FinchBlox vs Virtual Robot Simulator
FinchBlox
learn.birdbraintechnologies.comVirtual Robot Simulator
vrobotsim.comSide by side
| Figure | FinchBlox | Virtual Robot Simulator |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | Yes | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | — |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Android | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Spec score · Robotics Education Software | 8.9 (#2) | 6.9 (#25) |
| Audience | The app is designed for children age five and older, including pre-readers. | The site describes VRS as designed for students, FTC teams, and educators, including beginners with no robotics experience. |
| Learning resources | BirdBrain provides FinchBlox tutorials, block descriptions, activities, and a video course for teachers. | The site offers guided lessons, teaching materials, a guidebook, beginner tutorials, and interactive challenges. |
| Support | The FinchBlox course directs users with questions to [email protected]. | The simulator page links to a guidebook, usage lessons, and a feedback option. |
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.
Virtual Robot Simulator
Virtual Robot Simulator has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.