The increasing complexity and novel features of industrial robots have made their selection for specific applications a challenging task. Decision-makers are faced with the daunting task of navigating through various attributes and specifications, often under conditions of ambiguity and uncertainty. To assist in this complex decision-making process, this paper introduces a novel decision-making framework based on probabilistic uncertain linguistic q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets (PULq-ROFS). This framework effectively combines the strengths of probabilistic uncertain linguistic term set (PULTS) and q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROFS) to provide a more robust approach for handling ambiguity and uncertainty in the robot selection process. The proposed methodology integrates a multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) approach. This approach utilizes the VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I KOmpromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method in conjunction with the criterion importance via inter-criteria correlation (CRITIC) method. The CRITIC method determines attribute weights by analyzing both the differences and contrast intensity of criteria, thereby accounting for the relative strength and conflict among them. VIKOR is then employed to aggregate individual regret and group utility, resulting in a compromise solution that guides decision-makers toward the optimal robot selection. Proposed method provide the clarity and confidence to decision makers for choice of attributes and crediting this enhancement to the framework’s transparency and its ability to incorporate a wide range of stakeholder perspectives. This framework facilitates a more inclusive decision-making process that acknowledges differing viewpoints and preferences. This proposed approach not only directs users toward optimal selections but also encourages collaboration among decision-makers, promoting a sense of shared ownership and responsibility in the selection process. This paper select the best robot by utilizing the benefits of both CRITIC and VIKOR method. The effectiveness of this integrated approach is validated through parameter and comparative analysis. The results demonstrate the potential applicability of the proposed methodology in real-world industrial robot selection scenarios, providing decision-makers with a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern robotic systems.