ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2

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86%
94%
Educational Value
88%
Ease of Use
90%
Wireless Features
91%
Sensor Responsiveness
86%
Build Quality
55%
Battery and Power Setup
93%
Portability
87%
Compatibility
89%
Software/Programming Experience
78%
Customer Support
92%
Value for Money
90%
Interactive Features
More

Overview

The ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 is a compact, programmable computer designed to make learning coding and electronics engaging. This micro:bit board provides an easy entry point into the world of programming and STEM education. With its small form factor, it’s perfect for hands-on learning in classrooms or for hobbyists looking to explore the fundamentals of coding. Its ability to interact with other devices through Bluetooth or USB adds significant versatility, making it an ideal tool for a variety of projects and educational tasks.

Features & Benefits

This programmable computer stands out with a variety of interactive features. It includes 25 programmable LEDs, motion and temperature sensors, and a built-in speaker and microphone for sound-based interactions. With Bluetooth and USB connectivity, this micro:bit board is perfect for both beginners and advanced makers. Whether you’re building simple circuits or creating wireless projects, its flexibility makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of coding exercises. The small, portable size ensures it's easy to carry and integrate into any learning or project environment.

Best For

The ELECFREAKS micro:bit is tailored for a variety of users, especially those in education. It's perfect for STEM education, helping students learn programming through interactive projects. Teachers looking for a versatile tool to engage students will find this micro:bit board ideal. Additionally, it suits hobbyists, makers, and tech enthusiasts who want a mini computer for creative experiments and prototypes. Its easy-to-use interface and comprehensive sensor suite make it accessible for beginners while still offering depth for more experienced users.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the ease of use and the rich set of features the micro:bit board offers for its size. Many find the responsive sensors and wireless capabilities to be a highlight, making it a fun tool for interactive learning. However, some note that the lack of a USB cable and battery holder can be an inconvenience, requiring additional purchases. Overall, it’s praised for its versatility and potential in educational settings, although the absence of some accessories has been a point of criticism.

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Pros

  • This micro:bit board is an excellent tool for beginners, making it easy to get started with programming and electronics.
  • The built-in speaker and microphone enable interactive projects that engage students with sound-based feedback.
  • Its wireless capabilities, including Bluetooth, allow seamless integration with various devices and platforms.
  • With 25 programmable LEDs and multiple sensors, it offers great versatility for a variety of STEM applications.
  • The compact size makes it portable and convenient for classroom and workshop environments.
  • Teachers appreciate its simplicity in helping students quickly grasp coding concepts while keeping them engaged.

Cons

  • The lack of a USB cable and battery holder may inconvenience users, requiring additional purchases for full functionality.
  • Some users feel the device may be too basic for more advanced projects or experienced coders.
  • The limited power options might be a drawback for long-term projects that require a stable power source.
  • The small form factor, while portable, can be challenging for users with limited experience in handling such compact electronics.
  • Occasionally, connectivity issues are noted when integrating with other devices via Bluetooth.
  • A few users report that the programming environment could be more user-friendly for total beginners.

Ratings

The ratings for the ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 have been compiled based on verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages worldwide. We filtered out spam, bot-driven, incentivized, or off-topic reviews to ensure only high-quality feedback shaped these results. Both the strengths and weaknesses of this micro:bit board are reflected in the ratings, offering a balanced perspective for prospective buyers.

