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JetBot is an open-source robot platform for AI learning and experimentation—not one fixed NVIDIA retail kit. You can assemble the reference design from its parts list or choose a third-party kit, but the components and setup instructions vary by version. There is also an important platform shift: the original Jetson Nano developer kit is discontinued, while NVIDIA’s JetBot guide recommends planning around the Orin Nano 8GB and says its software is still in progress.
What is JetBot?
NVIDIA-AI-IOT describes JetBot as an “open-source robot platform for AI learning and experimentation.” Its purpose is to connect building a small mobile robot with practical work in programming, robotics, and computer vision. The project supports browser-based interactive programming, so the robot can serve as a learning platform rather than a sealed, single-purpose device. NVIDIA-AI-IOT’s JetBot repository and NVIDIA Developer’s JetBot page introduce the project and its educational focus.
“Hands on” depends on which build route you choose. The reference design involves sourcing and assembling hardware; a third-party kit may arrive with a different combination of parts and its own installation instructions. The official documentation cautions that kit setup can differ from the reference DIY process, so a JetBot name alone does not guarantee identical hardware or software.
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What can you learn with JetBot?
The current JetBot getting-started guide documents a sequence of practical examples. They are project tutorials, not a guarantee that every hardware variant will run them unchanged.
#1 Best Overall
- Part Number: JetBot AI Kit Acce
- Welcome the JetBot, a literally smart robot powered by Jetson Nano. With the intelligent eye (front camera), no matter facial recognition, object tracking, auto line following, or collision advance, just a piece of cake. It also comes with ROS nodes code, make it easy to get started with the open source ROS (Robot Operating System), and to learn the system framework and concepts of ROS.
- If you've got a Jetson Nano on your desk right now, combined with our open source codes and tutorials, these add-ons would be the ideal choice for you to learn AI robot designing and development.
- Dual Mode Wireless NIC AC8265: 2.4GHz / 5GHz Dual Mode WIFI + Bluetooth 4.2 High Speed WIFI Connectivity, Stable Bluetooth Communication, Low Latency
- 8MP 160° FOV Camera: IMX219 Sensor, 3280×2464 Resolution Facial Recognition, Object Classify, Real Time Monitoring
- Basic motion: control the motors through a browser-based example.
- Teleoperation: use a gamepad connected to a laptop to steer the robot while viewing live images.
- Collision avoidance: collect examples and train a custom image-classification model.
- Road following: train an image-regression model to guide the robot along a route.
- Object following: use a pretrained object detector to follow an object.
Together, these examples move from direct control to models that interpret camera input. That makes JetBot useful for exploring how software, sensors, and motion interact; it should not be mistaken for evidence of a particular level of autonomy or real-world performance.
What do you need to build one?
The project offers two broad routes: source the reference design’s parts and follow its setup documentation, or select a third-party JetBot kit and follow the instructions for that specific kit. The repository names SparkFun JetBot and Waveshare JetBot as examples of variants, not as interchangeable configurations.
Rank #2
- AI-based Robot Powered by NVIDIA Jetson Nano:128-core GPU + Quad-core A57 CPU + 4GB RAM with additional 64GB SD card
- ROS (Robot Operating System): Comes with ROS Nodes Code, Easy to Get Started with ROS; Learn the ROS System Framework and Concept
- 8MP 160° FOV Camera: Sony IMX219 Sensor, 3280×2464 Resolution; Facial Recognition, Object Classify, Real Time Monitoring. Wireless Gamepad: Wireless Communication, Easier Teleoperation
- An AI Robot That Has Brain: Collect Data via Camera, Train the Neural Network, Then Use the Train Model for: Facial Recognition, Object Tracking, Line Following and Obstacle Avoiding...
The reference bill of materials covers these categories:
- Jetson Nano developer kit and microSD storage
- Power supply and Wi-Fi components
- Camera, motors, and motor-control hardware
- Assembly hardware and 3D-printed chassis parts
The hardware setup instructions also call for hand tools and soldering equipment. Check which pieces a particular kit includes, whether you need access to a 3D printer, and what assembly work remains before buying. The reference BOM is not a current shopping cart: its example prices and vendor links are historical, and the documentation advises checking compatible substitutes and availability.
Rank #3
- AI-Based Smart Robot Powered By Jetson Nano 2GB Developer Kit
- Comes With ROS Nodes Code, Make It Easy To Get Started With ROS, And To Learn The ROS System Framework And Concept
- 8MP 160° FOV Camera: IMX219 Sensor, 3280×2464 Resolution; Facial Recognition, Object Classify, Real Time Monitoring
- USB WiFi Connectivity: High Speed WiFi, Stable Connection, Low Latency; Gamepad Teleoperation: Plug And Play, Easy To Use
Which Jetson board does the current guide recommend?
