Top 10 Open-Source Robotic Arm Projects for Beginners

Building a robotic arm is one of the best ways to learn robotics, combining electronics, mechanics, and programming in a single hands-on project. Below is a curated list of beginner-friendly, open-source robotic arm projects that are practical to build at home using affordable components and freely available design files.

Each project includes open-source code, 3D models, and clear documentation, making them ideal for learning servo control, multi-axis movement, and basic automation.

1. Object Following Robotic Arm

A 4-DOF robotic arm that automatically tracks moving objects using ultrasonic and IR sensors. This project introduces sensor-based automation and real-time servo control using Arduino.

Best for: Object tracking, automation basics

2. Robotic Arm Using ARM7 LPC2148

A pick-and-place robotic arm controlled by potentiometers, allowing direct joint control. It’s a great project for learning ADC, PWM, and embedded system fundamentals.

Best for: Embedded systems and manual control learning

3. Dolphin 3D-Printed Robotic Arm

A compact and smoothly articulated robotic arm designed for easy 3D printing and assembly. Ideal for understanding joint movement and mechanical design.

Best for: Beginners with a 3D printer

4. ESP32 Robot Arm with Smartphone Control

A wireless robotic arm controlled via a web interface on a smartphone. Uses ESP32 for real-time servo control and Wi-Fi communication.

Best for: Wireless and IoT-based robotics

5. 3D-Printed 6-DOF Arduino Robotic Arm

A full 6-axis robotic arm offering human-like movement using servo motors and Arduino. Teaches advanced kinematics and multi-axis coordination.

Best for: Intermediate learners

6. DIY 6-DOF Robot Arm with Arduino

A strong and modular robotic arm design with six degrees of freedom. Built entirely using 3D-printed parts and hobby servos.

Best for: Advanced hobby projects

7. STM32 Robot Arm with Smartphone Control

A professional-grade robotic arm using STM32 for control and ESP32 for Bluetooth communication. Controlled through a mobile app.

Best for: Embedded systems and professional robotics learning

8. DIY Robotic Arm (Simple Design)

A straightforward 3D-printed robotic arm with basic servo control. Easy to assemble and perfect for first-time builders.

Best for: Absolute beginners

9. Simple 3D-Printed Servo Robotic Arm

A low-cost robotic arm using SG90 and MG995 servos. Demonstrates torque selection and practical pick-and-place tasks.

Best for: Learning servo fundamentals

10. 3D-Printed Arduino-Based Robotic Arm

A well-documented 6-axis robotic arm using Arduino Mega. Includes detailed guides, STL files, and wiring diagrams.

Best for: Serious beginners and educational projects

These open-source robotic arm projects provide an excellent starting point for anyone interested in robotics. From simple pick-and-place arms to advanced 6-axis designs, each project helps build real-world skills in servo control, mechanical design, and embedded programming. Whether you’re a student, hobbyist, or aspiring robotics engineer, these robotic arm projects offer practical learning and endless opportunities for experimentation.