BluPants vs Thymio Suite

BluPants is a free, web-based coding environment for programming robots. It is designed for children of all ages, including pre-readers, and supports block-based visual programming that can progress to Python. One environment supports BeagleBone, LEGO EV3, Raspberry Pi, and AlphaBot2-Pi, with robot-building tutorials and SD card images listed for several builds. Lessons move from basic commands to more complex computer-science challenges. Activities include moving a robot, picking up or dropping objects, transporting items, and using repetition loops. BluPants describes learning with a real robot in person or remotely, including a remote lesson using a distance sensor and loops. Lessons are compatible with online classes, and activities are linked to Hour of Code. The curriculum library runs in a browser, but there is no robot simulator.

Thymio Suite connects to Thymio robots so users can program, configure, and update them from a computer. Its desktop programming options include VPL, VPL 3, Scratch, Blockly, Python through the Thonny editor with a Thymio extension, and Aseba. VPL uses drag-and-drop blocks, and Scratch can link a robot with the Scratch stage and sprites. The product page describes Python programming as coming soon, although use through Thonny and the Thymio extension is documented. The maker offers Thymio Suite 2.4.0 for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Thymio Suite Mobile is available for iOS and Android tablets, with VPL 3 and Scratch; direct tablet connection requires Thymio 2 or later. A free simulator supports collaborative use of simulated robots by people on the same network. The Suite is free, but the desktop download requires a Thymio robot to connect and program. Mobsya describes Thymio as an open-source educational robot for learners of all ages, and its support center offers documentation and frequently asked questions.