Computer vs. Robot — What's the Difference?

A machine that executes specific tasks based on programmed instructions.

A machine capable of performing tasks autonomously.

A system that connects with and uses software applications.

An apparatus often controlled by a computer or remote mechanism.

An electronic device for processing and storing data.

A device created to mimic human or animal movements or functions.

A device that aids in digital content creation and consumption.

A mechanism that interacts with its environment based on sensors.

An apparatus used for computation or data management.

A robot is a machine—especially one programmable by a computer—capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically. A robot can be guided by an external control device, or the control may be embedded within.

A computer is a machine that can be programmed to carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations automatically. Modern computers can perform generic sets of operations known as programs.

(especially in science fiction) a machine resembling a human being and able to replicate certain human movements and functions automatically

A device that computes, especially a programmable electronic machine that performs high-speed mathematical or logical operations or that assembles, stores, correlates, or otherwise processes information.

Another term for crawler

Such a device along with peripherals, especially a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

A set of automatic traffic lights

One who computes.

A mechanical device that sometimes resembles a human and is capable of performing a variety of often complex human tasks on command or by being programmed in advance.

A person employed to perform computations; one who computes.

A machine or device that operates automatically or by remote control.

A male computer, where the female computer is called a computress.

A person who works mechanically without original thought, especially one who responds automatically to the commands of others.

A programmable electronic device that performs mathematical calculations and logical operations, especially one that can process, store and retrieve large amounts of data very quickly; now especially, a small one for personal or home use employed for manipulating text or graphics, accessing the Internet, or playing games or media.

A form of urban dance involving a succession of separate movements executed with precision in imitation of a robot.

One who computes.

A system of serfdom used in Central Europe, under which a tenant's rent was paid in forced labour.

An electronic device for performing calculations automatically. It consists of a clock to provide voltage pulses to synchronize the operations of the devices within the computer, a central processing unit, where the arithmetical and logical operations are performed on data, a random-access memory, where the programs and data are stored for rapid access, devices to input data and output results, and various other peripheral devices of widely varied function, as well as circuitry to support the main operations.

An intelligent mechanical being designed to look like a human or other creature, and usually made from metal.

Same as digital computer.

A machine built to carry out some complex task or group of tasks by physically moving, especially one which can be programmed.

A machine for performing calculations automatically

(figuratively) A person who does not seem to have any emotions.

An expert at calculation (or at operating calculating machines)

(South Africa) A traffic light (from earlier robot policeman).

(surveying) A theodolite which follows the movements of a prism and can be used by a one-man crew.

(dance) A style of dance popular in disco in which the dancer imitates the stiff movements of a stereotypical android robot.

(Internet slang) A habitual poster on the /r9k/ board on 4chan; a member of the /r9k/ community.

A mechanism that can move automatically

An automated entity that can be programmed for various tasks.

Computers can "learn" through machine learning algorithms, while robots use such learning to interact with their environment.

While some simple robots might, most modern robots utilize computers or microcontrollers for operations.

A computer processes and stores data, while a robot performs specific tasks, often autonomously.

Computers receive instructions through software or user input, whereas robots might get commands from embedded systems or remote controllers.

Yes, smartphones are essentially small computers but are not robots as they don't perform tasks autonomously in the physical world.

Yes, drones are flying robots that can be either controlled remotely or fly autonomously using onboard computers.

Computers are typically powered by electricity, and many robots rely on batteries or electrical sources.

No, while some robots are humanoid, many are designed based on function, not resembling humans or a computer.

While a robot can assist in assembling or manufacturing a computer, the design process requires human expertise.

Robots might incorporate computer screens to display information, interact with humans, or receive instructions.

Robots don't have emotions. However, they can be programmed to recognize and respond to human emotions using computer algorithms.

While robots can perform many tasks, there are roles requiring human intuition, creativity, and emotion that neither robots nor computers can replicate.

Computers communicate with robots through software protocols, wireless signals, or wired connections.

A computer doesn't have moving parts for mobility, whereas a robot is often designed to move or interact with its environment.

A calculator is a basic form of a computer designed for arithmetic tasks, but it's not a robot.