🤖 LEGO Mindstorms is Gone: 7 Robotics Platforms That Will Blow Your Mind! [2024]

Video: The end of LEGO Mindstorms.







Remember the thrill of building your first LEGO Mindstorms robot? We do! But, LEGO Mindstorms is officially retired, leaving a void in the world of educational robotics. Don’t worry, though! We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to the best alternatives, from the familiar to the cutting-edge. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each platform, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs, whether you’re a seasoned roboticist or just starting out. Get ready to dive into the exciting world of robotics, where the possibilities are endless!

Key Takeaways

  • LEGO Mindstorms is no more, but its legacy lives on in the world of educational robotics.
  • SPIKE Prime is the official successor to LEGO Mindstorms, offering a user-friendly Scratch-based programming experience.
  • Other exciting alternatives exist, including FIRST Tech Challenge, Robotis Bioloid, and open source platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
  • The future of educational robotics is bright, with new technologies and platforms emerging all the time.

👉 Shop Educational Robotics on:

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts

🤖 Are you looking for a replacement for LEGO Mindstorms? Here are some quick tips and facts to get you started:

  • LEGO Mindstorms was discontinued in 2022, but its legacy lives on in the world of robotics and STEM education. [1]
  • SPIKE Prime is the recommended replacement by LEGO Education, offering a Scratch-based programming experience. [2]
  • Other robotics platforms are available, including FIRST Tech Challenge, Robotis Bioloid, and more. [3]
  • Open source robotics is an option, with platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi. [3]

Rating Table:

Platform Design Functionality Ease of Use Community Support
SPIKE Prime 8/10 9/10 8/10 9/10
FIRST Tech Challenge 7/10 8/10 7/10 8/10
Robotis Bioloid 6/10 7/10 6/10 7/10

What’s Next?

Stay tuned for our in-depth analysis of the best alternatives to LEGO Mindstorms.

The Rise of LEGO MINDSTORMS and its Legacy

Video: The END of LEGO Mindstorms The Rise and Fall.







LEGO Mindstorms was first introduced in 1998 and quickly became a popular choice for robotics enthusiasts and educators. Its unique combination of LEGO bricks, motors, and sensors made it an ideal platform for learning programming and robotics concepts.

Key Features:

  • Lego Elements: A selection of LEGO bricks for building and creating.
  • Smart Brick: The “brain” of the robot, controlling motors and sensors.
  • Attachments: Motors, sensors, and other components for customization.
  • Programming Software: Software for controlling robots and learning programming concepts.

Legacy:

  • First home robotics kit: Made robotics accessible to a wide audience.
  • Community of hobbyists: Led to the development of alternative programming languages and operating systems for the smart brick.
  • Educational Tool: Popular in schools and robotics competitions.

The Evolution of Educational Robotics: From LEGO MINDSTORMS to SPIKE Prime

Video: Comparing the SPIKE prime kit to the EV3 set.






The world of educational robotics has evolved significantly since the introduction of LEGO Mindstorms. New platforms and technologies have emerged, offering a range of options for educators and enthusiasts.

SPIKE Prime:

  • Scratch-based programming: A visual programming language for beginners.
  • Three motors: For building and controlling robots.
  • Distance, force, and color sensors: For sensing and interacting with the environment.
  • Controller brick: Based on an STM32F413 microcontroller.

Comparison Table:

Platform LEGO Mindstorms SPIKE Prime
Programming Language RCX, NXT, and EV3 Scratch-based
Motors 2-3 3
Sensors Various Distance, force, and color
Controller Brick Smart Brick STM32F413 microcontroller

LEGO MINDSTORMS vs. SPIKE Prime: A Detailed Comparison

Video: LEGO 51515 Mindstorms vs. 45678 Spike Prime – unboxing, concept and first builds.







When choosing between LEGO Mindstorms and SPIKE Prime, consider the following factors:

Design:

  • LEGO Mindstorms: More complex and customizable, with a wider range of LEGO elements.
  • SPIKE Prime: Simpler and more streamlined, with a focus on ease of use.

Functionality:

  • LEGO Mindstorms: More advanced and feature-rich, with a wider range of sensors and motors.
  • SPIKE Prime: More beginner-friendly, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.

Ease of Use:

  • LEGO Mindstorms: More challenging, with a steeper learning curve.
  • SPIKE Prime: Easier to use, with a more intuitive interface.

Community Support:

  • LEGO Mindstorms: Large and active community, with many resources and tutorials.
  • SPIKE Prime: Growing community, with increasing resources and support.

Beyond LEGO MINDSTORMS: Exploring Alternative Robotics Platforms

Video: Is the New LEGO Mindstorms System Any Good? Robot Inventor Set Unboxing + Review.







