Mai-Z the MouseBot for BBC micro:bit

The Kitronik Mai-Z Educational Robot for BBC micro:bit brings coding to life for ages 8–14 with sensors, ZIP LEDs, speaker, USB-C charging, pen holder, and scoop. Supports MakeCode, Screen-Free Programming Pack, and CreateAI for gesture and AI-driven control.

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Designed for hands-on learning, the Kitronik Mai-Z is a versatile educational robot built for the BBC micro:bit. Whether you’re diving into coding with MakeCode’s block-based editor or exploring a world beyond monitor screens with our exclusive Screen-Free Programming add-on pack, Mai-Z makes STEM learning intuitive and fun. It’s even fully compatible with MakeCode CreateAI, allowing for gesture-based control and AI-powered coding right out of the box. Aligned with UK and US curricula, Mai-Z empowers both learners and teachers to master core computing concepts through interactive, project-based activities.

Mai-Z has an impressive array of features, and each feature provides a new and exciting learning opportunity. Features include: Line following sensors, distance sensors, edge detecting sensors, 4 x programmable ZIP LEDs, a pen holder, scoop, button holes for micro:bit A/B button access, BBC micro:bit edge connector, rechargeable LiPo battery (no additional batteries required), speaker, USB-C charging port (cable included), on/off switch, and status LED.

Make full use of your micro:bit’s built-in tech. From accelerometer-based steering to compass-guided driving, Mai-Z makes robotics interactive and exciting. You can even control the Mousebot with gestures via MakeCode CreateAI. The motors driving Mai-Z’s wheels are specifically designed for steady straight-line driving, which makes things such as line following and obstacle avoidance a smooth experience.

Mai-Z is a feature-rich, robot Mouse buggy designed to make coding and robotics accessible, hands-on, and engaging for students aged 8–14. Developed for use with the BBC micro:bit, Mai-Z supports both MakeCode block-based programming and screen-free coding via our innovative Screen-Free Programming Pack, perfect for flexible learning environments. Whether you’re teaching in a classroom, running a STEM club, or looking for inclusive, progressive tech tools, Mai-Z offers a low-barrier of entry into computing and robotics, with room to grow into more complex challenges, including AI integration via MakeCode CreateAI.

Power: Mai-Z features a Standard USB-C Charging Port. Mai-Z will charge regardless of the status of the power switch, and can be safely used whilst it is being charged. The charger must be capable of providing 5V, at least 1A over a USB-C Connection.

micro:bit not included

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Lithium Battery Shipping: Due to courier restrictions, this product can only be shipped within the United Kingdom. With this item in your cart your shipping options will be limited and may cost more than our usual rates. Why?

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Features

• Mai-Z, the ultimate programmable robot buggy for young coders aged 8–14!
• Code Mai-Z with MakeCode drag-and-drop block-based coding.
• Code Mai Z with Screen-Free Coding add-on pack: No screens? No problem. Use the code blocks and recorder board for hands-on, unplugged programming, perfect for younger learners.
• Line-following, edge-detecting & distance sensors.
• 4 x programmable ZIP LEDs.
• Onboard speaker + USB-C rechargeable LiPo battery.
• Pen holder & ball scoop for creative and competitive tasks.
• Edge connector for attaching the BBC micro:bit to Mai-z.
• Easy access to micro:bit A/B buttons.
• Status LED, on/off switch & smooth.
• Smooth and accurate motor control.
• Teaching resources are aligned for both US & UK teaching.
• Great for coding clubs, STEM lessons, and home learning.
• Make full use of your micro:bit’s built-in tech. From accelerometer-based steering to compass-guided driving, Mai-Z makes robotics interactive and exciting.
• Dimensions: 117mm x 105mm x 45mm (L x W x H)

Specifications

Onboard sensors	1 × Ultrasonic distance sensor, 3 × Multifunctional IR sensor, 2 × Motor encoder, 1 × Battery level monitor
IR sensors function	Line following, Cliff detection, Screen-free bar code reading
Electromechanical features	N20 motors with encoders, 33mm wheels (outer diameter) with treaded rubber tyres
System LEDs	4 × User programmable RGB “ZIP” LEDs, 1 × System status RGB LED, 1 × Bicolour charging status LED
Audio output	Onboard electromagnetic speaker
Chassis features	ABS plastic chassis, Front scoop, Pen holder, Transparent window, micro:bit fully enclosed, A/B button openings, Rear opening for access
Processor	micro:bit V1 or V2 (not included), Onboard RP2040
Battery	1000mAh rechargeable lithium battery
Typical battery life	>6 hours (depending on use)
Charging port	Standard USB-C charging port
Recommended charger specs	5V, at least 1A
USB-C power switch	Rugged inset on/off toggle switch with 4mm switch lever
Programming support	Custom extension for MakeCode (blocks, JavaScript or Python) or screen-free programming
Charge time	1 hour maximum (depending on battery status)

Resources

• Mai-Z Specifications Sheet

Package Contents

• 1 x Kitronik Mai-Z the MouseBot for BBC micro:bit
• 1 x 20cm USB A to USB C charging cable
• 1 x A6 2-sided fold-out sheet
• Side 1: Full set of Instructions
• Side 2: Line following track

Requires:

• 1 x BBC micro:bit
• 1 x 5V 1A Charger
  • You should be able to use a USB-C phone charger, or a USB charging port (from a plug socket or similar), but it must offer over 1A current output.
  • PC USB ports sometimes only offer up to around 500mA