ROBO Pro Coding

ROBO Pro Coding is a programming environment for controlling compatible fischertechnik robots, with block-based coding and Python. It is best for learners, families and schools already using supported fischertechnik controllers. Its strongest draw is the option to progress from visual code to Python without paying for the app.

Overview

The software connects programming to physical models: users can write programs, test sensors and actuators through an interface test, and work from provided examples. Beginner, advanced and expert levels make it relevant across a range of learning stages, though they do not make it a general-purpose coding tool; its value depends on having compatible fischertechnik hardware.

Compatibility spans TXT 4.0, RX and BT Smart controllers. The older TXT controller is not supported and instead uses ROBO Pro for Windows, an important distinction for owners of earlier kits. TXT 4.0 can connect to PCs and mobile devices over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB.

Key features

• Blocks and Python: Users can choose graphical programming or Python, with Python 3 support described for TXT 4.0. That gives learners a route from visual logic to text-based coding, while keeping the experience tied to fischertechnik controllers.
• Three learning levels and examples: Beginner, advanced and expert settings, plus sample programs, serve a mixed audience. This is a practical fit for learning with toys and in schools, rather than a standalone curriculum or general coding environment.
• Local and cloud storage: Programs can be saved on the device or in the cloud, where they can be versioned and shared. Cloud storage is useful for continuing work across projects or collaborators; local saving remains an option.
• Hardware checks and integrations: An interface test can quickly check actuators and sensors. Documentation also includes blocks for voice control and Cloud/MQTT communication, useful for projects that need those connections. Voice commands require fischertechnik’s separate Voice Control app.
• Controller security settings: TXT 4.0 firmware release notes describe Bluetooth pairing with a random PIN and the ability to change the default ft password. These are relevant safeguards when connecting a controller, but do not change the app’s hardware compatibility limits.

Pricing

ROBO Pro Coding costs free. The free app download supports local and cloud program saving, so there is no paid tier to weigh against a reduced feature set. The meaningful qualification is hardware: the free download is useful only with a supported fischertechnik controller.

Platforms

Downloads are offered for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. TXT 4.0 connections over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB provide options for linking the controller to PCs and mobile devices. The older TXT controller remains incompatible with this app regardless of platform.

Who it's for

This is a sensible choice for schools and hobbyists building with fischertechnik models who want a visual introduction, a step up to Python, or a way to test connected hardware. The choice of levels and storage options supports ongoing learning and project work. It is not the right pick for someone with only the older TXT controller, or for someone seeking coding software independent of fischertechnik robots.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Blocks and Python, including Python 3 support for TXT 4.0, let learners move between visual and text-based programming in one environment.
• Pro: Free access across five desktop and mobile platforms, with local and cloud saving, avoids a software fee and gives users storage choices.
• Con: It depends on compatible fischertechnik hardware; owners of the older TXT controller need ROBO Pro for Windows instead.
• Con: Voice control relies on a separate app, so it is not contained in ROBO Pro Coding alone.

Alternatives

For a broader comparison, browse Robotics Education Software.

• EdScratch is a free browser-based option for Edison robots that needs no additional software; choose it if you use that hardware rather than fischertechnik.
• mBlock is free and combines block-based and Python coding with AI and IoT features; it suits readers who want those capabilities in a platform spanning web and desktop as well as mobile.
• PictoBlox offers a free plan for individual, non-commercial use; choose it if that licensing fit and its web option matter more than ROBO Pro Coding's fischertechnik-controller focus.
• FinchBlox is a free alternative for readers considering another robotics-coding app.
• Ozobot Classroom provides a free educator account with 700 lessons and a teacher-focused portal; it is the clearer fit for teachers prioritizing classroom lesson resources.
• Rocksi is another free alternative.
• Sphero Edu is free, with app and web access, but robot programming requires a compatible Sphero robot; pick it for that hardware rather than fischertechnik models.
• Thymio Suite is free desktop software that requires a Thymio robot; it is an option for owners of that robot who want desktop programming software.

Verdict

Choose ROBO Pro Coding if you have a TXT 4.0, RX or BT Smart fischertechnik controller and want a free path from blocks to Python, backed by learning levels, examples and practical hardware checks. Look elsewhere if your controller is the older TXT, or if you need a coding environment for another robotics platform.