Blue Robotics BlueROV2 — Specs & Review
Specifications
| Brand | Blue Robotics |
|---|---|
| Model | BlueROV2 |
| Year | 2016 |
| Category | Underwater |
| Autonomy | remote-controlled |
| Environment | outdoor |
| Price (USD) | $3800–$5500 |
| Connectivity | Tether, QGroundControl, ArduSub |
| Country of origin | US |
Key features
- 6-thruster vectored configuration (6-DOF)
- 100m standard depth rating (300m heavy)
- ArduSub open-source control software
- 4K camera with modular payload system
- Active global open-source community
- Fraction of cost vs professional inspection ROVs
- Extensive accessory ecosystem (sonar, gripper, lights)
What is it?
The BlueROV2 is an open-source underwater ROV designed to be affordable, capable, and highly customisable for research institutions, universities, inspection professionals, and technical hobbyists. Its 6-thruster vectored configuration provides 6 degrees of freedom movement underwater — superior stability and manoeuvring versus 4-thruster designs.
Who is it for?
University marine science and oceanography programmes, environmental research organisations, pipeline and infrastructure inspection professionals, aquaculture facility operators, and advanced technical enthusiasts. Anyone needing a capable inspection ROV without the $50,000+ cost of professional work-class ROVs.
Key specs
- Thrusters: 6x Blue Robotics T200 (vectored 6-DOF configuration)
- Depth rating: 100 m (standard), 300 m (heavy configuration)
- Camera: 4K low-light USB camera (forward), wide-angle optional
- Tether: 100m standard neutrally buoyant tether
- Control: ArduSub open-source autopilot (QGroundControl GCS)
- Payload: Modular — lights, sonar, manipulator arm add-ons available
- Weight: ~11 kg in air
- Origin: US
Open-source ecosystem
BlueROV2 uses ArduSub — the underwater adaptation of the ArduPilot autopilot suite — giving it a rich open-source software ecosystem with active development. Blue Robotics maintains an extensive library of payload accessories (sonar, gripper arms, additional lights) and a global community of users sharing custom integrations and modifications.
How it compares
BlueROV2 competes with QYSEA FIFISH (consumer/prosumer, no open source), Deep Trekker REVOLUTION (professional inspection focus), and VideoRay professional ROVs (much higher cost, work-class). BlueROV2's open-source architecture and price point are unmatched in the capable research ROV segment.
Limitations
- Requires tether management (not wireless, not AUV)
- Self-assembly kit requires mechanical and software competence
- 100m standard depth rating limits to shallow operations vs 300m+ professional ROVs
- Not rated for commercial offshore work-class ROV applications
FAQ
Is BlueROV2 a kit or pre-assembled?
Blue Robotics sells the BlueROV2 both as a fully assembled, ready-to-dive ROV and as an assembly kit. The kit requires mechanical assembly and software configuration; the assembled version is tested and ready for operation.
What depth can the BlueROV2 reach?
The standard BlueROV2 is depth-rated to 100m. A heavy configuration with upgraded pressure housings extends the depth rating to 300m.
What is ArduSub?
ArduSub is the open-source underwater autopilot software adapted from the ArduPilot project, used by BlueROV2 for vehicle control, stabilisation, and mission planning via the QGroundControl ground control station.
Can BlueROV2 be used for commercial inspection work?
BlueROV2 is used for commercial inspection tasks including hull inspection, pipe inspection, and aquaculture monitoring by professional operators. It is not certified to commercial work-class ROV standards for regulated offshore operations.