Educational Value
94%
Many users highlight the strong educational value of this device, especially in beginner coding workshops. Teachers report that it’s an effective tool for helping students engage with STEM concepts through hands-on learning. The interactive features, like sensors and programmable LEDs, enhance the learning experience for both kids and adults.
Some users feel that the product might not be advanced enough for more experienced learners or certain specialized projects. A few have mentioned that the device is best suited for beginners, and may not challenge more experienced users looking for a higher-level platform.
Ease of Use
88%
The simplicity of this micro:bit board makes it easy for beginners to get started with coding and electronics. Many users mention how intuitive the interface is, and how quickly they were able to set it up and begin experimenting with projects. The well-documented tutorials also make it user-friendly for educators and hobbyists alike.
However, some users point out that the learning curve could be steep for absolute beginners without prior exposure to basic programming or electronics. A few also note that the lack of more in-depth guidance in some tutorials could leave users frustrated when they encounter more complex challenges.
Wireless Features
90%
The wireless Bluetooth capabilities are highly appreciated, as they allow for seamless integration with other devices and projects. Users particularly enjoy how the micro:bit can communicate wirelessly with other micro:bits or external devices, providing flexibility for a variety of educational and DIY applications.
Some users have encountered occasional connectivity issues, especially with older devices or environments with heavy interference. A few buyers have also mentioned that setting up wireless connections could be more intuitive, as the process can sometimes be unclear or complicated for new users.
Sensor Responsiveness
91%
The sensors on this device receive high praise for their responsiveness and accuracy. The motion, temperature, and light sensors provide immediate feedback, which is ideal for educational and interactive projects. Many users find this feature especially helpful in classrooms where hands-on learning is a key focus.
However, a small number of users have expressed disappointment with the limited sensor range, particularly with the motion sensor. Some felt that the sensors’ performance could be enhanced in terms of sensitivity, particularly for more complex projects or environments with high variability.
Build Quality
86%
The compact size and lightweight design make this device portable and easy to handle. Users generally appreciate its durability, with several stating that it holds up well under frequent use, especially in classroom environments where it might be handled by multiple students.
Despite its solid build, a few users have expressed concerns about the fragility of certain parts, especially the pins and connectors, which can be prone to wear over time. Additionally, some find the lack of a protective casing a bit of a downside when handling it in more active environments.
Battery and Power Setup
55%
45%
While some users don’t mind the external power requirements, others find the USB and battery setup to be an acceptable trade-off for portability. The ability to use either USB or battery power adds flexibility in different settings.
A significant number of users complain about the lack of a USB cable and battery holder included in the package, leading to additional costs and setup time. This omission has led to frustration for users who expect these basic accessories to be bundled with the device.
Portability
93%
This device’s light weight and compact design make it highly portable, an important feature for both classroom environments and DIY projects on the go. Many users find it easy to transport, and appreciate how the micro:bit can be used in various settings without being cumbersome.
While portability is generally praised, a few users feel that the small size could be limiting for certain projects that require more physical space or a larger display. A few wish for a slightly bigger version with additional features for more advanced applications.
Compatibility
87%
Users appreciate how easily this device integrates with a wide range of other devices, platforms, and software. The Bluetooth and USB connectivity provide great versatility, enabling users to connect to computers, tablets, and even other micro:bit boards without issues.
However, some have reported compatibility issues with specific software platforms or older operating systems. A few users have mentioned that they encountered difficulty when attempting to use it with certain programming environments or when trying to connect to other, more niche devices.
Software/Programming Experience
89%
The programming environment is highly praised for being beginner-friendly. Many users highlight the easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface, which is particularly useful for younger users or those new to coding. The wide range of available coding languages and tutorials also adds significant value for learners at all levels.
Despite the positive feedback, a few users mention that the programming environment could be improved with more advanced features or customization options. Some feel that more experienced coders might quickly outgrow the basic functionalities, limiting long-term use.
Customer Support
78%
22%
When users have reached out to customer support, they’ve found the responses to be helpful and timely. Many appreciate the availability of community resources and forums where they can find answers to common issues.
However, several users report mixed experiences with customer support. Some feel that response times could be faster, and a few mention that their issues weren’t fully resolved in their initial interactions, leading to frustration.
Value for Money
92%
The affordability of this device, combined with its rich feature set, makes it an excellent value for money. Many users feel they are getting a lot of functionality and educational benefits for the price. It's a popular choice for educators and hobbyists looking for an affordable yet capable coding tool.
While the overall value is great, some users feel that the additional costs for accessories like the USB cable and battery holder detract slightly from its value proposition. These extra purchases can make the total cost higher than initially anticipated.
Interactive Features
90%
Users enjoy the interactive elements, such as the programmable LEDs and responsive sensors, which create a more engaging and hands-on learning experience. These features make it easy to design fun and educational projects that are visually stimulating and interactive.
However, a few users have mentioned that the interaction features are limited in scope for more complex or large-scale projects. Some wish there were more advanced interactive capabilities available for users looking to challenge themselves with more elaborate setups.

Suitable for:

The ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 is ideally suited for beginners, especially those involved in STEM education or coding workshops. Teachers and educators will find it an excellent tool for engaging students with interactive lessons that incorporate real-world coding and electronics concepts. This device is also a great fit for hobbyists or makers looking for an affordable, portable platform to experiment with coding and electronics in simple projects. Students with limited budgets or those new to the world of programming will benefit from its intuitive design and educational resources, allowing them to learn at their own pace while having fun creating interactive projects.

