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10 Best Erector Sets for Kids of 2024

Updated
Let your children build to their heart’s content with an erector set.

Did you know erector sets have a wide variety of social and educational benefits for kids? That’s not all erector sets can do, though. Playing with them can help a child explore their creativity and learn valuable skills for life.

Your child will get a lot more than fun playtime out of the best erector sets for kids.

Our Top Picks

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Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Schylling Steel Works Construction
Best Metal Erector Set
Schylling Steel Works Construction
  • Instructions for 5 build models
  • Has 200 all-steel pieces
  • Model can be used with other kits
Product Image of the Brickyard Building Blocks Erector Set
Best Plastic Erector Set
Brickyard Building Blocks Erector Set
  • 101-piece STEM set
  • Includes four building tools
  • For freestyle & imaginative play
Product Image of the Meccano Motorized Erector Set
Best Motorized Erector Set
Meccano Motorized Erector Set
  • Comes with carrying case
  • Diagrams are easy to follow
  • Includes 6-volt electrical motor
Product Image of the MALUVRIAN Erector Set for Boys - Girls | Metal Model Kits for Adults Teens and...
Best Mega-Sized Vehicle
Maluvrian Elite Building Kit
  • Flexible with six designs to create
  • Assembly tools included
  • Consists of 288-piece set
Product Image of the K’Nex Motorized Wheel
Best Ferris Wheel Erector Set
K’Nex Motorized Wheel
  • Pieces can be bent
  • Comes with product guaranee
  • Instructions are easy to follow
Product Image of the Tinker Toy Pre-School Erector Set
Best for Toddlers
Tinker Toy Pre-School Erector Set
  • Comes with 529 pieces
  • Product & quality guaranteed
  • Instructions are easy to follow
Product Image of the Meccano Erector Super Construction
Best Super Construction Erector Set
Meccano Erector Super Construction
  • Chunky & brightly colored
  • Teaches basic building concepts
  • Made responsibly in the US
Product Image of the Magic Model Erector Set
Best Crane Erector Set
Magic Model Erector Set
  • No batteries needed
  • Explores principles of engineering
  • 235 piece set
Product Image of the Meccano Meccanoid Robot Set
Best Robot Erector Set
Meccano Meccanoid Robot Set
  • Large scale, working crane
  • Compatible with other K’nex products
  • Can be used for freestyle building
Product Image of the K’Nex Building Amazon Exclusive
Best Budget Erector Set
K’Nex Building Amazon Exclusive
  • Doesn't require programming skills
  • Introduces robotics to kids
  • Interacts with your child


The Best Kids Erector Sets of 2024

Here is our list of the ten best erector sets for kids.

Schylling Steel Works 5 Model Construction Kit

Best Metal Erector Set for Kids

Schylling is a U.S. company located in Massachusetts, and they have been making toys for over 40 years.

This five-model construction kit has over 200 all-steel pieces and the instructions to build five specific models. Also in the kit are three styles of wheels and all of the tools you require for model construction.

It is a mid-range, low-price kit that is an excellent introduction to erector sets for beginners.

Schylling has an extensive line of Steel Works kits, all of which can be used together. If you find your child does enjoy playing with this set, you can buy other kits to expand their collection, and this one will still be useful.

Pros

  • Instructions for five models provide a variety of ways to build while learning how to build.
  • Your child can play with the completed models rather than just having a static creation.
  • Play can be expanded with other kits.

Cons

  • Vehicle-centric models may not appeal to all children.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 8 years and older
Material Steel
Number of pieces 200 plus, but the exact number is not specified
Instructions for specific models Five models
Extra features Can be used with other sets

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Included Pieces
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

In my experience with this five-model construction kit, I found it to be an excellent introduction to erector sets for beginners. With over 200 all-steel pieces, three styles of wheels, and the necessary tools, I was able to build a variety of models while learning the process. I appreciated that the completed models were interactive, rather than just static creations. The fact that play can be expanded with other kits from Schylling's extensive Steel Works line is a bonus. However, the vehicle-centric models may not appeal to all children, but overall, it is a fun and engaging product.

