The best robotics kits for adults
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The 11 Best Adult Robot Kits for Endless Fun

Best robotics starters kit
  • Pre-soldered parts for easy assembly
  • Over 200 components
  • Arduino-based
Most versatile robot kit
  • 10 different builds
  • Wireless mobile app controller
  • Durable all-metal body
Most advanced robot kit
  • Highly customizable
  • Challenging build
  • AI technology

Looking for a fun weekend project to challenge your skills? Robotics kits for adults are a great way to learn or strengthen your STEM competencies in a fun and engaging way. Not all robot kits are created with older users in mind, however, so it’s important to know what to look for when buying to find the right kit for your skill level.

In this article, we’ll give you our top picks for the best robotics kits for adults, show you what factors to pay attention to when buying DIY robots, and explore what makes robotics kits a great hobby for curious adults. Ready to learn everything you need to know about robotics kits for adults? Then keep reading!

SUMMARY
Robot Kit for AdultsSummaryPrice (~)Best Offer
ELEGOO Robotics Starter KitBest robotics starters kit$66
Makeblock mBot Ultimate Robot KitMost versatile robot kit$400
DJI Robomaster S1Most advanced robot kit$550
Lewansoul 6DOF Robotic Arm KitBest robot arm$140
ELEGOO Smart Robot CarBest robotics car kit$68
LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor KitBest LEGO robotics kit$360
Freenove Big Hexapod Robot KitBest hexapod robot kit$165
Adeept Bionic Quadruped SpiderBest quadruped robot kit$140
KEYESTUDIO Mini Tank RobotBest robot tank kit$69
Freenove Robot Dog KitBest robotic dog$130
Creality Ender 3 3D Printer KitBest 3D printer kit$190
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Why Get into Robotics as an Adult?

Robotics and electronics are excellent ways to learn a lot of different skills, including critical thinking, logic, reasoning, math, physics, and programming. These are all complex topics that can be difficult or boring to learn on their own, so using robot kits for adults as a hands-on learning experience can make the experience easier and more fun.

It’s also a good way to challenge yourself and stimulate your mind, much in the same way people use crosswords, sudoku, and other puzzles to keep their minds sharp. However, if you identify as a kinesthetic learner (hands-on), robotics kits and other models are especially good to try since they give you a more hands-on experience.

The Best Robot Kits for Adults in 2024

Best robotics starters kit
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If you don’t have much experience with robotic kits or working with electronics, the ELEGOO robotics starter kit is a great place to start. It includes an assortment of electronics components and a detailed set of tutorials to help you create several different projects.

The kit is made up of 200 pieces, including LED diodes, breadboards, cables, sensors, resistors, DC motors, LCD screen, and RFID module. It also comes with an Arduino MEGA clone controller board that is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE.

Most parts are pre-soldered or breadboard-compatible, so while there are still some highly technical assembly requirements, you don’t need to know how to use a soldering iron to put it together. This also makes it a great project to work on with a teen or pre-teen since the more dangerous aspects of electronics assembly are removed.

You can use the controller board and included software to create a wide variety of projects. The included lessons and instructions are clear and easy to follow, even if you’ve never worked with electronics before.

Standout Features

  • Pre-soldered parts for easy assembly
  • Over 200 components
  • Arduino-based
Most versatile robot kit
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If you’re looking for a robotics kit that can accommodate many possible projects, the mBot Ultimate Robot Kit is a high-quality kit that can be made into ten different builds. These include a robotic arm tank, bartending robot, camera gimbal robot, and even a 3D 360 video capture device. Made with anodized aluminum body parts, the many forms of the mBot are both cool-looking and durable.

This robotics kit comes with 160 parts and components, including a MegaPi controller board that works with the Arduino IDE, as well as scratch and Python programming languages. The assembled robots can be controlled through an app via wireless Bluetooth connection or through your computer.

The app utilizes block programming, so if you are just learning the basics of programming (or a child or teen is using the robot), you can drag and drop coding commands on top of each other for an easy visual programming experience using block programming. You can also use traditional written code to use and optimize your robots.

The kit includes enough parts to make 10 different robot configurations, so you can keep coming back to the project and making new and more complex robots each time. Plus, if you get bored with the included projects, there are plenty of other online mBot projects to try.

