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Our Top Picks for Best LEGO Technic Sets by Experience Level
Best LEGO Technic Set for Beginners
Best LEGO Technic Set for Intermediate Builders
Best Complex LEGO Technic Set
If your LEGO fan has mastered traditional brick building, move on to the next challenge with a LEGO Technic kit. LEGO Technic takes STEM learning up a notch by combining the art of LEGO with more difficult engineering concepts. As a bonus, the Technic cars, planes and construction vehicles stand up to rough play — a common problem with traditional, more quickly collapsible LEGO builds.
The LEGO Technic line is huge, and the options can feel overwhelming to a new customer. LEGO Technic sets range from beginner to incredibly complex. Some are motorized and some move manually. A new Technic builder would enjoy a straightforward kit with a low brick count. As your child grows, so do Technic sets. You may eventually find yourself purchasing a LEGO Technic set with thousands of pieces and battery-powered engines.
Luckily for you, we’ve done plenty of research. Check out our choices for the best LEGO Technic sets for beginners, intermediate builders, and experts looking for a challenge. We’ve also listed some of the most popular kits on the market in case you want to add more to your wish list.
- Our Top Picks for Best LEGO Technic Sets by Experience Level
- The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Beginners
- The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Intermediate Builders
- The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Experienced Builders and Adults
- The 10 Most Popular LEGO Technic Sets
- A Guide to Buying the Best Lego Technic Sets & FAQ
- Who can build a LEGO Technic set? Can kids do this independently?
- How durable is a LEGO Technic vehicle? If I lose a piece or it breaks, can we get replacement parts?
- Can these only be constructed one way? What is a 2-in-1 kit?
- Are LEGO Technic sets safe for young kids?
- Do all LEGO Technic sets move?
- Why are some LEGO Technic sets so expensive?
- Can my LEGO minifigures drive Technic vehicles?
- Final thoughts
The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Beginners
1. Record Breaker
The Record Breaker is speedy and stylish. The pullback function allows this vehicle to race down hallways. It’s durable and not too big, making it a great toy for little LEGO fans. Plus, when combined with the Quad Bike kit, these pieces make an extreme off-roader.
- Pullback function
- Meant to combine with another Technic set
- 125 pieces
- Weight: 9.4oz
2. Stunt Truck
The Stunt Truck is great for kiddos who love to watch their vehicles do tricks. This pullback truck can fly up and over the included ramp. It also combines with the Stunt Bike kit to make a Power Racer.
- Includes LEGO Technic 40th Anniversary brick
- Fun racing flag stickers
- 142 pieces
- Weight: 11.2oz
3. BASH
This car is both fun to look at and play with! The pullback race car zooms down hallways and crashes into walls without falling to pieces. It combines with the popular WHACK kit to make a super vehicle, though you’ll have to get the instructions to make the WHACK! ‘N’ BASH! kit online.
- Engine pops out when it crashes
- Combines with WHACK set to make super car
- 139 pieces
- Weight: 10.7oz
4. Getaway Racer
The Getaway Racer’s skull and flames design resembles Hot Wheels’ Bone Shaker. This makes it a great choice for a little builder who loves both brands. When combined with the Police Interceptor, this kit makes an extra fast emergency vehicle.
- Heavy-duty front bumper
- Fast pullback motor
- 170 pieces
- Weight: 10.7oz
5. Cherry Picker
The Cherry Picker is a good intro set for kids who love construction trucks. They’ll enjoy the warning lights, working basket and big tires. Users also love the secondary model of the Tow Truck, but you’ll have to get the instructions to build that online.
- 2-in-1 kit also becomes a tow truck
- Plenty of eye-catching detail
- 155 pieces
- Weight: 5.6oz
The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Intermediate Builders
1. Rally Car
This LEGO Technic set is visually pleasing. There are detailed engine parts under the hood as well as bright colors and a big spoiler. Kids will feel like engineers when they use the app to control their car’s movement.
- Controlled by a smart device
- Working steering and suspension
- 463 pieces
- Weight: 2.35lbs
2. Fire Plane
This 2-in-1 set becomes a fire fighting plane or a jet with a refueling truck. After construction, the plane can release blue “water” blocks to fight fires. It also has a joystick that moves the tail and the elevators. Sadly, it can’t actually fly.
