Robots aren’t only for kids and teens but for anyone who shows interest. Indeed, robots are a spectacle of fascination, and you don’t need expert-level knowledge to handle them. That’s cool! Right? But, here’s the bad news.
Product selection can be a harder process. Your choice depends upon factors like your robotic knowledge, the type of project you are working upon, and your preferences. Luckily, there are many online platforms where people provide their valuable opinion. Similarly, here we are reviewing top robot kits for adults.
1. Makeblock DIY 10-in-1 Ultimate Robot Kit
Makeblock is a mind-blowing kit with 10 possible robots to build and easy to handle and design. The structure consists of anodized aluminum pieces which are super easy to assemble. It’s great for adults who are just starting to learn about programming, robotics, and electronics. You can create whatever you like, from robotic arm tanks, metal-geared motors to robotic grippers.
Highlighted Features
- This kit allows you to make 10 different robots with just one kit.
- It is equipped with 3 powerful encoder motors and a gripper arm.
- What makes it cool is that you can control it wirelessly by means of a Bluetooth connection (using a Smartphone, tablet, etc.).
- Programming is based upon Scratch, Python, and Arduino. Head out to instruction manuals to learn more or seek online video tutorials.
If you want to see more of this comprehensive kit, just watch this video:
2. Sunfounder Smart Video Car Kit
This PiCar-V is a robot kit based on Raspberry Pi (compatible with RPi 4B, 3B, 3B+/2B/2B+). The web camera is coupled with a USB adapter. This allows a crazy experience of real-time video transmission, which can also be broadcasted.
It is the perfect STEM kit for adults to learn Raspberry Pi, programming, and electronics. Servo motors and strong structural plates power it. Another fun fact is that the speed levels of the car are adjustable using keyboard buttons.
To make things fun, it has informative tutorials and relevant material for learning. You can also visit their online platform and apps for better assistance. SunFounder took much efforts to make the PiCar to one of our favourite robot kits for adults.
Highlighted Features
- Due to visual programming language software, coding is made easy for beginners.
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The feature that stands out is the web camera which gives a wide 120-degree view.
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You can also control your robot with their app or control its direction and camera movement using a web browser.
Pros
- Good for kids and parents.
- Easy way to improve Python.
- Real-time video transmission.
Cons
- Unsatisfactory customer service.
- Instruction manuals have code errors.
3. Bioloid STEM Standard Kit
Bioloid STEM standard kit has a complete guide for adults who are just starting to learn robotics. This 7 in 1 kit teaches from basic to advanced levels of robotics and programming principles. The lesson plan is divided into 3 parts:
Basic phase: You understand analogies and technological principles.
Application phase: Here, programming is explained, and in the practical phase, learners are well equipped to solve programming problems independently. By the end of the session, learners are expected to have their customs. Although the kit comes with colorful, illustrated workbooks, you can still download the R+ Design program to overview assembly and structure.
Highlighted Features
- This is a 7 in 1 robot with seven pre-designed robots, but you can also go with your imagination and design your own.
- The kit has a 21 weeks curriculum in two workbooks, a perfect way to learn the STEM method.
- It is provided with 1 CM-530 controller and an IR sensor array.
Pros
- Perfect instructional material.
- Beginner-friendly.
- You can program it using Roboplus.
Cons
- Suited for an academic environment
- Short term warranty
4. Lewan Soul 6 DOF Robotic Arm Kit
Lewan Soul is the best in terms of affordability for robot fanatics. 6 channel servo controllers power the arm kit. The controller has built-in Bluetooth, which allows you to control it wirelessly.
Another fascinating feature is the 16 M large capacity which can store 230 action groups while one action group holds 1020 actions. You can also write an action group on your own. If you feel stuck, you can consult 3D animation to show how to assemble the robotic arm.
Highlighted Features
- All servos are high precision. In contrast, the digital ones make movement more smooth and give the arm 6 degrees of freedom.
- The package includes wireless control handles but can also be controlled through Android/IOS apps.
- Its full metal construction promises durability accompanied by 7.5 V, 5 Amp DC power adapters.
Pros
- Smartphone app.
- Built-in Bluetooth.
- Supports Arduino /TTL communication
Cons
- Limited servo strength.
- Not open source.
5. Lynxmotion Phoenix 3 DOF Hexapod
Want a robotic spider? Don’t go any further from Lynx motion Phoenix Hexapod. Its 6 legs allow it to rotate on every axis. This is all by the perfect leg design and body structure. The robot uses 18 Hitec HS 645 servos.
