Kitronik Mai-Z the MouseBot is a programmable educational robot for BBC micro:bit, designed to turn coding into hands-on movement and problem solving. Students can programme Mai-Z to navigate routes, follow lines, avoid obstacles, draw shapes and respond to its surroundings, making abstract coding concepts immediately visible.

Designed for learners aged 8–14, Mai-Z works with Microsoft MakeCode and supports Blocks, JavaScript and Python. It is also compatible with MakeCode CreateAI for projects involving gesture-based control and can be expanded with Kitronik's Screen-Free Programming Pack.

Built-in ultrasonic and infrared sensors, motor encoders, programmable RGB LEDs and a speaker provide plenty of scope for progressively more ambitious robotics projects. A rechargeable 1000mAh lithium battery provides more than six hours of typical use, while the integrated pen holder opens up creative STEAM activities combining coding with drawing and design.

Key Features

Designed for BBC micro:bit V1 and V2

Ultrasonic distance sensor and 3 multifunctional IR sensors

Line following, cliff detection and obstacle detection capabilities

4 programmable RGB ZIP LEDs

Onboard speaker and motor encoders

Integrated pen holder for drawing activities

Rechargeable battery with USB-C charging

Best For

Teaching coding and robotics

Physical computing

Line-following challenges

Coding and drawing activities

AI and gesture-control projects