What does the EV3 brick do?

It is a small programmable computer that drives motors and reads sensor data, forming the core of every robot in the set.

How many pieces does the set include?

Mindstorms EV3 (31313) has 601 pieces and 102 distinct part types, mostly Technic elements.

Can you only build one model?

No, the pieces can be built into several different robots, each with its own programming.

EV3

Mindstorms EV3

Mindstorms EV3 is the core set of the third Mindstorms generation from 2013, aimed at builders who want to programme as well as build. Its 601 pieces build several different robot models around the programmable EV3 brick. Instead of minifigures, the focus here sits on motors, sensors and Technic elements.

Set number: 31313
Year: 2013
Pieces: 601
Minifigures: 0
Theme: EV3
Different parts: 102

What can I build with it?

View the official building instructions at LEGO® ↗

Parts list 102

As BrickLink list (XML)

Import on BrickLink: Wanted → Upload, upload the file (or paste its content), pick a Wanted List and add the parts.

Spare parts (4)

These extra parts come with the set in case one gets lost.

Description

The EV3 brick at the centre

The set's core is the programmable EV3 brick, a small onboard computer that drives motors and processes sensor data, programmed through dedicated software on a computer or tablet. Around it sit several motors, a colour sensor, a touch sensor and other components that combine into a working, responsive robot. Unlike most other sets, the point here is not one fixed model shape but the interplay between mechanics and programming, which really only gets going once the physical build is done.

601 pieces, mostly Technic

A large share of the 601 pieces are Technic elements such as axles, connectors and gears rather than the classic studded bricks found in most other sets. The 102 distinct part types might look modest at first glance, but they cover a wide range of mechanical functions, from drivetrains and gearing to moving joints. The full parts list on this page shows exactly which Technic and electronic components are included, useful for anyone sourcing spare motors, sensors or connectors later.

Black, red, grey and blue for a technical look

Black and light bluish grey form the technical base colour of most Technic parts, with red and blue used as accents on motors, sensors and select connectors. That colour choice is typical of Technic and Mindstorms sets and looks noticeably different from the brighter palettes found across most themed sets. The restrained, technical colouring keeps attention on mechanics and function rather than pure looks, which suits the experimental nature of the set well.

More than one robot per set

The 601 pieces can be built into several different robot models, each behaving differently depending on how it is programmed and which sensors are attached. That ranges from simple driving robots to more complex builds that read and react to multiple sensors at once. For anyone keen to go beyond the suggested models, the parts also combine with other Technic or Mindstorms sets, opening up custom robot ideas built around the same sensors and motors.

FAQ

What does the EV3 brick do?: It is a small programmable computer that drives motors and reads sensor data, forming the core of every robot in the set.
How many pieces does the set include?: Mindstorms EV3 (31313) has 601 pieces and 102 distinct part types, mostly Technic elements.
Can you only build one model?: No, the pieces can be built into several different robots, each with its own programming.