Magnetic building tiles are a fantastic toy for kids. These versatile toys have captured the imaginations of children and parents alike, becoming synonymous with engaging as well as educational play.
In this article, we compare two prominent players in the magnetic tiles arena: Connetix and Magna-Tiles.
- Table of Contents
Overview of Magna-Tiles vs Connetix
Compatibility
Connetix tile and Magna-Tiles are compatible with each other. They also work together with other major brands of magnetic tiles. If you end up with a mixture of them in your home, you’ll be able to play with both together.
Product Range
Both companies offer a wide range of products. Here are some of the most popular items they currently sell.
- Connetix product range includes:
- Rainbow colored tiles
- Pastel colored tiles
- Clear tiles
- Ball run extension pack
- Geometry extension pack
- Transportation themed packs
- Large base plates sold separately
- Magnatile product range includes:
- Rainbow colored tiles
- Clear tiles
- Glow in the dark tiles
- Animal themed kits
- Dinosaur themed kits
- Construction themed kits
- Car & magnetic road themed kits
- QUBIX line features 3D cubes, prisms, and pyramids
Both companies offer small and large squares, equilateral triangles, right angle triangles and isosceles triangles in their basic kits.
Material and Construction
According to Magna-Tiles: their pieces are made with food-grade MABS plastic that is free of BPA, phthalates, latex, and toxic materials. Tiles feature signature metal rivets and patented, reinforced lattice.
According to Connetix: Connetix tiles are made using non-toxic ABS plastic that is BPA, lead and Phthalate free. All tiles are also sealed and riveted for extra safety and their unique beveled design allows Connetix to be strong while creating beautiful clear refractions.
Magnet Strength
Connetix tiles have slightly larger magnets than Magnatiles. It seems like the Connetix tiles may be slightly stronger than Magnatiles.
When I connected square tiles from each brand and lifted them in the air, they could withstand different amounts of weight.
I could get a total of 5 Magnatiles to hang together before breaking. I tried repeatedly for a 6th tile, using different square Magnatiles to make sure it wasn’t an anomaly but I could only ever make it to 5.
I could get a total of 6 Connetix tiles to hang together before breaking.
I think for most families playing with these toys, they won’t notice a huge difference in the magnet strength. For standard play, you’ll be able to create similar structures with both brands.
Structural Features
Connetix tiles have a beveled edge and Magna-Tiles are flat. If your kids like driving cars on their tiles, the flat design of Magna-Tiles provide a more smooth surface.
The beveled edge of Connetix creates refractions of light when they’re in the sun, which is quite pretty.
Educational Value
Both Connetix and Magna-Tiles share a commitment to fostering educational development through play.
Both brands have many educational benefits and they’re some of the best toys on the market. Magnetic tiles and shapes are designed to holistically develop children’s social, motor, cognitive, and emotional skills. They promote cooperation, communication, and imaginative play for social skills. For fine motor skills, they enhance hand-eye coordination, grasp, and strength. In the cognitive realm, they stimulate problem-solving, critical thinking, and curiosity with their various colors. Emotionally, they foster frustration tolerance, resilience, and self-confidence.
User Experience and Reviews
My kids and I have enjoyed playing with both brands. They both have high reviews from sites like Amazon that confirm our own personal experiences with them.
Magna-Tiles seem to have more products and emphasis as a brand on imaginative play. This is reflected in their product line with all the fun animal shaped magnets they make. They also make magnets that look like roadways for car-track themed fun.
Connetix seems a bit more STEM focused; it’s reflected in their product line when you see their geometry and shape expansion packs. You can still easily use their products for imaginative play, they’re incredibly open-ended toys.
Price Comparison
Connetix tiles are slightly more expensive than Magna-Tiles sets. This might be due to the slightly larger magnet size inside Connetix tiles. They’re both premium quality products in the world of magnetic tiles. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, both brands are similarly expensive compared to the cheap magnetic tile brands.
How To Choose Between Magna-Tiles and Connetix
Both brands of magnetic tiles are great for both young children and older kids. They inspire open-ended play for creativity and are a great STEM toy to enhance their cognitive development. So how do you choose the best magnetic tiles? The good news is, they are both a great option. If you’re trying to decide which magnetic building blocks to buy, a lot of it will come down to personal preference since they both are made of high-quality materials.
- You may prefer Connetix if you like:
- pastel colors that Magna-Tile doesn’t currently offer.
- the beveled edges that give the tiles a prismatic look.
- you don’t mind paying slightly more for stronger magnets.
- You might prefer Magna-Tiles if you like:
- glow in the dark tiles that Connetix doesn’t currently offer.
- animal magnets or construction toy magnets like cranes for creative play.
- flat tiles for driving cars on.
- slightly lower prices.
Final Thoughts
In the world of magnetic tiles, where creativity knows no bounds, Connetix and Magna-Tiles emerge as two prominent players, each bringing unique strengths to the table. In this brand comparison, you can see both offer high quality magnetic tiles, providing a great way for children of all ages to engage in educational and imaginative play.
