15 Best Robot Toys for Kids in 2022: STEM, Ai & Educative Robot Kits | Reviews & Comparison Table

What is the best robot toy? Robots are ones of the most popular movie characters among children, so no wonder that robot toys are in demand. Still, it is not that easy to select the one that will suit your kid’s needs. To begin with, there are two main types of robot toys — programmable and non-programmable.

The former ones are programmed using specific codes, with some models being capable of moving autonomously. Just look at this Robotic Interactive Toy with artificial intelligence. It is equipped with infrared sensors allowing the toy to move around flat surfaces and overcome obstacles. But what is more important, M.A.X. Robot functions as a friendly robot companion, he asks kids questions, challenging their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math.

Best Robot Toys for Kids 7+

We had to buy the second LEGO BOOST kit for our 8-year-old daughter who is fond of programming. At first, she assembled VERNIE the Robot for two days. As she did not want to dismantle it to assemble FRANKIE the Cat, we had to buy a second kit.

Now she is assembling FRANKIE the Cat and all that remains is to attach the legs.

The assembly of this robot is intuitive, all steps are elaborated in the app. The robot is programmed in SKRETCH, which is the simplest, visually understandable programming language for children. Any child who is 5 to 7 years old and up can grasp it. The robot can drive, dance, move its eyebrows, navigate around obstacles, speak.

Unlike with regular construction toys, our daughter hasn’t lost interest in this one after the assembly. Every day, she spends hours playing with the robot and cat, thinking up tasks and stories for them. 

The only drawback is 6 AAA batteries. Because of heavy use, they need to be replaced frequently.

Additionally, the LEGO BOOST series includes Star Wars droids: R2-D2, Gonk Droid and Mouse Droid, which are also programmable via the drag-and-drop coding app. Age 7-12 years old.

Best Robot Toys for Kids 10+

For children 10 years and older, there is a more challenging LEGO MINDSTORMS series that requires some programming skills though.

Designed for ages 10 and up, the MeccaSpider is a complex yet very rewarding robot building project. Once the spider is built, kids are able to develop skills in science through programming it to do new things. It includes decal sheets, sensors, a brain module, and motor modules. Kids can gain an in-depth understanding of the principles that underlie technical design and electronics.

If you need a robot with ai (artificial intelligence) you may like Meccano-Erector M.A.X Robot. Equipped with AI learning, M.A.X. actively discovers new things about his human friends, becoming more intelligent with each interaction. Customizable programming allows kids to personalize M.A.X. to their specifications. He will ask kids questions, challenging their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math.

The non-programmable models are guided by an external device or activated by voice. It is noteworthy that some programmable models may also have remote control. It does not have a remote control device by is guided remotely via an application that needs to be downloaded to your smartphone. In our assessment, robot toys with remote regulation are preferable for kids as they involve more human participation and, therefore, your kid will not lose interest in playing with such a toy.

When shopping for a robot toy, consider what type of skills it requires to make sure that your kid will cope with the task. Also, keep in mind that some models come pre-assembled while others need to be constructed. And finally, in case your kid is going to play with a robot toy outdoors, you should choose a waterproof model.

What Will Robot Toys Teach Your Child?

Robots for Kids and Adults | Review

A month after assembling the LEGO BOOST, we have purchased a more sophisticated LEGO construction set — the advanced programmable, interactive MINDSTORMS robot toy. It is suitable not only for kids but also for adults. Our 40-year-old dad was actively involved in assembling, programming, and playing with the BLAST-the-Robot. Those parents who did not have such robots when they were kids will be just thrilled to pieces! It is marketed for ages 4 to 99, and that is the straight truth.

For me as a mom, it is not just the development of my daughter’s robotics skills that is important here, but also a few hours a day of the father playing exciting games together with his daughter. Yes, these are not cheap toys, but they are worth it. Putting together 900 small parts, even in accordance with the instruction manual, is quite a brain-teasing challenge, I tell you!

As our dad says, the MINDSTORMS is a constructor set with room to grow. Now at the age of 8, a child can assemble these five robots according to the instruction manual, but in a couple of years, children at the age of 10-12 will be able to assemble their own robots on the basis of the same power supplies and electric motors. There are two programming languages: Scratch (for kids) and Python (for advanced users). So I hope the kid will have stuff to do for the next 5 years.

