200kg vs 400kg Digital Servo Comparison & Selection Guide

200 kg·cm vs. 400 kg·cm High-Torque Servo: Engineering Comparison & Selection Guide

Which Model Should You Choose: 200 kg·cm or 400 kg·cm?

Direct Answer: Choose the 400 kg·cm version if your mechanism prioritizes maximum holding force, heavy static lifting, or stall resistance under severe external impact. Choose the 200 kg·cm version if your application requires faster angular tracking, dynamic steering responsiveness, and agile motion under balanced loads.

Evidence: Both models share the identical DHMCU DHPS380 architecture—including physical dimensions (132 x 119.6 x 55.2 mm), unit weight (880g), 100% hardened alloy steel gear train, and 12–24V DC electrical system. The difference is internal gear reduction ratio: the 400 kg·cm model utilizes a higher reduction ratio to maximize holding torque, while the 200 kg·cm model utilizes an optimized reduction ratio to deliver higher angular velocity.


Side-by-Side Engineering Specifications

Engineering Parameter DHPS380 (200 kg·cm) DHPS380 (400 kg·cm)
Peak Stall Torque @ 24V 200 kg·cm (~19.6 N·m / 2,775 oz-in) 400 kg·cm (~39.2 N·m / 5,550 oz-in)
Rated Continuous Torque 70 kg·cm (~6.8 N·m) 140 kg·cm (~13.7 N·m)
Operating Speed @ 24V Fast dynamic steering response 0.5s / 60° continuous high-load stroke
Gear Train Transmission 100% Hardened Alloy Steel (Dynamic ratio) 100% Hardened Alloy Steel (High-reduction ratio)
Position Sensor 12-Bit Contactless Magnetic Encoder (0.087°) 12-Bit Contactless Magnetic Encoder (0.087°)
Operating Voltage Range DC 12V – 24V (Min 12V, Max 30V) DC 12V – 24V (Min 12V, Max 30V)
Integrated Protection 5A Overcurrent & Reverse-Polarity 5A Overcurrent & Reverse-Polarity
Output Spline & Horn 12mm Hardened Spline + CNC Flange Horn 12mm Hardened Spline + CNC Flange Horn
Unit Dimensions & Weight 132 x 119.6 x 55.2 mm (880g) 132 x 119.6 x 55.2 mm (880g)

When to Choose the 400 kg·cm Version

The 400 kg·cm model is engineered for extreme load applications where maximum holding capacity and anti-backdrive resistance outweigh transit speed:

  • Combat Robotics (BattleBots) Lifters & Clamping Jaws: Lifting an opponent robot requires massive static holding torque. The 400 kg·cm output (~39.2 N·m) ensures the arm maintains position under counter-torque without stripping gears.
  • Heavy Manipulator Joints: Shoulder and elbow joints in articulated industrial robotic arms subjected to cantilevered payload weights.
  • Automated Clamping & Locking Fixtures: Machine tending and CNC automation where high holding force is needed to clamp parts securely during machining cycles.

When to Choose the 200 kg·cm Version

The 200 kg·cm model is engineered for dynamic applications where steering agility, fast directional changes, and high angular velocity are paramount:

  • Autonomous Ground Vehicle (UGV / AGV) Steer-by-Wire: Direct-drive wheel steering linkages require rapid response to navigation commands while providing sufficient torque (~19.6 N·m) to overcome ground friction on gravel, grass, or workshop concrete.
  • Combat Robotics Self-Righting (Srimech): Fast-acting self-righting mechanisms where rolling the robot over requires a quick angular punch rather than slow static holding.
  • Animatronics & Kinetic Art: Full-scale creature head turns, neck motions, and limb gestures requiring natural dynamic motion speeds without mechanical lag.

Common Architecture & Interchangeability

Because both models share the identical mounting bolt pattern (4x 8.1mm holes on 40mm x 117mm centers) and electrical pinout, engineering teams can prototype with one model and interchange with the other without revising chassis CAD files or wiring harnesses.


Purchasing & Official Availability

Both the 200 kg·cm and 400 kg·cm versions of the DHPS380, along with CNC aluminum servo horns and replacement electronics, are available directly from dhmcu.com with worldwide express shipping.