What Will Replace Lego Mindstorms? Top 7 Robotics Kits for 2025 🤖


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Remember the first time you built a Lego Mindstorms robot and watched it come to life? That magical moment when your creation obeyed your commands felt like pure wizardry. But with Lego Mindstorms officially discontinued, many of us are left wondering: what’s next for aspiring young roboticists? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this article, we explore the best alternatives that not only fill the Mindstorms-sized gap but also bring fresh innovation to the table. From Lego’s own SPIKE Prime to exciting newcomers like Makeblock and VEX Robotics, you’ll discover the perfect kit to keep the STEM spark alive in 2025 and beyond.

Curious about which kits offer the best blend of fun, education, and future-proof tech? Stick around as we break down the top 7 replacements, compare their features, and share insider tips from the kids and parents at Toy Brands™ who’ve tested them all. Ready to build your next robotic masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Lego Mindstorms has been discontinued, but its legacy lives on through Lego Education SPIKE Prime and SPIKE Essential kits.
  • Top 7 alternatives include SPIKE Prime, Makeblock mBot, VEX Robotics, Wonder Workshop Dash, and more—each catering to different ages and skill levels.
  • SPIKE Prime is the closest successor, offering advanced sensors, Python programming, and curriculum-aligned learning.
  • Many kits support block-based and text-based coding, making robotics accessible from beginners to advanced users.
  • Choosing the right kit depends on your child’s age, interests, and learning goals.
  • Explore STEM toys and electronic toys for a well-rounded educational experience.

👉 Shop top robotics kits and STEM toys:

Ready to build the future? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Lego Mindstorms and Its Successors

Lego Mindstorms has been a beloved robotics platform for decades, inspiring countless young minds to explore STEM fields. But with its recent discontinuation, many are wondering what will replace it.

Here’s the lowdown:

  • Lego Mindstorms is no longer being produced. 😥 The last model, Robot Inventor, was discontinued in 2023.
  • Lego Education Spike Prime is the current successor, designed for ages 10-14.
  • Lego Education Spike Essential is a more beginner-friendly option for ages 6-10.
  • There are many other great robotics kits available. We’ll explore some of the best alternatives in this article.

Think of it this way: Lego Mindstorms was like the original smartphone, groundbreaking but now surpassed by newer models. 📱 The new robotics kits are like the latest smartphones, offering more features, better performance, and a wider range of possibilities.

Let’s dive into the history of Lego Mindstorms and why it’s being replaced.

🧱 The Evolution and Legacy of Lego Mindstorms Robotics Kits


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Lego Mindstorms has been a game-changer in the world of educational robotics since its debut in 1998. It’s a testament to Lego’s commitment to innovation and its ability to inspire creativity in kids and adults alike.

Here’s a timeline of Lego Mindstorms’ evolution:

  • 1998: Lego Mindstorms Robotics Invention System (RIS) was released, introducing the concept of programmable Lego robots. It was a revolutionary product that sparked a passion for robotics in countless individuals.
  • 2006: Lego Mindstorms NXT was launched, featuring a more powerful processor, improved sensors, and a user-friendly programming interface. It became a popular choice for educational institutions and hobbyists alike.
  • 2013: Lego Mindstorms EV3 was introduced, boasting a more advanced processor, a color touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity. It offered a more sophisticated robotics experience, allowing users to create even more complex robots.
  • 2020: Lego Mindstorms Robot Inventor was released, featuring a new hub with a built-in display, a more intuitive programming interface, and a wider range of sensors and motors. It was the most advanced Mindstorms kit yet, but unfortunately, it was also the last.

Lego Mindstorms has left an indelible mark on the world of robotics. It has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in STEM fields, and it has helped to make robotics more accessible to everyone.

But why is Lego discontinuing Mindstorms? Let’s explore the reasons behind this decision.

🤖 Why Is Lego Mindstorms Being Discontinued? The Inside Story


Video: The end of LEGO Mindstorms.








The discontinuation of Lego Mindstorms has sparked a lot of discussion and speculation. While Lego hasn’t officially stated the reason, there are several factors that might have contributed to this decision.

Here are some possible explanations:

  • Shifting Market Dynamics: The robotics market has become increasingly competitive, with many new players offering innovative and affordable solutions. Lego may have decided to focus its resources on other areas of its business.
  • Focus on Education: Lego has been increasingly focusing on its educational products, such as Lego Education Spike Prime and Spike Essential. These kits are designed to provide a more structured and curriculum-aligned learning experience.
  • Technological Advancements: The rapid pace of technological advancements has made it challenging for Lego to keep Mindstorms at the forefront of robotics innovation. New technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, are opening up new possibilities in robotics, and Lego may be looking to explore these areas.

It’s important to note that Lego has not explicitly confirmed any of these reasons. However, these factors provide a plausible explanation for the discontinuation of Mindstorms.

Now, let’s explore the best alternatives to Lego Mindstorms in 2024.

🔍 What Are the Best Alternatives to Lego Mindstorms in 2024?


Video: 3 Generations of Lego Mindstorms Mindcuber Rubiks Cube solving robots.








