Revolutionizing LEGO RC Control with Pybricks & Xbox

Pybricks is an online coding environment for your LEGO hardware, but it can do much more - for example, a whole new way to control your RC LEGO vehicles!
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[@pybricks]

Thanks Balazs for having us in your video! Thanks everyone for supporting Pybricks. Thanks to you we can work on exciting features like these. For technical questions, please see the "help" section under the app settings. It's much easier to help you on the forum, and others can learn from it too. Thanks! 🙂

[@SaperPl1]

Thanks for creating this awesome solution. Will have to try it once I'm back to building with control+/powered up hubs. Is there a way for an instruction creator/MOC designer to have a license that allows creation for some kind of redistributable package with his instructions? This could be a step in good direction where MOC designers can provide pre-configured setups for controls.

[@pybricks]

​@@SaperPl1 Thanks for asking! You can share your block programs and they can be opened by anyone. Individual creators may simply use a normal individual license. We totally encourage you to share your projects. And screenshots to show how it works. Can't wait to see what you'll build!

[@lmi9f9]

​@@pybricksWill PS controller work now or in the future? Or only Xbox is supported?

[@technicmaster0tutorials]

@@lmi9f9 Probably not because PS controllers don't use BLE at the moment (according to the issue on github)

[@pybricks]

@@lmi9f9 These hubs use Bluetooth Low Energy. Xbox has enabled this for all controllers since 2016, Playstation has not so far. Other controllers with BLE may work in the future.

[@douglaskelly3340]

This is exciting. I'm so tired of driving these vehicles with the on screen controls. I wish Lego would do something similar. I'll definitely look into this.

[@stewartmackie1244]

they should let you build the control.

[@PoweredUP_]

​@@stewartmackie1244 They do, it is called "Powered Up App"

[@thelonewolf3515]

So satisfying that your Mic boomarm is perfectly aligned with the rough terrain crane arm in the back 😂 Just another great vid! Thanks! ❤

[@rmanMMVII]

My OCD rests well too.

[@NLGeebee]

That was deliberate 😂

[@andytgeezer]

Absolutely brilliant. Great presentation guys and really exciting functionality

[@OrangeSTEMEducation]

Fantastic! This has been on my things to try out since December, now I have the extra push with four days off this weekend to try it out.

[@harrylee6101]

Can you make the 42167 Garbage Truck into the Mack Anthem?

[@Ice-Qube]

I hope they make premade projects for all the Technic Sets! Would love a App for this that's plug and play like the LEGO Control+ App. I guess that's something for the future though since you would need to implement that. The best that could happen would be LEGO stepping in and hiring the pybricks people!

[@bestbattle]

I just powered up my Audi this morning and was thinking "how shitty is to control it from a touchscreen". This video feels like you've read my mind

[@brickXperiments]

waiting for such a solution for a long time - thanks for spreading the word 😎

[@VladislavKhemy]

LEGO has to develop universal gamepad-like controller for all models - that will be logical and beautiful solution.

[@PoweredUP_]

I'd rather spend on Xbox controller as Lego is not it's only application

[@PoweredUP_]

well, I have just purchased mine Xbox series controller and the system is working awesomely

[@tpaddock891]

Oh, this is great news! The train controller was def better than the mobile app for controlling a vehicle, but this is waaaaaay better!

[@kajakman]

Just made it work with Xbox controller, it's awesome, thank you both! @pybricks and Balázs! :) Please highlight even more that it only works in the BETA environment, that made me loose 20 mins since I did not read it carefully ;)

[@JimmyDuckworth]

Yes! This is REALLY exciting! Thanks for sharing your experiences with it

[@richardgravett]

Great video, the expaination from Lawrence was amazingly clear and understandable ; he is an excellent teacher.

[@ent3r807]

The BuWizz Supports Controllers natively now, although you have to let the app run on your phone, but I think that is not a problem for me at least 😊

[@RacingBrick]

That's true, although you need your phone with the active app all the time, and that app only supports BuWizz units :)

[@MrPawelCz]

What about PlayStation Duo sense controller?

[@technicmaster0tutorials]

It does not support BLE according to the github issue

[@rainone19]

Wow, amazing! Do you guys try to connect Mindstorms EV. 3 Brick? We have a problems with connection to any iPad or Mac with Scatch link and the other "newer" apps. What APP do you use for EV3 programming? The original programming software is...idk, too old? :D . Thx!

