A work apparatus for lifting and moving an external load (1), includes a base body (14), and a gripper (10) for the load (1). The gripper (10) is movable with respect to the base body (14). At least one drive device (52) is configured to move the gripper (10) together with the load (1). A control unit (11) controls the drive device (52). The gripper (10) together with the load (1) is movable by the control unit (11) at least partially automatically by the drive device (52). The work apparatus includes a weight compensation device (24) for absorbing at least some of the weight of the external load (1), in particular during the automatic movement of the load (1) by the drive device (52). The application of force by the weight compensation device (24) is adjustable, in particular by the control unit (11).