As has always been the case with LEGO, you can assemble 5 different robots from one box. The Blast is a human-like military robot that moves on wheels. The Charlie is a small and cute robot kid. The four-legged Gelo looks like a real dog. And there are also two toy cars, the Tricky and M.V.P.

What differs MINDSTORMS from BOOST

• The coolest thing about the 2020 version of the MINDSTORMS is a lithium-ion battery power pack that can be charged from the mains supply, which is much more convenient.

• As you can see from the photo, the Blast robot (left) has a brutal appearance, like a modern robot, in contrast with the VERNIE that is still a kid’s toy.

• In the Boost, a motor and sensors are combined in one housing. The MINDSTORMS contains separate units — 4 motors and two sensor units, something that considerably expands the possibilities.

• The MINDSTORMS has a powerful processor inside, which allows for a lot of processing in the robot itself. In the BOOST, all calculations are performed only in the app on your phone or tablet. This means that with MINDSTORMS, you can make fully automated robots. You can create your own projects and the examples are available on the ROBOTS IDEAS website.

Our Kids Robots laboratory keeps on growing and recently, we have begun to test the Crowbits Micro:bit Robot Inventor Kit that includes 10 blocks of electronics and is fully compatible with all LEGO sets. And it is these blocks that can be used to create new projects.

TOP Best Robot Toys | Reviews

Below, we have compiled a review of the 12 best robot toys at a price ranging from $25 to $200. Whether your kids are fans of Star Wars or talking robots, you will find the best option for them. A voice-controlled dog will teach your kids to give clear commands while the LEGO toolbox will familiarize them with the fundamentals of robotics, coding, and engineering. 

1. LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox 17101 | Fun Robot Building Set and Educational Coding Kit

This set allows children to experiment with their creative side by choosing to build one of 5 robot models readily available in the BOOST set. Allowing children to work on their grasp of the fundamentals of robotics, coding, and engineering, children won't even feel like they're learning as they have fun with their newfound robot friends.

Each robot included has its own unique personality and tools for your child to engage with and practice different facets of coding. For example, The AutoBuilder is a one-of-a-kind robot that works like a production line to make its own LEGO creations.

Once their robots are created, this LEGO Boost kit includes over 60 exciting activities that allow children to play dynamically with all 5 models. This kit includes a whopping 840 LEGO pieces between all 5 models, giving your child hours of play.

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2. LEGO Star Wars Boost Droid Commander 75253 | Star Wars Droid Building Set

This Star Wars-themed robot toy allows children to build their favorite characters, practice forming code, and then play with the fruits of their labor as their characters act on their command.

While this set includes the iconic droid R2-D2, children will be able to customize lesser-known yet iconically designed droids.

Once the droids have been designed, children have the ability to program them for over 40 exciting missions. These missions work to challenge your child's problem-solving and coding skills, allowing them to code their way through building props, courses, missions, and more.

The accompanying app then allows them to solve missions and utilize their problem-solving skills to make their way through the galaxy with their newly made droid friends. This toy cannot be passed up for Star Wars fans.

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3. Vector Home Robot by Anki | Compatible with Alexa

Powered by AI and advanced voice-activated robotics, the Vector Robot is meant to be a helpful friend. Unlike other robots, he's rich with personality and can be engaged through touch, sound, and sight.

Purely by voice, you can ask Vector to take pictures, time dinner, display the weather, and much more. When paired with Alexa, Vector can do even more: dim the lights, raise the volume, or even control the thermostat.

Vector is a constantly updating robot: he's connected to the Cloud, allowing him to always learn new and surprising features. Since he's powered by a smartphone processor, his brain is connected to a whole network of speech-based data, allowing him to react genuinely to nearly any question.

With a capacitive touch sensor and ultra-wide HD camera for sensing motion, the Vector has a uniquely high degree of perceptiveness.

Although Vector is not necessarily a teaching tool, children can spend hours learning about the intellectual and perceptive limits of the Vector robot. Curious minds can ask any number of questions, not limited to science, math, reading, or history. Vector draws on a huge knowledge base that makes him a wonderful companion.

