Computer Kit

It's a computer
anyone can make

When you build your own Kano computer, you get a real computer, powered by Raspberry Pi 3 and Kano OS. You get all the apps and programs you need. You get a powerful learn-to-code tool, designed to unlock potential, and unleash creativity.

Raspberry Pi 3 inside

Read reviews in

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"What he's doing, though he doesn't know it, is coding. He can do this because Kano has made it instinctive."

The Guardian

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"A Kano DIY kit that has kids put together a simple computer that they can learn to code on."

Buzzfeed

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"It's kind of like Legos, but for computers. Kano is a kit that gives kids the basics of building hardware and coding software."

CNN

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"Many have tried and failed to create a winning educational computer for kids. Kano cracks that nut and does so in genius fashion."

Wired

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"Kano helps kids understand the ins-and-outs of computer circuitry, getting them on their way to an education in coding."

Time

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"The Kano team aims to get users through the first intimidating barrier so that they can go on and do interesting and creative things with computers."

BBC

Start with a story

Open the box, pull out the bits, buttons, and boards. Follow the story book, page-by-page. Build your computer, just like Lego. No technical wizardry required.

1

Follow the book, learn as you make

2

Build your kit, step-by-step

3

Bring it to life; you’re ready to code

Explore how your
computer works

Learn about HDMI, pixels, processors and binary. Follow along with Story Mode. Kano’s unique operating system cracks open the secrets of sealed screens and slick software, giving you the chance to take control.

"We were having fun, and we didn’t realize we were learning stuff, but we were!"
Maya, Kano Master

POWER UP?

Upgrade to the Computer Kit Touch and code anywhere. Build your own touchscreen computer, and learn to code through 100+ playful challenges.

Compare Computer Kits

Learn to code,
with simple steps

From beginner to master, anyone can learn to code. Take on step-by-step coding challenges: type code, drag simple blocks, guided by your own computer! Learn Python, JavaScript, Unix. Understand loops, variables, and logic. Earn XP and medals as you level up

Python, great for web development

JavaScript, create websites, games and art

Unix commands, get complete control

Write your first lines of code...

<span class='ChallengesBlock-stepsGrey'>Step 1: </span> Make a bright sky

Step 1: Make a bright sky

<span class='ChallengesBlock-stepsGrey'>Step 2: </span> Choose a new color

Step 2: Choose a new color

<span class='ChallengesBlock-stepsGrey'>Step 3: </span> Create your sun

Step 3: Create your sun

Coding complete!

150 hours of Kano Coding Challenges

Learn by making. Code paintings and mathematical masterpieces. Create animations that move to your voice. Build your own musical instruments and sound machines. Don’t just play games, change the rules. Take control of Minecraft, Pong, and Snake. Make it your own.

What is Kano OS?
Unleash creativity, make art & more

Use written code and blocks to make interactive art, animations, and beautiful masterpieces, all in code.

Create with

Make Art
Kano Code
Don't just play Minecraft...

Hack it! Gain powers, make instant shelters. Build your own worlds. Also, take control of retro games, or make your own.

Create with

Hack Minecraft
Kano Code
Make Pong
Get into the guts

Go on an epic command line adventure, use Linux commands to solve a mystery, unlock computer secrets, and save the town.

Create with

Terminal Quest
Terminal

+ 100's of Apps to Download

YouTube

Discover new skills and experiences, follow along with Kano challenges, even watch your favorite cat videos.

Codeacademy

Build up coding skills, build websites, learn HTML, CSS, Ruby, Javascript and more, with world-renowned courses.

Internet Browser

Connect to the internet and explore the web with the Chromium browser. Set security settings and parental controls.

Google Apps

Jump in! Explore with Maps, or get creative with productivity tools. Perfect for school and personal projects.

Scratch

The original visual programming language. Code your own interactive stories, games, and animations.

Wikipedia

Access the world’s largest free online encyclopedia. Unlimited learning right from your Kano Computer Kit.

Numpty Physics

Harness gravity and force, create pullers and levers. Make the little red thing go to the little yellow thing.

Security

Set up your parental controls, block specific sites and keywords, keep browsing safe and secure.

Make with friends

The Computer Kit comes with Kano World. It’s a global community, full of amazing creations, made by people of all skill levels. Get inspiration, tweak and hack the code to make it your own.

