Makeblock Robotics & Coding Kits

Makeblock offers a comprehensive range of educational robot kits designed to teach coding, robotics, AI, and STEM concepts in an engaging, hands-on manner. These kits cater to various age and skill levels, promoting creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

These robots are popular choices for STEM clubs and programs and camp projects. They’re also great for homeschool and hobbyists.

We’ve got a number of these robots and want to share our favorites.

mBot2

STEM Education Coding Robot Kit

• Classic Design
• A favorite for classrooms & STEM labs
• Block Coding & Python
• Expandable

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The mBot2 is an educational robot kit designed to introduce students to advanced programming concepts, robotics, and AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things.) Ideal for middle to high school students, the mBot2 provides a robust platform for both classroom and individual learning.

mBot2 Key Features:

• CyberPi Microcontroller:
  • Equipped with a detachable CyberPi, a powerful microcontroller featuring a full-color TFT display, Wi-Fi connectivity, a microphone, a speaker, and multiple onboard sensors including light, sound, and gyroscope.
  • The CyberPi can function independently, allowing students to use it for separate coding projects or as part of the robot.
• Flexibility in coding language supporting block and text based coding:
  • Supports block-based coding with the mBlock 5 programming app (similar to Scratch), making it accessible for beginners. The drag and drop programming is an intuitive way to get kids started with coding and robot projects.
  • Allows for Python programming, enabling learners to transition to text-based coding and understand real-world programming languages.
• AI and IoT Capabilities:
  • Built-in Wi-Fi enables connection to the internet, allowing students to explore cloud-based AI services, data collection, and IoT applications.
  • Supports projects involving speech recognition, face detection, and other AI functionalities.
• variety of Sensors:
  • Includes an ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement, a quad RGB line following sensor for precise line tracking, and a 6-axis gyroscope for detecting motion and orientation.
  • Additional ports are available for expanding with more sensors and modules.
• Expandable and Compatible:
  • Compatible with LEGO bricks and Makeblock’s mechanical parts, providing endless possibilities for customization and creativity.
  • Modular design encourages students to experiment with building and engineering concepts.
• Wireless Communication:
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allow for wireless programming and data sharing.
  • Enables communication between multiple robots for collaborative projects and swarm robotics.

Fun STEM/Coding Projects with the mBot:

1. Autonomous Maze Solver:
   • Objective: Program mBot2 to navigate through a maze autonomously using its ultrasonic sensor to detect walls and obstacles.
   • Learning Outcome: Understand algorithms for pathfinding, sensor integration, and decision-making processes in robotics.
2. Weather Station Robot:
   • Objective: Use the CyberPi’s sensors (or add external sensors) to collect environmental data like temperature, humidity, and light intensity, then upload the data to a cloud server.
   • Learning Outcome: Introduce IoT concepts, data collection, and analysis, as well as cloud computing basics.

mBot2 Add-on Packs

The mBot2 Add-on Packs are designed to enhance the capabilities of the mBot2 robot, providing additional components and sensors for more advanced projects. These packs allow students to delve deeper into robotics, engineering, and programming.

Robotics Rover Add-On Pack for mBot2

Expand your capabilities

Power up your mBot2!

• Tank Treads for enhanced mobility
• Servo Powered Arms
• AI Capabilities
• Remote Control Included

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If you have or are considering the mBot2, you’ll want to check out the mBot2 Rover add on pack. It uses the the mBot 2 parts combined with new parts to make a bigger, more rugged robot with tank treads. The Rover adds some new capabilities and some cool AI programs!

You’ll transform the iconic look of the blue mBot with the big “eyes” to a taller robot with tank treads that uses the CyberPi screen to display expressions. We loved the upgrade!

The treads give the Rover the capability to go places and traverse obstacles the original mBot2 can’t do, and it has server motor arms that can grab objects.

