How does the value of property affect robbery vs. theft charges?

In theft cases, value plays a major role; taking a $500 phone is a misdemeanor, while taking a $1,000 phone is a felony. However, in robbery cases, the value is irrelevant to the primary charge. Using force to take a $1 bill is just as much a second-degree felony as using force to take $10,000. While the judge may consider value during sentencing, the legal classification of robbery depends entirely on the use of force and weapons.