Payload in robotics refers to the maximum mass that a robot can carry or manipulate while maintaining its specified performance characteristics, including accuracy, repeatability, and speed. Payload capacity is a fundamental design parameter for robot arms, mobile robots, and drones, directly constraining the tools, parts, or cargo the robot can handle. It is typically quoted at the wrist or end-effector mounting face and may vary with configuration and speed; dynamic payload accounts for inertial forces during acceleration.