EdScratch vs FinchBlox
EdScratch
edscratchapp.comFinchBlox
learn.birdbraintechnologies.comSide by side
| Figure | EdScratch | FinchBlox |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | Yes |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Spec score · Robotics Education Software | 8.9 (#1) | 8.9 (#2) |
| Founded | 2018 | 2010 |
| Headquarters | Grange, South Australia, Australia | Eau Claire, Wisconsin, United States |
| Platforms | EdScratch is accessed online, and the maker says it can be used through the online app on devices running iOS or Android. | BirdBrain lists FinchBlox installers for Windows, Mac, Chrome, iOS, Android, and Kindle Fire. |
| Support | The maker provides tutorials, troubleshooting FAQs, a warning-message guide, and contact options for support. | The FinchBlox course directs users with questions to [email protected]. |
| What it does | EdScratch is a vertical, drag-and-drop block programming language based on Scratch for programming Edison robots. | FinchBlox is an icon-based programming app for controlling the Finch Robot 2.0. |
| Who it is for | The online environment is described as ideal for students aged 10 and up, including learners without prior coding experience. | The maker describes Level 1 as appropriate for absolute beginners age 5 and up. |
Plans
In their own words
EdScratch
EdScratch is a free, browser-based block programming environment for Edison robots. Its vertical drag-and-drop language is based on Scratch and is described as suitable for students aged 10 and up, including those new to coding. It has versions for Edison V2 and V3, with blocks for driving, LEDs, sound, data, events, control, sensing, operators, and comments. Programs can control robot inputs, manipulate data, and use variables. A built-in bug box checks programs and displays warnings. Users can save programs to a computer and load saved EdScratch files into the online app. Edison V3 can receive programs by USB from a computer or by optical flashing from an iPad; V1 and V2 use the EdComm cable. A free lesson set offers 98 student activity options across six units, along with a teacher’s guide. EdScratch runs online on the web, Windows, macOS, iPadOS, and Android, and requires an internet connection. The interface is in English, while lesson resources are available in multiple languages.
FinchBlox
FinchBlox is BirdBrain Technologies’ block-based coding app for programming the Finch Robot 2.0. Its three levels build from sequencing the robot’s motors, lights, and buzzer to using parameters, sensors, loops, and concurrent sequences. Students can change code while it runs and remain connected to the robot. The app is free, but connecting the Finch requires a micro:bit with a specific Bluetooth .hex file, placed there using a computer with a USB port. FinchBlox is listed for Windows, Mac, Chrome/Chromebook, iOS, Android, and Kindle Fire. BirdBrain provides tutorials, block descriptions, classroom activities, and a teacher video course; activities include math, mazes, drawing, dance, and stories. The maker says its software is designed for children under 13, requests only permissions needed to function, and does not transmit personal information to BirdBrain. Bluetooth permission is required, and Android also requires location permission for Bluetooth.