Not suitable for:

However, the ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 may not be the best choice for advanced users or those requiring more complex capabilities. Users with experience in programming or electronics may find the device too basic for more intricate projects, as it lacks the depth needed for professional or highly specialized applications. Additionally, it may not meet the needs of those seeking a more robust platform with higher performance sensors, greater sensor range, or more extensive connectivity options. The lack of included accessories, such as a USB cable or battery holder, can also be an inconvenience for users expecting a more complete out-of-the-box experience.

Specifications

  • Model: ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 is the model name, designed specifically for STEM learning and coding applications.
  • Processor: Powered by an ARM Cortex-A9 processor, offering efficient performance for coding and educational projects.
  • Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth and USB for seamless integration with other devices and project components.
  • Display: Features a 5x5 matrix of 25 programmable LEDs, allowing for visual feedback and interactive displays.
  • Sensors: Equipped with motion, temperature, and light sensors for a wide range of hands-on experiments.
  • Audio: Built-in speaker and microphone enable sound-based interactions and audio feedback during projects.
  • Buttons: Includes 2 programmable buttons for user input, ideal for interactive coding activities.
  • Operating System: Runs on FreeRTOS or similar, providing a stable environment for coding and project development.
  • Weight: Weighs just 0.634 ounces, making it lightweight and portable for easy handling in educational settings.
  • Dimensions: Measures 2.05 x 1.65 x 0.46 inches, a compact size that is easy to incorporate into a variety of projects.
  • Power: Requires an external USB cable and battery holder (not included) for power.
  • Programming Languages: Compatible with block-based programming (MakeCode) and Python, providing flexibility for beginners and advanced users.
  • Compatibility: Works with a variety of educational platforms and can be used with most computers and Bluetooth-enabled devices.
  • Integration: Supports integration with additional sensors, motors, and accessories through its GPIO pins for more advanced projects.
  • Build: Constructed with durability in mind, though designed for classroom and light educational use, not heavy-duty applications.
  • Audio Features: The built-in speaker is suitable for simple sound effects, while the microphone allows for voice detection and interaction.
  • Storage: Features internal flash storage for saving programs and projects, with drag-and-drop file management.
  • Learning Focus: Designed specifically for educational purposes, it simplifies coding concepts for beginners and students.

FAQ

The ELECFREAKS BBC micro:bit V2.2 is a compact, programmable device designed to help users learn and teach coding. It is ideal for STEM education, offering various interactive features like sensors, LEDs, and wireless communication for hands-on projects.

To start, simply connect the micro:bit to a computer using a USB cable. Then, use the provided coding platform to write your first program. The board will appear as a USB drive on your computer, and you can drag and drop your code onto it to see the result on the LEDs or interact with sensors.

This device comes with motion, temperature, and light sensors built in. These sensors allow for a variety of interactive projects, such as environmental monitoring or motion-triggered activities, making it a versatile tool for learning and experimentation.

Yes, the micro:bit supports Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily connect it to smartphones, tablets, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature is especially useful for wireless projects and real-time interactions with your device.

Yes, the micro:bit is compatible with a wide range of accessories like sensors, motors, and displays. Through the GPIO pins, you can connect external devices to create more complex projects. Bluetooth and USB connectivity also make it easy to integrate with other systems.

While the micro:bit comes with built-in features like LEDs, buttons, and sensors, you'll need an external USB cable and a battery holder to power the device. These accessories are not included, so you may need to purchase them separately for mobile use or longer projects.

The micro:bit is fairly durable for educational settings, but like any small electronics, it should be handled with care. It’s lightweight and designed for hands-on learning, but it is not intended for heavy-duty or outdoor use without additional protective casing.

The micro:bit supports several programming environments, including block-based coding via Microsoft MakeCode and text-based languages like Python. This versatility makes it accessible for beginners while offering more advanced options for experienced users.

One limitation is the lack of a built-in USB cable and battery holder, which means you will need to purchase these separately. Additionally, some users find it too basic for more complex projects and may need additional components or devices for advanced applications.

The micro:bit is ideal for ages 8 and up, particularly for students and beginners in STEM education. It provides an excellent introduction to coding and electronics, making it a great choice for both school workshops and home learning.