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The Best Lego Technic Sets


We love LEGO in my house, and I’ve bought lots of Technic sets for my son and my husband. This style of LEGO can interest and challenge upper elementary children right up through adults. I’ve arranged my best LEGO Technic Sets recommendations from the sets for beginners at the top to the more advanced toward the end.

Best Set for Beginners:
Best Set for Advanced Builders:
Best Motorized Set:


Best LEGO Technic Sets for Beginners

The Technic Getaway Truck has a low amount of pieces (128) at an inexpensive price whereas the Technic Rescue Helicopter has the most pieces (325) and is a more expensive set for beginners.

LEGO Technic Race Truck

LEGO Technic Race Truck 42104 Pull-Back Model Truck Building Kit, New 2020 (227 Pieces)
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You can pull back and watch the LEGO Technic Race Truck zoom away.

A bonus to this set is that you can make two different vehicles with the bricks in the box: a race truck and a race car. However, you have to take one apart to build the other. 

The main build is a race truck with some cool pieces. It has a big spoiler and exhaust pipes. The set also has pieces to build a finish line or starting flag stand.

After you build the truck, you can take it apart and make a sleek race car that also pulls back and zooms.

Parents say this is a good starter Technic set, though the instructions can get a bit tricky. This set has interactive, 3D directions called Instructions Plus available in the LEGO Building Instructions app that can help.

I like that this set is fairly basic for Technic but still has two possible builds. As long as your kids know they can’t have both built at once, they can get twice the building experience in one set.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 7+
Pieces: 227
Finished size:  6 inches by 3 inches by 3 inches
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Police Pursuit

LEGO Technic Police Pursuit 42091 Building Kit (120 Pieces)
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The LEGO Technic Police Pursuit is a great way to introduce your child to the Technic line. It has relatively few pieces, but it still features cool pull-back movement.

When finished, the car can be propelled by pulling it back and letting go. We don’t have this specific set, but we have another pull-back vehicle that has worked well for us.

The police aspect of this car will make it extra fun to play with as the officers can quickly chase after any crooks that bother LEGO City. It has red and blue “lights” and a cool spoiler.

Parents report this set is a hit with kids as young as 5 and 6. They say it is fairly quick to build and sturdy to play with.

If you also get the LEGO Technic Getaway Truck, you can take the sets apart and use the combined pieces to make a third vehicle.

I think this set would be great for Technic beginners who like the police LEGO City sets. While it isn’t designed to be used with mini-figures, it would be a natural extension of police play offered in sets like LEGO City Police Truck and LEGO City Police High-Speed Chase.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 7+
Pieces: 120
Finished size: 2 inches by 7 inches by 3 inches
Motorized: No, but pull back action

LEGO Technic Getaway Truck

LEGO Technic Getaway Truck 42090 Building Kit (128 Pieces)
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As mentioned above, the LEGO Technic Getaway Truck is a great complement to the police car set.

This is a monster truck that looks like it could be trouble, with its flame decals and big tires. It is perfect for the police car to chase after.

The Getaway Truck also will zip away after being pulled back, which helps introduce engineering principles during the build and will provide tons of fun in play.

Parents report this set is sturdy as well, though some kids had trouble figuring out parts of the instructions. If you also have the police car, you can take them apart and use pieces from both to build a third vehicle.

I think this is a great starter Technic set for beginners. My third grader would really enjoy both the building and the play time.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 7+
Pieces: 128
Finished size: 2 inches by 7 inches by 3 inches
Motorized: No, but pull back action

LEGO Technic Record Breaker

LEGO Technic Record Breaker
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Another pull-back vehicle set is the LEGO Technic Record Breaker.

This race car is very sleek and aerodynamic. You can pull it back and watch it zoom. It can fit through smaller spaces than some other LEGO cars. 

I have purchased a set close to this one, and the pull-back function worked well. Parents report that their kids enjoy racing this model and building tunnels for it to cruise through.