Standout Features

  • 10 different builds
  • Wireless mobile app controller
  • Durable all-metal body
Most advanced robot kit
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For a robotic kit with a challenging build and a stimulating end product, the Robomaster S1 is the clear winner. Utilizing AI technology with scratch and Python coding capabilities, there isn’t much you can’t teach your S1. It features 46 customizable parts to tailor the build and user experience to your own preferences.

The S1 can self-drive by following line guides in autopilot mode, shooting targets, avoiding objects, following traffic lights, and doing other complex tasks. It’s also capable of multidirectional movement and rotation. The AI technology allows the S1 to recognize gestures and sounds. It also allows it to recognize and communicate with other S1 robots.

Not only does the S1 provide detailed instructions for assembly, it also includes programming guides and educational videos on subjects like AI, math, programming, and more to help in learning robotics and functions of the S1 more effectively.

The DJI Robomaster S1 is perfect for anyone who wants a complex and highly customizable robotics kit. The AI technology makes it perfect for those who want to learn about cutting-edge technology, and the scratch programming language means that even beginners can get started coding the robot’s behavior.

Standout Features

  • Highly customizable
  • Challenging build
  • AI technology
Best robot arm
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Easily one of the best robotics kits for adults on the market, the heavy-duty Lewansoul robot arm has an all-metal aluminum body for maximum durability. It’s also another Arduino compatible design that can be controlled wirelessly via an app. It uses a 6-channel Bluetooth servo controller to control several servos and has enough torque (approximately 17kg) to grab and lift objects with the clamp at the end of the robot arm.

Putting the robot arm together is easy and well-documented thanks to the included 3D video tutorials that come with the kit. All parts are pre-soldered, so you don’t need to worry about using a soldering iron or other difficult tools to assemble this product.

As mentioned above, the robotics components can be controlled by a mobile app through a wireless Bluetooth connection. However, you can also use Windows-compatible software on your computer for even more control and customization.

The Lewansoul 6DOF robotic arm kit is perfect for any adult who wants to learn about robotics and engineering while building a project that is both highly functional and visually impressive.

Standout Features

  • Durable all-metal body
  • Mobile app control
  • Detailed 3D assembly tutorial
Best robotics car kit
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Rated for users 12 and up, the ELEGOO Smart Robot Car Kit is a perfect project to do with your kids and is one of the best beginner robotics kits you can buy. Capable of being controlled through an app, through line tracking, or with an infrared remote control, there are a lot of possibilities with this project.

Not only is this robotic kit designed for easy assembly, but it also comes with detailed assembly and usage instructions, so even users with little electronics or programming knowledge can successfully use it.

The kit is based around an Arduino Uno R3 control board, so it is compatible with a wide range of programming languages and software.

This Smart Robot Car is equipped with both infrared and ultrasonic sensors, making it possible to auto-start, line track, and avoid objects. It also comes with a camera module for live video feeding.

Standout Features

  • Live camera feed
  • Beginner-friendly assembly
  • Line tracking self-driving
Best LEGO robotics kit
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If you’re looking for a more kid-friendly robotics project that can be done with your teen or pre-teen, the 1000 piece LEGO Mindstorms kit is an obvious choice. While the number of parts makes it seem more complicated than other robotics kits, it is fairly easy to assemble and comes with detailed instructions to build it.

You can do five distinct builds with the kit, and the robots’ capabilities differ depending on which build you choose. The guardian build shoots missiles and punches through obstacles. The helper build dances and plays the drums. The multifunctional build moves like a vehicle but can perform a variety of tasks. The quadruped build can walk around and avoid obstacles. The sports build can shoot hoops and play ball.

The kit works with a proprietary Inventor app that lets you control the robots and learn basic programming functions right from your phone or tablet.

The LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor Kit is one of the best robotics kits for adults who want to have fun while learning about programming and engineering. It’s also a great way to bond with your kids as you work together on the builds.

Standout Features

  • Beginner-friendly assembly
  • Five different forms
  • Mobile app controller
Best hexapod robot kit
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The Freenove hexapod robot is a self-balancing walking robot that can be controlled via your computer or your Apple or Android device. It works through a Raspberry Pi controller unit that is not included with the kit. It is compatible with several different Pi models, however, so if you have one on hand already, there is a good chance it will work with your robot.

