ROBO TX Training Lab vs ROBO TX Explorer

After much research, I decided that the ROBO TX Training Lab was the most similar to the sets that my son had used at his Robotics Summer Camp class. I also had the criteria of making sure the kit would assist him in completing his Robotics merit badge for Boy Scouts. The other kit that was in the running was the ROBO TX Explorer. Here is a quick summary of these two packages:

ROBO TX Training Lab
Studica.com has the TX Training Lab Bundle with everything you need for $521

• Instructions for building 11 models


• 310 parts


• Two-wheeled Robots


• ROBO TX Controller with Bluetooth radio interface, 32-bit processor (200 MHz), eight universal inputs and 8 MB RAM (2 MB flash)


• ROBO Pro Programming Software


• 2 Encoder Motors


• One "Motor XS" with "worm" shaft for driving a gearbox


• Infrared Trail sensor


• Temperature sensor


• Infrared Beam sensor


• NO power supply is included!
  

ROBO TX Explorer
Studica has the TX Explorer Bundle with everything you need for $667

• Instructions for building 6 models


• Robot has tank tracks such as on a tank or bulldozer


• 2 Encoder Motors


• Color Sensor


• Infrared Trail Sensor


• Distance sensor


• NO power supply is included!


• NO software is included!


• NO controller is included!
  

I kind of wish I would have gotten the TX Explorer. Although it is not too much more than the TX Training Lab, a new, retail model was out of my price range. Whereas a new TX Training Lab was found on eBay for $380 making it much more available at the time of purchase.