This kit comes with the Bluetooth Remote Controller, which is also sold separately.

mBot Coding Packs

The coding packs don’t add any new parts to your mBot, and are more curated coding projects that make use of the CyperPi module, which is the brains of the mBot. There are 4 kits to choose from:

• Standard Box
• AI – this kit focuses on voice recognition and lets you make your mBot a translator and follow voice commands.
• Data Science – these are programming projects that walk through building some games and looking at data in graphs or tables.
• Somatosensory Game Box – program your mBot2 to use its sensory input for more advanced control.

Each coding box includes 3 or 4 projects with coding booklets providing step by step instructions for more sophisticated projects.

Smart World Add-on Pack

If you want to expand your mBot’s capabilities even further, the optional Smart World Add-on Pack provides add-on parts and instructions for building more complex projects. 

Attachments include a robotic arm, a payload carrier, and surveyor robot add on. This pack not only expands the mBot2s capabilities but also deepens the understanding of STEM concepts through practical, hands-on activities.

Fun STEM Projects & Coding with the mBot and CyberPi:

1. Line-Following Delivery Robot:
   • Objective: Attach a gripper or storage compartment to mBot2 and program it to follow a line path to deliver items from one location to another.
   • Learning Outcome: Understand line-following algorithms, control of actuators, and automation concepts.
2. Smart Irrigation System:
   • Objective: Use moisture sensors to detect soil humidity and program mBot2 to activate a water pump when the soil is dry.
   • Learning Outcome: Learn about environmental monitoring, control systems, and the application of robotics in agriculture.

Codey Rocky

Codey Rocky Interactive Emo Robot for Kids

• Great Beginner Robot
• Block Based & Python Coding
• Scales with abilities
• Fun & Educational

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Codey Rocky is an entry-level coding robot that combines hardware with software to teach programming, AI, and robotics to younger kids, typically starting around age 6. Its friendly design and interactive features make coding fun and accessible.

You don’t need to build this unit; Codey is ready to go right out of the box.

Codey Rocky Key Features:

• Two-in-One Design:
  • Codey: A detachable controller with an LED dot matrix display, buttons, and sensors. Can be used alone for coding exercises and games. Codey is the “brains.”
  • Rocky: A mobile tracked vehicle base that, when combined with Codey, allows for movement and more dynamic projects. Rocky is the “body.”
• Rich Built-in Sensors:
  • Features over 10 electronic modules including a sound sensor, light sensor, infrared transmitter and receiver, gyroscope, and more.
  • The LED display can show animations, text, and visual feedback for coding projects.
• User-Friendly Programming:
  • Supports block-based drag and drop programming using mBlock 5, making it suitable for beginners with no prior coding experience.
  • Also supports Python programming for more advanced learners, bridging the gap to professional programming languages and more advanced programming skills.
• AI and IoT Ready:
  • Through mBlock 5’s AI extensions, Codey Rocky can perform tasks like voice recognition, face detection, and emotion recognition.
  • Introduces students to AI concepts and how they can be applied in real-world scenarios.
• Wireless Connectivity:
  • Equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing for wireless programming and internet connectivity.
  • Enables IoT projects where Codey Rocky can interact with cloud services or other devices.
• Educational Content:
  • Comes with a wealth of resources including interactive tutorials, lesson plans, and project ideas.
  • Supports educators in integrating Codey Rocky into their curriculum.

Fun STEM Projects & Coding with Codey Rocky:

1. Interactive Storytelling Robot:
   • Objective: Program Codey Rocky to act out a story by displaying images on the LED matrix, playing sounds, and moving around.
   • Learning Outcome: Combine creativity with coding by integrating multimedia elements and programming logic.
2. Face Recognition Security Bot:
   • Objective: Use the AI extensions to program Codey Rocky to recognize faces and grant or deny access (e.g., displaying “Welcome” or “Access Denied” on the LED display).
   • Learning Outcome: Introduce machine learning concepts and how AI can be used for security applications.

