armindodias777

Ted, sorry for the ignorance, but what panels are you refering to? I also don't get that box with the tracks printed that wraps the set itself on the retail version, correct? (i can't explain better, lol, but i guess i could also get these on the bricklink later )

Thanks Ted! So it seems i can get the Edu kit cheaper than the Retail kit and use it with the Retail software, nice!

Well, since the retail vesion is now available with all the parts list, i'm returning to my original question for a decision an Mindstorms a first buyer: "I want to buy the new EV3 set. I was already looking to buy the previous incarnation, but the time was not always right, but i finally decided to pull the trigger. But... I don't know if it would be better to buy the EV3 Educational (already available) or Retail (available on 1 September) - either ways, just by the mid September i will buy the set. My background? I love Technic sets, and i do some programming for the web, so my interest in robots/technical lego/programming is very high. I'm aware of some of the differences between the 2 sets (differente sensors, packaging, etc.). I know the Retail version would be around 399 Euros, but i can get the Education version + software licence package for about 480 Euros. Based on all your knowledge and previous Mindstorms versions, i have some questions: 1 - if i buy the Retail, and later the Expansion Education set + Ultrasonic Sensor + Gyro Sensor (the specific Education sensors), can i build all the larger Education models (like the elephant, the dog, etc.)? 2 - is the programming software the same on the Retail and Education sets, or the Education one has more capabilities? 3 - I've read that the Education version has more bricks. So, if i buy the Education, and later the IR Sensor + IR Beacon, will i be able to build all the Retail models (the 5 basic ones + the 12 extra)? 4 - Does the Education version, and buying later the IR Sensor + IR Beacon (the specific Retail parts), has everything the Retail version has plus way more options? So i'm a little undecided about what would be best... This will be my first journey into Mindstorms world (with a backgound in Technic sets and programming). What would be your advice?" Now some updates, i can get the following kits here in Portugal: - EV3 Retail kit = 399.95 Euros - EV3 Education version kit + software + transformer = 489.95 Euros And i just realized that the Edu version does not have the stickers, but i guess i can buy them later on bricklink... So, what do you think it would be the best way to start on this wonderful Mindstorms world? Start with Edu or Retail kit?