mBlock vs Sphero Edu

mBlock 5 is a free coding platform for robotics, STEM, and coding learning. It supports block-based coding and Python, with a one-click switch between the two. Users can create games and animations, then program Makeblock robots and other open-resource hardware. The platform includes AI and IoT features, with integrations described for Microsoft Cognitive Services and Google deep learning. Supported devices listed include CyberPi, mBot Neo/mBot2, mBot, mBot Ranger, Ultimate 2.0, mBot Mega, mTiny, Codey Rocky, and xLight. The Extension Builder allows third parties to develop device and sprite extensions. mBlock is available on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows. The web version supports direct Bluetooth or serial connections, but not the Bluetooth dongle. The mBlock Python editor programs devices only for CyberPi, and its Upload mode uses MicroPython rather than third-party Python 3 libraries. The Extension Builder works only in Google Chrome.

Sphero Edu is a coding app for programming Sphero robots, with lessons and activities for learners. Depending on the app version, learners can use Draw, Blocks, JavaScript, or Python; a Drive mode connects to compatible robots over Bluetooth. The app includes hundreds of lessons, including standards-aligned activities. Educators can manage classes and assign work, and users can create programs to share with the community. Sphero Edu is free, with app and web access; robot programming requires a compatible Sphero robot. It runs on Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and the web. Web robot connections use Web Bluetooth, which is listed as supported in Chrome and Edge, but not Safari, Firefox, or Opera. The web app supports BOLT+, BOLT, RVR/RVR+, and Mini, rather than every robot supported by native apps. Users can drive, program, and complete lessons without logging in or sharing personal information. Google Classroom roster syncing is read-only.