Best Cheap Robot Pets
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Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Cheap Robot Pets
Over the past few years, we’ve seen growing popularity for household robots. Whether it’s a robot vacuum or an interactive robot dog, brands have made sure that these little creatures are slowly integrating into everyday life.
And why not? Robot pets, specifically, have proven to be incredibly beneficial in many aspects. They also hold a few advantages over real pets, since they require little upkeep and extra costs. In this guide, we’ll be featuring the best affordable robot pets in the market. Take a look!
Which is the Top Cheap Robot Pet?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best Cheap Robot Dog |  Best Robot Cat |
RACPNEL Remote Control Robot ToyThe RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy check outs the boxes when it comes to fun, features, and cuteness all at an affordable price. | Harry the Electronic Smart DogHarry the Electronic Smart Dog can walk, sing, dance, and glide to give your kids hours of play and entertainment. | Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange TabbyZoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby may have a low price tag but it’s an advanced robot kitty that has playful and active features for its owners to have fun with. |
Price: Functionality: Quality: | Price: Functionality: Quality: | Price: Functionality: Quality: |
Let’s Go Over Each Top Cheap Robot Pet
#1: RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy
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One downside of owning a real dog is keeping up with the mess they make. Often, trying to keep up with your dog’s mess takes up a huge chunk of time. That’s why we named this adorable pink dog the best robot in this list!
The RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy is affordable, lovable, and has several tricks to entertain anyone for hours. This robotic dog is also easy to control, thanks to its cute little remote control that lets you move the robot dog forwards and backwards, perform stunts, and even make little puppy sounds that can be quite realistic. The treat keys also let you program different actions that this robot dog can memorize so you would have plenty of fun with it.
Overall, these features make the RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy the best robot in the list!
Pros and Cons of the RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Barks and moves like a real dog ✔️ Affordable ✔️ Can record up to 30 moves ✔️ Easy to control ✔️ Comes with a remote control | ✖️ Does not respond to voice command unlike other robot pets ✖️ Has a cartoonish appearance and hard surface so it does not look like a realistic dog |
#2. Harry the Electronic Smart Dog
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Our pick for the best robot dog that won’t break the bank is Harry the Electronic Smart Dog. This spotted pup is sure to be a good boy (or the best robot) — Harry walks, sings, dances, and even responds to the human touch by nuzzling its smooth head.
This adorable robot dog also glides smoothly along most surfaces and on slightly bumpy roads thanks to its Bump n’ Go feature. All in all, Harry the Electronic Smart Dog makes for great fun for younger kids and is sure to keep them busy and entertained for hours.
Although, Harry will have a few limitations in terms of features and tricks. Should you want a robot dog that can do more and you’re willing to pay a steeper price, then you can check out our guide on the Best Robot Dogs.
Pros and Cons of Harry the Electronic Smart Dog
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Touch-sensitive ✔️ Has different tricks such as barking, walking, singing, and dancing ✔️ Portable and interactive robot dog ✔️ Numerous features considering the affordable price | ✖️ Has a cartoonish appearance and hard surface so it does not look like a realistic dog ✖️ Cannot pick up voice commands due to lack of voice control technology |
#3. Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby
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We know what you’re thinking: what about us cat people? Fret not, because there are plenty of robot cats in the market to satisfy your needs. Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby is a particularly fun feline friend that can sing, dance, and pounce minus all the upkeep and possible scratch accidents from real cats.
Although it’s a robotic cat, Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby has a playful and loving personality. Thanks to its programmed touch sensors, this robot cat can cuddle or nuzzle with you enough to make you feel like putty. If you want this robot cat to be affectionate, you can turn its Cuddle Mode so it can nuzzle your palm. Once you’re done cuddling and nuzzling with Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby, you can turn on Play Mode so it perform all sorts of stunts, tricks, and even serenade you with a song!
Though cheap, this robot cat is long-lasting. Zoomer Kitty Whiskers comes in a smooth exterior made of non-toxic plastic, has decent battery life, and multiple sensors that make it more interactive. It also comes with plastic wheels (not rubber wheels) that allow it to navigate smooth surfaces with ease.