Pros	Cons
Able to answer nearly any question honestly Advanced sense perception through seeing, hearing, and feeling Can independently navigate and self-charge	The Anki team has ceased further development of the Vector Robot Not able to play songs or stream music -- but he can dance!

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4. Meccano-Erector M.A.X Robotic Interactive Toy | Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence meets coding in this engineering and robotics playset. Your child will work with M.A.X., their new robot friend, to help him navigate the world around him.

While your child will be in control of programming M.A.X.'s future, parents will not have to worry about their investment as M.A.X. comes with built-in sensors to help him avoid getting into too much trouble.

Your child will begin their journey with M.A.X. by first building him, an activity which can take anywhere between 1 to 3 hours. During this time, your child will have to practice using the tools given to them and follow directions in order to ensure he is functioning properly.

Once built, M.A.X. is programmable, allowing your child to practice their engineering and STEM skills. This set works to get your child to think critically in all aspects, making it a one-of-kind STEM experience.

Max can be set up to speak any language. You just have to walk through the various options when you are setting him up. You will need a computer (PC or MAC) to download the initial programming. After that is done you can download apps (Android, iOS) to control the robot as a drone.

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5. Makeblock mBot Robot Kit | DIY Mechanical Metal Building Blocks

Within fifteen minutes, it's easy and fun to build the Makeblock mBot. Featuring line follow, obstacle avoidance, and voice recognition software, the mBot is a robust little bot that can be controlled by either remote or smartphone.

Makeblock, which is one of the leading companies in kids' STEM education around the world, designed the mBot to train young thinkers in logical thinking. Kids can use the intermediate mBlock software on any major operating system to code the robot with new functionality. Now, almost half a million users have tried out the platform.

All in all, the mBot is a fantastic robotic toy for new programmers.

Pros	Cons
Easy to build and get running within fifteen minutes Teaches kids how to program on easy to learn Makeblock platform	Batteries not included

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6. MECCANO-Erector | MeccaSpider Robot Kit for Kids

Designed for ages ten and up, the MeccaSpider is a complex yet very rewarding robot building project. Both parents and kids can explore the challenge of creating their very own spider companion in just one to three hours.

Once the spider is built, kids are able to develop skills in science through programming it to do new things. With fun options like guard mode, attack, and tons of different games, the customizable robot spider toy will always keep you guessing.

The whole kit includes over two hundred parts, including decal sheets, sensors, a brain module, and motor modules. Kids can gain an in-depth understanding of the principles that underlie technical design and electronics.

Pros	Cons
Intricate and fun building task that can take up to three hours Includes built-in game modes while also featuring customizable programmability Teaches kids about technology, electronics, and programming	May be too complex for young children to understand Some complain that the build instructions are hard to follow

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7. Sphero SPRK+: App-Enabled Robot Ball | STEM Educational Toy for Kids

This Sphero toy is so innovative it claims to be for more than just children, naming itself Sphero for students, parents, robots, and kids. Because the Sphero offers such advanced programs, the likelihood of your child outgrowing the Sphero toy is slim.

In fact, the Sphero is so STEM-based that it is recommended as a learning tool for schools all around the world. Designed with the facade of a cute robot, children will be enthralled with their new pal. Encased within a polycarbonate shell, the Sphero is able to withstand the trials and tribulations of living in a kid's world. SPRK+'s programmable sensors include a gyroscope, accelerometer, motor encoder.

That's good news for parents and children get to hone their coding skills by programming Sphero to complete multiple commands physically, including but not limited to jumping, moving, and dancing. Your child will enjoy honing their skills in order to see what Sphero will do next.

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8. CIRO Solar Robot Kit | Best Budget Under $50

Meant for kids age eight to twelve, the Ciro Solar Bot comes with over one hundred pieces that can be built into twelve distinct types of robots. The whole kit includes plates, gears, tires, and shafts that can be easily disassembled to create an entirely new robot.