Brickyard Building Blocks Erector Set

Best Plastic Erector Set for Kids

Brickyard makes a line of erector sets, and we are big fans of the 101-piece STEM set.

The pieces are made from lead-free, phthalate-free, cadmium-free plastic, and the parts can be washed in soapy water to keep them germ-free. There are no sharp edges or pointy corners for children to hurt themselves on, and the set can be used by children as young as 3 years old.

Instructions are included for 42 models, some of which are easy enough for a preschooler. The models gradually increase in difficulty to ones that are rated for 10-year-olds.

This makes it ideal for children to enjoy as they grow and for families where there are children of a wide range of ages.

Pros

  • Six wheels are included in the set.
  • It includes four building tools.
  • Plenty of pieces for freestyle, imaginative play.

Cons

  • Not all of the 42 models in the booklet can be made with this 101-piece set. To be able to make them all, you must buy the 163-piece set instead.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 3 years and older
Material Plastic
Number of pieces 101
Instructions for specific models A 42-model booklet, although you’ll need the 163-piece set to build them all
Extra features Includes storage box

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Included Pieces
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

I recently bought this construction toy set for my grandsons, and they absolutely love it. The bright colors and variety of pieces make it easy for them to create different projects, even for the younger one who is only 1.5 years old. Although the set has limited pieces, which means they can't build too many projects at once, it still keeps them entertained and engaged. The quality of the set is impressive, and it's compatible with other popular building toys like Legos, offering even more creative options.

Erector by Meccano Motorized Building Set

Best Motorized Erector Set for Kids

Meccano takes the standard erector set experience up a notch, with the inclusion of a 6-volt electrical motor. This allows your child to make models with working parts or their own motorized vehicles.

Use the instructions in this set to build a working crane with a rotating body and an extending hook. You can use the pieces to make your own motorized creations.

This is one of the more substantial sets, with 643 pieces. It includes three tools, and everything fits neatly into a sturdy plastic carrying case.

Where this set loses point is in the suggestion on the packaging that there are instructions for 25 models. There are detailed instructions for only 11 models and then ideas for a further 14 models but no instructions for them.

Pros

  • The carrying case makes this easy to store or take with you.
  • Instructions are not written — diagrams are used instead, which may be easier for kids.
  • The motor provides additional learning opportunities.

Cons

  • It’s difficult for beginners to work out how to build the suggested models without proper instructions.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 8 years and older
Material Most parts are steel; some are plastic
Number of pieces 643
Instructions for specific models 11 models
Extra features 6-volt motor and carrying case

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Included Pieces
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

This Meccano set elevates the classic erector set with a 6-volt motor, allowing kids to create models with moving parts and motorized vehicles. I built a working crane that had a rotating body and an extending hook, but the set only includes detailed instructions for 11 models, despite the packaging suggesting 25. The 643 pieces and three tools fit nicely in a sturdy carrying case, making it easy to transport and store. The motor adds extra learning opportunities, but the lack of written instructions for all models might be a challenge for beginners.

Maluvrian Elite Building Kit

Mega-Sized Vehicle Erector Set for Kids

For the boys who want to build their vehicle from scratch, there’s no reason to miss out on the fun of erector sets. This set comprises of 288 plates and building pieces that will help you create one of the six mega-sized vehicles with the aid of a detailed assembly manual for construction. Furthermore, the box also contains the necessary tools for use to assemble the set such as a screwdriver, wrench, screws, nuts, and wheels.

The set comes in a sturdy box that is useful for storage and easy clean up of mess.

The pieces in this offering from Maluvrian are flexible. Each piece is made with safe materials, so you can be sure your child will enjoy a safe play experience.