Since this set is several years old, it may cost more than the newer pull-back sets listed above. But if your child really wants a sleek pull-back car, this is a good choice.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 7-14
Pieces: 125
Finished size: 3 inches tall by 11 inches long by 2 inches wide
Motorized: No, but pull back action

LEGO Technic Power Boat

LEGO Technic Power Boat 42089 Building Kit (174 Pieces) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Next is a good beginner kit for boat fans: LEGO Technic Power Boat

While it doesn’t float, it does have three wheels on the bottom that are kind of hidden so your child can still push it across the floor or table to play. When the wheels turn, a piston in the engine goes up and down and the propeller turns.

But since the movement of the engine and propeller are tied to the wheels moving, it isn’t very realistic to a boat’s movement. It will teach about linkages and gearing, which is a great start to engineering practice.

This set is a 2-in-1 that you can take apart and rebuild into a hydroplane boat, which I think does look pretty cool as well. When a set is 2-in-1, that means you can use the pieces in the box to build either of two models. You can’t build both at once from one set. I like the options that design gives your child but make sure they understand they can only have one at a time.

Builders say it is pretty sturdy (except the windshield) and kids enjoy playing with it. I think this set is a great beginner set, especially if your kid isn’t that interested in cars. 

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 8+
Pieces: 174
Finished size: 3 inches tall by 9 inches long by 2 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Hook Loader

LEGO 6210344 Technic Hook Loader 42084 Building Kit (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Truck fans who are newer to Technic will enjoy LEGO Technic Hook Loader Kit.

This truck has working steering and a hook loading system to lower the container on the back and dump your load. There’s also a nice cab with seats and heavy-duty tires.

The secondary build on this 2-in-1 looks very fun, too. This set can be taken apart and rebuilt into an airport fire truck with two spray nozzles. Parents say it is a bit tricky to get apart to create the second model, but that makes it sturdy during play. If you don’t have a brick separator tool, it is worth getting.

I think this is a great choice for newer Technic builders who want to play construction more than race cars. I think my son would enjoy building and using the mechanism to dump the container. My husband actually has a Technic truck that’s very similar that was part of another construction set, but that hasn’t joined the kids’ play with LEGO yet.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 7-14
Pieces: 176
Finished size: 3 inches tall by 5 inches long by 2 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Ultralight Helicopter

LEGO Technic Ultralight Helicopter 42057 Advance Building Set
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Another non-car option is the LEGO Technic Ultralight Helicopter.

This helicopter is for one pilot (not included) and is very aerodynamic. A mini-figure you already have should fit inside, though it may not stay put during play.

You get to build two spinning rotors and a movable tail rudder for steering with a joystick.  The engine includes moving pistons. There is a detailed seat in the cockpit as well.

This 2-in-1 model rebuilds into an experimental aircraft, which I think looks like a fun build, too. You have to take the helicopter apart to make the airplane.

Parents say their kids, even ones younger than 8, enjoyed putting this set together. It may be a bit of a step up from the easiest sets, though. Even some adults enjoyed building it themselves.

I think this does look like a fun set, but if your flying fan can handle a bit more challenge, I think the LEGO Technic Rescue Helicopter (discussed below) will offer even more fun play.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 8-14
Pieces: 199
Finished size: 4 inches tall by 9 inches long by 7 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Rescue Helicopter

LEGO Technic Rescue Helicopter 42092 Building Kit (325 Pieces)
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Next, the LEGO Technic Rescue Helicopter is another 2-in-1 set.

The main build is a rescue helicopter with spinning rotors. It comes with a rescue stretcher, and it has doors and a winch that really works to aid in LEGO rescues.

It looks like the copter will fit a mini-figure, but the Technic sets don’t come with people figures, so you’d have to use one from your other LEGO sets.

Parents say this is a nice step up from the most basic Technic sets if you are looking for a bit more challenge. The stretcher may be tricky to fit inside the copter nicely, though.

As a secondary build, you can take the copter apart to make a futuristic airplane with the bricks in the box. Just remember, you can’t have the copter and the plane built at once with one set.

I like that this set has play functions differently than most of the other Technic sets that are cars and trucks. This would be a good choice for kids who aren’t super interested in cars and kids who do love flying toys. It might also be a good starter set for an adult without building/engineering experience.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 8+
Pieces: 325
Finished size: 4 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches
Motorized: No

Best Lego Technic Sets for Advanced Builders

The Technic Racing Yacht has the least amount of pieces (330) compared to the Technic Bugatti which has the most pieces (3599). The most popular Technic Set for advanced builders is the Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

LEGO Technic Car Transporter

LEGO Technic Car Transporter 42098 Toy Truck and Trailer Building Set with Blue Car, Best Engineering and STEM Toy for Boys and Girls (2493 Pieces)
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The LEGO Technic Car Transporter is a set with lots of fun play possibilities.

