Educational robots have become a powerful way not only to introduce kids to coding and STEM concepts, but also to inspire them to invent the future. Sorting through the many different options to find the best fit, however, is a real challenge all its own.
Wonder Workshop’s Dash and Makeblock’s mBot2 are two standout robots that offer different pathways into STEM. Dash combines hands-on coding with playful challenges for kids as young as 6, while Makeblock’s mBot2 emphasizes robotics and engineering.
We’ll compare these two options and dive into why Dash is a favorite among parents and educators who are looking for a user-friendly introduction to coding that is approachable enough for beginners, but also provides enough computer science depth to keep advanced coders engaged.
Dash vs. mBot2 Comparison
Dash Robot
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mBot2
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|---|---|---|
| Price | Currently $159.99 (includes everything needed to learn and play) | $119.99 (basic model) |
| Recommended Age | 6-14 years old (suitable for early readers and advanced coders) | 8-12 years old |
| Learning Style | Hands-on, interactive coding and robotics | Building and advanced robotics |
| Access to Features | All-inclusive, no paid subscription needed, evolves with kids' skill levels | Additional costs and hardware for advanced features |
| Setup | Ready to go out of the box; assembled and charged on arrival | Requires involved setup with adult assistance; charging time needed |
| Software Support | Suite of intuitive free apps; compatible with Apple, Android, Kindle, and Chrome devices. | Reviewers mention that the free coding software can be prone to glitches and difficult to navigate |
| Amazon Reviews | 4.6/5 stars | 4.4/5 stars |
Ready to Play vs. DIY Assembly
Dash arrives ready to inspire. Fully assembled and pre-charged, it includes everything kids need to start learning and playing immediately. Dash’s durable body and long battery life are built for the way kids play, ensuring that families can focus on STEM learning growth and hands-on exploration rather than continuous repair.
Makeblock’s mBot2 is made of durable aluminum, though requires significant assembly before kids can begin learning. This may appeal to those interested in the mechanics of robots, but can be a hurdle for families seeking a plug-and-play solution.
Interactive STEM vs. Building and Mechanics
Dash transforms STEM into an adventure. Kids program Dash’s movements, lights, and sounds, bringing their code to life through creative, interactive challenges. Along the way, they build problem-solving skills, resilience, and confidence. For older learners, Dash’s adaptability ensures there’s always something new to discover.
Makeblock’s mBot2 dives deep into the mechanics of robotics. It offers a more technical experience that may be rewarding for some learners, but can feel less accessible for kids just starting their STEM journey.
Age and Skill Level
Dash is designed to empower future innovators of all ages and skill levels. Learners as young as 6 years old can use the free Path app to draw routes for Dash to follow around the house before progressing to drag-and-drop coding in our free Blockly app. Features such as color coordination and read-aloud options make this an excellent option for early readers.
Meanwhile, more advanced coders can explore complex programming and creative problem-solving through leveled up challenges in Blockly. Kids will find countless puzzles that introduce concepts like sequences, loops, conditionals, and variables, making Blockly ideal for both first-time coders and more experienced learners.
In addition, the free app Wonder provides over 300 STEM challenges, encouraging kids to experiment, iterate, and explore Dash’s capabilities while learning important problem-solving skills.
A Learning Evolution
With Blockly Pro, another free Wonder Workshop app inside of the free Tier of our Make Wonder platform (available on Chrome and iOS), offers advanced coders the opportunity to transition from block coding to JavaScript while they program Dash.
Like Dash, Makeblock’s mBot2 also supports block-based and text-based coding. Whereas Dash utilizes the coding languages Blockly and JavaScript, mBot2 uses Scratch and Python. Since the mBot2 is geared towards kids ages 8-12 and leans more heavily into physical robotics and assembly, it is more suited for kids who are interested in building robots as much as programming them. Kids who are interested in building environments for their robots will love Dash, who navigates mazes, and with accessories (built or purchased) can lift, hurl, draw, and drop things in a kid-made environment.
Dash’s true strength lies in its ability to evolve with learners. Whether it’s a 6-year-old learning the how blocks are color coded depending on the function they prescribe or a 9-year-old tackling multi-step algorithms, or a 13-year-old writing their own program in JavaScript, Dash provides opportunities for creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration all along the way.
Ease of Software and Compatibility Use
When it comes to getting started with coding, having reliable, intuitive software makes a huge difference. Dash shines in this area with free, easy-to-connect apps that are thoughtfully designed to support a range of learning levels. With these tools, connecting to Dash is simple—Bluetooth functionality ensures that kids can dive into coding without wrestling with complicated setups. Dash’s apps are all COPPA compliant.
Reviewers mention that while Makeblock’s hardware lives up to the hype, the accompanying software doesn’t rise to the same standard. Glitches and inconsistent performance can be resolved with updates and conversations with customer service, though those take time and make the mBot2 user experience less seamless.
All in One vs. Pay to Expand
Wonder Workshop’s comprehensive mix of hardware and software makes Dash an ideal option for families and educators who want an all-in-one solution without the need to continuously pay for add-ons.
Makeblock offers many additional products and accessories that boast advanced features, but which add significantly increased costs and device management.
The Verdict
Dash and mBot2 both offer engaging STEM experiences and offer different strengths. Makeblock’s mBot2 is a good fit for kids ready for a more technical dive into robotics and assembly, while Dash excels at fostering a lifelong love of STEM through hands-on exploration and age appropriate challenges.
For a robot that grows with your child and makes learning feel like a constant adventure, Dash is the ultimate choice.
Get Dash for $158.99 for a limited time. Sale ends Dec. 16.
Order by Dec. 17 to get it in time for Christmas in the US.
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