BBC micro:bit
Discover BBC micro:bit - the mini-computer that makes coding fun and accessible for all ages. Perfect for hands-on learning, it's your gateway to teaching digital skills and inspiring creativity in the classroom!
Welcome to our exciting assortment of BBC micro:bit products, a treasure trove for those passionate about coding and digital technology! BBC micro:bit is a compact, programmable computer that is revolutionising education, making coding accessible and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels.
Within our collection, you'll find an extensive range of micro:bit kits, add-ons, and resources, all designed to spark creativity and simplify the coding process. From starter kits for beginners to advanced modules for seasoned coders, our products cater to every user's needs. So, why wait? Dive in, and let the BBC micro:bit take your coding skills to a new level!
Frequently Asked Question
micro:bit Projects, Kits & Accessories
You can do a lot with a BBC microbit but you can do so much more when you combine it with a microbit project kit and accessories. We've carefully selected project kits and accessories from world leading manufactures including 4tronix, DF Robot, Elecfreaks, Kitronik, Monk Makes, Seeed and Sparkfun to create a one stop shop for you.
Affordable
At around $30 the BBC micro:bit is affordable for all students enabling them to participate in the digital world!
Multiple Coding Languages
Microbit teaches you to code using Microsoft MakeCode, Python, Javascript and Scratch!
Strong Community
Access exceptional curriculum materials, training programmes and resources for free!
What is the BBC micro:bit?
The BBC micro:bit is one of the world‘s smallest and most affordable programmable computers made for education. The BBC microbit is suitable for students and makers of all ages and abilities. It’s easy to use, affordable, robust, codable with Scratch, MakeCode, Javascript and Python, and can be easily extended with a huge range of kits and accessories. There’s not much you can’t make with a BBC micro:bit!
Affordable
At around $30 the BBC micro:bit is affordable for all students enabling them to participate in the digital world!
Multiple Coding Languages
Microbit teaches you to code using Microsoft MakeCode, Python, Javascript and Scratch!
Strong Community
Access exceptional curriculum materials, training programmes and resources for free!
micro:bit Features
The new and improved BBC micro:bit V2.21 has some great new features including a microphone, speaker and touch sensitive logo, and useful improvements including power indicator, notched edge connector for easier use of alligator clips and a power off button. Features shared with the version 1 can be found below.
- 25 individually-programmable LEDs: The micro:bit has 25 individually-programmable LEDs on its board, allowing you to display text, numbers, and images.
- 2 programmable buttons: There are two buttons on the front of the micro:bit (labelled A and B). You can detect when these buttons are pressed, allowing you to trigger code on the device.
- Physical connection pins: The microbit has 25 external connectors on the edge connector, which we refer to as 'pins'. You can program motors, LEDs, or other electrical components with these pins, or connect extra sensors to control your code!
- Light sensor: By reversing the LEDs of the screen to become an input, the LED screen works as a basic light sensor, allowing you to detect ambient light.
- Temperature sensor: This sensor allows the micro bit to detect the current temperature of the device, in degrees and Celsius.
- Accelerometer: An accelerometer measures the acceleration of your micro:bit; this component senses when the micro:bit is moved. It can also detect other actions, e.g. shake, tilt, and free-fall.
- Wireless Communication, via Radio: The micro:bit has a radio feature which allows you to communicate wirelessly between microbits. Use the radio to send messages to other microbits, build multiplayer games, and much more!
- Wireless Communication, via Bluetooth: BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) allows the micro:bit to control phones and tablets over Bluetooth. This communication works both ways, so you can also send code to your micro:bit wirelessly from your phone using one of our apps. Other apps, such as Swift Playgrounds and Scratch, use Bluetooth to talk to the micro:bit.
- USB interface: The USB interface allows you to connect the micro:bit to your computer via a micro-USB cable, which will power the device and allow you to download programs onto the micro:bit.
Features
LED Display
25 individually programmable LEDs that can display text, numbers, and simple images.
Buttons
Two programmable buttons (A and B) allow user interaction, such as controlling games or triggering events.