Your builder will get to make a cool blue model car plus a large car transporter for it to ride on. The LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will also fit on this truck if you have or get that set separately.

When built, the blue car that’s included has working steering and a V8 piston engine. On the truck, the cab tilts to allow you to view the V6 engine. The decks move to allow the car to move between levels. There are also vehicle locks in each space to keep them safely aboard.

This is also a 2-in-1 set, so you can rebuild the pieces into two smaller trucks, a race car, and a trailer. The instructions for the secondary build are only online, though. You have to take apart one model to build the other.

Some builders were unhappy with the way the pieces were separated and labeled in bags, saying it took a long time to sort through bags to find the right pieces for each step. But most thought it was a fun build.

I think the size of the truck (nearly three feet) would make it a hit in my house, and having space for other vehicles would encourage my son to make his own creations to fill it up.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 11+
Pieces: 2493
Finished size: 8 inches tall by 33 inches long by 5 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Racing Yacht

LEGO Technic Racing Yacht 42074 Building Kit (330 Pieces) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Another set that’s great if your child isn’t that into wheeled vehicles is the LEGO Technic Racing Yacht.

This boat set features different movements than cars and trucks. It has a working rudder and winch for trimming the sails and steering through the waves.

It is also a 2-in-1 set that can be taken apart and rebuilt into a catamaran. I don’t think this secondary build is too impressive, though. I like when the second option is more different from the first, but these look like fairly similar boats.

Don’t expect the finished boat to float, however. Since the hull is not one piece, it will not float. Some people were disappointed with that, but I wouldn’t put LEGO bricks in the water anyway.

I like the colors on this set and that it’s different from most of the other Technic offerings. It would be good for a builder with a bit of experience who likes being on the water.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 8-14
Pieces: 330
Finished size: 11 inches tall by 14 inches long by 3 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Street Motorcycle

LEGO Technic Street Motorcycle
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Another set that’s slightly different from the dominant cars and trucks is the LEGO Technic Street Motorcycle.

This set features a chain-driven V4 engine and large shock absorbers. The steering works, and the pistons in the engines move.

As a 2-in-1 set, you can take the main build apart to make a retro bike. I don’t know anything about motorcycles, but it doesn’t look too different to me.

I think this set would be a good choice for a motorcycle fan, whether a child or an adult. I think it might get played with less than a car at my house, but motorcycle enthusiasts may really like it. 

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 9-16
Pieces: 375
Finished size: 6 inches tall by 12 inches long by 3 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic First Responder

LEGO Technic First Responder 42075 Building Kit (513 Pieces) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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For firefighting fans, check out LEGO Technic First Responder. This set is a fire chief’s SUV.

There are many working and moving parts, including a light tower, winch, steering, and suspension. The doors also open, and there are tools in the accessible storage compartment. It comes with wide tires with realistic treads.

This 2-in-1 set can be rebuilt into a fire racer that has a cool, sleek look along with some moving parts. The SUV has to be taken apart to make the fire racer.

Parents say their kids enjoyed building this set and it’s pretty durable. I think this has some fun parts and could be a good addition to a child’s LEGO fire truck collection, though on a different scale. But if you don’t already have a classic fire truck (like LEGO City Downtown Fire Brigade), your child could be disappointed this one doesn’t have hoses and ladders.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 9-16
Pieces: 513
Finished size: 7 inches tall by 10 inches long by 4 inches wide with light tower extended
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Fast & Furious Charger

LEGO Technic Fast & Furious Dom's Dodge Charger 42111 Building Toy - Racing Car Model Building Kit, Iconic Movie Inspired Collector's Set, Gift Idea for Kids, Teens, and Adults Ages 10+
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Next is a detailed car build: LEGO Technic Fast & Furious Charger. It was designed with input from Dodge and Universal Studios to ensure it was faithful to the 1970s Charger from Fast & Furious.

