The 19 best kids' robotic brands
Discovery Toys, Thames & Kosmos and Elenco lead our ranking of 19 kids' robotic brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Kids' Robotic brands, ranked
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1
Discovery Toys
Discovery Toys was established in 1978. They are dedicated to making toys for toddlers to help them interact with the outside world and learn all the developmental skills that a child needs in the early stages. Discovery Toys has a wide range of selections that you can choose from. They have books as well as educational toys in their inventory. They also have toys for children till the age of eight. They do not stop developing their products.
Website: discoverytoys.net |Brands like Discovery Toys
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Thames & Kosmos
Multi-model robotics kits with step-by-step manuals, aimed at kids who want to build working machines from parts.
Top products: Robotics Smart Machines STEM Kit· Mega Cyborg Hand STEM Experiment Kit
Website: thamesandkosmos.com |Brands like Thames & Kosmos
Popularity 6.7/10
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3
Elenco
Snap-together circuit modules and electronics kits that let kids wire up simple projects without soldering.
Website: elenco.com |Brands like Elenco
Popularity 3.9/10
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4
Learning Resources
A screen-free coding robot that kids program with buttons and cards, plus add-on challenge sets.
Top products: Botley 2.0 Coding Robot· Botley the Coding Robot Action Challenge Accessory Set
Website: learningresources.com |Brands like Learning Resources
Popularity 3.6/10
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5
Educational Insights
Coding robots for early learners, including a drawing robot that teaches sequencing through art.
Top products: Artie 3000 Coding Robot
Website: educationalinsights.com |Brands like Educational Insights
Popularity 3.2/10
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6
KiwiCo
KiwiCo delivers science kits for children. Fascinated by the idea of STEM education, they develop the design and manufacture of fun educational kits. Whether you choose their monthly subscription program or their one-time kits, it is about inspiring young minds to learn through play. KiwiCo's goal is to bring science and technology into children's hands by developing fun kits that help them learn through play. They provide various products to nurture curiosity and encourage learning through interactive educational experiences.
Website: kiwico.com |Brands like KiwiCo
Popularity 1.5/10
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7
OWI
Solar-powered robot building kits that let kids assemble working models without needing batteries.
Website: owi-inc.com |Brands like OWI
Popularity 1.2/10
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8
Tamiya
Tamiya Championship Series is a brand-new racing competition that takes RC vehicle racing to the next level. In collaboration with Tamiya America, Inc., the UK-based retailers have launched a one-of-a-kind series that matches drivers against one another in a thrilling race scenario. With the help of cooperating hobby stores from throughout the country. The event attempts to uncover the country's greatest and most inventive racers and allow them to demonstrate their abilities at one of their premier competitions. Over 70 regional events in North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and South America are part of the series.
Website: tamiyausa.com |Brands like Tamiya
Popularity 0.8/10
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9
Spin Master
Toronto-based Spin Master makes toys and games for children, including Paw Patrol figures, vehicles, and monster truck toys. Its board games sit alongside the character-based lines. The company also develops digital games for young audiences.
Website: spinmaster.com |Brands like Spin Master
Popularity 0.1/10
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10
ThinkFun
Code and Go robot mouse teaches sequencing with coding cards, aimed at younger kids.
Website: thinkfun.com |Brands like ThinkFun
Popularity 0.1/10
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11
Silverlit
Remote-controlled robot toys and drones, including build-your-own robot kits for younger children.
Website: silverlit.com |Brands like Silverlit
Popularity 0.1/10
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12
Hasbro
Hasbro designs action figures and toys tied to franchises such as Star Wars and Transformers, along with smaller toys for young children. The company, based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, also works in entertainment content and sells collectibles aimed at fans...
Website: hasbropulse.com |Brands like Hasbro
Popularity 0.1/10
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13
WowWee
Interactive robot pets and companions, such as the MiP self-balancing robot, with app-based play.
Website: wowwee.com |Brands like WowWee
Popularity 0.1/10
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14
K'NEX
Interlocking rod-and-connector sets with motorized parts, plus robotics kits that rebuild into new models.
Website: knex.co.uk |Brands like K'NEX
Popularity 0.1/10
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15
Academy
Academy is your one-stop store for all things hunting and outdoor. The brand has you covered with the top gear and equipment in the market, whether you're fishing, camping, hiking, or skiing. They have elevated products that their consumers adore,...
Website: academy.com |Brands like Academy
Popularity 0.1/10
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16
21st Century Toys
Cool Technology - 21st Century Toys 21st Century Toys is your source for innovations across different industries, from big data to IoT. Discover cool stuff today.
Website: 21stcenturytoys.com |Brands like 21st Century Toys
Popularity 0.1/10
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17
Kyosho
Kyosho designs radio control models, including Lamborghini models. The Japanese company also makes RC ships and airplanes, sold as kits or ready-to-run models. Its cars draw on vintage and modern automotive designs, and the range includes options for different budgets.
