Humanoid robots expected to become the second largest precision gear products market by 2030

In 2024, precision gearbox manufacturers generated only $16 million in revenue from humanoid robotics. However, this grew five-fold by the end of 2025, as global humanoid robot production expanded from just under 2,000 units to over 10,000 units. In 2026, revenue from this sector is projected to nearly double again. Currently, strain wave and planetary gearboxes are predominantly used in the actuators of humanoid robots. Cycloidal gears are only tested and selected for specific models at present, primarily for waist, hip, and knee joints, where higher torque and stiffness are essential. By 2030, strain wave and planetary gears are expected to remain the dominant choice due to their lightweight, compact design, and relatively lower cost. However, cycloidal gears also show promising growth potential for tasks requiring higher torque and greater impact resistance, and they are currently being tested for these applications.