This model has many realistic features. The pistons, steering system, suspension, and air blower all work and move. It also has a wheelstand bar for display. The hood and trunk open to show key details from the movie version of the car.

Most users really enjoyed building this set. Some advanced builders thought it was on the easy side, though. It would probably be a great set if your child is a whiz at the smaller Technic sets, but it may not excite an experienced adult builder unless they are huge fans of Fast & Furious.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 10+
Pieces: 1,077
Finished size: 15 inches long by 4 inches tall
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 42093 Building Kit (579 Pieces)
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LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is also a 2-in-1 set, and it doesn’t have motors or the pull-back function of some other Technic sets.

The main build was developed with Corvette, though some users say it isn’t as faithful to the real car as they would have liked. It does have details like exhaust pipes and a rear wing.

Though the vehicle doesn’t move on its own, when you push the car, the pistons in the engine move up and down. The steering system also works.

The secondary build is a hot rod that many people find just as cool looking (or more so) than the ZR1. However, the set doesn’t come with printed instructions for the hot rod build. You would need to find them on the LEGO website or app.

I think this would be a good choice for builders or families who like iconic cars. My husband, who isn’t much of a car guy, thought this one looked pretty cool, too. It will provide a bit more challenge than the easiest Technic sets, but it is not too challenging for kids with some experience.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 9+
Pieces: 579
Finished size: 3 inches by 11 inches by 4 inches
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Crawler Crane

LEGO Technic Compact Crawler Crane 42097 Building Kit (920 Pieces)
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Construction vehicles are always a hit in my house, so I know my son would love the LEGO Technic Crawler Crane.

This set is also great because the crane moves in many ways without electronics. The outriggers and boom extend, and there is a working hoist with cables and a lock. The top of the structure also rotates 180 degrees. It features cool treads as well. 

When it is extended, the set is quite large (20 inches tall), but it is able to fold down pretty compactly when not in use. 

This is a 2-in-1 set as well. The secondary build is a tower crane that’s not too different from the main crane, and remember you have to take the crawler crane apart to build it.

If you are looking for a larger, somewhat advanced set that’s not battery-powered, I think this would be a great choice. I can picture my son and husband working on this happily together and my son getting hours of play out of it afterward.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 10+
Pieces: 920
Finished size: 20 inches by 19 inches by 15 inches when fully extended
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Mobile Crane

LEGO Technic Mobile Crane 42108 Building Kit, A Super Model Crane to Build for Any Fan of Construction Toys, New 2020 (1,292 Pieces)
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Also for construction fans, there is LEGO Technic Mobile Crane. It is bigger than the Crawler Crane set and also is not powered.

There are many realistic functions, like steering, individually moving outriggers and a tall boom that can raise and lower. The play will entertain your child, but while playing, they will see and experience mechanical linkages in the gearing and mechanical advantage with the pulley lift system.

The crane reaches an amazing 30 inches high when fully extended. It features two cabins for construction workers (not included).

Parents report that this set is more complex, so it’s not the best choice for new Technic builders. But they say it is very sturdy when it is assembled so you can get many hours of play out of it.

This is a set that I think my son would love when he’s a bit older. It has so many realistic moving parts, and I like that the movement is from mechanical systems he’d get to build rather than electronics.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 10+
Pieces: 1,292
Finished size: 30 inches tall by 18 inches long by 4 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender

LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender 42110 Building Kit (2573 Pieces)
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Next are two sets featuring iconic car models. The LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender was developed with Land Rover, and it is a faithful representation of the 2019 Defender model.

This set has many realistic features and moving parts. The steering works, and there is a four-speed gearbox, independent suspension, and a 6-cylinder engine. There is also a working winch and tailgate.

In the cabin, there are many additional details. There are levers for switching between high and low gear ratios, a place to change gears, and a way to see the gearbox in action. There are no electronics in this set.

This is a challenging build with many functions and moving pieces, so it will take patience and attention to detail to get them all working just right. But people who persevere are very pleased with the finished vehicle.

