Why We Love Lego

Sep 20, 2023

Lego is a simple idea well executed: tiny plastic bricks that can literally build worlds. And they span generations. From elementary age (if you’re old enough to know not to stick them in your mouth, you’re old enough to build with them) to old-as-the-hills, almost everyone can enjoy Lego.

Back during the pandemic, in 2020, when so many people were holed up inside doing puzzles, my family was building with Lego. A friend started a Zoom Lego club where the kids would have a Lego Masters–style challenge each week and would then show off their creations. We now have two IKEA Billy bookcases dedicated to them.

But I enjoy Lego without my kids, too. I have a stack of bricks at my desk that I use as a fidget toy to help me think during meetings. I stack and unstack the tiny tower of three by two bricks, hearing the satisfying click as I break them apart and put them back together. Knockoff bricks—which my kids refer to as Stego—don’t make that same sound or hold together as well.

Like Magna-Tiles, Lego bricks are a learning toy that grows with you. You can build with them, break them down, and build again, with endless possibilities. They bring me peace and calm, even when a build might be challenging. (Though if anyone wants to hear me shout about grammar, the plural of Lego is Lego, and I’ll cry “blasphemy” should a person add a rogue s to the end.)

Builders of all ages can find something of themselves in a Lego kit, from skateboarding Friends to architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal. Or they can take the pieces and build something entirely new and wholly their own. (That’s how the typewriter was invented—well, the Lego Typewriter, that is.)

When Lego released its collection of Muppet Minifigs, I not only collected them all, I also built a stage for them to perform before a crowd of Minifig fans—from a toy soldier to a fairy to a dude in a prop plane.

We have long loved Lego here at Wirecutter, and editors Joshua Lyon and Alexander Aciman have recently taken up the challenge of refreshing our Lego picks. We have updates for our guides to Lego picks for kids, adults, and storage coming soon, in addition to our article about the Botanicals series.

“When I put a call out for Wirecutter parents to test Lego with their kids, we got so many volunteers that I started a waiting list,” said Joshua.

It can be a group activity or a solo project. “I’m the oldest of three boys, and my mom has often said that Lego was a great way to get a day away from us without worrying that we were going to be fighting with each other, because Lego was a prolonged time of peace and collaboration,” said Alexander.

You don’t have to buy Lego new. One of my favorite activities is scouring rummage sales for grimy old bricks and making them new again. But of course, if you want some of the latest designs that we love, or if you’re looking to build up your brick count without having to haggle, we’ve spotted a few of our upcoming picks that are on sale for Prime Day. Keep an eye out for our updated guides, and may these builds bring you moments of peace and calm.

Lego Classic 90 Years of Play Building Set with 15 Mini Builds — Pick VariantWalmart deal price: $25; street price: $40

What we like: An expert-approved, simple Lego set that we like for kids. Comes with enough bricks for 15 mini build re-creations of iconic Lego toys—including a pirate ship, an elephant, and a castle—plus lots of extra bricks for free building.

Other things to know: Recommended for kids ages 5 and up. Must purchase online for deal price. Free in-store pickup or $35 minimum for free shipping.

Read our review of the best Lego sets for kids.

This article was edited by Ben Frumin.

Annemarie Conte

Deputy Editor

Annemarie Conte is a deputy editor at Wirecutter. She has written and edited for multiple local and national magazines throughout her career. You can follow her on Instagram.

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