[@HaroldEdits04]

Hey Balazs, can you do Lego 42170 and reveal gearboxes?

[@RacingBrick]

I will, as soon as I can

[@HaroldEdits04]

@@RacingBrick thank you for the first reply to me

[@username9774]

Waiting for pybricks on the new soundmodule

[@bliss4492]

This is having me hyped! I have been tempted to try one of the RC sets, but always avoided them because I simply cannot deal with the virtual touchscreen controllers.

[@danielmoreira1003]

Hello. I'm a beginner at Lego and Pybricks. I assembled the Moc 42114 VOLVO L350F wheel loader. So far I've only been able to move forward, backward and steering. I still haven't been able to move the bucket or lift. Any suggestions to help? Thanks

[@あだ名はハリネズミ]

I installed pybricks on my lego 51515 hub and I don't know how to change it back. Please tell me.

[@huguberhart]

Controllers like Gamesir have an app that, on Android have an overlay for mapping buttons. It works for touch inputs, so you can use Lego app to steer the vehicle and have an Xbox style controller to move the sticks. It's neat.

[@RacingBrick]

That sounds like an interesting solution, but if multiple apps are involved, the delay is certainly greater than with direct control using Pybricks.

[@huguberhart]

@@RacingBrick I have no idea, but the Gamesir controller has an USB port. There is no controller BT to phone and phone BT to Lego hub. The solution retains the Lego app features. For example the Audi momentum after throttle is set to neutral. Pybricks seems way more flexible, tho. Probably it’s possible to program these effects?

[@RacingBrick]

@@huguberhart you can pretty much program everything with Pybricks, a lot of things that you cannot do with e.g. the official Powered Up app. Since the code here runs on the hub itself, the lag will be significantly lower.

[@3057luis]

People that say bad things about Powered Up, should watch this. It´s made by Lego, as far as I know

[@RacingBrick]

People are frustrated with Powered Up because LEGO made potentially good hardware, but doesn't provide useable software or a complete solution like a controller. So the system needs 3rd party developers like Pybricks to add functionality to LEGO hardware.

[@cgbnke9792]

Awesome video, very educational, learn something new.... Thanks!!!!

[@markodama8912]

Thank you so much! I've been waiting for this video since you announced it some weeks ago 😅 I hope the program could run on Nintendo Switch controllers, otherwise I'll have to buy an Xbox one...

[@ThomasStalder]

Yeah! How cool is that? :) I have to try this ASAP!

[@BrandonMeyer1641]

I was just gifted the Etron and was not impressed with the app control. This will go a long way to improving the experience. Is it possible to eliminate the protection that is in place so the car can go up steeper obstacles?

[@kentslocum]

I might actually purchase an xbox controller just for this purpose! 😊

[@neirusan07]

@RacingBrick hello what do you recommend for the control box and an upgraded power source? I have the audi etron. Thank you!

[@RacingBrick]

If you want more power and speed, you can do the BuWizz mod - kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHmkZZ2Oo859n7M

[@ConnerKursave123]

Hey Balazs. I did see some Lego KZbinrs are getting March 1st sets early for review. But I'm still not sure if Lego is going to give you those Technic sets early for review.

[@princejaiswal6487]

Hopefully Next video gonna be the review of Lego 42170 and 42171

[@darwiniandude]

This is great! Can other controllers be used? I have 2x PS3, 2x PS4, 2x PS5 controllers...

[@thisisaduck]

So what about other controllers? Could I use a Duelshock 4 for example?

[@sithphobos]

You had me worried...until I saw copy program 😂😂😂I would mess all up if I had to do code lol

[@АртемЛукьянов-т9э]

Is there a way to connect an 8-bit gamepad?

[@povilasr20]

how cool is that! fantastic

[@operaatio5117]

Have you tested if it works with remote controlled racing wheels? Wouldn't that be cool? Steering your lego car with a steering wheel? :D

[@qdaniele97]

You can write you own program for that. Python is pretty easy to learn

[@operaatio5117]

@@qdaniele97 True... I did not think about the python part. I assume it can accept any inputs?

[@vitaliy.artyukh]

wow. good news. will this also work with PS controller? is it possible connect more than one hub?