The JetBot setup page says the project was originally designed for the Jetson Nano Developer Kit, which has been discontinued. It recommends that new builders plan around the Jetson Orin Nano 8GB Developer Kit, while warning that software for the Orin version is still work in progress. Check the current JetBot software setup guide before choosing parts or beginning assembly; the recommendation is not confirmation that Nano-era instructions work unchanged on Orin.
The guide lists JetBot 0.4.3 SD-card images for Jetson Nano 2GB and Nano 4GB with JetPack 4.5. Those are Nano images, not Orin images. Treat them as version- and board-specific documentation rather than a general installation option for a new build. The setup guide is the place to check for the latest supported path.
Rank #4
- This kit provides Waveshare Jetson Nano Dev Kit. Provide online user manual, please check the manual carefully before using!
- This product requires three 18650 batteries(NOT included) to work. Adopts 3x 18650 batteries, high battery capacity, up to 12.6V voltage output, more powerful driving force. Integrates S-8254AA + AO4407A lithium battery protection circuit, provides protections for over-charge, over-discharge, over-current, and short circuit. The power supply in this kit is for battery charging only, and will not power the Jetson Nano directly
- Waveshare Jetson Nano Dev Kit is the alternative solution of B01 kit, with the Jetson Nano B01 eMMC version module and the Waveshare JETSON-IO-BASE-A carrier board, providing almost the same performance and appearance as the Jetson Nano Developer Kit (B01). The B01 kit on board is a non-production specification Jetson Nano module, mainly for development and software testing, while the Jetson Nano B01 eMMC version is more suitable for users to integrate in production environments.
- 8MP HD resolution, 160° FOV wide angle camera. AC8265 wireless NIC, 2.4G/5G dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2. 0.91" 128×32 pixels OLED.
- Please properly keep the Jetson products' original packing box and accessories (if any) for warranty service, and the serial numbers on the product and packing box MUST be matched, otherwise, the original manufacturer will reject returning/repairing
How should you choose between a DIY build and a kit?
Neither route is universally simpler: the right choice depends on the exact variant and how much sourcing and assembly you want to handle. Compare the details before committing.
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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →| What to check | Reference DIY assembly | Third-party kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compute board | The reference materials describe a Jetson Nano-based design; verify what is currently obtainable and compatible. | Check the exact board and memory in the kit listing. The project names SparkFun and Waveshare variants, but does not establish their current configurations. |
| Included hardware | Source the camera, motor and control parts, power, storage, Wi-Fi components, and assembly hardware from the reference BOM or compatible substitutes. | Confirm which camera, motor controller, chassis, power parts, and other components are actually included. |
| Assembly needs | The reference design includes 3D-printed chassis pieces and calls for hand tools and soldering equipment. | Check whether chassis printing, soldering, or other assembly is required; requirements depend on the specific kit. |
| Software instructions | Follow the reference setup documentation for the board and software version you use. | Use the kit maker’s instructions, which may differ from the reference path; verify software status for that variant. |
| Availability and cost | Check current component availability and calculate the total for your chosen parts. Historical BOM prices are not current quotes. | Check current stock, included parts, seller terms, and total cost. The official project pages do not provide current seller-by-seller price, stock, warranty, or performance comparisons. |
The repository describes JetBot as a “Less than $150 add-on to Jetson Nano.” That is an affordability description of the add-on in the repository, not a current complete-build quote; it does not establish the present cost of a board, parts, or kit. See the repository’s description.
Best Value
- Highly Integrated JetBot Expansion Board: Equipped with OLED Display, Motor Driver and Protection Circuit. No Messy Wiring, Simple Assembly(18650 Batteries are not included)
- 8MP 160° FOV Camera: IMX219 Sensor, 3280 X 2464 Resolution, Facial Recognition, Object Classify, Real Time Monitoring
- Dual Mode Wireless NIC AC8265: High Speed WiFi Connectivity, Stable Bluetooth Communication, Low Latency(Dual Mode WiFi, Easy Connection Bluetooth 4.2)
- Wireless Gamepad: Easier Teleoperation, Wireless Communication, Plug & Play
- Battery Charger: Battery charging only, will not power the Jetson Nano directly. If you need a stand-alone power supply for the Jetson Nano, please buy another 5V/4A power adapter
Is JetBot a good project for you?
JetBot is a fit if you want a hands-on route into mobile robotics and AI examples, and are willing to verify hardware and software compatibility before building. It is less straightforward if you expect one standardized, currently supported product with a single set of instructions. The discontinued Nano board and in-progress Orin software make checking the exact build path especially important.
Quick Recap
- Before ordering: identify the exact board and kit variant, read its setup instructions, and confirm that required components are included or available.
- Before assembly: check the current software guide for that board; do not assume a Nano image or tutorial applies to Orin.
- When budgeting: calculate from current parts and seller listings rather than relying on historical BOM prices or the repository’s add-on figure.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
