Leasing Options

Several manufacturers offer robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) models:

• Ava Robotics: Starting under $1,000/month
• Beam: Contact for enterprise leasing
• GoBe: Flexible leasing available

Leasing makes sense for:

• Testing before committing to purchase
• Seasonal or project-based needs
• Organizations preferring OPEX over CAPEX

Frequently Asked Questions About Telepresence Robots

What is a telepresence robot used for?

A telepresence robot is used to give remote users a physical presence in a distant location. Primary uses include remote work (attending meetings, touring facilities), healthcare (patient consultations, medical rounds), and education (allowing homebound students to attend class). The robot serves as your "body" in another location, letting you move around, interact with people, and participate in activities from anywhere in the world.

How much does a telepresence robot cost?

Telepresence robot prices range from approximately $1,400 for basic consumer models to over $32,000 for enterprise-grade autonomous systems. Popular mid-range options like the Double 3 cost around $4,500, while budget-friendly choices like Ohmni start around $2,000. Monthly leasing options are available starting under $1,000/month for some enterprise solutions.

Can telepresence robots navigate autonomously?

Some telepresence robots offer autonomous navigation, while others require manual control. High-end models like the Ava 500 can navigate completely autonomously using LIDAR and advanced mapping—you simply click a destination on a map. Mid-range robots like Double 3 offer semi-autonomous features like obstacle avoidance and click-to-drive. Budget models typically require manual control via arrow keys or joystick.

Are telepresence robots better than Zoom?

Telepresence robots complement rather than replace video conferencing. They're better for situations requiring mobility, physical presence, or spontaneous interaction—like facility tours, impromptu desk-side chats, or moving between meetings. Video conferencing remains more practical for scheduled meetings where mobility isn't needed and is obviously more affordable.

What is the best telepresence robot for business?

For most businesses, the Double 3 ($4,499) offers the best balance of features, reliability, and price. It includes autonomous navigation, excellent audio/video quality, and is designed for enterprise environments. For larger enterprises with bigger budgets, Ava Robotics provides superior autonomous capabilities. For budget-conscious SMBs, Ohmni delivers excellent value.

Do telepresence robots work with WiFi?

Yes, telepresence robots require WiFi connectivity to function. They connect to your local network and stream video/audio through cloud services. Reliable WiFi coverage throughout the operating area is essential—typically requiring enterprise-grade WiFi with good coverage. Most robots need 5-10 Mbps bandwidth for smooth video streaming.

Can telepresence robots climb stairs?

Most telepresence robots cannot climb stairs. They're designed for flat, indoor surfaces and use wheels for mobility. Facilities with multiple floors typically require either elevator access or multiple robots on different floors. This is one of the primary limitations of current telepresence technology.

How long do telepresence robot batteries last?

Battery life varies by model but typically ranges from 3-8 hours of active use. The Double 3 offers approximately 4 hours of battery life, while some models like Ohmni can run longer. Most robots include auto-docking features that allow them to return to their charging station automatically when battery runs low.

Are telepresence robots secure?

Enterprise-grade telepresence robots feature robust security including encrypted communications (often military-grade encryption), secure authentication, and enterprise SSO integration. However, security varies by manufacturer, so organizations with strict requirements should verify specific security certifications and features before purchasing.

What industries use telepresence robots most?

Healthcare leads telepresence robot adoption, followed by education, manufacturing, and corporate/enterprise. Healthcare uses include telemedicine consultations, patient monitoring, and family visits. Education applications focus on homebound students and remote learning. Manufacturing uses robots for remote inspections and expert consultations. Corporate deployments enable remote worker participation and facility tours.

The Future of Telepresence Robots

The telepresence robot market is evolving rapidly. Key trends to watch include:

AI Integration: Expect smarter autonomous navigation, voice control, and even AI-powered conversation assistance.

5G Connectivity: Faster, more reliable connections will improve video quality and reduce latency for smoother remote control.

Mixed Reality: Integration with AR/VR headsets will create more immersive telepresence experiences.

Falling Prices: As technology matures and competition increases, expect more affordable options to emerge.

Specialized Applications: Watch for purpose-built telepresence robots for specific industries like hospitality, retail, and security.

Conclusion: Is a Telepresence Robot Right for You?

Telepresence robots represent a significant step beyond video conferencing, offering genuine physical presence and mobility for remote users. While the investment is higher than a video conferencing subscription, the benefits—improved collaboration, reduced travel costs, better engagement—often deliver compelling ROI.

For organizations with distributed teams, regular travel requirements, or needs for remote facility access, a telepresence robot can transform how you connect. Healthcare and education institutions particularly benefit from the unique capabilities these robots provide.

Start by identifying your primary use case, then evaluate robots that fit your budget and technical requirements. Many manufacturers offer trials or demonstrations—take advantage of these to experience telepresence firsthand before committing to a purchase.

The future of work is hybrid, and telepresence robots are helping bridge the gap between remote and in-person collaboration. Whether you're a business leader, healthcare administrator, or educator, now is the time to explore how this technology can benefit your organization.