mBot3 release date rumors and alternatives (mBot2 Rover, 2026)
mBot3 in 2026? Makeblock has no confirmed release date. We unpack rumors, the mBot2 Rover kit, and smart buys now: mBot2, Ranger, and Thymio 3 for schools.
Affiliate disclosure: Amazon links on this page may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices change often—check the retailer before buying.
Direct answer (October 2026) — As of 28 October 2026, Makeblock has not announced any mBot3 with a confirmed release date—invest in mBot2 or mBot2 Rover if you already use CyberPi, or use our robot guide.
⚡ Compare prices and immediate availability (2026 edition)
| Product | Indicative price (Oct 2026) | Amazon |
|---|---|---|
| Makeblock mBot2 | ~$159–$179 | Check price → |
| Makeblock mBot2 Rover | Check listings | Check price → |
| Makeblock mBot Ranger | ~$159–$189 | Check price → |
| Sphero BOLT / Mini | ~$49–$149 | Check price → |
| LEGO Education STEM kit | ~$200–$350 | Check price → |
| BBC micro:bit V2 Go | ~$25–$35 | Check price → |
| Raspberry Pi 5 (4 GB) | ~$75–$85 | Check price → |
As of 28 October 2026, Makeblock has not announced any mBot3 with a confirmed release date.
Teacher forums and a few resellers mention an « mBot3 » for 2027, with no Makeblock product sheet or dedicated mBlock device profile. Makeblock’s public roadmap instead pushes mBot2 and the mBot2 Rover add-on (off-road chassis for an existing CyberPi).
Why Rover fills the mBot3 gap
- CyberPi stays the brain—no need to replace the whole fleet.
- Extra mBuild modules beat waiting for a new generation.
- Cost: Rover + mBot2 often undercuts a hypothetical premium mBot3.
Alternatives when buying in 2026
- mBot2 — Python, Wi-Fi, mBot vs mBot2.
- mBot Ranger — three forms, rugged wheels.
- Thymio 3 (€237) — dense sensors, VPL.
Use our programmable robot guide by age.
Have a question about this guide or need advice? Ask us here
Torn between two models or stuck on a build? Drop us a line and we will get back to you by email.