While Lego Mindstorms is no longer available, there are many other excellent robotics kits on the market that can provide a similar learning experience. These kits offer a range of features, from beginner-friendly to advanced, and they can be used for a variety of projects.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 7 educational robotics kits that could replace Lego Mindstorms:

✅ Conclusion: What Will Truly Replace Lego Mindstorms?

kids in spiderman and Captain America costumes

After diving deep into the world of educational robotics, it’s clear that Lego Mindstorms was a pioneer that set the stage for a new generation of STEM learning. Its intuitive design, modularity, and powerful programming capabilities made it a favorite among kids, parents, and educators alike. However, with its discontinuation, the torch is being passed to newer, more versatile kits that embrace modern technology and educational philosophies.

Positives of Lego Mindstorms:

  • Robust and versatile building system with classic Lego bricks and Technic parts.
  • Advanced programming options including block-based and text-based coding.
  • Strong community support and a vast library of projects.
  • Durable hardware with sensors and motors that stand the test of time.

Negatives of Lego Mindstorms:

  • High cost compared to some newer kits.
  • Aging hardware that struggled to keep pace with emerging tech trends.
  • Limited compatibility with newer Lego Education products like SPIKE Prime.
  • Discontinued status means no new official updates or kits.

Our Confident Recommendation:

For families and educators looking to continue the robotics journey, the Lego Education SPIKE Prime and SPIKE Essential kits are the natural successors, offering a modernized experience with improved sensors, programming flexibility (including Python), and curriculum alignment. For those seeking alternatives outside the Lego ecosystem, kits like Makeblock mBot, VEX Robotics, and Wonder Workshop Dash provide excellent options tailored to various ages and skill levels.

If you loved Mindstorms for its hands-on building and coding, SPIKE Prime will feel familiar yet fresh. And if you’re just starting out or have younger kids, SPIKE Essential or even LEGO WeDo 2.0 are fantastic stepping stones.

Remember: The world of educational robotics is evolving fast, and the best kit is one that fits your child’s interests, age, and learning goals. So, whether you stick with Lego’s new offerings or explore other brands, the future of STEM play is bright and full of possibilities! 🌟

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Recommended Books on Robotics and STEM Learning:

  • “The LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Discovery Book” by Laurens Valk — Amazon
  • “Getting Started with LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3” by James Floyd Kelly — Amazon
  • “Robotics: Discover the Science and Technology of the Future” by Kathy Ceceri — Amazon

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lego Mindstorms and Its Successors


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What are the best alternatives to Lego Mindstorms for kids who love robotics?

The best alternatives depend on your child’s age and experience level. For kids aged 10 and up who want a similar building and coding experience, Lego Education SPIKE Prime is the top choice. It offers a modern hub, versatile sensors, and supports block-based and Python programming. For younger kids (6-10), SPIKE Essential and Lego WeDo 2.0 provide simpler, engaging introductions to robotics.

Outside Lego, kits like Makeblock mBot and VEX Robotics offer robust platforms with strong educational support and compatibility with various programming languages. For younger kids or those new to coding, Wonder Workshop Dash is a fun, interactive robot that teaches coding fundamentals through play.

Are there any other toy brands that offer similar robotics kits to Lego Mindstorms?

Absolutely! Brands like Makeblock, VEX Robotics, Wonder Workshop, and Sphero are leaders in educational robotics. These brands provide kits with programmable sensors, motors, and intuitive coding platforms. For example, Makeblock mBot is known for its modular design and Scratch-based programming, while VEX Robotics offers competitive robotics kits used in schools and competitions worldwide.

What is the future of Lego Mindstorms and will it be discontinued?

Lego Mindstorms has officially been discontinued, with the Robot Inventor kit being the last release. Lego is focusing on the SPIKE platform (SPIKE Prime and SPIKE Essential) as its future in educational robotics. Support for Mindstorms software and hardware will continue until at least the end of 2024, but no new Mindstorms products are expected.

Can other Lego sets be used to create robotic projects similar to Mindstorms?

Yes! While Mindstorms and SPIKE kits are designed specifically for robotics, many other Lego sets, especially those in the Technic line, can be combined with motors and sensors from SPIKE or third-party kits to create custom robotic projects. However, these require more DIY skills and external programming tools.

What are the best STEM toys for children who enjoy building and programming robots?

Aside from robotics kits, STEM toys like littleBits electronic building blocks, Snap Circuits, and Osmo Coding offer engaging ways to learn electronics, circuits, and programming. For hands-on robotics, kits from Lego Education, Makeblock, and VEX remain top choices.

Are there any Mindstorms-like kits available from other manufacturers that are compatible with Lego bricks?

Some kits, like Makeblock mBot Ranger, offer partial compatibility with Lego bricks, allowing you to combine traditional Lego building with programmable robotics. However, full compatibility is rare due to differing connection systems. SPIKE kits maintain compatibility with many Lego Technic pieces, making them the best Lego-compatible robotics kits currently.

Popular brands include:

  • Sphero: Known for app-controlled robotic balls and programmable robots.
  • Wonder Workshop: Makers of Dash and Dot robots for younger kids.
  • Ozobot: Small robots that teach coding through color codes.
  • Makeblock: Offers a range of programmable robots and kits.
  • VEX Robotics: Provides kits for beginners through advanced users, often used in competitions.

We hope this guide helps you navigate the exciting world of educational robotics beyond Lego Mindstorms. Whether you choose Lego’s new SPIKE kits or venture into other brands, the journey of discovery and creativity awaits! 🚀

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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