mBot vs mBot2: differences and which one to choose
Makeblock mBot vs mBot2 compared: mCore vs CyberPi board, sensors, encoder motors, Wi-Fi, Python, chassis and accessories. A clear table and a recommendation by age and project.
The mBot and the mBot2 are two generations of Makeblock’s classroom robot. Both are programmed with mBlock (Scratch-style blocks), but the mBot2 is built around the more powerful CyberPi board, with Wi-Fi and a natural path to Python. Specs below come from Makeblock’s mBot2 introduction (mBot 1.1 vs mBot2 spec table). Always check the official product page before buying: kit revisions differ (Bluetooth module included or not, chassis colour, bundled parts).
1. Comparison table
| mBot (classic) | mBot2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Board | mCore (Arduino-compatible) | CyberPi (more powerful, Wi-Fi) |
| Programming | mBlock blocks; Arduino C for advanced users | mBlock blocks + Python built in |
| Motors | two DC motors | encoder motors (precise moves) |
| Typical sensors | line follower, ultrasonic, IR (depending on kit) | ultrasonic, line follower, light, gyroscope |
| Display / sound | RGB LEDs, buzzer | 1.44” colour screen (128 × 128) on CyberPi, speaker and microphone |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth or 2.4G depending on pack | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi |
| Chassis | aluminium alloy | aluminium alloy |
| Power | battery pack (AA cells, depending on kit) | built-in 2,500 mAh rechargeable battery, USB-C |
| Best for | first robot, clubs, tight budget | ages 10+, longer projects, moving to Python |
Our pick: the mBot as a first robot on a budget; the mBot2 if you want several years of use and a smooth move from blocks to Python without buying another robot.
2. What they have in common
- Same software: mBlock, close to Scratch, with plenty of tutorials and a large community. Install it with our mBlock 5 guide.
- Same teaching idea: build a chassis, plug in sensors, then solve track and obstacle challenges.
- Same brand ecosystem, but accessories are not always compatible between generations (see below).
3. Accessories and upgrades
mBot (classic) uses RJ25 ports and Makeblock’s older add-on ecosystem: extra sensors, arms, tracks, spare parts. The most common mistake is buying an add-on without checking it matches your mBot revision.
mBot2 relies on mBuild modules for CyberPi. Stick to Makeblock’s official compatibility list rather than mixing generations, and wait until the basics are mastered before spending on extras.
4. Which one should you choose?
- Choose the mBot for a solid first robot, a huge library of activities, a tighter budget, and line/obstacle/LED workshops.
- Choose the mBot2 for multi-year use, sound and light projects, precise movement, and serious Python later on.
Still comparing brands? See our programmable robot guide and mBot vs Codey Rocky. All our comparisons are in the Comparisons section.
5. Where to buy
Prices change often and vary by retailer, so check current price. Affiliate links: mBot (Amazon US) / Amazon UK, mBot2 (Amazon US) / Amazon UK.