Makeblock turns a coding project into something a child can build and move. Its original mBot and the later mBot2 use different controllers, so choosing a lesson also means choosing the hardware it expects. Start with an activity you want to repeat together, such as following a line or responding to a nearby object, then match the instructions and kit to that activity.146
Visit Makeblock ↗From a maker project to a coding family
Makeblock dates the company to 2013. A historical funding announcement identifies Jasen Wang as its founder. That release also describes earlier project beginnings in 2011, a different milestone from the company date. Neither date identifies the version of a robot in a second-hand box.23
The useful dividing line within the mBot family is the controller. Original mBot uses the Arduino Uno-based mCore board with an ATmega328 controller. Makeblock uses mBot Neo and mBot2 for the CyberPi-based robot. Keeping those names attached to their electronics helps a family find the right setup guide and avoids treating an accessory or firmware instruction as universal.46
mBot family: choose the controller
Original mBot and mBot2 are separate choices within this family. A seller should name the controller, connection hardware and package contents before you compare kits.4567
Original mBot
Original mBot is the mCore-based option. Makeblock documents a specific 2.4G connection route to mBlock 5. Identify whether the offered kit uses 2.4G or Bluetooth and which adapter is included, especially when buying used or following an older lesson.45
mBot2 / mBot Neo
mBot2 uses CyberPi, the mBot2 Shield, an ultrasonic sensor, a quad RGB sensor and encoder motors. Makeblock documents blocks and Python as programming routes. Its FAQ names kit P1010132 with a built-in battery; that identifier should not be assumed to cover every bundle sold under the family name.678
Plan the first project together
Assembly is part of the activity. Makeblock describes building mBot2 before using preset programs, app control or mBlock 5. For the web editor, its help page calls for the mLink helper and recommends Chrome. Check that the intended family or school computer permits the installation before choosing the kit.67
Choose the first build before buying extras. Check its battery, radio adapter, cable and sensors against the supplied parts. Then identify which account or optional paid features that activity needs. Makeblock’s privacy policy describes analytics and data-request mechanisms, so the policy should be read for the actual app and service you plan to use.5679
For a used kit, ask the seller to demonstrate a connection to the device you will use and run a simple program. The evidence here does not establish a fixed support lifetime or tested compatibility with every operating-system version. A working demonstration of the exact controller and software is more useful than the family name alone.46
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Sources and notes
- Original Makeblock mBot
Current original mBot and separately listed mBot2; colors/bundles; ages6+; no unambiguous edition number. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Primary/publisher statement, not independent testing. No authenticated account, hardware or regional checkout verification. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Makeblock company history
Company says founded2013; separate earlier project origin. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Primary/publisher statement, not independent testing. No authenticated account, hardware or regional checkout verification. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Makeblock 2018 Series C, reposted 2023
Datelined body: CNY300m SeriesC, CNY2.5bn event valuation; Jasen Wang founder. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Repost date is not funding date. No cumulative total or current valuation. The funding release describes 2011 project beginnings; the company history gives 2013. These are distinct events, not a resolved incorporation conflict. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Original mBot mCore controller
Arduino Uno-based mCore, ATmega328, RJ25. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Policy/documented functionality only; not an install, server test, compliance audit or independent performance test. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Original mBot current help index
Firmware, broken motor shaft and 2.4G-to-mBlock5 articles. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Policy/documented functionality only; not an install, server test, compliance audit or independent performance test. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- mBot Neo/mBot2 identity and controller
CyberPi, shield, ultrasonic sensor2, quad RGB, encoder motors, assembly and mBlock5. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Primary/publisher statement, not independent testing. No authenticated account, hardware or regional checkout verification. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Makeblock mLink and kit battery
mLink required for web, Chrome recommended; P1010132 built-in lithium polymer battery; do not follow disable-security suggestion. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Primary/publisher statement, not independent testing. No authenticated account, hardware or regional checkout verification. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Makeblock mBot2
Block and Python; distinct Rover/AI bundles; US contiguous shipping policy, not worldwide stock. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Primary/publisher statement, not independent testing. No authenticated account, hardware or regional checkout verification. Source checked 2026-10-26.
- Makeblock privacy policy
Sections11-15: request rights, analytics/advertising, child-data removal; service/controller scope must match app. Prepared source check 2026-10-26; Policy/documented functionality only; not an install, server test, compliance audit or independent performance test. Source checked 2026-10-26.
We use official disclosures and other identified sources. Company claims are attributed; these profiles do not represent hands-on product testing. Our editorial and AI-use policy.