Best Magnetic Tile Sets : Connetix, Magna-Tiles, or PicassoTiles?
There are few toys in the modern playroom that hold the crown quite like magnetic tiles. They are the ultimate open-ended toy: one minute they are a towering castle, the next a garage for types of RC cars, and later, a colorful mosaic on the refrigerator.
But the market has exploded. What started with a single brand has evolved into a fierce competition between the original Magna-Tiles, the budget-friendly PicassoTiles, and the aesthetic newcomer Connetix. Parents are often left wondering: Are the expensive ones worth it? Do the cheap ones break? Which magnets are actually the strongest?
In this guide, we dive deep into the engineering, safety, and play value of the top sets. If you have been comparing Picasso Tiles vs Magna-Tiles or looking for the best creative toys, this review breaks down exactly which set deserves a spot in your toy bin.
At a Glance: The Magnet Heavyweights
| Brand | Best For | Magnet Strength | Safety Features | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connetix Tiles | Design & Strength | Very Strong | Ultrasonic Seal + Rivets | Premium ($$$) |
| Magna-Tiles | Durability (The Original) | Strong | Metal Rivets | High ($$$) |
| PicassoTiles | Budget Conscious | Medium | Glue (No Rivets) | Low ($) |
| Playmags | Accessories | Strong | Rivets | Medium ($$) |
1. Connetix Tiles: The Beautiful Powerhouse
If Instagram designed a toy, it would be Connetix. Launched in Australia, these tiles have taken the world by storm, not just because they look like stained glass, but because they have solved the biggest complaint parents have about magnetic tiles: structural collapse.
Connetix tiles feature a unique “beveled” design which reduces scratches (a common issue with flat tiles) and allows light to refract beautifully. More importantly, they pack larger, stronger magnets than most competitors. If your child wants to build tall towers that don’t crumble when a door slams, this is the set to buy.
They are fully compatible with other major brands, making them a great “upgrade” pack if you already own basic sets. Their focus on aesthetics makes them a favorite in homes that prioritize Montessori toys vs regular toys.
- Magnet Strength: Significantly stronger hold allows for taller, gravity-defying builds.
- Scratch Resistant: The inverted bevel design keeps the center clear of scratches.
- Safety: Uses ultrasonic welding AND rivets for maximum security.
- Price: They are the most expensive option on the market.
- Availability: Often sold out due to high demand.
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2. Magna-Tiles: The Gold Standard
Magna-Tiles invented this category. For years, they were the only player in the game, and they remain the benchmark for quality. When people ask “Which brand is the original magnetic tile?”, this is the answer.
Magna-Tiles are famous for their rivets. Look closely at the corner of each tile, and you will see metal rivets securing the plastic halves together. This mechanical bond ensures the magnets stay inside, even if the tile is stepped on or thrown (which, let’s be honest, will happen). While they may lack the optical clarity of Connetix, their “click” is satisfying and familiar.
They have also expanded into themed sets, offering crossovers that rival best Disney LEGO sets for engagement.
- Durability: The metal rivets make them virtually indestructible.
- Resale Value: They hold their value incredibly well on the secondhand market.
- Variety: Massive ecosystem including roads, animals, and glow-in-the-dark sets.
- Scratches: The flat surface scratches easily, becoming cloudy over time.
- Magnet Strength: Strong, but slightly weaker than Connetix for massive towers.
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3. PicassoTiles: Volume for Value
If you want to fill a bathtub with magnetic tiles without emptying your bank account, PicassoTiles is the solution. You can often get a 100-piece set of PicassoTiles for half the price of the Magna-Tiles equivalent.
How do they do it? They skip the rivets. PicassoTiles use a high-strength glue to seal the plastic. While this makes them slightly lighter (which can actually help with building height in some cases), it does raise safety questions for some parents regarding aggressive play. However, for the average builder, the difference is negligible.