I think this set would be great for experienced builders who are car lovers. There are lots of details for Land Rover fans, but maybe not as much play value as the construction vehicle sets. My family is not very into cars, so I would choose one of the cranes over this set.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 11+
Pieces: 2,573
Finished size: 8 inches tall by 16 inches long by 7 inches wide
Motorized: No

LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron

LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron 42083 Race Car Building Kit and Engineering Toy, Adult Collectible Sports Car with Scale Model Engine (3599 Pieces)
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The LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron looks more like a collectible than a play item. It is a 1:8 scale LEGO version of the race car.

Though it would look great on display, it does also have many moving parts that can be played with. It has an 8-speed gearbox that functions and has the most advanced LEGO engine available. 

Bugatti helped develop this set, and the instructions are meant to mirror how the actual cars are built. Each model has a unique serial number that is put beneath the hood.

Many experienced Technic builders say this is the best set they’ve ever worked on. The level of detail is amazing, and it provides great hands-on engineering practice.

I think this would be a great set for an experienced teen or adult builder who loves cars. I just can’t see this level of set being put on the floor and played with, so I would skip it for kids who want something to drive around, but my husband is drooling over this kit.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 16+
Pieces: 3,599
Finished size: 5 inches tall by 22 inches long by 9 inches wide
Motorized: No

Best Motorized LEGO Technic Sets

The Technic RC Stunt Racer has the least amount of pieces (324) whereas the Technic Excavator has the most pieces (4108). Each of these sets includes a remote control with the exception of the Off-Roader, Rally Car, and Excavator which are app-controlled.

LEGO Technic RC Stunt Racer

LEGO Technic Remote Controlled Stunt Racer 42095 Building Kit (324 Pieces)
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Another set with two build options is the LEGO Technic RC Stunt Racer.

But this set takes things up a notch by introducing remote-controlled movement. You will need 3 AAA batteries to run this racer once it is built.

The LEGO builder gets to put together the vehicle and the remote control. The big treads help it accelerate quickly, drive over rough terrain and obstacles, and do wheelies.

Though this set may be more expensive than the pull-back vehicles, parents report it is worth it. Kids spend hours a day driving their creation around after building it.

Do be aware that the remote doesn’t work well in sunlight, so it may be a better inside toy. Some users also had trouble getting the batteries in and out, but a LEGO representative said they would help with that issue.

There is a secondary build that doesn’t really look too different from the main build, but it does have a bit of a sleeker look with a spoiler. Remember that to build the second option, the first build has to be taken apart.

I think this would be a good choice for builders who have some Technic experience and want a model to play with when it is finished.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 9+
Pieces: 324
Finished size: 6 inches by 8 inches by 5 inches
Motorized: Yes (RC)

LEGO Technic App-Controlled Rally Car

LEGO Technic App-Controlled Top Gear Rally Car 42109 Racing Toy Building Kit (463 Pieces)
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The LEGO Technic App-Controlled Rally Car is fun to build and to play with as you can use an app to drive the completed car.

Based on Top Gear’s The Stig, the car has a realistic moving engine and Top Gear details sure to be a hit for any fan of the show.

It also is a remote control car when you add 6 AA batteries and download the LEGO Technic Control+ app. You can then use your phone or other device to drive the car and do racing challenges.

Though this set is motorized, it is not compatible with the Power Functions system. It has a Smart Hub with two motors, an XL and an L. The electronics do drive up the cost compared to sets that are mostly bricks.

Many users thought the car was too slow to be very much fun to drive. So this might be a good choice if your child will be more interested in the build than driving fast.

I think my son would enjoy the RC on this, but I probably wouldn’t let him use my phone very often to use the app.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 10+
Pieces: 463
Finished size: 10 inches by 3 inches by 5 inches
Motorized: Yes (RC)

LEGO Technic Xtreme Off-Roader

LEGO Technic 4x4 X treme Off Roader 42099 Building Kit (958 Pieces)
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Another app-controlled vehicle is the LEGO Technic Xtreme Off-Roader.

This monster-truck-looking vehicle uses a Smart Hub with three motors, which you can control with the LEGO Technic Control+ app. Builders can use the app to steer, play sound effects, complete challenges, and see their speed.

The truck itself has independent suspension and really big tires. There are also many sticker details to add.

Many users found the set fun to build and sturdy to drive around. Some were disappointed with the truck’s speed and ability to go over rough terrain. And some parents were disappointed that the controls are in an app instead of a dedicated remote control. 