What is cooler is that you can control the speed, direction, and direction of rotation. All this mobile flexibility is offered in this robot. Leg lift and ride are also adjustable. The kit has a BotBoarduino controller and USB cable, and all other things you require. None of the other robot kits for adults has such features.
Highlighted Features
- The servo erector set brackets are made of high-quality Aluminum.
- What makes it versatile is its ability to walk in any direction giving it 3 degrees of freedom.
- Variety of control options provided: PS2 remote control, Xbee / DIY RC stick radio control, and TTL serial control.
Pros
- Degree of freedom.
- Multiple control methods.
- Good looking robotic Hexapod.
Cons
- Kit doesn’t include batteries.
- The product differs from the image.
6. Official Arduino Robot Kit to build your own Adult Robot Kit
Arduino robot kit provides you an opportunity to dive into the world of electronics and programming. In short, this is a robot on wheels adapted to multitasking. This robot consists of two processors: a Motor board and a Control board.
Beginners can start by tinkering with the Control board. In comparison, experienced users can easily tackle the motor board as well. The 7 structural inputs include 5 buttons, 2 potentiometers, 5 sensors, a digital compass, and an SD card reader. 4 chargeable AA batteries power it along with their charger.This kit also has sufficient space for prototyping and Tinkerkit connectors.
Highlighted Features
- This package includes a color LCD screen, Arduino IDE, and a USB cable.
- A keynote is that you can look at its underlying design or even make your own with this open-source system.
- A significant benefit is that soldering is not required for setting this up.
Pros
- Multitasking.
- No prior experience is required.
- Extra space for prototyping.
Cons
- No debugger included.
- Sketches are difficult to modify.
7. Yahboom Tank Robot Kit
This name is known for its enhanced sensory abilities. The robot can recognize obstacles and avoid them due to ultrasonic sensors. Another cherry on top of the cake is a 2 DOF (degree of freedom) PTZ camera. The camera allows real-time video transmission. The camera transmits video of 480p resolution.
Robots can also be controlled through remote control or mobile apps (Android/iOS compatible). Not only that, it can recognize color, gestures, objects, and QR codes. The system is 100% open source which means that you can customize it to create your own project.
Highlighted Features
- Real-time 5G transmission OF HD video through Raspberry Pi’s Wi-Fi hotspot is also possible.
- Face recognition and obstacle tracking are distinguishing features of this robot.
- The tank has a solid, high-quality Aluminum alloy making it suitable for long-term use, which is why it is in our list of the top robot kits for adults.
Pros
- Programmable robotics.
- Real-time video transmission.
- DIY car for kids and adults.
Cons
- Not very beginner-friendly.
- Defective pieces delivered.
8. Elegoo Mega 2650 Robot Kit
This tremendous kit has all the material for you to master robotic techniques. Are you a starter? No worries. The kit comes with all necessary equipment with a free PDF manual. The PDF manual contains more than 35 lessons for different Arduino projects. Hence, it is great for beginners who don’t have a programming basis.
Components are Mega 2650 controller, 6 cell battery case with wire, expansion board, IC card, RFID module, and an expansion board. Other things include LED, potentiometers, Breadboard, and sensors. All parts are of good quality and compatible with Arduino IDE.
Highlighted Features
- Alternative to remote controlling, you can also use a Smartphone app.
- Another striking fact is that it is a budget-friendly kit, unlike most other robots.
- The codes are provided within the CD, saving you the hassle of finding them.
Pros
- More than detailed 35 lessons.
- Compatible with Arduino IDE.
- Beginner friendly.
Cons
- The poor condition of items.
- Unsatisfactory quality of components.
9. Robotis Bioloid Premium
This cool, humanoid robot kit for adults, is also great for learning purposes. You can easily build your own robots according to your choice of intelligence and mobility. This modular mechanism uses DC servos. The manual and basic programs are available for 29 robots.
You can trust your imagination to create robots from 1 DOF to 18 DOF humanoid robots. The software is GUI-based programming (Roboplus). Included in this are manuals for the understanding of basic programs, programming, tools, and SW. Create anything you want from hexapods; quadrupeds wheeled robots or robotic arm grippers.
Highlighted Features
- Advanced sensory skills are incorporated in this model IR sensors, distance detection sensors, and Gyro sensor (for walking balance).
