Sphero 2.0 Review

Introduction

There are plenty of toys and gadgets that can pique our interest for a long period of time to warrant a purchase, but for the majority of them, like those RC helicopters you see being sold at those mall kiosks, they lack the necessary depth to keep them fresh. More importantly, we simply become bored because they do the same thing, over and over again. On the other hand, the Sphero 2.0 is intriguing right from the start, since it’s remarked by the company that produces it, Orbotix, as being an interactive robot, smart toy, and gaming system device – all-in-one of course!

The package contains:

• Owners guide
• Inductive charging base
• Wall charger
• 2 pop-out ramps

Design

Simple and solidly constructed, there’s something fascinating about a moving plastic ball.

As its name implies, Sphero 2.0 is plainly a plastic constructed spherical ball. It’s about the same size as any other balls around the house, like a tennis ball or baseball, but it’s comprised out of this tough plastic material. Luckily, this material is of the sturdy variety – able to withstand drops from as high as 3 feet in our experience. However, we wouldn’t recommend trying to rocket Sphero 2.0 from this height, since the noise it makes would make anyone cringe. Regardless of that, it manages to handle all the punishment we’re able to dish on it.

This is actually a 2nd generation model, seeing that the original one launched back in 2011. Inside of the plastic ball, it houses all of the components it needs to move and light up. Improvements have been made to this one so that it’s faster, brighter, and smarter than its predecessor. Speaking of brighter, the LEDs light up to a brilliant glow – making it particularly interesting to control in the dark. In fact, we can manually set the color, or simply have it glow in various shades by using one of its “upgrades.”

Glancing at the thing in action for the first time, there’s this uncanny feeling inside of us that helps to pique our interest more. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that Orbotix advertises Sphero 2.0 for being waterproof and pet proof. Seriously, you can dunk it in a pool or water, or have your pets chase after it, without worries about it getting damaged. It’s just that soundly constructed! Well, there’s an optional accessory we’d recommend getting, the nubby cover, since it further protects it from the elements – giving it better traction outdoors and in the water!