[@pybricks]

For multiple hubs, see 9:20. There is no limit, so 10 hubs will also work! Playstation DualSense does not support Bluetooth Low Energy yet. But maybe Sony could enable it in an update, just like Microsoft did for 2016 models. I suppose we can ask :)

[@vitaliy.artyukh]

@@pybricks thanks

[@patricktowns3791]

I can finally get my Technic Land Rover RC running! Tha power app just wouldn't work that great.

[@kaszanovakaroly]

Köszönöm! Erről álmodtam amióta megvan a Hub.

[@brickotronic]

It's really embarrassing that Lego wasn't able to provide something like this on their own. My current alternative is to simply use the Mould King 6.0 hub. It gives you control for 6 motors and supports analog control and no app needed. Perfect for MOCs. But for original Powered Up models, this solution might be better.

[@fudeldideldu]

Boost Hub and Train Hub don't work for the Controller? Or do they? Boost Hub and Train Hub are mentioned in the Pybricks menu. The WeDo 2.0 not. Does it work too?

[@RacingBrick]

They don't work with the controller

[@fudeldideldu]

@@RacingBrick man... That's a shame.

[@awes0men0b0dy9]

as an xbox owner Ill definitely be trying this

[@PawełGoryszewski]

can i get programs to 42100 and 42131 to controll them with xbox controller?

[@simosivado]

Sorry, I tried searching for it but was unsuccesful: is there a list somewhere with exactly which xbox controllers are supported?

[@RacingBrick]

Models released after 2016 with Bluetooth support (scroll to the end with the table) - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xbox_Wireless_Controller

[@AllanBjerreAbbondio]

Awesome work!

[@joebo9378]

Can you revert the hub if you decide to sell it or go back to original controls?

[@Alexander-Reitz]

Yes!

[@ИванШкред-и5о]

i sometimes use controlZ. this is altenative of powered up but with buwizz and with he more easy

[@boradlp1796]

does this works with ps5 controller

[@technicmaster0tutorials]

No as it does not support BLE according to the github issue

[@pedro380085]

Great video! Do you have a Xbox controller only for the Pybricks programs or do you use it to play games as well?

[@RacingBrick]

I used it with BrickController2, I don't play games :)

[@profBricks]

Laurens!!!! So long!!!!❤ And now I need to buy an XBOX controller...

[@pybricks]

Thanks ProfBricks!

[@profBricks]

@@pybricks I rushed to buy an XBOX controller, only to discover that it's not compatible with the LEGO BOOST Move Hub. Is it due to the known hardware limitations of that hub? When trying to run a program with the controller in it, it says: ImportError: no module named 'pybricks.iodevices'

[@Ekipsogel]

Can this work with multiple hubs at the same time? For example, if I was trying to control the liebherr excavator, which has multiple hubs, is it possible? If so, are the hubs able to talk to each other, or are they independently connected to the controller?

[@RacingBrick]

As you could see it hinted in the video, it does work with multiple hubs, you can e.g. control the Liebherr crane as well that has 2 hubs. There'll be more publications about the functionality and how it can be used, make sure to follow the Pybricks social channels.

[@JoeZarx]

I use a Buwizz 3 with brick controller and an Xbox controller. I just put my phone in my pocket, where it is most of the day anyway, so I hardly notice it. The Buwizz is stronger and lighter than any LEGO hub.

[@RacingBrick]

I'm also a regular user of BC2, but I always accidentally "press" something on the screen if I try to put it in my pocket, as you cannot lock it unfortunately.

[@DUNDOM5]

Why not use PS5 wireless controller?

[@RacingBrick]

because it doesn't seem to work with BLE in the way it is required in this scenario

[@Free_speech_is_dead]

so wont work with my WIRED controllers. RIP

[@szegedigergely]

Na, ez k.jó! Este rá is repülök. 😁

[@weirdnik]

I just found the exact program I wanted -- use BT lego remote with the transformation vehicle. But can you use both the official app and pybricks?

[@RacingBrick]

You need to install the Pybricks firmware to be able to use it. It you want to use the Control+ app again, then you can restore the official firmware.

[@weirdnik]

@@RacingBrick Perfect!

[@moose_builds]

WE NEED SPEED CHAMPIONS

[@szegedigergely]

Is it only me having troubles using the pybricks coding app? Webapp keeps freezing and reloading randomly...

[@RacingBrick]

Works fine for me now. You can try to disable your ad blocker, I heard someone had issues with that.

