Pros
Durable hardware
Upgraded battery life
Versatile LED matrix for text and images
Additional sensors for light, magnetic north, and infrared
Compatible with existing Sphero apps
Educational and engaging for kids
Great for introducing coding with block programming
Supports JavaScript, Scratch, and Swift
Encourages problem-solving and teamwork
Good customer service
Fun and entertaining for various age groups
Cons
Initial pairing can be difficult
Can get scratched easily
May not appeal to kids interested in building robots from scratch
Main Product Advantages
10 Battery Life
Improved battery life allows for extended usage, even during longer STEM projects.
10 Software Compatibility
Compatible with existing Sphero apps; no issues switching from older models.
10 Ease of Coding
Sphero Edu app uses block coding, making it easy and engaging for children as young as 8.
10 Educational Value
Hands-on approach fosters problem-solving and teamwork in children.
10 Customer Support
High-quality customer service, promptly addressing and resolving issues.
9 Durability
BOLT is described as durable, comparable to the SPRK+.
9 Programmable LED Matrix
LED matrix upgrade enables programming text and images, adding character to the BOLT.
9 Programming Languages
Supports block coding, JavaScript, Scratch, and Swift, allowing for progressive learning.
8 Sensors
New sensors for light, magnetic north, and infrared add layers of complexity.
7 User Experience
Some users found initial setup challenging and counterintuitive.
More Than Just a Robot
Sphero BOLT is a programmable robot ball that you can drive and code, providing endless opportunities to be creative and have fun while learning. Advanced yet approachable, you can learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and share your creations with the community. With BOLT, STEAM learning can be easily facilitated at home and guided by parents. Download the BOLT At-Home Learning Guide under product guides and documents.
Advanced Sensors & LED Matrix
Packed with plenty of programmable sensors including a compass, light sensor, gyroscope, accelerometer, motor encoders, and infrared communications, along with an eye-catching and animated LED matrix, Sphero BOLT is paving the way for the next generation of coders.
Program Iridescent Experiences
BOLT provides endless ways to express inventive ideas and experience the power of programming. Powered by the free Sphero Edu app, you can create and customize games and code BOLT by drawing on your screen, using drag and drop coding blocks, or writing JavaScript.
Built to Learn & Play
This educational robot features a durable scratch-proof clear plastic shell, inductive charging for 4+ hours of play, and connects via Bluetooth SMART so you can see your commands and creations come to life. Play educational games or create your own through hands-on play and STEAM activities.
Inspiring the Creators of Tomorrow
With our undeniably cool fleet of programmable robots and educational STEAM tools, we're inspiring a new generation of inventors and changemakers through hands-on applied learning of coding, science, music and the arts.
Conclusion
The Sphero BOLT is more than a toy—it's an educational tool that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it perfect for budding programmers and those interested in STEAM education. With its robust sensors and programmable capabilities, it offers endless creative opportunities and a solid foundation in coding.