The Best Magna-Tile Alternatives to Build Out Your Collection

Introduced to the U.S. market in 1997, Magna-Tiles are undoubtedly well-constructed and offer plenty of opportunity for enriching play (not to mention little ones really do gravitate towards them). They're also surprisingly expensive. While smaller expansion sets start around $20, a classic 100-piece construction set costs $120.

If you're struggling with sticker shock, know that price has a direct correlation to quality here. Because Magna-Tiles contain tiny magnets that can cause serious medical complications if ingested, the product is labeled for ages 3+ and the brand rigorously tests for performance and safety through a transparent process. Among other tests on durability, Magna-Tiles are dropped, compressed and submerged in water. The brand claims the tiles don't contain any BPA, phthalates, PVC, latex or toxic materials, either. "It's a testament to the company that in 25-plus years there has never been a recall," says Rothman.

While Magna-Tiles may be the most widely recognizable brand of magnetic tiles, there are many alternatives out there, some better than others.

The most direct comparison is Magna-Tiles vs. PicassoTiles. Visually, the two products are very similar, so you could easily mistake one for the other, but there are some notable differences. For starters, although both brands claim their tiles are safe to use and non-toxic, BPA-free and lead-free, Magna-Tiles offers consumers a bit more information on product testing. But if price is a driving factor for you, PicassoTiles are significantly less expensive.

Connetix is another brand of magnetic tiles getting a lot of attention these days. While these tiles are even more expensive than Magna-Tiles, they are said to be even more durable and scratch-resistant than the original.

Of course, there are also a host of other magnetic tiles out there, but Rothman recommends exercising caution and avoiding cheap products from un-proven brands, noting that some have "fallen apart" during our own Lab tests and, as such, are "not safe" in her opinion.

Good news: Magna-Tiles are compatible with other brands of magnetic tiles, most notably PicassoTiles and Connetix, so your little one can build to their heart's content using multiple sets.

It's worth noting that sizes, shapes and even the weight of the tiles vary slightly from brand to brand, which may limit the ability to create certain shapes or structures — like a perfect circle.

Similarly, Magna-Tiles may not be compatible with other types of magnetic toys, like Magformers and Tegu, because of magnet placement. Though the toys may technically adhere together, you won't be able to build sturdy structures using the various products interchangeably.

Magnetic tiles like Magna-Tiles contain very small magnets that can pose a serious health threat if ingested. Because of this, the product is rated for ages 3+ and should be used under close parental supervision. "If you ever notice a crack or break in any of your tiles, immediately remove from play and discard," says Rothman.

This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a seasoned freelance writer with extensive experience testing and writing about consumer products, including children's toys. She's also a mom to four toddlers who have played with three out of the four products recommended in this guide.

To write this story, she worked under the guidance of Rachel Rothman, chief technologist and executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Rothman has a B.S.E. in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics with a mathematics minor from the University of Pennsylvania. She has been evaluating juvenile products (including high chairs, strollers and car seats) for 15 years. She has been a judge for Good Housekeeping's Parenting Awards since its inception as well as other industry awards, including the Best of Parenting at CES and JPMA Parenting Awards. Plus, as a mom to three kids under six, she's personally tested many of the products GH recommends in real life. She has vetted and tested all of the products featured in this guide.

When testing magnetic toys, we first look to be sure each passes federal toy safety standards. Toys should have no sharp or hazardous pieces, and any toys age-graded for children under 3 must have no parts that are so small they could pose a choking hazard. We check to be sure the magnetic parts are strong enough to hold together but not so strong that anything is difficult for a child to take apart and rearrange. Also, the magnets must be securely inside the toys. Next, we source feedback from families and real kids, as we want to be sure a toy is engaging not just right out of the box, but over time.