Concluding​

At the end of this journey, it's time to conclude.

Pros
  • Propietary connector and protocol for easy connection and automatic identification of peripherals
  • Website in many languages
  • Wide range of alternative programming languages and operating systems
  • Exhaustive documentation on hardware and software
  • Mindstorms application available for Windows and Mac OS X​​
  • ​Text-based formula with 4 inputs and one output 
  • Full compatibility with previous fischertechnik sets and bricks
  • More solid and sturdier models
  • Wide offer of sets in the computing line
  • Standard connectors and protocols for easy design of external peripherals
  • Printed building instructions manual
  • CD-ROM with application and documentation 
  • Five levels for programming, from beginner to expert​
  • Two flows, one for command and another for variables
  • Debugging and simulation modes

Cons
  • Limited compatibility with standard Lego bricks
  • Less rigid models
  • ​Propietary connector and protocol for peripherals
  • One single set
  • Everything has to be downloaded, internet is mandatory!
  • Limited documentation on hardware and software
  • ​RoboPro application available for Windows only
  • No official forum
  • External reference forum and magazine in German only
  • Some features no yet implemented​

Wrap-Up
  • The Lego Mindstorms system is easier to use but less versatile and less upgradable, as it relies on proprietary solutions. 
  • ​Exhaustive documentation on hardware and software allow external solutions and accessories.
  • The large fan base provides support in virtually any country.
  • The fischertechnik system is more powerful and offers more expandability, thanks to the standard solutions it relies on.
  • Hardware standard solutions and the implemented functions make peripheral expansion very easy.
  • ​Software expansion is limited by restrained documentation.

Final Words

I would recommend Lego for kids and early teens, due to the ease of use provided by the packaged and proprietary solutions. Software and hardware documentation may appeal late teens.

I would recommend fischertechnik for teens and late teens. It provides more flexibility and more power, and an open door to peripheral expansion thanks to hardware standard solutions. The different sets of the computing line will keep the teens challenged with more complex models.

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