Review: HEXBUG Inchworm

Written on Dec 6, 2008 by Brian and filed under Hexbug, Reviews

We recently reviewed the HEXBUG Crab and now we’re back with the Crab’s remote-controlled Inchworm cousin. The HEXBUG Inchworm features a dual band remote control and comes in five colors. If you like the HEXBUG Crab but want something with more control, then the Inchworm may be for you.

Like the Crab, the Inchworm couldn’t be easier to get started with. Release him from the plastic pod packaging, switch it on and you’re ready to go. Inchworm comes with batteries installed in the remote and the worm itself. Both the remote and the worm are powered by two AG13/LR44 batteries that can be replaced easily with small Philips head screwdriver. The worm also works on two channels which means two worms can play at the same time.

The Inchworm comes in five colors: green, indigo, plum, red and black. Our review model is plum and looks pretty good. All of the casings are translucent, which is great because kids can see through the plastic. Being able to see the gears, motors, control boards and the like is fun. The remote is made of the same material on the front so kids get to see the circuit board there too.

Remote operation works via two controls. One moves the worm forward and back, or side to side, it really depends on which way it’s facing. The other button works a foot on the bottom of the Inchworm that spins the body around a single axis. And it you do it just right, you can spin the worm in circles on his single foot. The Inchworm is very responsive to the controls and of course works best on hard, flat surfaces.

The only thing that troubles us about the Inchworm is the speed at which it moves. The little guy is a bit on the sluggish side. Here’s a short video highlighting the movement of the HEXBUG Inchworm.

Bottom Line

It’s hard to complain too much about a robotic toy with dual-band remote control that costs $20. We’d like to see the Inchworm gain more speed in the next iteration, but still, kids had fun with the Inchworm and it’s a good choice for desk jockeys who prefer playing with toys over working. If we had to recommend the Inchworm or the Crab though, we’d have to pick the latter. It’s $5 less and we feel like it’s more engaging, though not appropriate for desk use. 

3.5 out of 5 stars

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