- The Li-Po battery (11.1V 1000Ma) is lightweight and provides high voltage for swift movements.
- For real feel, the walking performance is made impeccable, and the body also moves during locomotion.
Pros
- Wireless control.
- Aesthetic, human-like look.
- Creating new models from one.
Cons
- Price may be concerning for some
- Poor customer service
10. Sunfounder’s Remote Control Crawling Quadrupled Robot Model
Want to ace your Arduino knowledge? This robot is perfect for learning as well as making a four-legged robot yourself. Each leg has 3 joints driven by servos. This kit not only teaches you about Arduino, but you can also learn about servos and wireless modules. Please refer to its sample sketches to make the robot move forward, backward, or sideways.
The body is made of 5mm thin wood plates using 12 servos. There are well-detailed manuals at your disposal. The technical support for this kit is free of cost. So you can have expert-level guidance from manufacturers. You can also find online tutorials on their website.
Highlighted Features
- These robot kits for adults are also equipped with 18650 chargeable lithium batteries.
- This mechanical structure has more flexibility movement than other robots due to its legs.
- The robot comes with its own Sunfounder Nano board as control. The small remote control has a tiny joystick. You can control your robot remotely through it.
Pros
- Remote controlling.
- Free technical assistance.
- Helps in learning Arduino.
Cons
- Tutorial CD not available.
- Batteries are missing in packages.
11. SainSmart Mega 2650 Mobile Car Robot Kit For Adults (Arduino)
This kit makes Arduino simple to learn for adults. This one is for lovers of remote-controlled cars. The mechanical items are compact and hence easy to handle. The robot kit comes with SainSmart 2650 Board microcontroller based on ATmega2650. A 4WD mobile car makes it easier for adults to get the underlying basis of robotics and the application of coding.
Highlighted Features
- You can upgrade with various modules like sensors, relays, servos, potentiometers.
- A computer can power the microcontroller through a USB cable or with AC- to-DC adapter or battery. This is all possible because of the Arduino sensor shield on which various accessories can be installed.
- The package also includes 4 elastic rubber tires, which are wear-resistant.
Pros
- Lightweight and strong.
- It can be modified with sensors.
- Understandable, for starters.
Cons
- Not suited for advanced users.
- Less recreational features.
12. Robotic Shield With Arduino
A robotic shield kit is a must-have for adults never exposed to robotics or coding. This kit provides a hassle-free experience since it is very simple to set it up. Everyone from students to teachers or hobbyists can enjoy it.
Understandable tutorials accompany the kit for a simplistic approach. The robot is expandable; i-e, you can modify it with additional hardware or sensors. However, it also posses its sensors of light and touch and can figure out its own track.
This whole project can be powered by five 1.5 V AA batteries or six 1.2 rechargeable batteries. The batteries have to be bought separately. Another fun fact is that you can access its online tutorial, which has around 40 activities. In a nutshell, this promises endless fun within our convenience within your budget.
Highlighted Features
- The robot is open source and allows you to alter and create your own electronic circuits.
- You can upgrade your robot by adding additional sensors and hardware if you want.
- No specific brand connectors are required. You can go along with custom circuits.
Pros
- Solder free.
- Budget-friendly
- No experience is required
Cons
- Batteries are not included.
- Mechanical issues observed
Conclusion
If you’re planning to buy a starter kit, then there’s a plethora of information available on the internet. This may get frustrating and confusing at times. However, a good practice is to evaluate your level of understanding of robotics. Your decision can get much simpler if you know this.
Some robot kits for adults allow only a specific project/model to be created; others allow greater variety like the 7 in 1 or 10 in 1 kit discussed above. Few of the robots above are also used in the high school curriculum for hands-on experience for students.
Other kits are also suitable for adults and kids co partnering in a project. Suppose you are an adult starting in robotics. In that case, you necessarily don’t have to purchase robotic kits for kids since all manufacturers know that adult users always don’t mean advanced users.
Many adult kits are simpler and can help you understand the fundamental principles of programming, electronics, and robotics. Whether you are turning robotics into a hobby or just trying to have fun, there are many platforms for you to learn.
1 Comment
Interesting , but not really advanced robot kits. I would like to build a autonomous wheeled robot.
Kits using the Arduino may be OK, but will need a RPi or greater to perform good object recognition.
I have found, with our club, that simple robot like a line follower is at first interesting. then that interest wanes quickly.