This robot also features a working camera system with facial recognition and pan-tilt for video recording. It also has ultrasonic sensors that detect objects and their proximity. It’s powered by four batteries (preferably rechargeable) that must be purchased separately from the kit. This, in addition to its Bluetooth connectivity, make this robot a fully wireless model.

The Freenove hexapod robot is a great choice for those who want to experiment with robotics and programming without being tied down by wires. The wireless factor makes it convenient to control and use.

Standout Features

  • Camera with facial recognition
  • Self-stabilizing legs
  • Wireless
Best quadruped robot kit
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Adeept’s Bionic Spider is another Raspberry Pi-based robotics kit. Like Freenove’s hexapod kit, the Pi controller board is not included with this kit. It’s compatible with the RasPi 3B and 3B+ only, so it is not as easy to just use what you have on hand, as with the other Raspberry Pi-controlled robot kits on this list.

Its gyro sensor lets the bionic spider self-stabilize as it walks. It also has sensors for object recognition, obstacle avoidance, and line tracking. Beyond that, it also has a camera for a live video feed. The robot is controlled through your computer and is capable of taking custom Python code to fully customize it to your needs and experimentation.

Standout Features

  • Obstacle avoidance
  • Live camera feed
  • Line tracking self-driving
Best robot tank kit
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For a fun and widely customizable project, the KEYESTUDIO mini-tank robot kit is a fantastic way for adults and teens alike to learn programming and robotics foundations. Running on an Arduino controller, the kit also includes a variety of motors, tracks, an ultrasonic sensor, infrared receiver, Bluetooth module, and LED board.

In addition to moving the robot, you can also program the 8×16 LED panel to display custom faces, messages, and other designs for a fun and personalized experience. You can learn how to create the patterns using a dot matrix in the tutorial provided with the kit.

This mini tank robot also comes with detailed explanations for assembly and using the other functions of the robot, so you can use this kit even as a complete beginner. You can also use it with a mobile (Android or iOS) app for wireless control.

Standout Features

  • Customizable LED board
  • Detailed tutorials
  • Wireless connectivity
Best robotic dog
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Easily one of the best robot kits based on a Raspberry Pi controller, the Freenove robot dog is both adorable and highly functional. You can use either your computer or Apple or Android mobile device as a remote control for this robot, making it easy to use anywhere.

Like Freenove’s hexapod robot kit, the robot dog kit features a camera system with facial recognition and panning for video recording and an ultrasonic proximity sensor to monitor the distance between objects. Its legs are self-stabilizing, which allows you to use it nearly anywhere without fear of it falling or tipping. It also features ball tracing, meaning it can follow and move with the included red ball.

The Raspberry Pi controller is not included in this kit. However, it supports a wide range of different Pi models, so it is easy to find a compatible board for the product. Some boards will work with the kit but require additional parts, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying your controller.

If you like dogs but aren’t into the mess they make, then this is the perfect robot pet for you.

Standout Features

  • Ball tracing
  • Camera feed with facial recognition
  • Self-stabilizing legs
Best 3D printer kit
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While a 3D printer may not technically qualify as a robot kit, it does use many of the same concepts to build and use it. The Creality Ender 3 is one of the easier 3D printer kits to assemble, while still having enough involvement to take most users an hour or two to put together.

If you are already into robotics kits, a 3D printer is a great addition to the hobby. You can print your own robot kit parts, like this robot arm or modular robot car.

The Ender 3 v2 has a sizable build plate, making it possible to print fairly large objects. It also has a heated bed, which allows it to work with a variety of different plastics and materials such as PLA, PETG, ABS, and flexible TPU.

Building and operating a 3D printer does take more know-how than the kits on this list, but it is an excellent step for when you have moved off-the-shelf robotics kits for adults and want to engage your creative side.

Standout Features

  • Straightforward to assemble
  • Lets you 3D print your own kit parts
  • Compatible with many print materials

Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Robot Kit a ‘Robot Kit for Adults’?

Complexity

Robot kits for adults tend to be more complex than those geared toward children. Advanced robot kits and other challenging builds that require advanced skills are more likely to be suited for an adult. However, if you have no experience with electronics assembly or robot kits, it may be best to start with a more beginner-friendly model before moving on.

Educational Value

The best robotics kits have a lot of educational value. They teach the essentials of problem-solving, logic, mathematics, physics, programming, and other competencies. If the kit is described as a STEM-friendly educational product, it is most likely a good choice for an adult builder.