I would also prefer a motorized set with its own control to limit kid screen time. But for a kid who can do it in small doses or isn’t much into other screens, this looks like a fun set.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 11+
Pieces: 958
Finished size: 7 inches tall by 12 inches long by 8 inches wide
Motorized: Yes

LEGO Technic RC Volvo

LEGO Technic 42030 Remote Controlled Volvo L350F Wheel Load
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Next is a set for construction fans who want a motorized set. LEGO Technic RC Volvo allows you to control it with an included remote.

Using Power Functions pieces, you will build a construction vehicle with several motors you can control. There is a lifting arm and tipping bucket, which can be operated while the vehicle is also driving. The bucket can reach over a foot up in the air.

It does require batteries in two different sizes for the truck and the remote. Some users had trouble with Duracell batteries, so you may need a different brand for best results.

Many builders really enjoyed this model. The number of motors included and the age of the set means it is likely to be on the expensive side, though. In my opinion, it’s better that it is controlled by an included remote and not by the app some other models use.

I think it would have many hours of play value for advanced builders of all ages. I can see my son and my husband both enjoying this set.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 11-16
Pieces: 1636
Finished size: 9 inches tall by 22 inches long by 6 inches wide
Motorized: Yes (RC)

LEGO Technic All Terrain Tow Truck

LEGO Technic 6x6 All Terrain Tow Truck 42070 Building Kit (1862 Pieces) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Another more advanced powered model is the LEGO Technic All Terrain Tow Truck.

This tow truck kit includes two Power Function motors and remote control. The control directs the driving and steering as well as the movement of outriggers and crane. It uses one lithium ion battery for its power.

Once built, this is a large vehicle (two feet long). Some of the outer body lifts up so you can see the mechanics inside. The crane raises, lowers, and rotates.

With all that movement comes a lot of intricate building, so this set is recommended for fairly advanced Technic builders. Some people reported the instructions were tricky in places, so be prepared to be patient. But most users loved the building challenge and the finished product.

The tow truck has the largest tires of any Technic set, which LEGO describes as being able to overcome any terrain. But they aren’t really that capable. They can tackle obstacles about as large as they are, but not any bigger.

This is also a 2-in-1 set that can be rebuilt into a research vehicle. The instructions for the secondary build are available online, not provided in the set. You have to take the tow truck apart to build the research vehicle.

I think this set looks amazing for builders with some experience. It will be a challenge to build just right and lots of fun to use after completing it.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 11+
Pieces: 1,862
Finished size: 20 inches by 24 inches by 15 inches
Motorized: Yes (RC)

LEGO Technic Excavator

LEGO Technic Liebherr R 9800 Excavator 42100 Building Kit (4,108 Pieces)
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Finally, the LEGO Technic Excavator is currently the Technic set with the most pieces.

The excavator has seven motors with two Smart Hubs. You will need 12 AA batteries to run both hubs. It also is controlled with the LEGO Technic Control+ app.

Within the app, there are multiple screens. The user can control driving and moving the boom and bucket very precisely, set sequences of movement, play sound effects, find challenges, and see operations feedback in the app.  

Building the set uses fairly advanced engineering. It features details like an extendable ladder, cockpit, and access ways. The top structure rotates 360 degrees. The bucket scoops and dumps small objects.

Most builders are very impressed with the design of the excavator and how well it functions. The instructions are clear, and it will take you some serious time to complete.

A drawback to the app controlling the motors is that it requires you to have them placed exactly as needed for this model to run them. That’s fine if you only want to build this model, but it limits your ability to use the motors in your own creation later.

While the digging and scooping function of this set looks amazing, the way the motors are tied into the app makes it less appealing for my family. As my husband said when I told him about it, “That’s stupid.”

But if you or your teen with plenty of experience wants a true building challenge and don’t want to take the finished product apart to build differently, this would be a good choice.

Fast Facts
Recommended ages: 12+
Pieces: 4,108
Finished size: 15 inches tall by 25 inches long by 10 inches wide
Motorized: Yes

Comparing Lego Technic Sets

The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.


