Quick answer
For most classrooms, start with the Engino GinoBot Basic Edition. The Advanced Upgrade adds a rechargeable battery, an ultrasound module, and support for Arduino, Micro:bit, or Raspberry Pi, making it ideal for older students or deeper coding projects.
What the Basic Edition Already Offers
The GinoBot Basic Edition is a ready-to-run, 4-wheeled robot that connects via USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. It uses the KEIRO visual programming environment, making it accessible for ages 7-12. It includes multiple built-in sensors, so students can explore computational thinking without any add-ons.
What the Advanced Upgrade Adds
The GinoBot Upgrade (from Basic to Advanced Edition) includes a plastic PCB adaptor plate that supports Arduino, Micro:bit, or Raspberry Pi, a 3-hour rechargeable battery, and an ultrasound module. This transforms the robot into a platform for more complex, text-based programming and extended projects.
Trade-off: Simplicity vs. Expandability
The Basic Edition is simpler to set up and use, perfect for younger students or introductory lessons. The Advanced Upgrade requires additional hardware (like a Micro:bit or Raspberry Pi, not included) and more technical knowledge, but it unlocks advanced coding capabilities and longer battery life.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Ease of use: Basic Edition is ready-to-run with KEIRO visual programming. Advanced requires adding a microcontroller board and setup.
- Programming flexibility: Basic Edition uses KEIRO only. Advanced supports Arduino, Micro:bit, or Raspberry Pi for text-based coding. Choose Advanced if you plan to teach Python or C++.
- Battery life: Basic Edition uses standard batteries (not specified). Advanced includes a 3-hour rechargeable battery. Advanced is better for longer class periods.
- Cost: Basic Edition costs USD 162.49. The upgrade kit costs USD 29.24, making the total Advanced setup USD 191.73. Upgrading later is more affordable than buying a separate Advanced robot.
Product facts
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Engino GinoBot™ Basic Edition – Coding & Robotics Starter Kit for Kids Ages 7–12+: The GinoBot Basic Edition is a 4-wheeled, ready-to-run robot that connects via USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi and uses KEIRO visual programming. This means students can start coding immediately without complicated setup or additional hardware.
Engino GinoBot™ Basic Edition – Coding & Robotics Starter Kit for Kids Ages 7–12+
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GINOBOT Upgrade (from Basic to Advanced Edition): The upgrade set adds a plastic PCB adaptor plate for Arduino, Micro:bit, or Raspberry Pi, a 3-hour rechargeable battery, and an ultrasound module. This allows teachers to introduce text-based coding and more advanced sensor projects as students progress.
GINOBOT Upgrade (from Basic to Advanced Edition)
Which one fits your classroom?
Best for
- Elementary and middle school classrooms introducing coding for the first time (Basic Edition)
- After-school robotics clubs that need extended battery life and sensor projects (Advanced Upgrade)
Not for
- Classrooms that need a fully integrated advanced robot with no additional hardware purchases (consider a different all-in-one kit)