If you’re looking for alternatives to LEGO Mindstorms, consider the following options:

FIRST Tech Challenge:

  • More advanced: With a focus on competition and innovation.
  • More complex: With a wider range of components and sensors.

Robotis Bioloid:

  • More customizable: With a wider range of components and sensors.
  • More challenging: With a steeper learning curve.

Open Source Robotics:

  • Arduino: A popular platform for DIY robotics and electronics.
  • Raspberry Pi: A popular platform for DIY computing and robotics.

The Future of Educational Robotics: What’s Next?

Video: LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Is Retiring Forever – Here's What to Do NOW.







The future of educational robotics is exciting and rapidly evolving. New technologies and platforms are emerging, offering a range of options for educators and enthusiasts.

Stay Tuned:

For our next article, where we’ll explore the latest trends and innovations in educational robotics.

Bring LEGO Education to your school or district

Video: LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3: Celebrating STEAM and Robotics Success.







LEGO Education offers a range of resources and support for educators, including:

  • Curriculum and lesson plans: For integrating LEGO Education into your teaching.
  • Professional development: For educators to learn and grow.
  • Community support: For connecting with other educators and enthusiasts.

Get Started:

Visit the LEGO Education website to learn more and get started.

Connect

Video: Replace Lego Mindstorms EV3 Speaker.







Stay connected with us for the latest news and updates on educational robotics and STEM education.

  • Follow us on social media: For the latest news and updates.
  • Subscribe to our newsletter: For exclusive content and promotions.
  • Join our community: For connecting with other educators and enthusiasts.

Shortcuts

Video: LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor 5in1 | Designer Video | FIVE new LEGO Robots 2020.







FAQ

Twin Tower, Malaysia

  • What is LEGO Mindstorms? A discontinued line of educational kits for building programmable robots using LEGO bricks.
  • What is SPIKE Prime? A Scratch-based programming platform for building and controlling robots.
  • What are the alternatives to LEGO Mindstorms? FIRST Tech Challenge, Robotis Bioloid, and open source robotics platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi.

Conclusion

girl holding red maple leaf

The discontinuation of LEGO Mindstorms marked the end of an era in educational robotics. While it’s a sad farewell to a beloved platform, the future of educational robotics is bright, with exciting new options like SPIKE Prime and other platforms emerging.

LEGO Mindstorms’ legacy lives on in the countless robots built and the countless minds inspired. Its impact on STEM education is undeniable, and its influence can be seen in the development of new platforms and technologies.

SPIKE Prime offers a compelling alternative for educators and enthusiasts, with its user-friendly interface, Scratch-based programming, and engaging activities. It’s a great option for beginners and experienced builders alike.

Beyond LEGO Mindstorms, a world of possibilities awaits. Whether you’re interested in advanced robotics competitions, DIY projects, or exploring the world of open source robotics, there’s a platform out there for you.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll delve deeper into the world of educational robotics and explore the latest trends and innovations.

LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime:

LEGO® Mindstorms:

FIRST Tech Challenge:

Robotis Bioloid:

Arduino:

Raspberry Pi:

Books:

FAQ

kids in spiderman and Captain America costumes

What is next for Lego Mindstorms?

LEGO has officially discontinued LEGO Mindstorms, but its legacy lives on in the world of robotics and STEM education. While there are no plans for a new LEGO Mindstorms set, the company continues to support the Scratch-based SPIKE controller.

Can I still use Lego Mindstorms?

Yes, you can still use LEGO Mindstorms sets. LEGO continues to provide support for the EV3 platform, including software updates and community resources. However, new sets are no longer being produced.

Read more about “Unlocking the Future of LEGO Robotics Programming: 12 Must-Try Tips for 2024! 🤖”

Why did LEGO get rid of Mindstorms?

LEGO has not publicly stated the reasons for discontinuing LEGO Mindstorms. However, it’s likely that the decision was based on a combination of factors, including:

  • Shifting market trends: The rise of other robotics platforms, such as SPIKE Prime and open source options like Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
  • Focus on educational robotics: LEGO’s commitment to providing engaging and accessible STEM learning experiences through its LEGO Education line.

Read more about “Discover the Magic of LEGO Mindstorms: 10 Creative Projects to Ignite Your Imagination in 2024! 🤖”

Is LEGO Education Spike being discontinued?

No, LEGO Education SPIKE is not being discontinued. In fact, LEGO continues to develop and release new SPIKE products, including the SPIKE Prime and SPIKE Essential sets.

Read more about “Is Lego Mindstorms Discontinued? The Shocking Truth … 🤯”

Review Team
Review Team

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