Pros and Cons of the Zoomer Kitty Whiskers the Orange Tabby
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Programmed touch sensors ✔️ Can do multiple tricks and jumps ✔️ Purrs ✔️ Durable material | ✖️ Hard plastic surface |
#4. HEXBUG Scorpion Electronic Autonomous Robotic Pet
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Forget a dog or a cat. Some kids just want to play with bugs, and for those who can’t get enough of the creepy crawlies, the HEXBUG Scorpion Electronic Autonomous Robotic Pet is the perfect gift. Not to mention, this makes for a perfect compromise for kids who are on the rather adventurous side when it comes to pets but the parents would not budge.
Similar to a real scorpion, the HEXBUG Scorpion Electronic Autonomous Robotic Pet can climb walls and crawl on floors. What makes this robotic scorpion different from its real-life counterpart is it can perform tricks such as lighting up in multiple colors like blue, orange, green, and violet. This robotic scorpion can also bounce off walls and move at lightning speed so it can keep kids entertained for long.
While it doesn’t have the same mobility and unique tricks as robot dogs or cats, it’s still pretty enjoyable to watch this little bug explore every corner of the room and jump from wall to wall. It even comes with different colors, and you never know which one you’re getting!
However, do keep a lookout when the HEXBUG Scorpion is crawling around the floor. While it is made out of durable material and plastic so it won’t break easily or accidentally lose a pincer, one can still easily step on it because of its small size.
Pros and Cons of the HEXBUG Scorpion Electronic Autonomous Robotic Pet
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Small and portable ✔️ Comes in different colors ✔️ Long battery life | ✖️ Fewer tricks than most robot pets ✖️ Cannot avoid obstacles on its own ✖️ Has no remote control |
#5. Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Pet Tumbling Hedgehog
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To continue the theme of unique robot pets, we’ve got the tumbling hedgehog from Thames & Kosmos. Spiky, small, and super fun to build, this unusual robot companion makes for the perfect pastime for young children. Like a real hedgehog, Thames & Kosmos’ Tumbling Hedgehog can also roll, bristle its spikes, and curl into a ball depending on the gestures.
We love this little robot hedgehog because it’s not only entertaining, but also engages the child’s mind by introducing simple programming. We recommend it for anyone with a budding interest in STEM because its 172 building pieces will make for a fun and fulfilling challenge for kids ages 7 and above.
Worry not if you think the number of pieces will make it too difficult for kids to assemble this DIY hedhgehot robot. At 10 inches long and 13 inches high, the Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Tumbling Hedgehog robot has a size big (or small) enough to for owners to find which pieces to put together. However, it’s best for adults to guide young kids during assembly mode to prevent any choking hazards and accidents. Regardless, assembling the hedgehog out of the box and learning all about motors and sensors of this robot makes this robotic toy a great companion for kids.
Once this robotic hedgehog is all assembled, you can now start playing with it. While it does not come with a remote control unlike other robot pets in the list, this robotic hedgehog does respond to claps. There are two different ways you can get this robot to operate. In Mode 1, you can clap once in order to get the robotic hedgehog to roll backwards, fall asleep, or wake up depending on the action you want it to make. In Mode 2, you can get this robotic hedgehog to roll as many time as you clap to make for endless of tumbling fun. In Mode 3, you can unlock a series of fun tricks like having your robotic hedgehog to curl up into a ball or have its spikes bristles up if you give it a round of applause.
While the features and tricks of the Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Pet Tumbling Hedgehog is a bit limited, the real fun this robot brings is the assembling in the beginning. However, do make sure that it is assembled well and properly. Otherwise, this robotic hedgehog may not be able to function at its best and you may miss out on a few of its tricks and adorable features.
Pros and Cons of the Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Pet Tumbling Hedgehog
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Fun tricks and tumbles ✔️ Buildable robot ✔️ Has a built-in sound sensor to respond to claps | ✖️ Kids may need guidance when assembling the hedgehog to prevent any choking hazards and accidents |
#6. Twirlux Unicorn Toy Remote Control Robot
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Robotic pets don’t have to be your typical real-life animals — they can be mythical in nature, too! Now, you can get your very own robot unicorn with the Twirlux robotic pets, specifically, their unicorn remote controlled toy that plays songs, runs on its wheels, and lights up with just the press of a few buttons.