- 2-in-1 set can also become a jet plane
- Many moving parts
- 578 pieces
- Weight: 2.65lbs
3. Customized Pick-Up Truck
Definitely an increased challenge, especially if you add the LEGO Power Functions motor set (sold separately). This truck has several manual functions, like a tilting bed and moving winch. The tires are large and durable for heavy play.
- 2-in-1 kit also becomes a forest skidder
- Many moving parts
- 1063 pieces
- Weight: 3.55lbs
4. Tracked Loader
This is a great kit for experienced young builders who love construction trucks. The loader has a working claw and two-speed winch. The cab rotates all the way around and the tracks move perfectly over rugged terrain.
- 2-in-1 kit can become a dump truck
- Many non-motorized functions
- 827 pieces
- Weight: 2.2lbs
5. Heavy Duty Forklift
Builders will enjoy constructing this vehicle with a working pallet lifter and rear-wheel steering. For extra fun, it also turns into a tow truck with functioning tow lift. It’s a great pick for intermediate builders who aren’t into race cars.
- 2-in-1 set also becomes a tow truck
- Both models feature many moving parts
- Heavy on the little details
- 592 pieces
- Weight: 2.2lbs
The 5 Best LEGO Technic Sets for Experienced Builders and Adults
1. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
This motorcycle can be assembled by an experienced and patient kid. It’s more common, though, to see it gifted to adults who love motorbikes. The finished vehicle has moving pistons, a kickstand and working steering. Adults will love displaying the motorcycle in a place of honor.
- True-to-life design
- 2-in-1 kit also becomes a concept bike
- 603 pieces
- Weight: 1.69lbs
2. Lamborghini Sian FKP
The newest Technic supercar comes with the signature Lamborghini scissor doors, a detailed dashboard and an 8-speed working gearbox. It’s a time-consuming build, perfect for someone who loves the thrill of a challenge. There are enough features to make this vehicle fun for playtime, but its luxury car beauty makes it an excellent display piece.
- 1:8 model is true to life
- Comes with a coffee table quality instruction book
- Signature Lamborghini details
- 3696 pieces
- Weight: 15.36lbs
3. Liebherr Excavator
It’s a huge replica of the famous coal mining excavator. The details easily impress, including the extendable ladder and true-to-life sticker decals. But the most fun part of this excavator is watching it move. This Technic set includes 7 different motors that function with an app on your smart device.
- Has 7 motors for a full lineup of power functions
- True-to-life replica
- Controlled with your smart device
- 4108 pieces
- Weight: 13.2lbs
4. VOLVO L350F Wheel Loader
This build produces an exact replica of the Volvo Wheel Loader, complete with intricate details and a working motor. After turning it on, the lift arm works and the vehicle drives smoothly. It’s a complex build for anyone who loves a challenge. It’s also incredibly satisfying to play with afterwards.
- Developed with VOLVO for a realistic product
- Comes with Power Functions
- 2-in-1 kit also makes a remote-controlled Volvo A25F Articulated Hauler
- 1636 pieces
- Weight: 9.4lbs
5. Rough Terrain Crane
If you’re looking for something with intricate detail and power function, the Rough Terrain Crane is a great pick. Motors rotate the crane and move the winch. Doors open to reveal a fire extinguisher and other work tools. It’s an impressive finished product and the tallest LEGO Technic crane to date with up to 39 inches in height!
- Lots of power functions
- 2-in-1 model also becomes a mobile pile driver
- Tallest Technic crane at 39″ in the working position
- 4057 pieces
- Weight: 2.2lbs
The 10 Most Popular LEGO Technic Sets
1. Chevy Corvette ZR1
The mouth-watering details in this Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will appeal to any race car fan: 4 tailpipes, moving pistons, a rear wing, working steering. It’s not too difficult, but still challenging enough to be fun. The Corvette is a popular pick among car enthusiasts for good reason.
- 2-in-1 set also becomes a hot rod
- Working steering and moving pistons
- 579 pieces
- Weight: 1.74lbs
2. WHACK
A pullback stunt car that’s designed to crash. It’s the perfect level of challenge for new Technic builders. It also combines with the popular BASH kit to make a super vehicle, though you’ll have to get the instructions to make the WHACK! ‘N’ BASH! kit online.