Microphone
A built-in microphone picks up sound, allowing audio-based interactions and noise detection.
Speaker
Produces sounds and music, enabling audio feedback for games, alerts, and creative projects.
Edge Connector
A row of pins enables easy connection to external components like sensors, motors, and other electronics.
Touch Sensor
The micro:bit logo acts as a touch sensor, allowing users to trigger actions with a simple touch.
I/O Pins
Three input/output (I/O) pins let users connect additional sensors, LEDs, or other electronic components.
USB Interface
Connects to a computer via micro USB for programming and power supply.
Battery Connector
A JST battery socket allows the micro:bit to be powered by external battery packs for portable use.
Processor
Uses an ARM Cortex-M4 CPU for efficient processing of programs and data.
Accelerometer
Detects movement, including tilting, shaking, and free-fall, enabling motion-based controls.
Compass
A built-in magnetometer senses direction and can be used for navigation or detecting magnetic fields.
Light Sensor
Detects the brightness of the surrounding area using the LED grid as an input sensor.
Bluetooth
Allows the micro:bit to communicate with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
Radio Communication
Enables wireless communication between multiple micro:bits for data sharing and multiplayer games.
Temperature Sensor
Measures the ambient temperature to monitor environmental conditions or create weather-based projects.
BBC micro:bit Comparison
| Product Name | Product Image | micro:bit v2.21 board | USB Cable | Battery Cage | Batteries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BBC micro:bit v2.21 |
 |
Yes | No | No | No |
BBC micro:bit v2.21 GO |
 |
Yes | Yes (30cm) | Yes (without on/off switch) | 2x AAA |
BBC micro:bit v2.21 EX |
 |
Yes | Yes (100cm) | Yes (with on/off switch) | 4x AAA |
Save with micro:bit Bundles!
micro:bit Projects, Kits & Accessories
You can do a lot with a BBC microbit but you can do so much more when you combine it with a microbit project kit and accessories. We've carefully selected project kits and accessories from world leading manufactures including 4tronix, DF Robot, Elecfreaks, Kitronik, Monk Makes, Seeed and Sparkfun to create a one stop shop for you.
Loved by Users!
It’s an excellent, simple tool to learn the basics of coding. My 8 year old uses it at school and asked me to buy one for him to use at home. Now he’s coding like a champ!
Natalia U.
The chip card is easy to use and well created for student use. What is most impressive is the extensive range of support material online. There is a lot to look through but from a teaching perspective there is everything that I need to write a technology programme.
David P.
They are easy to setup, minimal logistics and affordable. We can code using blocks or python depending on skill level and plenty of online resources with projects and sample code. One of the best DT Resources!!
Philip H.
FREE Resources for the BBC micro:bit
The BBC micro:bit has been developed and supported worldwide by the Micro:bit Educational Foundation whose aim is to “inspire every child to create their best digital future”. The micro:bit foundation in collaboration with educators around the world have created a strong, supportive community where teaches and educators have free access to lessons, projects and technical support.
Blogs & Resources
What is the BBC micro:bit? A complete guide
What is a BBC micro:bit? It’s a tiny device making a huge impact in STEM education! Discover its history, classroom impact, and CD-Soft’s top micro:bit products.
Micro:bit vs Raspberry Pi - Which One Should You Get?
Today, we'll compare the hardware, software, resources, versatility & scalability of the micro:bit & Raspberry to help you make an informed decision.
BBC Micro:bit Review - Why It's a Must-Have for Every Classroom
Today we will explore how the affordable BBC micro:bit can provide educators with the tools they need to teach modern-day skills like coding to young people.
Teacher Resources
The BBC micro:bit has been developed and supported worldwide by the Micro:bit Educational Foundation whose aim is to “inspire every child to create their best digital future”. The micro:bit foundation in collaboration with educators around the world have created a strong, supportive community where teaches and educators have free access to lessons, projects and technical support.
FAQs
Find answers to commonly asked questions about the BBC micro:bit.