Using the remote control, this smart robot can interact with kids, make cute sounds, and move in every direction. With a gentle tap on its buttocks, the Twirlux Unicorn Toy Robot can also interact and move. The only thing missing is the ability to fly.
The Twirlux Unicorn Toy Remote Control Robot is one of those robotic pets that come with its special toy. Apart from the remote, it has a comb for the unicorn’s beautiful pink mane so kids can enjoy brushing it for as long as they want!
Pros and Cons of the Twirlux Unicorn Toy Remote Control Robot
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Cheaper than other robots ✔️ Can sing and light up ✔️ Interactive features with gesture control ✔️ More unique than other robot pets | ✖️ Remote control can be buggy |
#7. DAOKEY Dinosaur Remote Control Toy
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Let’s set aside the robot dogs for a moment and shine the light on yet another unique robotic companion: the robot dinosaur. While they aren’t exactly man’s best friend, even in prehistoric times, it’s fun to think of these wild animals as domesticated creatures.
Dinosaurs have often been the subject of fascination for children and adults. It’s not hard to see why, as their stunning appearance makes them intimidating yet magnificent creatures.
The DAOKEY dinosaur robot brings the fun home to you with this portable toy that makes realistic roaring sounds, fog effects, and light-up eyes. The best part is it’s completely affordable and durable to boot.
Pros and Cons of the DAOKEY Dinosaur Remote Control Toy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Realistic features ✔️ Emits fog when you spray water into its head ✔️ Multiple movements and gestures | ✖️ Cheap plastic material |
#8. FurReal Friends Pax My Poopin Pup Plush Toy
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A pet robot companion should be as close to a real dog as can be, and while the FurReal Friends pup is just short of real pet hair and ankle biting, it’s got one thing you won’t miss from a real pet: the ability to poop up what it eats.
We know, pooping is something most people avoid when choosing their robots. But hear us out: if your child wants to practice taking care of a dog, then isn’t a robotic dog with the bodily functions of a real dog the way to go? Plus, you’ll have so much fun feeding and walking this little dog that it won’t feel like a chore at all! This good boy is covered in fluffy hair that’ll make you want to cuddle and play with it as often as you like.
Pros and Cons of the FurReal Friends Pax My Poopin Pup Plush Toy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Furry robotic dog toy ✔️ Can walk, poop, and eat like a real dog ✔️ Has its own collar and leash ✔️ More realistic look and texture than most cheap robot pets | ✖️ Does not have voice technology so it cannot pick up voice commands ✖️ No remote control |
#9. Grarg Dog
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Our next pick for best robot dog in the cheap category is Grarg. Unlike other robots that come out of the box assembled, this is one of those robot dogs that requires a little more effort when you unpack it.
Grarg the robotic dog is a do-it-yourself robot companion, which actually has a few perks of its own. For one thing, the robotic dog becomes a lot more engaging than other robots that don’t require building because they offer a chance to learn and understand how these robots are made.
Of course, Grag Dog is still as entertaining and interactive as other robots of its kind. Like a real puppy, it barks, makes eating sounds, runs, and moves its tail. It can even fall asleep!
Pros and Cons of the Grarg Dog
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Durable and non-toxic ABS plastic ✔️ Includes voice commands ✔️ Plenty of interactive features for its price ✔️ As playful as live dog | ✖️ Does not have a realistic appearance |
#10. Zoomer Meowzies Lucky
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Remember the Zoomer Meowzies Lux we featured in our guide to the best robot cats? Meet her friend Lucky, the musical maniac of the bunch. Lucky is covered in a deep violet plastic coat and pink accents that makes it the perfect companion for Lux.
While it doesn’t possess artificial intelligence, this bright neon-colored robotic cat is one of the most interactive robots on our list. It acknowledges you when you pet it by lighting up. It’s also quite the entertainer, with many fun games in its arsenal such as Meow Chase and Meow Hero. Perfect for kids aged 5 and up!
