Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 v2.1 review

Chem C1000 v2.1 is the chemistry pick and the only kit here that is about science rather than coding or robots. Thames & Kosmos lists 125 experiments with real chemicals, guided by an 80-page manual written by educators and scientists. Children set up a lab space, learn about indicators with litmus solution, write invisible-ink messages, investigate iron, copper and carbon dioxide, split water by electrolysis and try kitchen chemistry with sugar, eggs and fatty acids. The set has a long award history, including a 2004 Parents' Choice Gold Award. At $59.95 it is the lowest one-time price on this list, and Thames & Kosmos ships free on orders of $50 or more. The trade-offs come from the subject: the age rating is 10 and up, real chemicals mean an adult should supervise, and it needs table space that can get messy. The product page also notes it is not for sale in Canada.

Who it is for

children 10 and up who want real chemistry, not coding

Price

$59.95 on thamesandkosmos.com.

Master 125 chemistry experiments, safely handle real chemicals. $59.95
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 13, 2026.

Key features

• 125 chemistry experiments
• Real chemicals, including litmus solution for indicator experiments
• Experiments with iron, copper, carbon dioxide and electrolysis of water
• Kitchen chemistry with sugar, eggs and fatty acids
• 80-page manual developed by educators and scientists

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Lowest one-time price on this list at $59.95
• Strength: Only pick that covers chemistry
• Strength: Free shipping on orders of $50 or more
• Weakness: Rated 10+, older than most picks here
• Weakness: Real chemicals need adult supervision and a set-up lab space
• Weakness: Not for sale in Canada, according to the product page

Key facts

• Ages: 10 and up
• Experiments: 125
• Manual: 80 pages
• Subject: Chemistry
• Shipping: Free on $50 or more

Where it ranks

Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 v2.1 is No. 6 in our Best STEM Toys verdict.