Pros

  • Flexible with six designs to create.
  • Assembly tools included.
  • Reassuringly safe for the younger builder.
  • Consists of 288-piece set.

Cons

  • Might be challenging for younger ones to assemble.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 12 years and older
Material Metal
Number of pieces 288
Instructions for specific models 6 models
Extra features Detailed assembly instructions

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Included Pieces
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

K’Nex Imagine Motorized Ferris Wheel

Best Ferris Wheel Erector Set for Kids

K’Nex manufactures a slightly different style of erector sets for kids.

Instead of the standard flat strips with holes, connected by nuts and bolts, K’Nex pieces are rods and connectors. These can be clipped together, or threaded through each other. That means they don’t require tools to enjoy.

This particular set has a dizzying 529 pieces, as well as a 6-volt motor and instructions for 50 models.

One of the models featured in the set is a Ferris wheel, which can be motorized. The wheel turns slowly, and the seats swing in the same way as the genuine fairground ride.

K’Nex is made in a zero-waste, green manufacturing plant in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, so you can have confidence that the parts are non-toxic, responsibly made, and safe for your child.

Pros

  • Pieces can be bent, allowing your child to build models with curves not dictated by rigid pre-formed shapes.
  • K’Nex has a parts guarantee and will replace anything that breaks, no questions asked.
  • The instructions are easy to follow along with.

Cons

  • Some younger kids may struggle to clip the pieces together at first.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 7 to 12 years
Material Plastic
Number of pieces 529
Instructions for specific models 50 models
Extra features 6-volt motor and suitcase-style box

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Included Pieces
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

If you're looking for a fun and engaging building toy for your child, this K'nex set can provide hours of entertainment. Personally, my son and I have had a blast constructing various creations together. However, I must admit that the instruction booklet leaves much to be desired, as it only provides minimal guidance for some of the 50 advertised builds. On the other hand, the quality of the K'nex pieces, including the wheels and motor, is top-notch. My son, who is interested in engineering and robotics, finds this set both motivating and calming, despite his ADHD. While the motor can be frustratingly inconsistent at times, overall, this K'nex set offers endless possibilities for creative play and learning.

Tinker Toy Pre-School Erector Set

Best Erector Set for Toddlers

The 100-piece Essentials set from Tinker Toy is a wonderful introduction to erector sets for toddlers.

Similar to K’Nex products, Tinker Toys do not have nuts and bolts. Instead, the rods clip into solid triangular and circular pieces to form the models. This makes it easier for some toddlers who may not yet have the coordination to use tools effectively.

The plastic used in the set is non-toxic and can be washed in warm soapy water, making it much easier to keep this set clean and hygienic. The pieces are much larger than other erector sets designed for older children.

Everything fits easily into the container, without the need to arrange them neatly in specific spots in the packaging.

Pros

  • Chunky, hard-wearing, and brightly colored.
  • An easy way for toddlers to explore basic building concepts.
  • Made responsibly in the U.S.

Cons

  • Will not appeal to older kids, so your child may grow out of it.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 3 years and older
Material Plastic
Number of pieces 100
Instructions for specific models 13 building ideas
Extra features Storage case

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Included Pieces
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

I recently bought this Tinkertoy set for my kids, and I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, the build quality is great and my children do enjoy playing with it. However, some pieces are difficult to pull apart and the variety of pieces is limiting in terms of creativity. Additionally, while the 100-piece set seemed like a good size, it doesn't feel like there are enough pieces once you open the box. Despite these issues, my kids still have fun building with this set and it's a decent addition to their toy collection.

Meccano Erector Super Construction 25-in-1 Set

Best Super Construction Erector Set for Kids

The Meccano Erector super construction set has the instructions for 25 models. They include the usual cars and motorbikes as well as the more unusual offerings of a windmill, robot, and forklift truck.