This brand is fantastic for expanding a collection. If you have a best marble run and want to build a magnetic city around it, PicassoTiles gives you the sheer volume of bricks needed to do it cheaply.
- Cost: Unbeatable price-per-tile ratio.
- Weight: Lighter tiles can sometimes stack higher before collapsing.
- Compatibility: Fully compatible with Magna-Tiles and Connetix.
- Safety Construction: Glued, not riveted. Rare reports of splitting if thrown on hard surfaces.
- Magnet Strength: Noticeably weaker than Connetix; towers may be wobbly.
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4. Playmags: The Accessory Kings
Playmags sits in the middle ground between budget and premium. What makes them stand out is their innovation with accessories. While other brands focus on standard squares and triangles, Playmags introduces “Click-ins”—educational inserts with letters and numbers that pop into the window frames of the tiles.
They also offer unique dome pieces and massive 12×12 stabilizer boards that are essential for building on carpet. If you are comparing Playmags vs Magna-Tiles, the decision often comes down to whether you want the specialized shapes that Playmags offers.
- Stabilizer Board: Their large base plates are a game-changer for stability.
- Educational Inserts: Adds a literacy/numeracy element to construction play.
- Strong Magnets: Generally stronger than PicassoTiles.
- Plastic Quality: The plastic feels slightly more brittle than Magna-Tiles.
- Colors: The color palette is less vibrant/translucent than Connetix.
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Technical Guide: Rivets, Glue, and Gauss
When choosing a set, you are essentially evaluating three things: Safety, Frustration Tolerance, and Play Style.
1. The Safety Debate: Rivets vs. Glue
Small magnets are extremely dangerous if swallowed.
Rivets (Magna-Tiles, Connetix, Playmags): Mechanical fasteners that physically hold the plastic together. This is the safest standard.
Glue (PicassoTiles): Uses ultrasonic welding and solvent bonding. While generally safe, they are more prone to cracking upon hard impact (like being thrown at a tile floor).
2. Magnet Strength (Gauss Rating)
Weaker magnets mean frustration. In our analysis, Connetix consistently supports the most weight, holding up to 8 tiles in a vertical hanging chain, whereas budget brands typically hold 5-6. If your child is a “tower builder,” spend the extra money for strong magnets.
3. Open-Ended Play Value
Magnetic tiles are the epitome of benefits of imaginative play. Unlike specific kits (like some Disney LEGO sets), tiles have no instructions. This forces the child to visualize a structure and engineer it into existence, building resilience when it inevitably crashes down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all magnetic tiles compatible?
Yes, the major brands (Magna-Tiles, Connetix, PicassoTiles, Playmags) all use the same polarity and size standards (3-inch squares). You can mix and match them seamlessly. However, “Magformers” (which have open centers) are not compatible.
Which magnetic tiles have the strongest magnets?
Connetix Tiles generally have the strongest magnets on the market, allowing for taller and more stable builds compared to other brands.
Are PicassoTiles safe without rivets?
PicassoTiles use ultrasonic welding which is very strong. However, without metal rivets, there is a slightly higher risk of splitting if the tile is subjected to extreme force. For rough toddlers, we recommend riveted brands like Magna-Tiles.
What is the best age for magnetic tiles?
Most sets are rated 3+. This is due to the small magnets inside. However, they are enjoyed well into elementary school (ages 8-9) for complex geometry and engineering challenges, similar to what is a jigsaw puzzle for older kids.
Final Verdict: Which Set Wins?
After testing the strength, safety, and durability, here is our expert recommendation:
- The Premium Choice: Buy Connetix. The scratch resistance and superior magnet strength make them the best building experience available.
- The Safe Bet: Buy Magna-Tiles. You cannot go wrong with the original. They are durable, safe, and hold their resale value.
- The Bulk Buy: Buy PicassoTiles. If you want to build massive castles on a budget, this is the way to go.
Magnetic tiles are an investment in your child’s development. Start with a 100-piece set—trust us, 30 pieces is never enough.
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