Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT VS. Makeblock mBot2 — which One Should You Choose?
Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT VS. Makeblock mBot2 — which One Should You Choose?
STEM robots are taking the world of children’s education by storm, sparking creativity and building essential coding skills! With the rising excitement around these fantastic learning tools, robots like the Makeblock mBot2, Sphero BOLT+, and Sphero BOLT have emerged. Each of these robots brings its own flair and fantastic educational opportunities to the table.
So, how do you choose the perfect robot for your family or classroom adventure?
In this guide, we’ll dive into the unique perks of each robot, offering insights to help parents and teachers make savvy choices that will nurture their budding tech whizzes! Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the world of robotics, where learning meets fun and creativity knows no bounds!
Makeblock mBot2 VS. Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT: Overview
We now gather detailed information of all these peoducts and summarize it in a chart for clarity.
| Makeblock mBot2 | Sphero BOLT | Sphero BOLT + | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.99 | $179.00 | $199 |
| Mechanical Materials | Durable Aluminum Alloy | Plastic | Plastic |
| Controller | CyberPi | No Controller | No Controller |
| Play Time | 5 hours | 2-5 hours | No Official Data Given |
| Charging Time | 1 Hour (5V/2A fast Charging) | 6 Hours | Not Specified |
| Coding Language | Block-based Python | Block-based JavaScript Draw | Block-based JavaScript Draw |
| Connection Methods | USB Bluetooth2.4G Wi-Fi | Bluetooth Infrared ray | Bluetooth Infrared ray |
| Sensors | Light sensor Microphone Gyroscope Accelerometer Ultrasonic Sensor Quad RGB Sensor 128x128 LED Matrix | Compass Light Sensor Gyroscope Acceleromete Motor Encoder Infrared (IR) Sensors 8x8 LED Matrix | Compass Light Sensor Gyroscope Accelerometer Motor Encoders Infrared (IR) Sensors 128x128 Pixel LCD Screen |
| Compatibility | 500+ Makeblock Electronic & Mechanical Parts LEGO Bricks | Extra adapters need to be purchased for a customized DIY appearance. | Extra adapters need to be purchased for a customized DIY appearance. |
Makeblock mBot2 VS. Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT: Durability
Makeblock mBot2 and Sphero BOLT/BOLT+ differ significantly in terms of durability.
mBot2 is made from aluminum alloy, and is designed for strength and resistance to wear, making it ideal for hands-on assembly and repeated modifications. Its lightweight yet sturdy frame ensures it can withstand frequent handling, disassembly, and reassembly, making it highly robust even if dropped or bumped during use.
Sphero BOLT and BOLT+ have plastic shells, which, while lightweight and stylish, are more prone to cracks or dents during rough handling. This fragility, along with their higher price, may concern parents, as repairs could diminish enjoyment. Thus, the mBot2 offers greater durability and versatility in more demanding environments.
Makeblock mBot2 VS. Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT: Length of Using and Charing
Makeblock mBot2 is ideal for longer play sessions, especially in educational or project settings. Its extended battery life, quick charging, and replaceable battery ensure minimal downtime. The simple and reliable USB charging system enhances convenience, making it perfect for users who need extended use without interruption.
Sphero BOLT+ and Sphero BOLT are designed for shorter, interactive play sessions. While their wireless inductive charging is convenient, the longer charging time and non-replaceable battery limit extended use. And the 2-hour playtime is adequate for short activities but may be restrictive for longer coding or educational sessions.
Makeblock mBot2 VS. Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT: Features
Coding
mBot2 uses mBlock platform, starting with Scratch-based block programming for beginners and smoothly transitioning to Python as learners advance. This flexibility allows the mBot2 to grow with users, from basic visual coding to complex text-based programming. Additionally, it includes mBot2 coding box (a game-based coding guide helps kids easily start) for hands-on learning.
With mBot2, users are not just coding for virtual or simple interactions but are programming a robot to perform real-world tasks, such as moving through an environment, reacting to obstacles, and following programmed paths.
Sphero promotes learning through playful engagement with its app-driven approach, but reliance on smartphones can limit tactile experiences that families value. While Sphero BOLT+ transitions to JavaScript, mBot2’s support for Python offers deeper engagement for advanced learners, particularly those interested in robotics.
Makeblock mBot2: STEM Education Coding Robot Kit for AI Learning
Building
A key feature of mBot2 is its DIY assembly, enabling children to build the robot themselves. This hands-on process enhances practical skills and fosters a sense of ownership and pride. The modular design allows easy attachment of sensors, motors, and components using screws or slots, providing flexibility to expand functionality for various projects. Makeblock also offers various add-on packs, such as the Smart Work 3-in-1 Add-on Pack, Inspire Activities Bundle, and Rover Add-on Pack, to cater to different needs and preferences for every child.
Smart Work 3-in-1 Add-on Pack
Inspire Activities Bundle
Rover Add-on Pack
In contrast, Sphero BOLT+ comes pre-built and ready to use, lacking the DIY assembly feature. While its sleek, ball-like design is functional, it may not engage children's creativity as much. Without the opportunity to build, kids might miss the personal connection that comes from assembling their own robot, potentially leading to diminished interest over time.
Playing
mBot2 provides a range of project ideas, from basic robot movements to complex multi-sensor systems like obstacle avoidance and line-following. These projects allow kids to have fun while mastering coding, robotics, and STEM principles. The variety ensures continuous engagement, encouraging exploration of new concepts and creation of more intricate robots.
For Sphero, its projects tend to be more focused on movement and light-based interactions, offering less variety in complex mechanical or sensor-based projects. Therefore, the depth of the projects is usually restricted to controlling movement and visual effects.
Makeblock mBot2 VS. Sphero BOLT+ VS. Sphero BOLT: Usage Scenarios
For Family Education
Makeblock mBot2 is ideal for families seeking hands-on, long-term STEM learning. It fosters deep engagement in robotics, coding, and engineering. The customizable design encourages family collaboration through building and learning together, while its industrial look and modular components appeal to kids interested in robotics and engineering.
Sphero BOLT+ is also a good option for families with younger children or those who prefer a more immediate, play-based learning experience. But the lack of deeper learning experiences limits kids' opportunities to explore and foster a long-term interest in robotics, engineering, and STEM.
For School Education
mBot2 provides extensive educational resources and long-term STEM learning potential and its rich curriculum and online materials support educators in introducing and expanding STEM programs. Teachers can create custom projects based on students' abilities, enabling differentiated learning that keeps both beginners and advanced students engaged and challenged.
In comparison, Sphero BOLT+ offers limited project variety, mostly focusing on coding and movement-based activities. While it’s an excellent tool for introducing coding, its scope is narrower, making mBot2 a better choice for schools aiming for a more holistic, hands-on STEM learning environment.
mBot2 provides extensive educational resources and long-term STEM learning potential and its rich curriculum and online materials support educators in introducing and expanding STEM programs. Teachers can create custom projects based on students' abilities, enabling differentiated learning that keeps both beginners and advanced students engaged and challenged.
In comparison, Sphero BOLT+ offers limited project variety, mostly focusing on coding and movement-based activities. While it’s an excellent tool for introducing coding, its scope is narrower, making mBot2 a better choice for schools aiming for a more holistic, hands-on STEM learning environment.
The Sphero BOLT+ and Sphero BOLT are excellent options for kids beginning to learn coding. However, when compared to these products, the mBot2 stands out with superior performance and features.
With mBot2, kids can progress from beginner to advanced coding skills through hands-on practice and extended playtime. Additionally, for teachers and parents, mBot2 is not only a more appealing choice but also a durable, effective robot that supports a higher quality of education.