The parts vary greatly in size and shape. As well as the expected flat pieces, there’s an interesting array of pulleys, wheels, and spacers. The set also contains strings and elastics for the creation of moving parts.

There are also two tools included in the kit, both of which are durable metal items rather than the flimsy plastic ones you may see from other manufacturers.

Like the previous set, this has a 6-volt electric motor. However, the pieces in this kit are different, and the suggested models are more complex.

Pros

  • A more sophisticated assortment of pieces and model suggestions.
  • Suitable for exploring more complex principles of physics and engineering.
  • It has an electric motor, which can make building more exciting for kids.

Cons

  • It may be out of the budget range for some parents.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 10 years and older
Material Most are steel, but a few are plastic
Number of pieces 638
Instructions for specific models 25 models
Extra features 6-volt motor and a carrying case

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Included Pieces
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this Meccano set has been a mix of nostalgia and excitement for my son. The set has high-quality metal pieces with improved designs compared to my childhood set, and it's compatible with older kits. However, the lack of gears, flat plates, and long pieces is disappointing, as they were crucial in sparking creativity and learning. Additionally, the instruction booklet is unclear, making it difficult for my young child to assemble the projects without constant adult assistance.

Iron Commander Magic Model Erector Set

Best Crane Erector Set for Kids

If your child wants to build a working crane, then consider this option from Iron Commander.

You don’t need any batteries to use this toy. Let your child enjoy the simplicity of playing free from the danger of radiation or harmful chemicals and is best enjoyed by kids eight years old and beyond.

The crane can be used to pick up, move, and reposition an object like a wooden crate.

When your child outgrew this toy, this can also be displayed in their room to serve as a reminder of the young engineer in them.

Pros

  • No batteries needed.
  • Explores principles of engineering.
  • 235 piece set.

Cons

  • Younger kids may need assistance during the assembly process.
  • Not for young kids as it contains small pieces.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 8 years and older
Material Metal
Number of pieces 235
Instructions for specific models One
Extra features None

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Included Pieces
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

As a gift for my grandson, this LEGO set seemed like a fantastic option for a teenager who still enjoys building. When he dove into the project, he found the instructions quite challenging, but after four days of working together, we successfully completed it. Although the packaging arrived with loose pieces and appeared previously opened, we were relieved to find all necessary parts included. My grandson thoroughly enjoyed the process of assembling the jeep set and it became a great addition to his bedroom decor. However, I must say, the instructions could definitely use some improvement to make the building experience smoother and more enjoyable for all.

Meccano Meccanoid Robot Building Set

Best Robot Erector Set for Kids

Introduce your child to robotics with the Meccano Meccaoid robot building set.

This contains all the pieces required to build a humanoid-shaped robot that stands almost four feet tall. The robot has LED eyes, a moving head, voice recognition, and can wave its hands.

There are ten motors for the movement of the articulated head, elbows, shoulders, and feet. The robot moves either through pre-programmed instructions or the use of a smart device. Place your smart device in the specified spot on the robot, and it will mirror your movements.

Also, there are 3,000 pre-programmed phrases your robot can say. These include jokes, stories, and robot trivia with which to regal your kids.

Your child can change the settings and have the robot record what they say and repeat it back to them.

Pros

  • Does not require programming skills.
  • Can be made to move in multiple ways via the Meccano app.
  • Interacts with your child.

Cons

  • With such a large number of pieces, it would be helpful if the pieces were numbered for clearer instructions.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 10 years and older
Material Predominantly plastic with a few metal items
Number of pieces Over 1,000
Instructions for specific models One
Extra features App control, motors, LED eyes, and speaking ability

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Included Pieces
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

Great STEM toy that truly engages kids in the building process! I helped my 10-year-old put together this robot, and I was amazed at how well he followed the instructions independently, only needing my assistance with a few minor tasks. My son has learned a lot from this project, and it has been educational, fun, and entertaining for both of us.