Simply by following a step-by-step manual, kids can learn how to construct intelligent robots through play. More advanced builders can even create their own unique designs. Once the robot's completed, it doesn't require batteries - the bot simply needs some sunlight to crawl, roll, and swim through water.

Aside from making a great parent and child project, the Ciro Solar bot encourages children to get comfortable with science and technology. Kids can learn about how the principle of mechanical transmission works and are guided through basic robot design tenets. Moreover, children start to build positive associations with problem-solving through designing new robots.

Pros	Cons
Kids can create either twelve pre-designed bots or their own unique creation The robot can crawl, roll, and wade through water Provides great parent-child activity for kids aged eight to twelve	It may be too complex for younger children to understand

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9. Novie Interactive Smart Robot for Kids | Best Cheap for Kids Aged 4 and Up

Right out of the box, Novie is ready to play with its new owners. With over twelve different learnable tricks and seventy-five programmed options, the Novie is a highly responsive bot that kids can grow to love.

Kids can control the Novie using hand gestures, encouraging him to spin out, wheelie, wacko walk, and much more. With practice, the Novie gets better at completing tasks and becomes more responsive over time.

The Novie makes nearly a hundred different sounds, features three motors, and can recognize fourteen different hand gestures. Interestingly, different Novies can see and interact with each other.

Overall, the Novie is a great bot for younger kids aged four and up. Although he can't be programmed with new functionality, the Novie is packed full of personality and provides a great entrance into the world of robotics.

Pros	Cons
Very cost-effective Can be controlled with hand gestures and movement Gets better at expressing and doing tasks with practice	Somewhat simplistic Can't be customized with new behaviors

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10. Remote Control Robot Dog Toy

This voice and remote-controlled dog test your child's abilities to give clear and executable commands. Taking the form of a cute yet futuristic dog, this dog allows children the opportunity to program the commands they will listen to.

This means that when playing with this robot dog, your child's only limit is their imagination. Giving children the opportunity to essentially create their own toy by first having to program the toy to perform actions is an innovative way to get children programming.

From singing to dancing and imitating other animals, your child is in for hours of fun with this programmable dog. What's more, your child will learn some sense of responsibility as they are tasked with taking care of their new dog friend and working their hardest not to lead it astray.

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11. Really Rad Robots — Mibro Gold | Plays, Talks, and Pranks

While many STEM toys take an active approach to their programmable commands, this Really Bad Robot will amuse your child with its jokes. His goal is to act out his life as a secret agent, but that doesn't mean he won't have fun doing it.

The Really Bad Robot has a wit as sharp as his tongue and will have the entire family laughing at his responses to your child's commands. Your child will delight in programming the Really Bad Robot to get up to some mild trouble, as this toy can even be programmed to commit pranks.

With this robot's flat-top design and sturdy structure, it can be used as the sci-fi robot of your dreams. Place items on the Really Bad Robot and program it to respond to your commands. The Really Bad Robot comes with over 50 functions and sound effects.

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12. Anki Cozmo | An Educational Toy Robot

Similar to the Vector, the Anki Cozmo is a friendly robot that can interact with you in a variety of ways. Featuring an intuitive user interface, the Cozmo is primarily meant to be an educational bot for both kids and adults.

You simply need a compatible iOS or Android device to get started. Thanks to recent advancements in AI, Cozmo is able to recognize you, remember your name, and express dozens of distinct emotions. The more you interact, the more personalized the Cozmo becomes.

Even more, interestingly, Cozmo features an Explorer mode that allows you to guide him, prompting him to greet people and lift small cubes. For kids, Cozmo is a great addition to the family because he's built with tons of interactive puzzles, memory, and math games.

Both advanced users and kids can code with Cozmo, learning new ways to express ideas through programming the robot to do new things. In beginner mode, kids can snap together code blocks to change Cozmo's functionality. Intermediate programmers can create even more complex projects, games, and display changes through a Sandbox coding platform.

Pros	Cons
Cozmo gets to know you through employing advanced AI Features tons of different interactive math, logic, and mental puzzles Kids can learn to program in Sandbox mode by changing Cozmo's functionality	Anki has ceased product development, meaning that the Cozmo won't receive new updates

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15 Best-Selling Robot Toys Comparative Table