[@szegedigergely]

@@RacingBrick Nah, it does the same in Edge, even using it as an app pinned to tray. Last time I managed to get an error repost saying "error retrieving service". Maybe it's overloaded, or what... :( Did not manage to install a single beta firmware yet. Keeping on trying... ;)

[@h734802]

Alwasy just cars. But how can I manage to get the upper C and B motors of 42100 to move synchronic at the end points of the stick. Because they move together in not a trivial way.

[@pybricks]

Example for the Liebherr Crane coming in a few weeks. You can see it move at 9:20 :)

[@h734802]

@@pybricks not the crane. The excavator.

[@pybricks]

@@h734802 Neither are "always just cars" 😀. You can imagine their codes would be very similar.

[@vladyslav_andreiev]

Cool! And what about PS5 controller?

[@ИванШкред-и5о]

I use controlZ, he is cool. And I can use gamepad or other... Please try him

[@juliosilva6008]

Indeed a great solution. Hope will get even better. Can I still use the lego app after installing the new software on the lego box?

[@pybricks]

Directly under the install button, you see "Restore official LEGO firmware". You could even try this first, just to be sure.

[@juliosilva6008]

@@pybricks perfect! Would be great if wad stated in video. Many could not try afraid won't cant get back.

[@pybricks]

@@juliosilva6008Thanks! We'll be sure to cover this in our more detailed Pybricks video here on Racing Brick! :)

[@tdeng-h8k]

Me waiting for them to revolutionize the motors and battery box because they big af and the motors weak

[@gibonada]

Any idea when PS4 controller will be added?

[@technicmaster0tutorials]

Probably not as it does not support BLE according to the github issue (at least for PS5 controller)

[@ThatGuy16651]

Great vid!

[@ramblingbrick]

Game Changer!

[@stevekgoodwin]

@racingbrick where does the money go? AUD 100 perpetual or AUD 8.50/month is outrageous. If you're not getting a cut why promote it at all? It's very expensive.

[@RacingBrick]

If you think it's expensive, just use the free Python interface. I don't get a cut, but promote it because I respect the insane amount of work that has gone into this system. The Pybricks team has developed a much better and more complete software solution for LEGO hardware than the LEGO Group, a multi-million dollar company, has ever presented to us. And you can use *every* functionality in this system for free, you just have to pay for the added convenience of visual code blocks. I'm sure you have to pay more than 100 AUD on average for current PC or console games, but I personally think you get more bang for your buck in this case.

[@stevekgoodwin]

@@RacingBrick firstly, oooh! You replied to me :-) I really enjoy your channel. My point is more aimed at those of us with a more modest lego collection than you. I have exactly one set where I could use this, and I'm unlikely to buy any more anytime soon. I'd love to use one of my xbox controllers to play with my set occasionally, but the price is ridiculous. I think you could address the pricing next time you do an update.

[@RacingBrick]

I can only emphasize this again, you can use it for free, no payment, nothing. You use the Python code and that's all. You may think the price is "ridiculous", but others may find more than enough value in it.

[@stevekgoodwin]

Fair enough, I respect your point of view, and thank you again for replying :-)@@RacingBrick

[@smajl2]

Damn... I wanted to hold off with buying Audi for next 6 months.... You are NOT making my life easier! :)

[@georgwillmann1616]

Fantastic!

[@Alexander-Reitz]

fully proportional control or only 0 or 100%?

[@pybricks]

Fully proportional. See 2:45. You can choose how to use all the inputs and buttons as you like.

[@LiLRider-qr6ln]

Does it work with a ps3 controler

[@ElectricGeckos]

I don't own a Xbox controller, but I might need to buy one. I do own a PS5 controller.

[@BRICKBF]

That is so nice 👍

[@AllanBjerreAbbondio]

I cannot get this to work. I am using the beta version of Pybricks and a Technic Hub. The Xbox controller is fully updated. I have copied the Python program from the e-tron project site. Then I have set my Xbox controller in pairing mode. But when I start the program, the Xbox Controller doesn't connect to the hub. The "steering" motor on Port D starts to spin though. Am I missing a step in how to pair the Xbox controller?

[@pybricks]

What does it say in the output window in Pybricks? What do you mean with "starts to spin". Could it be set up a driving motor?