- The engine pops out on impact
- Combines with BASH to make a super car
- Fast pullback motor
- 135 pieces
- Weight: 10.7oz
3. Land Rover Defender
This set was developed in partnership with Land Rover, and it shows in the details. The Defender houses a state of the art gearbox, as well as moving pistons, an accessorized dashboard and a working winch. Probably better for car enthusiasts than engineers since it’s not a motorized model.
- Designed with Land Rover to be true to life
- State-of-the-art gearbox
- Many non-motorized moving parts
- 2573 pieces
- Weight: 2.2lbs
4. Race Truck 42104
The pull-back Race Truck is a popular choice for first-time Technic builders. It’s a fairly simple and straightforward build that results in a fast and colorful vehicle. Details like the large spoiler, exhaust pipe and functioning hood should appeal to young LEGO fans.
- 2-in-1 model also becomes a racer
- Includes accessories like stickers and a finish line
- Large spoiler and exhaust pipe
- Pull-back motor
- 227 pieces
- Weight: 12.8oz
5. Bugatti Chiron Racecar
While the piece count might intimidate little guys, it makes a great challenge for experienced builders. The attention to detail keeps the Bugatti Chiron in high demand. It includes an 8-speed gearbox, rear wing, paddle gear shift, suspension and tiny steering wheel.
- Assembled the same way as the actual car
- True-to-life details
- 3599 pieces
- Weight: 2.2lbs
6. RC Tracked Racer
Has your child ever dreamed of building their own remote-controlled car? This kit provides wonderful learning opportunities. Builders are exposed to concepts of car building and radio transmission. The 2-in-1 model also becomes an RC Off-Road Truck.
- Remote control functions include forward, back, left, right, and 360-degree turns
- Includes 2 motors
- 2-in-1 model also becomes an off-road truck
- 370 pieces
- Weight: 1.85lbs
7. 6×6 All Terrain Tow Truck
This is a cool-looking vehicle that boasts the largest LEGO Technic wheels to date. Power Functions allow for remote-controlled movement, and the retractable winch and working pulling crane make it fun to play with. The truck’s bright appearance and cool features could inspire builders to challenge their abilities.
- 2-in-1 model can also become a research explorer vehicle
- Largest LEGO Technic wheels yet
- Many power functions
- 1862 pieces
- Weight: 8.2lbs
8. Mack Anthem
This truck is an exciting challenge for older builders. It’s also incredibly fun to play with in either form. The Semi Truck has an extendable crane boom, and the B model Mack LR Garbage Truck has movable forks. Both vehicles are durable for rough child’s play.
- Hydraulic lifts and moving motor
- Extendable crane boom
- 2-in-1 model becomes a Mack LR garbage truck
- 2595 pieces
- Weight: 7.63lbs
9. Bucket Wheel Excavator
This behemoth of a Bucket Wheel Excavator brings a huge wow factor. It’s the largest LEGO Technic set created and includes nearly 4000 pieces. It comes with a little mining dump truck that allows builders to complete the mining cycle: pick up rubble with excavator buckets, watch the pieces move on the motorized conveyor belts and drop into the dump bed. Builders will feel truly accomplished after this one.
- 2-in-1 model also becomes a mobile aggregate processing plant
- Largest LEGO Technic set yet
- Many motorized moving parts
- 3929 pieces
- Weight: 12.89lbs
10. Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3245
This is a popular set among engineers. It features the Power Function motor and a detailed pneumatic system. Builders can operate the grabber and arm, tilt the dump bed and check out the engine’s moving pistons. It’s a great choice for experienced builders who love construction vehicles and Power Functions.
- 2-in-1 set also becomes an articulated construction truck
- Comes with Power Functions
- Has a pneumatic system
- 2793 pieces
- Weight: 9.88lbs
A Guide to Buying the Best Lego Technic Sets & FAQ
A LEGO Technic set combines the best of traditional brick building with STEM learning. Regular LEGO kits teach kids about gravity and symmetry and balance, but Technic kits include concepts like gear function and electricity. The Technic line is truly remarkable for its ability to get kids interested in engineering, or advancing their knowledge of these concepts.