Check out our full Codey Rocky Review

mBot Ranger

3 in 1 STEM Robot Building Kit

• 3 different builds
• Block Coding & Arduino
• Control with App or optional remote

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The mBot Ranger is a versatile three-in-one robot kit designed for intermediate learners. It offers more complexity than the basic mBot, allowing students to explore advanced robotics and programming concepts. Suitable for ages 10 and up, it’s ideal for those interested in engineering and mechanics.

mBot Ranger Key Features:

• Three Configurations:
  • Land Raider: A robust, off-road tank that can traverse various terrains.
  • Dashing Raptor: A speedy three-wheeled racing car that emphasizes speed and agility.
  • Nervous Bird: A self-balancing, two-wheeled robot that demonstrates principles of balance and control systems.

• Powerful Mainboard – Me Auriga:
  • Based on the Arduino Mega 2560, providing ample processing power and memory for complex programs.
  • Features integrated Bluetooth, gyroscope, and additional ports for sensors and modules.
• Comprehensive Sensors:
  • Equipped with an ultrasonic sensor for obstacle detection, a line follower sensor, a light sensor, a sound sensor, and a gyroscope.
  • Allows for a wide range of interactive and responsive behaviors.
• Programming Options:
  • Supports graphical programming with mBlock 5 for beginners.
  • Compatible with the Arduino IDE for text-based coding, offering a pathway to more advanced programming.
• Durable Construction:
  • Constructed with high-quality aluminum alloy parts, ensuring durability and a professional feel.
  • Modular design encourages experimentation with different mechanical structures.
• Bluetooth Control and Connectivity:
  • Can be controlled via smartphone or tablet using the Makeblock app.
  • Enables remote control and real-time interaction with the robot.

Check out our full review of the mBot Ranger 3 in 1 Robot Kit.

Fun STEM/Coding Projects with the mBot Ranger:

1. Terrain Explorer:
   • Objective: Assemble the Land Raider and program it to navigate different terrains, using sensors to adapt to changes in the environment (e.g., avoiding obstacles, detecting changes in light).
   • Learning Outcome: Explore robotics applications in exploration and environmental sensing, understand sensor integration.
2. Speed Challenge with Data Analysis:
   • Objective: Build the Dashing Raptor and program it to reach maximum speed while collecting data on acceleration and velocity using the gyroscope and other sensors.
   • Learning Outcome: Introduce physics concepts related to motion, data collection, and analysis, and how programming can be used to model real-world phenomena.
3. Self-Balancing Robot Control System:
   • Objective: In the Nervous Bird configuration, program the robot to maintain balance while carrying additional weight or when pushed slightly, experimenting with the control algorithms.
   • Learning Outcome: Understand feedback loops, control systems, and the mathematics behind balancing robots.

Holiday & Birthday STEM Gifts

Robot kits make a great birthday present or holiday gift if you’re looking for something more than just another toy. These robot kits are fun to build, and offer an outlet for creativity and challenges for what kids can do with them.

Add on kits allow you to expand their capabilities with parts, modules, or projects. Can’t think of what to give for Christmas or a birthday? Get an add on pack!

Wrap Up – Our Favorite Robotics Kits for Kids

These robot kits offer a rich platform for students to engage with STEM and STEAM learning subjects in an interactive and enjoyable way. By building and programming these robots, kids develop critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills that are valuable in today’s technology-driven world.

Each kit provides unique opportunities to explore different aspects of robotics and coding, ensuring that there is something to captivate every young engineer or programmer.

You can find some hands-on lessons and exercises on the Makeblock site so you can get started with STEM education at home or in your classroom quickly. Makeblock offers educational packages if you’re looking to outfit a STEM lab or classroom.

We love all of these robots. At this point, if we only had to pick one it would be the mBot2 with the Rover Add-on Pack. The CyberPi offers plenty of coding projects and the Rover pack allows the mBot2 to explore places the base model can’t go, rivaling the Ranger model.

Any of these robots would be a great choice to learn and play with!