[@AllanBjerreAbbondio]

The motor on port D starts to turn, when I start the program. I have tried swopping the motor plus switching from port D to port C as "steer" in the program. The same happens everytime. There is nothing displayed in the output window when I start the program. When I stop the program, it displays "The program was stopped (SystemExit). I don't think the Technic hub disconnects from the PC when the program starts. Maybe the issue could be there, since the Technic Hub should disconnect automatically.

[@technicmaster0tutorials]

@@AllanBjerreAbbondio Steering motors need a "stop" to calibrate the steering. Make sure that you have a stop for every steering motor.

[@AllanBjerreAbbondio]

@@technicmaster0tutorials Ah, thanks! It works! I had never used that command before :D

[@RacingBrick]

@@AllanBjerreAbbondio you need to test it with the steering motor actually built in, with physical endpoints for the steering. As you start the code a steering calibration begins, but if there's nothing there to stop the steering motor to detect an endpoint, it will run indefinitely and the calibration is not completed, the hub won't disconnect and you cannot connect the controller.

[@winlund4999]

Nice video but What date are you making a review for 42171 Mercedes f1 car?

[@saigonpilots7063]

Awesome!

[@michaelp9061]

Will a switch controller work ?

[@RacingBrick]

It only works with the Xbox controller at the moment

[@blockpartyrobotleague]

Finally!

[@AleSpeedcuber]

Does it works with BuWizz?Thanks

[@RacingBrick]

No it doesn't, BuWizz has their own app that supports game controllers now. You need to run the app though to make it work.

[@AleSpeedcuber]

Thanks

[@sparrow7612]

Will this work with playstation controllers?

[@RacingBrick]

It won't, as they don't have the required Bluetooth Low Energy support.

[@sparrow7612]

How about the PS5 controller? According to my research, PS5 DuelSense controller supports Bluetooth Low Energy@@RacingBrick

[@michaelp9061]

Hi lego , please include a remote controller for the PU system. My kid does not have a smart phone.

[@pcc404]

/now/ i can get a powered up lego technic set

[@sajmg_1124]

Yoooooooo

[@barbonson_richards]

Articulation bro

[@Blake_Hogan]

I use Brick Controller 2 Much easier

[@For891]

At least it’s easier to configure. Having to use my phone/app is a bit of a pain though. Ugh

[@andyblondyn1898]

Well, Pybricks with the "blocks" is not so difficult either so it is very nice :) I cannot wait to test it out on my modiffied Buggy with 2x L motors as a drive.

[@R0Sch88]

Nice video and it's great to have this option finally, but of course there had to be a catch and you need to pay for this "gimmick". What happens when Pybricks stops supporting the website and doesn't update the software any more? Probably the exact same thing that will happen with the Control+ app eventually. Since the Powered Up hardware is close to being obsolete anyway, I don't see a point in investing more on a dead beat horse. Don't take it the wrong way, I appreciate the work that went into this, it's just a little bit too late imo. I'm sure this functionality will be useful for MOC-ers though. It's disappointing that a "Goliath" like LEGO could not do this themselves in all the years since PUp released and there has to be always a third party "David" to improve things. Same thing happened with PF and Buwizz/Sbrick. I mean how hard can it be to make an affordable rechargeable battery box or a BT remote control when you are the biggest toy manufacturer in the world?

[@RacingBrick]

You only need to pay if you want to use the code blocks, so you pay for some extra convenience. Every remote control functionality you see in the video works via the Python code, that one is totally free to use.

[@R0Sch88]

@@RacingBrick I see. Thanks.

[@wolkaiserdrake9946]

sweet, too bad its still to expensive

[@CJfoks]

Finnaly a gamepad support so We won't have to use any smartphone apps or this lego train controller abomination thingy. Unfortunatly it dosn't seams to work with other bluetooth Xinput gamepads like 8bitdo.

[@MrSteelface96]

eh ill just glue some legotechnic connections on an actual RC chassie and build my lego car ontop of that :) i mean lego motors dosn't have that impressive speed anyway.

[@420TopShagger69]

I think you should use the crane on the shelf in the back as a mic boom

[@RacingBrick]

It is not stable enough for this purpose unfortunately, and I would need another table besides me just to hold it :)

[@小犬-n4c]

Do you think I should buy the box set five to six years ago or the current box set?

[@小犬-n4c]

I like the technology series two-in-one set from 5 to 6 years ago .