FinchBlox vs True Robotics Playground
FinchBlox
learn.birdbraintechnologies.comTrue Robotics Playground
app.truerobotics.orgSide by side
| Figure | FinchBlox | True Robotics Playground |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 2 | 1 |
| Spec score · Robotics Education Software | 8.9 (#2) | 7.7 (#17) |
| Documentation | The official program page provides setup instructions and progressive learning modules for movement, lights, sound, and control. | The maker says every coding block is documented in the Playground Wiki. |
| Founded | 2010 | 2021 |
| Headquarters | Eau Claire, Wisconsin, United States | Worcester, Massachusetts, United States |
| Supported devices | BirdBrain lists FinchBlox installers for Windows, Mac, Chrome, iOS, Android, and Kindle Fire. | The Playground runs in a web browser on Windows, Mac, iPad, Chromebook, and Android tablet computers. |
Plans
In their own words
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.
True Robotics Playground
True Robotics Playground has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.