ELEGOO Conqueror Robot Tank Kit with UNO R3 for Arduino Robo
✅ PROS
- Full UNO R3 board included — not a stripped clone; you can repurpose it after the project
- Tank treads handle carpet, grass, and small obstacles better than wheeled kits
- Three control modes (IR remote, app, obstacle avoidance) give real variety
❌ CONS
- Assembly takes 2–3 hours; younger kids will need adult help with the 100+ jumper wires
- App connectivity drops occasionally on Android; iOS is more stable
- No printed manual — you'll need a laptop or tablet beside you to follow the PDF
The Verdict
Bottom line: This is the rare Arduino kit that actually feels like a toy after you build it — not just a pile of components that blinks once and goes in a drawer.
The ELEGOO Conqueror isn’t just another breadboard-and-LED starter set. It’s a full tracked tank platform with a genuine UNO R3 board at its heart, and it’s been earning its 4.4-star rating from 220+ buyers for good reason. It’s a hybrid: half electronics education, half genuinely fun remote-controlled vehicle.
What you actually get
Open the box and you’re looking at roughly 20 bags of labeled parts, a real UNO R3 board (not a counterfeit), an ultrasonic sensor, Bluetooth module, IR remote, and a hefty bundle of jumper wires. The tracked chassis is the standout — solid ABS plastic with rubber treads that grip far better than the plastic wheels on cheaper kits.
As shown in the product image, you’re getting a complete tracked vehicle platform. The kit includes the smart car chassis, motors, motor driver shield, and all sensors. There’s no soldering required — everything connects via jumper wires, which is both a blessing (accessible to beginners) and a curse (cable management is real work).
Build experience and learning curve
Set aside a solid afternoon. Experienced builders might finish in 90 minutes; first-timers should budget 2–3 hours. The included PDF guide (downloadable, not printed) is well-illustrated with clear step-by-step images. One buyer noted, “The instructions are the best I’ve seen in any Arduino kit — every wire is color-coded in the diagrams.”
But here’s the honest truth: the wiring is tedious. Over 100 jumper connections means plenty of chances to misroute a cable. The good news? ELEGOO’s customer service responds quickly if something doesn’t work, and the included troubleshooting section covers most common mistakes.
Real-world performance
Once assembled, the Conqueror delivers. The tank treads are the standout feature — they climb over phone charging cables, small books, and transition from hardwood to carpet without stalling. The ultrasonic sensor enables a genuinely useful obstacle-avoidance mode that makes the tank roam your living room like a cautious Roomba.
Three control options keep things interesting:
- IR remote — responsive, no pairing needed
- Bluetooth app — includes a joystick mode plus programmable path mode
- Autonomous mode — the ultrasonic sensor takes over
The app is functional but not polished. Several reviewers mentioned occasional disconnects on Android devices. One owner put it plainly: “Works great once connected, but reconnecting takes a few tries sometimes.”
Where it falls short
The learning materials assume some baseline knowledge. If you’ve never touched an Arduino, the included code is well-commented but you won’t fully understand what you’re uploading. This is a “learn by doing” kit, not a “learn by understanding” kit.
The Bluetooth range is about 30 feet in open space — fine for most rooms, but don’t expect to drive it from the backyard while you sit inside. And while the tank is sturdy, the sensor mounts are plastic; a hard crash into a wall could snap the ultrasonic holder.
Who should buy this
Buy it if: You’re a parent or teacher who wants a hands-on STEM project that produces something kids will actually play with afterward. The Conqueror works for ages 12 and up with adult supervision, or 14+ confidently solo.
Skip it if: You’re a complete beginner who wants a plug-and-play toy. This is a project, not a toy out of the box. If you don’t enjoy assembling things, the 2–3 hour build will feel like homework.
FAQ
Q: Does this work with a Raspberry Pi? A: No — it’s designed specifically for Arduino UNO R3. You’d need significant modification to adapt it.
Q: Can I use my own Arduino board? A: Yes, but the included UNO R3 is already tested with the provided code. Swapping boards risks compatibility issues unless you know what you’re doing.
Q: Is the code beginner-friendly for modifying? A: Moderately. The functions are clearly commented, so basic tweaks (like changing obstacle detection distance) are doable. Major custom programming requires Arduino experience.
The Verdict
Rating: 4.2/5
The ELEGOO Conqueror is the best Arduino tank kit in its price range. It balances education and entertainment better than most alternatives — you get a legitimate learning experience that ends with a genuinely fun RC vehicle. The assembly is time-consuming and the app has quirks, but the build quality, included genuine UNO R3, and three control modes justify the investment.
Buy it if you want a project that teaches real skills and leaves you with something fun to drive. Skip it if you want instant gratification or lack patience for detailed assembly.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.