Best robot kits for the STEM-obsessed
Overview
Sail into summer with our tech and activity recs to help your family imagine, explore, and play more. This tech? It’s seriously fun.
Table of Contents
Robot kits are a great way to inspire STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) learning in children or hone programming skills in hobbyists or curious adults. Plus, they’re just fun! The best robotics kits are made from high-quality components, feature easy-to-learn programming and well-engineered design, and offer possibilities for creative expansions.
What to consider before buying a robot kit
Robot kits are a fun and relatively inexpensive activity that is suitable for kids and adults alike—but you’ll want to consider the price point and difficulty level before making any final decisions. Prices can range from $20 to over $300+ depending on the number of functions and pieces. There are also many sets that offer beginner and intermediate building options in one kit which can be great for those who hope to hone their skills without investing too much money upfront.
Looking to pick up a robot kit of your own, or perhaps as a gift for a curious loved one? Below, we’ve sifted through reviews and researched to find the best robot kits for kids, beginners, and hobbyists that will suit your needs and quell your curiosity.
The Good & The Bad
- Visual instructions are kid-friendly
- 5-in-1 model
- The app works on both iOS and Android
- No printed manual included
- iPad or Android tablet is required
Why We Like It
Looking for something a little more familiar to kick-start your robot building hobby? This LEGO robot building set features a beginner-friendly programming interface and 847 pieces for building five multifunctional models, including a humanoid robot that dances, a guitar, and a multi-tooled rover. Consider this the most user-friendly jumping off point for adults and kids alike.
Details
Nintendo Labo Robot Kit
Best for gamers
The Good & The Bad
- In-game robot appearance is customizable
- Allows two-player battle mode in a single screen
- “Challenge” mode features five segments
- Some reviewers complained that this robot takes a long time to build
Why We Like It
Looking for something a little more out of the box than a typical beginner robot kit? With this robot kit made up of mostly cardboard, you make your very own Toy-Con robot suit and wear it to control a robot fighting machine in a video game. Once assembled, you wear the suit to play with your Switch, demolish in-game surroundings and take on challenges to unlock powerful abilities.
Details
The Good & The Bad
- Great price given all the variety
- Includes 12 different robot projects in one
- The instructions are clear and easy to follow
- Some reviewers mentioned that the pieces are very small
Why We Like It
With more than 12 different robots in one DIY kit, this robot building project allows kids and adults alike to build, deconstruct, and re-build multiple different versions of their robot. Not only does this make the Stellax Zone the best value on the list but it’s also the most engaging in terms of versatility.
Details
Makeblock mBot Ultimate Robot Kit
Best for advanced builders
The Good & The Bad
- Includes 10 building forms
- Compatible with both Arduino and Raspberry Pi
- Wirelessly control with smart devices through Bluetooth connection
- This robot kit is much more expensive than any other option on the list
Why We Like It
Looking for something a little more advanced to stoke your curiosity? This robot kit features 60 mechanical parts and modules for 10 different application scenes, including a robotic ant, a camera dolly, and a self-balancing robot. The variety and various levels of complexity will keep you coming back for more.
Details
Topics Robotics