If your child has gotten bored with traditional LEGO building, Technic sets are a wonderful way to rekindle their interest. Even if your kid loves building with LEGO sets, they’ll be thrilled to see their Technic creations actually move and withstand heavy play. Technic sets also make wonderful gifts for adults who love engineering and the challenge of an intricate build.
There are several different types of LEGO Technic sets. Even after reading about our top picks, you might be overwhelmed. We’ve answered some common questions in order to set your mind at ease.
Who can build a LEGO Technic set? Can kids do this independently?
LEGO recommends the Technic line for kids as young as seven. However, some users report their 5-year-old built a WHACK by themselves. It depends on your individual child and their familiarity with LEGO. You’re the best judge of your kid’s dexterity and focus, and the age range should be used as a guide. Even beginner Technic sets can be a great activity to do with an older child new to this type of LEGO.
How durable is a LEGO Technic vehicle? If I lose a piece or it breaks, can we get replacement parts?
Users report their Technic vehicles can withstand some serious play. WHACK and BASH in particular are designed to crash into walls. Although Technic sets are designed with play in mind, they also function well as display pieces. If you do lose or break a piece, we recommend contacting LEGO directly. They’re usually able to send you a replacement part for a small fee.
LEGO Technic sets are more durable than traditional LEGO sets because they’re fixed together through sturdy interlocking pieces that look like rods, beams and pins, rather than the traditional bricks with studs that click and fasten. Thus it’s much harder for them to fall apart.
Can these only be constructed one way? What is a 2-in-1 kit?
It’s true that traditional LEGO sets are more open-ended. But plenty of builders have used Technic pieces to make their own creations. Some kits are meant to be combined to form a new super vehicle. Others are 2-in-1 kits, which means LEGO intended those parts to be able to create two different builds. The Volvo Wheel Loader, for instance, can also become a dump truck.
LEGO puts all the secondary build instructions only online, especially for their larger Technic sets. You can also find fan forums such as Eurobricks and Rebrickable where users post instructions for modifications. Honestly, if your builder wants to mod their vehicle with battery power or turn the parts into something new, the sky’s the limit.
Are LEGO Technic sets safe for young kids?
Again, you know your child best. If you have little ones at home who love mouthing things, be careful with Technic sets. These pieces are small and intricate and could be a choking hazard. But like all LEGO pieces, their biggest threat is probably causing pain when you step on them.
Do all LEGO Technic sets move?
No. Not every Technic set is designed for power accessories. Many of the models listed here have manual functions, like turning a crank to lower a crane hook. Plenty of Technic sets do come with batteries and can also be modified to use power accessories. You can buy the power accessories or light kits separately.
If the sets do not come with Power Functions, you can do a web search to see if others have managed to modify the set to fit them.
Why are some LEGO Technic sets so expensive?
LEGO retires their sets and stops producing them roughly after two years, though the timeline depends on many factors. Discontinued sets become rarer items and their value thus increases.
If your kid/partner/whoever you’re buying for is not a LEGO collector, and you just want them to enjoy building and learning STEM concepts, you can simply get a well-reviewed LEGO Technic set that’s currently selling in LEGO stores or on the LEGO website. Otherwise, prepare to fork out more money for retired sets that are a must-have, like the Bucket Wheel Excavator.
Can my LEGO minifigures drive Technic vehicles?
Unfortunately not. Occasionally a minifigure will fit inside a Technic cab, but they won’t click in as most Technic pieces don’t have the traditional LEGO bricks with studs. When the car or truck drives, the minifigure will probably fall out of the chair. If you simply want to display your finished Technic build, you might be able to prop a tiny “LEGO guy” into the driver’s seat.
Final thoughts
LEGO Technic can be an educational and enjoyable pastime for kids and adults who love intricate projects. Younger kids will be introduced to STEM concepts and experienced builders will put those concepts to practical use. Truly, there’s nothing more fun than seeing the joy on your child’s face as he races with a remote control car he built himself. We hope you’ve managed to find a suitable LEGO Technic set from our recommendations above.
On a tight budget? See here for our best tips for getting LEGOs cheap.