Arduino Launches a New Starter Kit, Built Around the Powerful Arduino UNO R4 WiFi

Arduino has announced a new beginner's bundle for those looking to take their first steps in physical computing and embedded development, built around the Arduino UNO R4 WiFi development board: the Arduino Starter Kit R4.

"Want to learn about electronics? Get your quick and easy start with the new Arduino Starter Kit R4, perfect for STEM fans of all ages – no prior experience required! The kit covers both coding and electronics through fun, engaging, and hands-on projects," the Arduino team explains of the company's latest launch. "In addition to the tutorials included in the manual inside the box, you can explore a growing number of ideas online to unlock the full potential of the Arduino UNO R4 WiFi – and of your own creativity!"

The Arduino Starter Kit R4 is based around the Arduino UNO R4 WiFi, one of the two next-generation Arduino UNO development boards launched back in June 2023 — and marking the family's first move away from eight-bit AVR-based microcontroller to the 32-bit Renesas RA4M1 system-on-chip, delivering a big boost in power. As the name suggests, the Arduino UNO R4 WiFi also includes on-board Wi-Fi connectivity missing from the lower-cost Arduino UNO R4 Minima, delivering out-of-the-box compatibility with the Arduino Cloud and the broader Internet of Things.

In addition to the development board itself, the kit includes a printed booklet containing 13 projects — running the gamut from basic blinky circuits to programmable logic, motor control, and sensor input, and including primers on core electronics concepts like Ohm's law and circuit diagrams. All required components are included in the bundle, including a compact solderless breadboard, and those who work their way through the whole booklet can use an included voucher to take an exam for the Arduino Fundamentals certification.

The Arduino Starter Kit R4 is priced at $95, but will be available for a limited time at a discounted $76 via the Arduino Store; a six-unit classroom pack will also be made available, Arduino has confirmed. More information is available on the Arduino website.