Quadruped Robots (Robot Dogs)

Unitree cracked the cost problem that kept quadruped robots in research labs. The Go2 uses commodity motors and sensors combined with proprietary control software to deliver a consumer-grade robot dog at 1/50th the price of Boston Dynamics' Spot.

DEEP Robotics builds industrial-grade quadrupeds for power line inspection, underground mining, and hazardous environment surveys. The form factor — four legs plus optional wheels — handles stairs, rubble, and uneven terrain that wheeled robots cannot navigate.

The market is bifurcating: consumer quadrupeds ($1,600-$5,000) for hobbyists and education, and industrial models ($20,000-$80,000) for infrastructure inspection. China dominates both segments on price, pushing Western competitors into increasingly niche applications.