Head-to-head · Robotics Education Software
VEXcode vs mBlock
VEXcode leads on 0 checks, mBlock on 0, and 4 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 4 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreVEXcode · 9.1/10
- Free planboth
- Most featuresVEXcode · 3 of 3
VEXcode scores higher on our rubric for robotics education software: 9.1 against 8.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #3 and #5.
VEXcode is the better fit for VEX programs needing simulation and text coding. mBlock is the better fit for broad, free classroom robotics projects.
- VEXcode fits best
VEX programs needing simulation and text coding
- mBlock fits best
Broad, free classroom robotics projects
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Side by side
| Feature | VEXcode 9.1/10 Visit ↗ | mBlock 8.9/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.1 | 8.9 |
| Ranking | #3 in Robotics Education Software | #5 in Robotics Education Software |
| Best for | VEX programs needing simulation and text coding | Broad, free classroom robotics projects |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free |
| Starting price | — | Free |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Support | Email, Phone, Community, Docs | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features VEXcode 3/3 · mBlock 2/3 | ||
| Robot simulator | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Classroom tools | ✓ | ✓ |
| Curriculum library | ✓ | ✓ |
| Specs | ||
| Coding modes | Block_and_text | Block_and_text |
| Supported robots | VEX 123, VEX GO, VEX AIM, VEX IQ, VEX EXP, VEX V5, VEX CTE, VEX AIR | CyberPi, mBot Neo/mBot2, mBot, mBot Ranger, Ultimate 2.0, mBot Mega, mTiny, Codey Rocky, xLight |
| Learner level | Mixed | Mixed |
| Supported platforms | web, Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android | Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | VEXcode is VEX Robotics’ coding environment for educational and virtual robots, designed for learners and educators using VEX platforms from kindergarten through college. It supports block-based drag-and-drop coding, Switch Blocks for… Read the review → |
mBlock 5 is a free, open-source coding platform for robotics, STEM and programming education. Built around Scratch 3.0-based block programming, it also supports a one-click transition to Python, making it suitable for mixed learner levels.… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
VEXcode — where it wins
- Supports blocks, Switch, Python, and C++ coding modes
- Virtual robot simulation with playgrounds and curriculum activities
- Covers eight VEX platforms across web, desktop, and mobile
Where it doesn't
- Paid VR plans are priced per educator per year
- VR features are divided across separate plan tiers
- The software family uses platform-specific applications
mBlock — where it wins
- Block-based coding can transition directly to Python.
- Supports robotics, AI, IoT, games and animation projects.
- Includes curriculum resources and Google Classroom homework management.
Where it doesn't
- Simulation is outside the platform's stated focus.
- Classroom integration is centered on Google Classroom.
- Learners outside robotics, STEM and programming may find its scope specialized.
- VEXcode9.1/10 · Free plan
A flexible VEX coding environment with simulation, classroom tools, and text-based programming.
Visit VEXcodeFull verdict → - mBlock8.9/10 · Free plan
A broad free platform for block-to-Python robotics education across classroom and mobile environments.
Visit mBlockFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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