K’Nex Building Amazon Exclusive Construction Set

Best Budget Erector Set for Kids

An excellent introduction to the principles of construction, this set from K’Nex is both affordable and versatile. The set comes in a treasure chest style box, so it is easy to tidy up, store, and take along to the homes of friends and family.

The set has 480 of the classic K’Nex parts, which allow kids to create a wide variety of models, including the 35 models for which there are instructions. Many of the models have moving parts and can be played with independently.

The instructions are clearly laid out, step-by-step, designed specifically for children as young as 7 years old to follow. Many of the models are vehicles, but there is some variety, such as the K’Nex dinosaur. Children can also bring to life their own models using this kit.

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly.
  • A wide variety of pieces.
  • Lots of model instructions.

Cons

  • Unless you have other K’Nex sets, you must disassemble some models to have enough of the correct pieces to build others.

Product Specs

Recommended age range 7 to 12 years
Material Plastic
Number of pieces 480
Instructions for specific models 35
Extra features Storage Box

Our Ratings

Age Appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Included Pieces
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

This building toy set offers a great variety of options for kids who love constructing things, keeping them entertained for hours. The pieces snap together well and result in impressive creations, providing a more affordable alternative to some pricier building sets. However, some customers have noted that the packaging can be deceiving as it appears to have more pieces than it does. Additionally, the instructions may not be very intuitive for younger kids, but once they grasp the concept, it quickly becomes a favorite toy.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Recommended age range Material No. of pieces
Schylling Steel Works Construction Kit Metal Set 8 years & older Steel 200+
Brickyard Building Blocks Erector Set Plastic Set 3 years & older Plastic 101
Meccano Motorized Erector Building Set Motorized Set 8 years & older Mostly steel 643
Maluvrian Elite Building Kit Mega-Sized Vehicle 12 years & older Metal 288
K’Nex Imagine Motorized Ferris Wheel Ferris Wheel 7 to 12 years Plastic 529
Tinker Toy Pre-School Erector Set Toddlers 3 years & older Plastic 100
Meccano Erector Super Construction Set Super Construction 10 years & older Mostly steel 638
Iron Commander Erector Set Crane Set 8 years & older Metal 235
Meccano Meccanoid Robot Building Set Robot Set 10 years & older Mostly plastic 1,000+
K’Nex Building Amazon Exclusive Cheap Set 7 to 12 years Plastic 480

What Are Erector Sets?

Erector Set was a brand name for a toy first sold in 1913 (1). However, over the years, erector set has come to mean any toy with reusable pieces such as strips with regularly spaced holes, connecting parts, cogs, gears, pulleys, and tools.

These sets are designed for children to build specific models or create their own. Sets range from basic to complex with hundreds of pieces, motors, or even robotic modules.

Benefits of Erector Sets for Kids

Erector sets have many general and STEM-specific benefits for children.

Development of Fine Motor Skills

Putting pieces together, either by hand or with a tool, requires a degree of physical dexterity. Erector sets for younger children have more substantial parts to make this easier, while sets for older children can have tiny pieces that require a very steady hand.

Boosting Math, Science, and Engineering Skills

By playing with an erector set, your child is, without realizing it, learning about shapes, balance, physics, and engineering.

The creation of models requires an understanding of shapes, sizes, area, geometry, patterns, balance, strength, and more. Playing with an erector set allows children, especially those who learn more effectively through a hand-on approach, to absorb these lessons while playing.

Developing and Reinforcing Problem-Solving Skills

An erector set provides the opportunity for your child to come up against a problem, consider appropriate alternatives, and develop a trial and error approach to problem-solving. It is also an excellent way to build up resilience and learn to stick with a project without giving up until a problem is solved.

Types of Erector Sets for Kids

Erector sets for kids come in a variety of materials and sizes. Some are general use sets without instructions for a specific model. Others have a focus, such as vehicles, but these model-centric sets can also be used for free play and the creation of your own models.

