Robotics Competition Equipment Guide
Choosing the right equipment for your robotics team depends on which competition you’re entering. While some tools and tech are common across competitions, each platform has its own standard systems, complexity, and setup requirements.
| Competition | Robot Platform | Difficulty | Typical Setup |
| World Robot Olympiad (WRO) | LEGO (SPIKE / EV3) | Beginner → Intermediate | Compact, fully autonomous |
| VEX Robotics Competition (VEX) | Metal kit system | Intermediate | Modular, competition-focused |
| FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) | Custom-built robot | Advanced | Large-scale engineering |
World Robot Olympiad (WRO)
WRO is designed to be accessible, especially for younger students. Robots are LEGO-based, fully modular and easy to assemble.
What You’ll Need
- Robot Kit: LEGO SPIKE Prime or EV3
- Controller: Built into the LEGO hub
- Sensors: Colour sensor, distance sensor, gyro
- Motors: Medium and large LEGO motors
- Additional: Laptop for programming, WRO competition mat with mission models, spare LEGO parts
VEX Robotics Competition (VEX)
VEX offers more mechanical complexity using a standardized metal system, perfect for students ready to tackle intermediate engineering challenges.
What You’ll Need
- Robot Kit: VEX V5 system (or VEX IQ for younger levels)
- Controller: VEX handheld controller
- Brain: VEX V5 Brain
- Motors: Smart motors
- Structure: Metal beams, gears, wheels
- Additional: Sensors (distance, vision, gyro), field perimeter + game elements, spare parts
FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)
FRC is the most advanced and resource-intensive competition, suited for large-scale engineering projects. Teams build custom robots with professional-level systems.
What You’ll Need
- Base Kit: “Kit of Parts” (provided after registration)
- Control System: RoboRIO + radio + power distribution
- Motors: High-power motors (Falcon, NEO, CIM)
- Structure: Custom metal chassis (aluminium, etc.)
- Additional: Advanced sensors (encoders, vision cameras, LiDAR optional), batteries + chargers, full toolset (drills, saws, etc.)
Essentials Across All Competitions
No matter the competition, all teams share a few core needs:
- Tools: Screwdrivers, pliers, hex keys
- Tech: 2–3 laptops
- Software: Programming and CAD tools
- A workspace (classroom or lab with some open floor area)
- Storage: Organizers and boxes for parts and components
