Roller Conveyor vs Belt Conveyor, which one is better? - Spaceguard

04 Aug.,2025

 

Roller Conveyor vs Belt Conveyor, which one is better? - Spaceguard

This is one of the most common questions we are asked here at Spaceguard, and luckily it is quite an easy question to answer once you understand the main differences between the two types of conveyor.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from CHENGGANG.

Below you can find a short overview on the features of conveyor belts and roller conveyors, and to what scenario each type is better suited.

Roller conveyors

Roller conveyors are most suitable for transporting items with a flat rigid bottom

When to use a roller conveyor...

Items can get stuck between the rollers if they are not rigid. This makes roller conveyors unsuitable for loose materials, bags and packets.

The items also have to be large enough to sit across several rollers otherwise the product will not move as desired.

Rollers conveyor systems are more suitable for product accumulation, including zero pressure accumulation which allows products to accumulate without coming into contact. This can help to prevent product damage, particularly with more fragile items like glass bottles.

Roller conveyors are commonly found in airports, warehouses, factories, and assembly lines.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Conveyor Rollers.

Roller conveyors are mostly used for transporting...

  • Cartons
  • Trays
  • Totes
  • Boxes
  • Pallets
  • Crates

To find out more about different types of roller conveyors please see the roller conveyor products page. Alternatively you can check out our ‘What is a roller conveyor?‘ article.

Belt conveyors

Belt conveyors are suitable for transporting a wide range of items, they are one of the most versatile types of conveyors available

When to use a belt conveyor...

As the belt is a flat surface it does not matter so much about the size of the product, belt conveyors can transport small items or loose material with ease.

One thing to consider however is that sharp or extremely heavy items may cause damage to the belt.

Very heavy items may also cause problems for a standard belt conveyor and whilst heavy-duty belts are available, for basic product transportation it is often more cost-effective to use roller conveyors instead.

Belt conveyors are commonly found in farming & mining industries, supermarkets, greenhouses, factories, warehouses, and e-fulfilment centres.

Belt conveyors are mostly used for transporting...

  • Food & drink items
  • Packets & bags
  • Loose materials
  • Lighter boxes
  • Packaged products

To find our more about the different types of belt conveyors and their uses please see the belt conveyor products page or alternatively, take a look at our ‘What is a belt conveyor?‘ article.

For more information, please visit Roller Conveyor System.