If you’re looking for a toy that truly hits the spot for enjoyment, endless creativity, and fun for kids (and adults), any seasoned mom has a set of magnetic tiles at the top of their list. With a set of magnetic tiles, kids can build houses, castles, cars—anything, really. My family has specifically loved the popular magnetic tiles brand, MAGNA-TILES, since my boys were toddlers. Our first set was a gift when my eldest was around 2 or 3 years old. Now that he’s 7, I can confidently say that both of my boys play with these tiles pretty regularly.
Here’s the thing, though: MAGNA-TILES are pretty pricey. However, if you’re looking for a comparable brand to MAGNA-TILES, look no further than PicassoTiles. While the price difference can reel any parent in, it still may have you questioning, “Which one is actually better?” So, if you’re wondering the same thing, I tested out both brands for quality, strength, durability, and more. Keep reading to find out which brand dominates in each category to help you decide which set is best for you and your family. Happy building!
Key takeaways from my MAGNA-TILES vs. PiccassoTiles review
- Best budget-friendly option: PicassoTiles
- Best packaging for storage: MAGNA-TILES
- Best color assortment: PicassoTiles
- Best quality: MAGNA-TILES
- Has more large square tiles: PicassoTiles
- Best magnet strength: tie
- Best set for building: tie
- Better durability: tie
- Offers more add-on sets: MAGNA-TILES
The key differences: MAGNA-TILES vs. PicassoTiles
There’s no question that either brand brings limitless fun, but which set is worth purchasing? I’m breaking down the differences between the 100-piece set of MAGNA-TILES vs. a 100-piece set of PicassoTiles, and I have to say, I was pretty surprised—yet pleasantly pleased—with the results.
Want to learn more about MAGNA-TILES? Read our full MAGNA-TILES Review here!
The price difference
First off, it’s important to note the price difference between the two. In 2025, the classic 100-piece set of MAGNA-TILES goes for $120, while a 100-piece set of PicassoTiles runs around $40. Right off the bat, when it comes to the price, PicassoTiles wins in this category as the budget-friendly option.
Best budget-friendly option: PicassoTiles
Packaging comparison
One stark difference I noticed is the initial packaging. The MAGNA-TILES box is smaller than the PicassoTiles box, even though the number of tiles you’re getting is the exact same. From a storage perspective, if you plan on keeping the tiles in the same box that they came in, the MAGNA-TILES wins for taking up less space in a playroom.
Best packaging for storage: MAGNA-TILES
Color variety
Aesthetically, what I love about both tile brands is the color variations. From blue to yellow to red, the colors alone can draw a kid into playing with them. Plus, learning colors is so much more fun when incorporated into play. However, the PicassoTiles offer two additional colors—light blue and pink options. If you’re looking for more tile colors, the PicassoTiles checks your box in this category for more variety.
Best color assortment: PicassoTiles
Overall tile appearance and quality
When it comes to the overall tile appearance and quality of the plastic, MAGNA-TILES is ahead in this category. Holding up both tiles to the light, you can see that MAGNA-TILES offers more clarity and what appears to be a finer-quality plastic.
Best quality: MAGNA-TILES
Quantity of tiles
While both sets have 100 tiles in them, the number of each shape is different in each set that you get. In this category, PicassoTiles wins here because you get more large square tiles. I find this to be really helpful, especially for building big structures and for the ease of little hands.
Has more large square tiles: PicassoTiles
Strength test: Which tiles hold better?
I put each set of tiles to the test. How does the magnetic strength compare between the MAGNA-TILES vs. the PicassoTiles? To grade the strength, I tested similar shapes side-by-side. For example, I connected two square PicassoTiles, and then I held one of the tiles up with one hand to see if the second one would drop. To be honest, I didn’t notice a difference, so for me, this one is a tie.
Best magnet strength: tie between MAGNA-TILES and PicassoTiles
Tower building: side-by-side results
When it came to building a structure, I had similar results as the strength test. I built tall towers, wide towers, strong bases, and even flimsy ones, and I had very similar building experiences with both the MAGNA-TILES and the PicassoTiles.
Best set for building: tie between MAGNA-TILES and PicassoTiles
Durability
While I didn’t have years to test the PicassoTiles like I’ve had with the MAGNA-TILES, I did survey The Everymom audience. I heard from hundreds of moms who have had both brands. Our surveyors say both brands hold up extremely well over the years, which is the best news! As far as durability goes, again, it’s a tie.
Better durability: tie between MAGNA-TILES and PicassoTiles
Add-on sets: Which brand offers more options?
A huge plus side to the MAGNA-TILES brand is its wide variety of add-on sets that you can get for your kiddos. MAGNA-TILES offers anything from cars, racetracks, and road pieces to construction vehicles, castles, houses, and so much more. But the great news is that PicassoTiles now offers a few more options, including their Marble Run set and the LED Car set.
Offers more add-on sets: MAGNA-TILES
Can I mix and match the sets?
One thing I wanted to know as a parent is whether the two brands can be used together. If you’re a parent who’s purchased one and is willing to give the other a try, a big plus is that both sets are compatible with each other. All the shapes and sizes of both brands match up perfectly. The squares are the exact same dimensions. The long triangles fit exactly the same, as well as the small triangles and the small squares. Once all of the tiles start mixing, you really can’t tell which brand you’re grabbing.
My final verdict on which brand is the best
Overall, you really can’t go wrong with what brand you choose. At the end of the day, regardless of the brand, both MAGNA-TILES and PicassoTiles achieve the same things: fun for the whole family. With that said, go with whatever set works for your family’s budget, and know that endless hours of fun are in store.
FAQs
Are MAGNA-TILES and PicassoTiles compatible?
Yes, both sets are compatible with each other.
Do PicassoTiles break easily?
Based on our survey, PicassoTiles are durable.
Are MAGNA-TILES worth the extra cost?
This depends on the buyer’s preference and budget. Read our full MAGNA-TILES Review to decide if MAGNA-TILES are worth the extra cost.
Which set is best for toddlers?
Both PicassoTiles and MAGNA-TILES are advertised for ages 3+.
Want to read more kid-related reviews?
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Alaina Kaz, Chief Executive Officer
Alaina is the Chief Executive Officer, sole owner, and cofounder of The Everygirl and The Everymom. She is a mom to sons Henry and Charlie.
Patty Schepel, Editorial Assistant
As the editorial assistant, Patty works with The Everymom’s team on pitches, creating original articles, updating existing content, photo sourcing, writing shopping product descriptions, inputting freelance articles, and more. With Patty’s passion for writing, experience as a mother of two, and expertise as a pediatric nurse, she brings a thoughtful and informative perspective to The Everymom.