Buying Criteria for Lego Technic Sets 

Skill level

I chose to highlight sets at various levels. The ones at the top of the list are for beginners and they proceed in difficulty toward the end, which lists the more advanced models.

Fun to play with

I think having a finished model that will be fun to play with is as important as the building process. So I have chosen mostly sets that will give you a fun, sturdy toy when built.

Some adults will want sets that are impressive to display, though, and I have included a couple of those as well.

Good value

A good rule of thumb when buying a basic LEGO set is to look for sets that cost about 10 cents a brick (or piece). If you find something that costs less, that’s a great deal. So a 200 piece set for $20 is a good value, but if you can find a 200 piece set for $15, that’s a great deal

Sets with motors or other complex parts will probably cost more than that standard. Prices can also rise quite high for sets that are retired or are very popular, and the costs can change frequently. But the 10 cents a brick standard is what I consider when buying for my family.

FAQs – LEGO Technic Sets

What makes LEGO Technic different from other LEGO sets? Are they compatible?

The pieces in LEGO Technic sets are compatible with standard LEGO bricks, though you probably won’t see many of the familiar standard bricks in a set. They use some different pieces, like gears, axels, and beams, to create advanced moving parts and systems. These include steering systems and gear boxes.

Currently, all the LEGO Technic sets being produced are vehicles of some kind. They have a more realistic function than other LEGO sets, though many other LEGO lines have borrowed some Technic pieces to create some movement.

LEGO Technic marked its 40th anniversary in 2017, and the special pieces have been integrated and compatible with standard LEGO since inception. The cars, construction trucks, and copters can add motion to the LEGO City sets in your living room while providing a stepping stone to reach the next level with the Mindstorms series programmable kits.

What LEGO Technic set is the biggest?

The Liebherr Excavator set currently has the most pieces with 4,108. It also has one of the largest finished dimensions at 25 inches long. The Mobile Crane is 30 inches tall, and the Car Transporter is 33 inches long.

What LEGO Technic set is the cheapest?

The price of LEGO sets can vary depending on the merchant and the set’s rarity and popularity.

The Technic set currently in production with the lowest list price is LEGO Technic Cherry Picker 42088 Building Kit.

The next cheapest by list price are LEGO Technic Mini CLAAS XERION 42102 Toy Tractor Building Kit and LEGO Technic Buggy 42101 Dune Buggy Toy Building Kit.

Several of the pull-back vehicles on our list above have lower list prices as well.

Can you motorize LEGO Technic sets?

Several sets above do come with motors, but you can buy motors separately for your own creations. Check out the LEGO Technic Power Functions Motor Set 8293 Building Kit.

You may be able to find a way to tie a motor into another Technic set that wasn’t designed with it, or you can use your creativity to build something new and motorize it. 

What if a set I order is missing pieces?

LEGO says it is very rare for pieces to be missing from brand new sets. We haven’t run into that issue in my house yet (and we’ve been buying many sets a year for at least five years).

But if you do find you are missing a piece, LEGO will help you out. You can report the missing brick and get a replacement. 

Are there other options to learn Technic concepts?

There are some good books to help your child learn some of the engineering principles.

My son has the Klutz LEGO Chain Reactions Science & Building Kit, which is a book of instructions for making various Rube Goldberg type machines from Technic pieces. It does come with the Technic pieces you need, but for most of the machines, you will need some other standard bricks.

There is another similar book that comes with all the bricks you need to build 16 various projects. The Klutz LEGO Crazy Action Contraptions Craft Kit will show your child how to make vehicles, launchers, and other gadgets. This would be a great choice if you are just starting a LEGO collection.

What are other good gifts for kids who like to build?

If your child likes to build, there are plenty of other good toy options besides LEGO. Check out our lists of best Erector sets, best model cars, and best race car tracks.

Sources

  1. Who is The Stig on Top Gear, when was Ben Collins revealed and has Chris Harris ever worn the white helmet? – The Sun, www.thesun.co.uk
  2. How Much Does One Lego Piece Cost?, www.wired.com

Megan Ryan    

Megan Ryan is a stay-at-home mom to three kids in elementary school. She is also freelance editor who enjoys editing novels and Christian books. She still has a lot to learn about being a mom, but she's happy to share the lessons she's already learned.



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