Website: rc.kyosho.com |Brands like Kyosho
Popularity 0.1/10
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18
PLAYMOBIL
Playmobil is an online gaming supply company that offers a variety of games for customers to discover and then purchase based on their interests. They have many themes like crystal fairy and bat fairy with spirit creatures and accessories. It...
Website: playmobil.ca |Brands like PLAYMOBIL
Popularity 0.1/10
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19
University Games
University Games produces entertaining goods that anybody may use. Various tabletop games from University Games encourage learning while having fun and interacting with others. They provide instructional card games, board games, and puzzles for children and families to enjoy together....
Website: universitygames.com |Brands like University Games
Popularity 0.1/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery Toys | discoverytoys.net | /discoverytoys | discovery.toys | @DiscoveryToys | DiscoveryToysVideo |
| Thames & Kosmos | thamesandkosmos.com | /thamesandkosmos | thamesandkosmos | @thamesandkosmos | thamesandkosmos |
| Elenco | elenco.com | /snapcircuits | snapcircuits | @snapcircuits | Elenco Electronics Inc. |
| Learning Resources | learningresources.com | /learningresources | learningresources | – | LearningResourcesInc |
| Educational Insights | educationalinsights.com | /educationalinsights | educationalinsights | – | EducationalInsights |
| KiwiCo | kiwico.com | /KiwiCo | kiwico_inc | – | – |
| OWI | owi-inc.com | /OWITHESOUNDPROSCHOICE | – | @OWIInc | OWIInc |
| Tamiya | tamiyausa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Spin Master | spinmaster.com | – | – | – | – |
| ThinkFun | thinkfun.com | /ThinkFunGames | thinkfun | @thinkfun | ThinkFunInc |
Kids Robotics Buying Guide
Robotics is a fascinating topic that has captured the imagination of children all around the world. It is a field that combines engineering, programming, and creativity to create amazing machines that can perform a variety of tasks. As such, robotics toys and kits are becoming more and more popular as parents and educators try to inspire the next generation of inventors, creatives and problem-solvers. However, with so many products in the market, it can be difficult to decide what item is right for your child.
What to Consider Before Buying
To help you make an informed purchase, here are some of the factors you should consider before purchasing a kids robotics kit or toy:
- Age range: The first consideration is the age range of the intended user. Robotics toys can be purchased for very young children, from just a few months old, and there are also more complex kits available for older children that require programming and a deeper understanding of robotics in order to get the most out of them. It is important to choose a product that is age-appropriate and is not too challenging or too easy, as this will ensure that the child is both engaged and not frustrated.
- Interests: Consider what the child is interested in before choosing a robotics toy. Some children may be more interested in building a robot from scratch, whilst others may be more interested in programming and coding. Still, others may be interested in building a robot that can perform a specific task, such as solving a maze or lifting heavy objects. Knowing what the child is interested in will make it easier to choose a toy that will keep them engaged and motivated.
- Skills: Robotics toys can help children develop a range of skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills, amongst others. Consider what skills the child needs to develop or work on, and choose a product that will help them with that.
- Price: Robotics toys can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Set a budget and choose a product that fits within that budget. However, keep in mind that sometimes the more expensive products come with more features, and may be of better quality.
- Brand: There are several reputable brands in the market that specialize in robotics toys and kits for children. Research the brands and choose one that has a history of producing quality products, and has good reviews from parents and educators.
Types of Robotics Toys and Kits
There are several types of robotics toys and kits available in the market. Below are some examples:
Build Your Own Robot Kit
A build-your-own-robot kit allows children to build a robot from scratch. These kits come with all the parts needed to build a robot, and the child will need to follow instructions to assemble the robot. Some kits come with additional parts that can be added to the robot to make it move or perform additional tasks. These types of kits are great for children who are interested in engineering and building, and who want to understand how robots work.
Programmable Robots
Programmable robots are more complex robots that require the user to program them to perform tasks. These can range from simple tasks, such as moving forwards and backwards, to more complex tasks, such as solving a maze or lifting objects. These types of kits are great for children who are interested in programming and coding, and who want to learn how to control a robot using computer code.
Sensors and Circuits
Sensors and circuits kits are designed to teach children about the different electronic components that go into building a robot. These kits come with a range of electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors that can be used to build circuits. They also come with sensors that can be used to detect light, sound, or temperature changes. These types of kits are great for children who are interested in electronics and who want to learn how to build and program circuits.
Conclusion
Kids robotics toys and kits are a great way to introduce children to a range of STEM concepts, including programming, coding, engineering, and electronics. There are many products available in the market, and it is important to choose a product that is age-appropriate, aligns with the child's interests, helps them develop the skills they need, and fits within your budget. By choosing the right robotics toy or kit, you can help your child develop important skills that will serve them well in the future.