The 10 Best Robot Kits
This wiki has been updated 30 times since it was first published in May of 2017. With home automation taking over the mundanities of household management, self-driving cars roaming the streets, and smartphones guiding us through our daily routines, artificial intelligence is everywhere these days. Building and programming machines isn't just for nerds anymore, and these robot kits make it easy and fun for tinkerers of all ages to hone their information-age DIY skills. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Lego Mindstorms EV3
2. Ubtech Jimu Builderbots Series
3. Elegoo Mega 2560
Editor's Notes
December 03, 2020:
The nature of robotics, and the associated software and coding innovations dictate that many items on our previous list were either outdated or have been upgraded. It should be noted that many of these choices are designed for children, so there may be a choking hazard for very young kids.
The Ciro Stem Solar Robot is good addition due to its innovation and adaptability. Solar power technology is getting better and better, and this choice clearly showcases the future of kits like these. It also features 12 different models to build in the same bundle. Many of the latest generations of robot kits come with their own dedicated app, and the Yerloa 405 piece Kit has this feature as well as an exhaustive list of parts that are all related to STEM technology, with a focus on learning as well as fun.
To allow even younger children to get a grasp of basic coding, the Makeblock mBot 90053 is an easy choice for this list. It is an update to its predecessor and represents better value for around the same cost. Its all-aluminum construction also makes it one of the sturdier models available in this category. If simplicity and value are important, then the 4M Tin Can is a great entry-level option that everyone can enjoy.
May 24, 2019:
While fan favorites from well-established names like Lego and Smithsonian remain popular, an insatiable demand for STEM toys and technology gives competitors such as Ubtech and Tenergy the opportunity to rise in the rankings with all sorts of versatile, user-friendly options. For the younger crowd, the charm and durability of Wonder Workshop's programmable orbs are pretty tough to beat, while more advanced skills can be applied to turn the Elegoo Mega into a practically limitless range of innovative possibilities.
Special Honors
Home Science Tools Although some on this site may be on the pricier side, Home Science Tools covers a large variety of sets, including Cubelets Blocks, BlueBot, and the Transforming Solar Robot by OWI. They are great ways to introduce young minds to physics and engineering in a fun and educational way, at home or in a classroom setting. homesciencetools.com
4. Dash and Dot by Wonder Workshop
5. 4M Tin Can
6. Lego Boost
7. Makeblock mBot 90053
8. Meccano Meccanoid XL 2.0
9. Yerloa 405 piece Kit
10. Ciro Stem Solar Robot
Born and raised in the American Deep South, Misty's career in elder care took a sharp left turn when she was swept away to the land of Robin Hood by her very own Merry Man. She's a coffee-swilling master of stitch-witchery with a magical touch in the kitchen and a neverending stream of Disney gag reels playing in her head. A certified nursing assistant by trade and a toy aficionado by choice, some intense parenting ensured she was well versed in gardening, carpentry and electrical engineering by the time she entered grade school. Her culinary artistry, tool-wielding wizardry, and skill with needle and thread were honed over nearly four decades in the kitchens, workrooms, and outdoor spaces of family, friends, and clients. Voracious reading took care of the rest.