Pros and Cons of the Zoomer Meowzies Lucky
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Collectible robot cat ✔️ Has multiple interactive games ✔️ Responsive to voice and touch | ✖️ Instructions can be quite difficult to understand |
#11. Zuru Robo Alive Robo Turtle
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Cats and dogs are usually the first choice of pet for many people but aquatic creatures make for great pets too! You may not be able to cuddle them like cats and dogs, but fish and turtles are lovable creatures too. The Robo Turtle is a realistic robot pet that can take on both land and water.
Equipped with advanced water-activated technology, you can put the Robo Turtle in water and watch it come to life. It can swim in 5 different directions in water and can crawl around if you place it on land. Best of all, they come in pairs, allowing you to easily build a robo aquarium.
Pros and Cons of the Zuru Robo Alive Robo Turtle
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Comes in pairs ✔️ Moves in both land and water ✔️ Automatically moves when in water ✔️ Swims in 5 different directions ✔️ Battery-operated | ✖️ Made of plastic ✖️ Not very durable ✖️ Cannot be controlled |
What Can Robot Pets Do?
Robot pets have come a long way since their first release. Now, there’s a robot pet for almost every age group, price range, and function. For this guide, we’ll be focusing on commercially available robot pets that are often used for playtime or companionship. While these pets don’t house the latest technologies in the market today, you’ll find they are actually some of the best robot dogs, cats, and even dinosaurs you can get your young loved one.
Interaction
Perhaps the primary function of a robot pet is day-to-day interaction with its owner. For children, having their own robotic pet can be a source of social interaction and activity, especially during a pandemic where their ability to spend time with other children is limited. For older adults, especially the elderly, robot pets provide companionship. They significantly reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and loneliness, especially for those who are relegated to nursing homes and care facilities.
Education
Robot pets, even the simplest ones, engage the owner’s brain. By playing with a remote control or programming their robot cat to sing or bark, the child or older adult is able to stimulate their developing brain and learn social interaction, motor skills, and more.
Entertainment
Apart from their health benefits, a robot pet provides much of the same entertainment as a live pet. They can do tricks like sit, stand, play dead, and bark, or even do things real pets can’t – like sing or dance or do a cartwheel. Engaging in playtime is proven to be beneficial both for adults and kids: it stimulates creativity, relieves stress, and improves brain function.
How Much Are Robot Pets?
A pet robot can cost anywhere between $20 and $75,000. Of course, the latter robots aren’t exactly made to be pets but are built to work side-by-side with humans in the field.
How Much is a Robot Puppy?
A robot puppy can cost anywhere from a $20 interactive toy to a premium $2,900 robot puppy like Sony’s Aibo. Most commercially available robot pets are quite affordable, and this guide will highlight the cheapest ones in the market that still offer great quality and durability.
Final Note
Expensive doesn’t always mean better. Sometimes, all you need is a budget-friendly toy to play with that actually lasts, and that in itself already makes for the best robot to own! However, if you are looking for more premium models of robotic pets to own and love, then you can check out our guide on the Best Robot Pets for Kids and the Best Robot Pets in general.
On the other hand, if you’ve got a real pet at home and are having trouble with cleaning up, take a look at the best robot vacuum automated cleaners in the market. We’ve rounded up our top units right here.
Editor’s Choice
RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy
Playful, interactive, and adorable is how one could best describe this pink puppy from RACPNEL. Don’t be fooled by its inexpensive tag: this toy is made of durable plastic material that makes it last long no matter how often you play with it.
The RACPNEL robot toy dog also features gesture sensing mode and a remote control that allow you to move the puppy forward, backward, and side to side with just your hands. While these aren’t new features by any means, and ones you’ll find in almost every robot toy out there, it’s pretty incredible how easy they are in this cheap toy. We expected a few hang-ups performance wise, but each feature was tight and worked perfectly well. Overall, this makes the RACPNEL Remote Control Robot Toy the best robot and our top choice in this list.
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