Real toys kids actually want to play with twice. Deep discounts on VR, AR and science kits that make screen-free learning fun.
Abacus Brands has built a name for itself by turning STEM learning into something kids beg to unbox, blending virtual reality, augmented reality and hands-on science kits into a single toy aisle. From Bill Nye-branded VR labs to detective mystery games, the brand leans hard into “learn through play.” VYDToday researched this brand’s deals to help you decide if it is worth buying.
Makeblock mBot Robot Kit, Robotics for Kids Ages 8-12 Learn to Code with Scratch & Arduino, STEM Toys Science Kits for Kids Age 8-12 Boys and Girls Age 8+
Orzly VR Headset Designed for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Console with Adjustable Lens for a Virtual Reality Gaming Experience and for Labo VR – White – Gift Boxed Edition
HeroMask VR Headset ＋ Language Games — Gift for Kids 5–12 — 300+ Words, 6 Languages: Spanish, English, Chinese & More | Award-Winning Virtual Reality Educational Toy for Birthday or Christmas
Cryptic Killers Unsolved Murder Mystery Game – Cold Case File Investigation – Detective Clues/Evidence – Solve the Crime – for Individuals, Date Nights & Party Groups – Murder of a Millionaire
Abacus Brands Bill Nye’s VR Science Kit – Virtual Reality Kids Science Kit, Book and Interactive STEM Learning Activity Set (Full Version – Includes Goggles) – for Ages 8 and Up
Our research found that Abacus Brands’ catalog has been recognized in multiple Toy of the Year style award programs, which lines up with what we saw across the product range: genuine attention to combining physical play with digital layers instead of just slapping an app on a box.
We discovered that the VR Discovery Gift Sets in particular do double duty — the printed DK book means the learning doesn’t disappear the moment a device battery dies, which is a detail a lot of “tech toy” brands skip.
Strong balance between hands-on materials and digital content
Also stocked at Amazon, Target and Walmart, which is a reasonable trust signal for a smaller brand
Abacus Brands vs Competitors
Feature
Abacus Brands
Tangible Play (Osmo)
Merge EDU
LeapFrog
Core Tech
VR goggles + AR app
Tablet reflection AR
Handheld AR/VR cube
Screen-based tablets
Price Range
$15 – $90
$30 – $100
$15 – $50
$25 – $90
Included Physical Materials
Book, goggles, kit props
Game pieces, tiles
Single cube/headset
Tablet only
Return Window
30 days, unopened only
30 days
Varies by retailer
Varies by retailer
Shipping
Free over $50 (US)
Paid, flat rate
Paid, flat rate
Free over $35
Our research suggests Abacus Brands sits in a fair middle ground — its kits include more physical materials than a single cube or headset alternative, but its return policy is stricter since only unopened packages qualify. For more brand breakdowns like this, check out vydtoday.
✅ Pros
Combines physical books, kits and VR/AR tech
Recognized with multiple toy industry awards
Licensed names add credibility and appeal
Also available at Amazon, Target and Walmart
Free shipping over $50 and same-day order shipping
❌ Cons
Returns only accepted on unopened items
Several popular kits show as sold out
VR components require a compatible smartphone
Shipping is US-focused, limiting international buyers
Some sets skew toward a younger age range only
Discounts, Coupon Codes & Gift Cards
Our team found an active storewide code, OCTO20, offering 20% off across the Abacus Brands site.
We discovered View Your Deal exclusive pricing straight from the brand’s official TV segment offers, including the ESPN Virtual Reality set marked down to $29.99 from $59.99 (50% off) and the PAW Patrol AR Stickers 8-Pack at $25.57 from $63.92 (60% off).
Free shipping is available storewide on orders over $50, with orders shipping same day.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
Our research suggests Abacus Brands is worth buying if you want a toy that mixes screen time with something physical, like a book or hands-on kit, rather than an app running alone. The award recognition and multi-retailer availability back up the brand’s staying power.
It’s most worth buying during a View Your Deal markdown, when prices drop 50% or more — at full retail price, similar AR/VR features are available from other STEM toy makers for less. It’s less worth it if the item you want shows as sold out, since restock timing isn’t guaranteed.
