Robotic arms are popular worldwide, but are often prohibitively expensive, especially for developing countries. This paper implemented an inexpensive robotic arm with five degrees of freedom, controlled with variable resistances and an ATmega328P on an Arduino UNO board. Methodology, challenges, and solutions of such a robotic arm have been explored. Oscillations and instability have been brought under control with added resistors. The model can be an educational tool and a basis for other specialized robotic arms . Mechanisms to control the servomotors and writing code for the microcontroller are discussed. The final product is inexpensive at USD 43, with supply of 5 V and 2 A . Lastly, the robotic arm is compared with robotic arms used in surgery and in harsh environments.