Software Tools – Micro:bit Learn

Microsoft MakeCode 🧩

The easiest way to start coding — drag, drop, and watch your ideas come to life!

Visual Programming

Drag-and-Drop Block Editor

MakeCode uses colorful, snap-together blocks — just like building with LEGO! Choose from categories like Basic, Input, Music, Radio, and more. Each block represents a piece of code.

✓ No typing required — just snap blocks together
✓ Built-in simulator to test code instantly
✓ Switch between Blocks and JavaScript view
✓ Runs in any web browser — nothing to install
✓ Download .hex files to the MICROBIT drive via USB

Open MakeCode Editor ↗

MakeCode Editor

on start
show icon
                                ❤️
on button A
                                pressed
show string
                                "Hi!"
show icon 😊

How to Upload Code to Your Micro:bit 📤

💻

Write Code

Build with blocks in MakeCode

→

🧪

Test in Simulator

Try it in the virtual Micro:bit

→

⬇️

Download .hex

Click the Download button

→

🔌

Connect USB

Plug in your Micro:bit

→

📁

Copy to MICROBIT

Drag .hex to the drive

Mu Editor — MicroPython 🐍

Ready for text coding? Mu makes writing Python for Micro:bit simple and fun!

Text Programming

Write Real Python Code

Mu is a beginner-friendly Python editor with a special "micro:bit mode" that makes flashing code to the board super easy. It's the perfect next step after MakeCode!

✓ Clean, distraction-free coding interface
✓ Special micro:bit mode for one-click flashing
✓ Built-in REPL for live interaction
✓ Supports MicroPython — the real Python language
✓ Install on Windows, macOS, or Linux

Download Mu Editor ↗ Online Python Editor ↗

Mu Editor — micro:bit mode

# My first MicroPython program!
from microbit import *
 
while True:
    if button_a.is_pressed():
        display.show(Image.HEART)
    elif button_b.is_pressed():
        display.scroll("Hello!")
    else:
        display.show(Image.HAPPY)

Which Tool is Right for You?

Compare MakeCode and Mu at a glance!

Feature	🧩 MakeCode	🐍 Mu Editor
Coding Style	Visual Blocks	Text (Python)
Best For	Beginners & Kids	Intermediate+
Simulator	✅ Built-in	❌ No
Installation	Browser-based	Install app
REPL / Live Code	❌ No	✅ Yes