When it comes to building blocks,Legoand Mega Construx (formerly Mega Bloks) are two of the biggest names that probably come to mind. Both offer a world of creativity and fun, but each has its unique features, themes, and appeal. If you’re torn between the two, this guide is here to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the world of interlocking plastic bricks without further ado.
A Little Background
A Danish powerhouse, Lego has been synonymous with plastic building blocks since 1949. With its motto “Only the best is good enough,” Lego has built a reputation for quality and innovation, offering an extensive range of sets that appeal to all ages.
Originally Mega Bloks, Mega is a Canadian brand that became a serious contender in the building-block market in the mid-1980s. Acquired by Mattel in 2014, Mega has since expanded its range, focusing on diverse themes and partnerships, much like its Danish competitor.
High-quality, durable plastic
High-quality plastic, though considered slightly less premium than Lego
Compatibility
Products from different series are generally compatible
Products are compatible within the brand, but compatibility with Lego can be hit or miss
Themes
Wide range, including Star Wars, Harry Potter, and original themes like City and Technic
Focuses on licensed themes like Halo, Call of Duty, and Barbie, as well as original themes
Innovation
Continual innovation with sets like Mindstorms for robotics and coding (The Brothers Brick)
Also innovative, with unique sets and themes catering to different interests
Price
Generally higher priced due to brand prestige and product quality
Often more affordable, offering a budget-friendly option for building block enthusiasts
Target Audience
Wide range, from young children to adults (Lego.com)
Tends to focus on younger children, though some themes appeal to older builders
Educational Value
High, with sets designed to teach engineering, coding (Mindstorms), and creativity
Focuses on creativity and fine motor skills development, with less emphasis on coding and engineering
Robotics and Sensors
Mindstorms series offers advanced robotics and sensors, including color and distance sensors with high accuracy and programming capabilities (The Brothers Brick)
Mega Bloks doesn’t offer a direct equivalent to Lego’s Mindstorms series in terms of robotics and educational programming
Quality and Compatibility
Lego’s quality is unparalleled. The blocks are sturdy, with a precise fit that ensures they snap together perfectly and stay that way. This tight fit contributes to the longevity of the creations and the blocks themselves, which can last for generations.
Mega has made significant strides in quality over the years. Early criticisms of loose fits and inconsistent block sizes have largely been addressed, with the brand now offering products that are much closer in quality to Lego.
Range and Themes
Lego’s range is vast, covering everything from basic building sets to elaborate themed collections like Star Wars, Harry Potter, andMarvel Superheroes. They also cater to a wide age range, from Duplo for toddlers to challenging sets for adults, such as the Creator Expert series.
Mega also offers a wide variety of themes, including popular licenses like Halo,Pokémon, and Barbie. While their range is impressive, it’s generally agreed that Lego offers a broader selection, particularly for adult enthusiasts.
Innovation and Unique Offerings
Lego is known for its innovative sets, such asthe Technic series, which includes gears, motors, and advanced building techniques for creating functional models. They’ve also embraced digital integration with products like Lego Boost that teach coding through play.
Mega offers unique lines like Mega Construx, which targets older children and collectors with more detailed and complex sets. They’ve also been praised for their highly detailed figures, which often surpass Lego in terms of articulation and customization options.
Price And Value
Lego sets are often more expensive than similar offerings from Mega, reflecting their market position and the high quality of their products. However, the brand’s durability and resale value are significant; used Lego sets can retain much of their value, and vintage sets often increase in price.
Mega sets are generally more affordable, making them an attractive option for those on a tighter budget. While their resale value doesn’t match that of Lego, the lower initial investment and the quality improvements make them a worthy consideration for many.
Both brands offer great educational value, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. Lego has a more established presence in educational settings, with products specifically designed for classrooms. Mega, while perhaps less known in this aspect, still provides enriching play experiences that can aid in a child’s development.
Environmental Concerns
Lego has committed to reducing its environmental impact, with initiatives to produce more sustainable materials and achieve carbon-neutral manufacturing. Mega, under Mattel, has also announced goals for environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve 100% recycled, recyclable, or bio-based plastic materials in all products and packaging by 2030.
Who Should Choose Mega?
The Verdict: It All Depends!
There’s no clear-cut winner here. Both Lego and Mega are fantastic building block brands, each with its own strengths. Consider your needs and priorities:
Ultimately, the best brand for you is the one that best suits your building style, budget, and preferences. The beauty lies in the joy of building, so grab a box of bricks, unleash your creativity, and have fun!
If you’re still on the fence, consider a hybrid approach! You can get a starter set from each brand and see which one your builder enjoys more. After all, sometimes the best way to decide is to experience both firsthand!
