Information on Purchasing Robots for Educational Institutions
Top Robots for Schools in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
In the ever-evolving world of education, robots have become a valuable tool in teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Here's a roundup of some of the best robots for schools in 2025, taking into account factors such as age group, subject area, build complexity, programming options, expansion potential, features, compatibility, sensors, pricing, and warranty periods.
1. Makeblock mBot Robot Kit
Suitable for: 8-12 years old Subject Area: STEM, coding, robotics fundamentals Build Complexity: Moderate Programming Options: Scratch (visual blocks) and Arduino (text coding) Expansion Potential: Upgradeable and customizable with additional sensors and modules Key Features: Includes sensors like obstacle detection, line following Compatibility: Compatible with Arduino ecosystem Pricing & Warranty: Affordable for schools; specifics on warranty not detailed
2. Eligu Uno R3 Smart Robot Car Kit V4
Suitable for: Tweens (probably 10+ years) Subject Area: Coding, robotics, electronics Build Complexity: Includes assembly of remote-controlled car and sensor setup Programming Options: Arduino programming Expansion Potential: Highly upgradeable for deeper exploration Key Features: Obstacle detection, line following sensors Compatibility: Arduino-based system Pricing & Warranty: Not specified, but geared toward hobbyist and educational use
3. Ozobot Evo Entry Kit
Suitable for: Pre-K through grade 12; adaptable with lessons for all levels Subject Area: Coding, STEAM, critical thinking Build Complexity: No build needed; ready to use robot designed for coding practice Programming Options: Two ways — screen-free Color Code markers and Blockly visual coding online Expansion Potential: Hundreds of online lessons for diverse curricula Key Features: Small robot with color sensors, designed for easy classroom integration Compatibility: Works with Chromebook, PC, iOS, and Android devices Pricing & Warranty: Includes charging cable, markers, zip case; pricing typically mid-range, warranty details not specified
4. FIRST Robotics Programs (LEGO League, Tech Challenge, Robotics Competition)
Suitable for: Pre-K to 12th grade with progressive complexity Subject Area: STEM broadly, hands-on engineering challenges Build Complexity: Varies from simple LEGO builds to complex robot assemblies Programming Options: Varies; includes visual programming (LEGO SPIKE), Java, or C++ for advanced teens Expansion Potential: Extensive through different yearly challenges and team projects Key Features: Emphasizes sensors use, teamwork, real robotics competitions Compatibility: LEGO hardware and various control systems based on competition level Pricing & Warranty: Program fees apply; widely supported by schools and sponsors; warranty varies by kits
5. Petoi Bittle Robot Dog
Suitable for: Children and teens interested in animal-like robots Subject Area: Programming, robotics, creativity Build Complexity: Semi-assembled robot dog, modifiable Programming Options: Basic to advanced coding options available Expansion Potential: Add sensors and custom code Key Features: Robotic dog with movement sensors and programmable behaviors Compatibility: Compatible with Arduino and other open-source platforms Pricing & Warranty: Consumer-priced more like a toy with educational value; warranty info not detailed
6. RO1 Mini Robot (Industrial)
Suitable for: Higher education or advanced robotics education due to complexity and cost Subject Area: Industrial automation, automation research, higher-level STEM Build Complexity: Ready-to-use robotic arm with industrial capabilities Programming Options: No-code programming via built-in touchscreen, suitable for quick setup Expansion Potential: Modular and versatile, suitable for labs and classrooms with advanced needs Key Features: High precision, 18 kg payload, 1.3 m reach Compatibility: Good for automation education Pricing: Approximately $37,000; relatively affordable compared to industrial robots Warranty: Risk-free 30-day onsite trial offered
Summary Table
| Robot Kit | Age Group | Build Complexity | Programming Options | Expansion | Key Features | Price Range | Warranty | |------------------------|---------------------|------------------|------------------------------|---------------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------|-------------------| | Makeblock mBot | 8–12 years | Moderate | Scratch, Arduino | Upgradeable | Sensors: obstacle, line following | Affordable | Not specified | | Eligu Uno R3 Kit | ~10+ years | Moderate | Arduino | Upgradeable | Remote control car, sensors | Affordable | Not specified | | Ozobot Evo Entry Kit | K–12 | None | Color Codes, Blockly online | Lessons-based | Color sensors, easy coding | Mid-range | Not specified | | FIRST Robotics Program | 4–18 years | Varies | Visual to advanced (Java/C++)| Extensive challenges | Competition-based, sensors, teamwork| Program fees | Varies | | Petoi Bittle Robot Dog | Kids & teens | Low–moderate | Arduino compatible | Add sensors/code | Robotic dog, programmable behaviors | Consumer-priced | Not specified | | RO1 Mini Robot | Higher Ed/advanced | Low (ready-to-use)| No-code touchscreen | Modular | Industrial arm, precise, mobile | ~$37,000 | Trial available |
These options cover a wide range of educational needs from early childhood to advanced robotics education, balancing ease of use, coding depth, and expandable features in line with school budgets and instructional goals.
- Utilizing the Makeblock mBot Robot Kit for learning in STEM subjects allows students to enhance their coding and robotics skills.
- As the student progresses, they can explore more advanced programming options with the Eligu Uno R3 Smart Robot Car Kit V4, including Arduino programming.
- The Ozobot Evo Entry Kit is a versatile tool for education and self-development, providing opportunities for students to practice coding in a diverse range of curricula.
- By participating in FIRST Robotics Programs, students can engage in hands-on engineering challenges, improving their critical thinking and teamwork skills throughout their education.