Fidget Spinner

hicks

2 replies

532 likes

Scuba Diving Pug

Cheese_Man

5 replies

321 likes

Painter

Kevin86

6 replies

152 likes

58,366,687

Lines of code written

697,468

Creations shared

What's in the kit?

1. Power Supply

Brings your computer to life
2. Case Base

Protects your computer
3. Case Lid

Every case needs a lid
4. LED light ring

For making light shows
5. Raspberry Pi 3

Your computer’s brain
6. SD Card

To save your games and apps
7. HDMI Cable

To connect to an HD screen
8. Keyboard

To work magic without cables
9. Sticker

Make it yours
10. Storybook

Simple steps show you how
Over 150 hours of creative play

Learn to code with guided step-by-step challenges, get the confidence you need to build your own games, music and more.

Tech Specs

+

Board

Raspberry Pi 3

1.2GHz quad Cortex A53 - 64bit
Battery

3,000 mAh Lithium Battery
Operating System

Kano OS Lovelace 3.0
Connectivity

3 USB Ports

802.11n Wireless LAN

Ethernet Port

HDMI
Keyboard

15m wireless Radio Frequency

40h battery life
Parental Info

Computer Kit for all ages, parental help may be needed for ages 6 to 8, no technical knowledge required. 3 levels of parental controls
RAM

1GB
Graphics

400MHz VideoCore IV

FAQ

+

What is the Computer Kit?

The Computer Kit is a computer anyone can make, like LEGO. You build and code it yourself. It’s a fun way to make, play and express your creativity with technology, and not just consume it. Learn to code in simple steps, use 100’s of third party apps like YouTube and Wikipedia, and so much more.

What is the recommended age for the Computer Kit?

The Computer Kit can be enjoyed by everyone, beginners and experienced makers of all ages. Typically, we recommend a starting point of beginners aged 6+, but children who can read/write might start earlier. Thanks to the easy-to-use visual coding environment, anyone can make and play with it.

Does it include parental controls?

Yes, the Computer Kit includes a comprehensive set of parental controls to restrict aspects like internet browsing.

Is adult supervision necessary with the Computer Kit?

Some children ages 6-8 years old may require parental supervision reading the storybook and assembling the components. Other than that, no, unless adults in the room want to learn more about code!

What monitor or screen can I use?

The Computer Kit is compatible with any HDMI-compatible TV or monitor. We recommend that you get a separate, dedicated monitor for the Computer Kit as it increases the time spent learning on the kit, and reduces distraction from TV, games console or other devices.

Are you sure parents don’t need to know about computers?

We guarantee that no technical wizardry is required. We provide a step-by-step storybook to guide you you through the build process, as well as starting up your new computer. All Kano kits also come with lifetime support for parents and kids.

How do you learn code with the Computer Kit?

The Computer Kit includes over 150 hours of ready-made projects that teach you how to code, including art, animations, games, and step-by-step coding challenges. You can also use Scratch, Codeacademy, or one of our other supported third party apps to improve your coding skills.

What else can you do with the Computer Kit?

The Computer Kit includes hundreds of hours of projects, tutorials, guided challenges and much more. It connects with Kano World, where makers worldwide share their projects so others can remix them. There are also 100’s of third party apps, from web browsing (with parental controls) to coding experiences and physics game, with many others in between.

Will my kid lose interest?

Short answer: We bet they won’t.
Long answer: Even if they finish every single project available on the kit, the online community is a very active place. See what others are doing, remix their creations and make them your own. Or learn new skills on YouTube, write stories, explore in Story Mode. Once built, this is a small but powerful PC, capable of browsing the Web, YouTube, accessing email, downloading new apps, and more (all managed by parental controls).

Is it robust? What if I have a problem with any of the pieces?

The Computer Kit Complete is quite sturdy, as it comes with a protective case to keep it safe. As with any piece of electronics it's best kept away from any liquids. If you have a problem with any of the pieces our Customer Care team is here for you. Reach out to them and they’ll be happy to help you resolve the issue.

Where can I buy it?

You can buy the Computer Kit direct from Kano at https://kano.me/store/. It is also available in selected retailers and e-tailers.

United States: Amazon.com, Toys R Us, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target.
Canada: Indigo, Toys R Us, The Source.
United Kingdom: Amazon.co.uk

Does the Computer Kit need to be connected to the Internet?

No, but the experience is greatly enhanced with a working internet connection. We recommend that Kits are connected to the Internet to ensure you have the latest software. Also, some third party apps may not work without Internet access. Much of the Kano experience is lost when Kits are not connected.