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When the Raspberry Pi microcomputer was first released, it sparked a revolution. Thousands of users around the world discovered single-board microprocessors — they were dirt cheap and could be used to build tiny computers that handled common tasks ranging from basic desktop computing to powering a complete retro arcade machine. But while the Raspberry Pi quickly became the most popular board overnight, a second option quietly carved out its own niche in the market: Arduino boards.
Arduino boards are single-board microcontrollers that are slightly less powerful than the Raspberry Pi but even more affordable and suited for building digital devices and controllers. For example, where you might use a Raspberry Pi to build a media center computer, an Arduino board is more appropriate for building a robot car or weather station. Arduino hardware is also open-source, which means that others are free to improve on it,
The other big difference: Arduino boards work with lots of add-ons like servo motors, receivers, and sensors, so they’re more complicated to set up. That’s why Arduino boards are sold as kits that include the most common parts and accessories you need to get started.
Whether you’re a veteran user of single-board microprocessors or you’re looking to join the revolution, now’s a great time. Arduino kits include everything you need — even good instructions. Here’s what you need to know to find the perfect Arduino starter kit and a few of our favorites for your consideration.
There are more than a dozen different versions of the Arduino, so before you start trying to tell them apart, consider these questions. They’ll help you find the ideal kit.
Finding the right Arduino kit means knowing what you want to make with it. Search the web for project ideas or browse kits to get a sense of what other people build. Most kits include a temperature sensor, so consider a project that integrates one, such as a soil moisture sensor so you can keep tabs on when it’s time to water your favorite plant.
Consider your own experience building computers or working with microcontrollers. Are you a newbie or a seasoned veteran? If you’re new to Arduino boards, look for starter kits aimed at beginners. They usually have a smaller number of parts that can be used to build a handful of specific projects. If you’ve built computers in the past, you may want to look for a more advanced kit that includes more project options.
So how do you tell different Arduino starter kits apart? It’s all about what they include. Here are our favorite add-ons that you’re likely to see in a starter kit.
Like all single-board microprocessors, you can add more hardware to an Arduino board to introduce new functionality. Different kits include various shields, ranging from those that can add Ethernet functionality to cameras and LED screens.
Starter kits usually include a CD-ROM filled with projects you can make with your kit, including step-by-step instructions. Some smaller kits only offer a few projects, while larger ones can include instructions for several different options.
Some Arduino projects require you to solder components to the board, which can be messy and downright dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. If you’re not comfortable with a soldering iron, get an Arduino kit that includes wires with pin headers so you don’t have to do any soldering.
Of all the components you’ll find in a typical Arduino starter kit, the resistors are among the most important — and some projects use many. Keep an eye on the number of resistors included with different kits you compare. If you plan on making multiple projects, get a kit with plenty of resistors.
These Arduino starter kits cost between $25 and $35. Kits in this price range are perfect for beginners because they’re focused on simple projects and often include thorough documentation. And kits in this range are ideal for kids who want to learn the basics of programming or robotics. Keep in mind that some of the more powerful board add-ons (like WiFi or Bluetooth) may not be included in this price range.
These Arduino starter kits cost between $35 and $90. The big difference with pricier kits is flexibility — the more you spend, the more components and accessories you get. For example, where a basic kit includes a handful of sensors, a premium one can include hundreds. Project instructions are also a lot easier to follow with nicer kits, so if you’re concerned about getting in over your head, you might want to spend a little more.
A. No, but it will help because some moderate coding is required. To get your Arduino project to work, you’ll need to use the Arduino software to make a “sketch,” which is the company’s term for a code-based set of instructions that tells the board how to operate. Sketches can be as simple as 50 lines of code or as complex as hundreds of lines. Most users learn to code for Arduino by copying code from other users and modifying it to make changes.
A. The Arduino project community is pretty passionate, so if you ever run into problems, you can always find help on the user forums. There are also hundreds of troubleshooting videos and tutorials online, which can be useful for getting you out of a jam.
A. The tools you need will vary based on the project you’re building, but in most cases, at a minimum, you’ll need needle-nose pliers, wire strippers, and a precision screwdriver set.
