Key Points
- There are two main approaches to building a LEGO robot: using spare blocks or using LEGO Mindstorms.
- LEGO sets like Marvel’s Mech Armor and LEGO Creator offer robot-themed building blocks and kits.
- LEGO Mindstorms is a more advanced option for building complex robots, with sets designed for educational use and STEM learning.
- The possibilities with LEGO Mindstorms are endless, allowing builders to create walking robots and machines that can play games.
- LEGO creator I Build Stuff has built an impressive LEGO robot dog using the Mindstorms Ev3 system.
LEGOs provide the perfect canvas for technological creations, but many wonder how to build a LEGO robot. There are endless designs online, but most follow two approaches, and we will cover each method. Whether you’re trying to make a robot from spare bricks or with a set, our guide will show you how to build a LEGO robot from the ground up.
How to Build a LEGO Robot from Scratch
While LEGO has produced hundreds of themed sets, not many involve robots built brick by brick. There are some bots from the HERO factory line, which have long since retired, and a variety of robot LEGO minifigures.
If you have a lot of spare bricks handy, you can create a robot using your imagination. There are many resources online to help you get started designing your robot. You can check out builds across social media platforms like Pinterest or pick up a smaller kit to help kick things off.
Marvel Mech Armor
Marvel is a great place to start with their Mech Armor sets. Most are smaller kits, but there are exceptions, like the Tony Stark kit from Marvel’s What If?… series. This 369-piece LEGO kit features the Sakaarian Iron Man mech suit, which users can transform into a car.
The set has plenty of robot-themed building blocks. You can also pick up mini mechs kits featuring The Hulk, Ghost Rider, and other characters from the MCU.
- LEGO set 76194
- 369 pieces
- Includes 3 minifigures
- Retired in 2022
LEGO Creator
The LEGO Creator set 31090 takes a different approach. This 3-in-1 LEGO building kit allows you to build an underwater robot in three forms while providing unique robotic accessories.
- Build three robots with one kit
- LEGO set 31090
- 207 pieces
- LEGO Creator Series
LEGO Ninjago
Many of these kits are challenging to find because of how they’re named. For example, Tony’s set doesn’t mention any robots, although you get to build one that’s 5 inches tall. You can also browse BrickEconomy’s selection of robot-themed LEGO sets. That’s where you’ll find gems like this 1,000+ piece set with a Ninja Ultra Combo Mech.
- 4-in-1 LEGO set
- Includes 7 minifigures
- LEGO set 71765
- 1,104 pieces
How to Build a LEGO Robot with Mindstorms
When you’re ready to take your robot-building skills to the next level, it’s time to consider LEGO Mindstorms. Originally designed for educational use and STEM learning, Mindstorms became the go-to option for robot builders worldwide. These sets allow builders to create complex creations, from walking robots to machines that can play games.
One of the easier ways to get started with the Mindstorms Ev3 line is through the company’s core set. Want to create a robotic dog? That’s an option, along with dozens of creations made using LEGO Mindstorms. Pir Arkam’s YouTube video above shows how to quickly make a GenBot with the original kit, although you’ll still need to use LEGO’s system to program it.
This educational set only contains 601 pieces, but it will keep builders busy for ages with a variety of projects and parts. Miniature robots are nifty, but they are just the tip of the iceberg with this type of kit when your imagination gets going. You could create something far more agile than a robotic arm or dancing robot, depending on your skill level and commitment.
LEGO Robot Dog
Inspired by the amazing robot dog from Boston Dynamics, this LEGO robot will blow you away. LEGO creator I Build Stuff has impressed us with a number of builds, but his LEGO robot dog was built with the Ev3 system and is something anyone can (try) to replicate themselves. It’s not necessarily easy for beginners, but it shows the possibilities of Mindstorms when powered by imagination.
The Wrap-Up
Anyone can build a robot using ordinary LEGO bricks, but the company allows creators to go to new levels with Mindstorms. If you’re curious about making another type of popular robot from LEGOs, check out our guide on how to build a LEGO Transformer.
- $40.73Buy on Amazon
- LEGO set 76194
- 369 pieces
- Includes 3 minifigures
- Retired in 2022
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/26/2023 09:51 am GMT - $79.25Buy on Amazon
- Build three robots with one kit
- LEGO set 31090
- 207 pieces
- LEGO Creator Series
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/26/2023 10:01 am GMT - $108.78Buy on Amazon
- 4-in-1 LEGO set
- Includes 7 minifigures
- LEGO set 71765
- 1,104 pieces
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/26/2023 10:06 am GMT - $985.20Buy on Amazon
- Three servo motors
- Five sensors
- 601 pieces
- LEGO set 31313
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/26/2023 10:46 am GMT
The image featured at the top of this post is ©AlesiaKan/Shutterstock.com.