Motorized

Some erector sets come with an electric motor that can be connected to the model, usually as an intrinsic part of the build. These sets provide children with the opportunity to create models that move independently. That can add an element of excitement to a build.

Cranes

Erector sets that have instructions and pieces to build a crane are popular. This popularity is partially because cranes are relatively easy to build from multiple long, straight sections. They also have the advantage of being an item you can play with when you’re finished building.

Ferris Wheel

Ferris wheel sets are popular because they lend themselves well to being built from multiple straight pieces. These sets are also usually more appealing to children who want a model that moves but are less interested in the construction site focus of a crane.

Robots

The newest style of erector sets have robotics modules.

These sets range from the simple style that allows children to build a model that looks like a robot and move up to complex sets, which would enable children to program their robot toy to carry out specific actions. Like motorized sets, this added component can get kids excited about building.

Super Construction Sets

Super construction sets are so-called because they offer a massive range of building possibilities to the children who are lucky enough to have them. These sets have several hundreds of pieces and instructions for multiple models.

How to Choose the Best Erector Sets for Kids

With such a vast range of possibilities, how do you choose the best kids’ erector set?

Child’s Age

First, consider the age of the child for whom you are buying the set. Some sets, designed for older children, have tiny nuts and bolts which pose a choking hazard for smaller children.

It is also important to consider the ages of other children in the home, and whether older kids can keep the pieces out of the way of younger children.

Material

The majority of erector sets for younger kids are made from plastic, while those for older children tend to be made from metal.

Children are curious by nature and tend to put things in their mouths, ears, electrical outlets, and other places they shouldn’t. That means plastic sets are more appropriate for younger children as they are less likely to cause harm, especially around electrical outlets or electronic devices.

Buying from a reputable manufacturer or, if you are unsure about the toymaker, a trustworthy seller, will also minimize the possibility of a set having parts that pose a toxicity hazard.

Budget

The most expensive item is not always the best for your child, so don’t worry if you cannot spend a lot of money on a large erector set.

Instead of worrying about spending as much as you can on an erector set, decide how much you can comfortably spend and consider which of the sets in your price range would be the most beneficial for your child.

Number Of Pieces

Do not automatically assume that more pieces equal a better erector set. Some children may be intimidated by a set with hundreds of parts and will be better off at first with a smaller, model-focused set.

Also, be sure to check out the ratio of connectors to building stips. An uneven balance between the two can result in a set with dozens of pieces that regularly go unused.

Extra Features

Basic sets tend to be most appropriate for younger children, those who are new to erector sets, or children who do not already embrace science, technology, engineering, and/or math (STEM).

However, if you know your child will enjoy such a set, consider those which include motors. These erector sets for kids provide an additional level of enjoyment and exercise an extra set of skills. If need be, help them as they build providing guidance if you’ve purchased a more difficult set.

Your child might also appreciate a set that has robotics as its focus. Many of these sets require your child to either learn or possess some basic programming knowledge.

Some robotics sets have elements that can be accessed through a downloadable app. Be sure to look at whether the set maker and app producer are trustworthy. Also, ask yourself if you will be comfortable having your child download and use a required application.

Keep an eye out for sets with sturdy storage boxes or cases — those are always welcomed when you’re a parent.


Building Skills For Life

To benefit from these, or any other erector sets, it’s unnecessary for your child to have dreams of becoming an engineer. These fabulous and fun construction toys are great for any kids.

They provide a safe way to explore a variety of STEM principles and life skills such as patience, persistence, and problem-solving.

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Headshot of Patricia Barnes

About the Author

Patricia Barnes

Patricia Barnes is a homeschooling mom of 5 who has been featured on Global TV, quoted in Parents magazine, and writes for a variety of websites and publications. Doing her best to keep it together in a life of constant chaos, Patti would describe herself as an eclectic mess maker, lousy crafter, book lover, autism mom, and insomniac.