Versatility

It’s best to look for products that have a lot of versatility. Robotics kits that are capable of multiple builds and designs are ideal since they offer the most options (and fun). It also means that you can usually build the robot in one mode and then disassemble it to build one of the modes as well. For a product like the mBot that has ten distinct forms, that means you can assemble the kit ten different times with lots of fun each time.

Age Range

Most robotics kits list a recommended age range. This is a good clue of how challenging the build will be. For an adult, you don’t want to go under the recommended age of 12, since it likely won’t be challenging enough to get the full robotics kit experience. 14 and up is the ideal range, as these tend to include the advanced robot kits that require full assembly and programming.

Required Tools and Skills

The best robotics kits for adults tend to require more difficult skills and tools than those made for children. The more advanced kits may need things like a soldering iron or multimeter to be assembled. They also require skills like scratch, Python (for the Raspberry Pi), or C++ (for Arduino) to customize the built robot.

How Can I Teach Myself Robotics?

The best way to learn robotics is by doing. There are a few ways to get started with this. One is to buy a robot kit and follow the instructions to build the robot. This will teach you the basics of how robots work and how to put them together.

Another way to learn robotics is by joining a robot club or robotics team. This will give you the opportunity to work on robot projects with other people and learn from their experiences.

Finally, there are many online resources that can teach you about robotics. These include websites, online courses, and books about robotics.

How Much Does an Arduino Robot Cost?

Arduino robot kits can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the features and complexity of the kit. For a basic robot kit with an Arduino board and simple sensors, like the ELEGOO Robotics Starter Kit, you can expect to pay a bit under $100.

For a more advanced robot kit with a wider range of sensors and components, like the DJI Robomaster S1, you can expect to pay closer to $500.

Can You Program Your Own Robot?

Yes, you can program your own robot if you have the right skills and tools. If you want to program a robot yourself, you will need to learn how to use programming languages like C++, Python, or scratch programming. You will also need to purchase an Arduino board and other hardware components to build your robot, or just get one of the robotics kits for adults on this page.

What Materials Do You Need to Program a Robot?

To program an Arduino-based robot, you will need the robot with an Arduino board, a computer, and a way to connect the two (usually via USB). You will also need to download and install the Arduino software on your computer. Once you have all of these things, you can start programming your robot.

If the robot kit you use has proprietary hardware and software, you will need to use whatever software and programming language(s) that are specified by the kit manufacturer.

Compared to working with model kits for adults or chemistry sets for adults, robotics kits tend to require more materials to get the full experience. However, the end result also tends to be more satisfying.

How Can I Learn Robotics at Home?

There are a number of ways that you can learn robotics at home. One way is to purchase robot kits for adults. These robot kits typically come with an instruction manual or video that will teach you how to put the robot together and how to program it. Once you have completed the robot kit, you will have a working robot that you can control.

What is a Programmable Robot?

A programmable robot is a robot that can be programmed to carry out specific tasks. Programming a robot can be done using a variety of programming languages. Both robot kits for kids and those for adults typically come with an instruction manual or video that will teach you how to program the robot.

Final Thoughts

Most robot kits for adults require challenging assembly and programming that make them great educational tools for anyone wanting to strengthen their STEM skills while having a great time.

The Makeblock mBot Ultimate Robot Kit is the hands-down best robotics kit for adults due to its versatility. It can be made into ten different models, letting build and rebuild it multiple times for different results.

The DJI Robomaster S1 is a close second thanks to its challenging build, many opportunities for customization, and its AI-powered functionality. At its high cost, it is not suitable for everyone, however.

And there you have it! Those are our picks for the best robotics kits for adults and everything you need to know to pick a great kit when purchasing your next robotics kit. Which product on our list did you like best? Drop a comment to let us know!

If you liked these picks, don’t hesitate to also check out or recommendations for science gifts for adults and wood model kits for adults.Both of these articles offer unique and entertaining options for anyone looking to explore new hobbies or interests.

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Emily is a seasoned content writer specializing in 3D printing and DIY topics, with a BA in English Language and Literature from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania and an MA in Communication and Media Studies from St. Bonaventure University. Her work combines hands-on experience, meticulous research, and a deep understanding of design and crafting, inspiring enthusiasts across all levels.

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