microbit retro

If you’re in the market for something like this, you already know what you’re getting. Your question is thus “did it work?” Yes - it was exactly as advertised, the price was solid, and it’s entirely functional. It was a bit smaller than expected (I was thinking it would be the size of an Xbox controller), but it’s for my 12yo so it’s fine.This is not a toy, it is a tool. If you do not have the background to teach your child how to use it, unless they’re exceptionally bright (and already have associated tools) it will not be useful. Since it is set up as a toy I’m saying it’s appropriate for 7 and below, however, this assumes a child advanced enough to program and patient enough to be interested. Do not get this as an unsolicited present.

Here's what you need to know:(0) Start by going to the elecfreaks site and read the wiki for this product. Seriously, try that first.(1) The chipset used with this board is still considered experimental on the Makecode site. That means it won't show up as an option for your .hex code until you enable the use of experimental hardware on the site.(2) Because it's experimental, you also can't use webUSB (the preferred file transfer protocal) to download your hex files directly like you can on the main micro:bit programming sites. You have to download the file to your PC, then transfer it to the microbit manually.(3) You microbit probably won't compile the hex file correctly, though, if you just drag and drop from within the file explorer app. Expect an error and a frowny face.(4) So, you will usually have to open a terminal window in the directory with the hex file on your PC and use robocopy to transfer it to the microbit. You want to unplug immediately after the file transfers, too, to avoid a timeout error.Not exactly kid friendly, is it? Not to mention it's a pain to assemble and you'll probably need to ream out the buttons with a 1/8" drill bit (BY HAND!!!) to get them to fit on the switches. All in all, this was not ready for widescale release if it really is aimed at kids.

The screen did not work

Received with broken parts1. Right arrow button was broken2. Top right support hook for display was broken.Requested replacement from Amazon and I Hope to get a non defective item this time.Overall quality not so great but it works once connected to computer using Microbit.

nice looking unit but acrylic cover was a dudbought kit looks nice works wellbut got a cardboard cover for some reason that was missing the drilled hole for the screen. will contact customer support and repost message

Unless you have hardware and software ready to go to actually transfer and know how to...don't bother with this purchase. Nothing redeeming.