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BugBotLab vs EdScratch

Both stand on robotics education software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

BugBotLab

Free plan Web

Choose BugBotLab if you want a browser-based Python course built around programming a robot, with options for teacher tools and school sign-in. Look elsewhere if your students need a robot other than BugBot or you need school view and sign-in management on an individual Teacher plan.

Visit BugBotLab

EdScratch

Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+2

EdScratch pairs block-based robot programming with a built-in warning tool and teaching materials. Its online-only access and English interface are important constraints for learners and educators.

Visit EdScratch

The facts

BugBotLabEdScratch
Free planYesYes
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onWebAndroid, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows
Lowest paid planTeacher plan: £149 a yearFree or on request
Plans published41
MakerNot publishedNot published
Websitebugbotlab.comedscratchapp.com
On robotics education software#8 of 26#4 of 26

BugBotLab: what it does well

  • Course includes 409 lessons, from first code through vision and machine learning.
  • Students can join a class without an email address or account.
  • Teacher tools include assignments, tests, certificates and a progress board.
  • Runs in Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari.
  • Schools receive a signed data processing agreement, including during free use.

What to know first

  • The course’s robot hardware is BugBot.
  • The free plan leaves one class after the School trial.
  • The Teacher plan excludes school view and school sign-in management.

EdScratch: what it does well

  • Free browser-based programming for Edison robots.
  • Includes nine block categories and a built-in error checker.
  • Supports Edison V2 and V3.
  • Includes 98 activity options across six units.
  • Programs can be saved and loaded.

What to know first

  • An internet connection is required.
  • The interface currently displays only English.
  • V3 USB programming requires Chrome or Edge.

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