arduino starter kit

For children and teens interested in robotics and programming, an Arduino starter kit is an excellent way to begin.

What exactly is Arduino? Simply put, Arduino is an open-source platform used for building and programming electronics projects. Projects range from incredibly simple to very complicated. Arduino refers to two things. First, the actual programmable circuit board, or microcontroller. Second, it refers to the computer software used to program and control the device.

There are a few things to consider when choosing an Arduino starter kit. Perhaps most importantly, it should include some sort of manual or instructions. In the beginning, starting with Arduino can be a bit daunting, and clear instructions will help young makers get started. Also, a basic kit should include an Arduino control boards and enough components for at least a few projects. Arduino is the perfect platform for beginning electronics and these kits will help your youngster get started in the exciting world of programming.

Arduino Starter Kit Options for Kids and Teens

Official Arduino Starter Kit
Check price at
Smraza UNO Project Basic Starter Kit
Check price at
The Official Arduino Starter Kit Deluxe Bundle
Check price at
RIAspire MEGA 2560 Master Starter Kit for Arduino
Check price at
Kuman Complete Arduino Starter Kit
Check price at
DFRobot Starter Kit for Arduino
Lowest Price
Check price at

1. Official Arduino Starter Kit

Official Arduino Starter Kit

The Official Arduino Starter Kit offers everything young makers and programmers need to create 15 fun projects. This kit includes the Arduino UNO, the most recent Arduino control board. In addition, it has all of the essential components like the control board, lights, buttons, switches, resistors, and more. Additionally, it features a detailed 170 page with instructions. Projects include a lamp that works with touch controls, a mystical crystal ball, a knock lock that allows the user to open a door with a secret code, a musical keyboard, and more. This is a well-appointed kit for beginners.

2. Elegoo UNO R3 Project Complete Starter Kit

Elegoo UNO R3 Project Complete Starter Kit

The Elegoo UNO R3 Project Complete Starter Kit includes more than 200 components and 63 Arduino specific products. It features the Arduino UNO R3 controller board. As an added bonus, all of the modules are pre-soldered and connect easily. This is an excellent feature when considering a kit for children and teens. Download the free PDF tutorial with 30 Arduino building and programming lessons and project ideas. This kit also includes a helpful CD with necessary codes. The entire kit is stored in a convenient container with divided compartments for smaller components.

3. Smraza UNO Project Basic Starter Kit

Smraza UNO Project Basic Starter Kit - Arduino starter kit

The Smraza UNO Project Basic Starter Kit is a great Arduino starter kit for beginning programmers. It includes more than 140 components for creating unique Arduino projects. Featuring the latest Arduino UNO R3 controller board, this kit also includes an LCD 1602 screen and an 830-hole breadboard. Also, a servo motor SG90, temperature and humidity sensor, potentiometer, thermistor, and 8*8 LED matrix. The included CD has a 23 project tutorial with necessary software and source code. Additionally, the kit comes packaged in a convenient storage container.

4. Elegoo UNO Project Smart Robot Car Kit

Elegoo UNO Project Smart Robot Car Kit - Arduino starter kit

Construct and program a cool remote controlled smart car with the Elegoo UNO Project Smart Robot Car Kit. Build your smart car and install the programmable Arduino UNO R3 control board. After it’s built and programmed, control the car with the included IR remote. Or, use the included CD to install and smartphone app and control the car with Bluetooth. The kit includes all of the components required and reviewers report that this kit is appropriate for Arduino and robotics novices.

5. SunFounder Arduino Super Starter Kit

SunFounder Arduino Super Starter Kit

The SunFounder Arduino Starter Kit is an excellent choice for beginner Arduino programmers. However,  it has plenty of components that more experienced hobbyists can enjoy. The well-appointed kit utilizes the Arduino UNO R3 board for 19 different projects. Projects, found in the downloadable PDF user manual, include basic tutorials like blinking LEDs and DC motor control. After young programmers have mastered the basics, it’s time to move on to fun projects like a light alarm, digital dice and a small fan. This is a basic Arduino starter kit to help beginners grasp the earliest engineering and programming concepts.

6. The Official Arduino Starter Kit Deluxe Bundle

The Official Arduino Starter Kit Deluxe Bundle

The Official Arduino Starter Kit Deluxe Bundle comes with all of the components of a typical starter kit like the Arduino UNO R3, breadboards, sensors, LEDS, and more. It also includes MAKE Magazine’s “Getting Started with Arduino: The Open Source Electronics Prototyping Platform” and Speed Kits handy PIN-OUT Reference Chart for the UNO R3. Use the more than 200 parts to build 15 projects. Reviewers claim that this well-designed kit can help turn an electronics beginner into an experienced programmer and maker.

7. RIAspire MEGA 2560 Master Starter Kit for Arduino

riaspire-master-arduino-starter-kit

The RIAspire MEGA 2560 Master Starter Kit for Arduino includes a generic Arduino-compatible MEGA 2560 board, which is completely functionally identical to the Arduino MEGA 2560. This kit has a wide range of components for creating all kinds of Arduino projects. Reviewers report that the Arduino MEGA 2560 clone works perfectly. Also, that this particular retailer offers excellent customer service in case of any issues that arise.

8. Kuman Complete Arduino Starter Kit

Kuman Complete Arduino Starter Kit

The Kuman Complete Arduino Starter Kit features a free PDF Arduino tutorial, designed to help beginning programmers understand the basics and building and programming Arduino projects. 44 components are the  most common pieces for basic projects and builds. It features the popular Arduino R3 UNO board and all of the pieces fit in the convenient plastic storage container. Additionally, the UNO R3 board requires no soldering. This is a relatively inexpensive starter kit, recommended for beginners.

9. DFRobot Starter Kit for Arduino

DFRobot Starter Kit for Arduino - Arduino starter kit

The DFRobot Starter Kit for Arduino is a favorite Arduino starter kit for beginners for several reasons. First, each included component is clearly labeled, reducing any guesswork. Second, each project has a convenient flashcard. The flashcards contain the wiring guides for each of the projects. Finally, the company’s website is an excellent resource for even more code and helpful information. This is a perfect starter kit and has room for expansion.

 

Do you have experience with building and programming Arduino? We would love to hear about your favorite Arduino starter kit in the comments below!

 

Feature image courtesy of Flickr, Teleyinex.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.