Article Summary

LEGO alternatives offer 40-60% savings, but are they worth it? We tested sets from CaDA, Reobrix, MEGA, and JMBricklayer. Here's what we found about quality, RC features, and long-term value.

A LEGO Technic excavator costs $250. A similar Reobrix model? Just $110. And JMBricklayer's RC Tower Crane with motor and remote included? Just $80. That's up to 68% savings. But are these cheaper options actually worth it?

After building dozens of sets from LEGO, CaDA, Reobrix, MEGA, and JMBricklayer, I can finally answer the question everyone's asking: Should you save money with alternative brands, or stick with LEGO?

Quick Answer: Alternative brands offer 40-60% savings with 85-90% of LEGO's quality. CaDA wins for static display models. JMBricklayer wins for RC/motorized sets with included motors and APP control. LEGO still wins for licensed sets, resale value, and absolute quality standards.
Comparison of LEGO and alternative brands showing quality and value differences

Quick Summary: Key Findings

  • Price Savings: Alternative brands offer 40-60% lower prices than LEGO
  • Quality: CaDA, Reobrix, and JMBricklayer deliver 85-90% of LEGO's quality
  • Best for Display: CaDA offers the best balance of quality and value for static models
  • Best for RC/Motors: JMBricklayer is the only brand with motors, remotes, and APP control included in base price
  • LEGO Advantages: Licensed sets, better resale value (60-150% MSRP), perfect quality standards
  • Alternative Advantages: Great for large display models, RC builds, and budget-conscious builders

Price Comparison: The Numbers Don't Lie

Category LEGO CaDA Reobrix MEGA JMBricklayer
Avg Price/Piece $0.10-0.12 $0.05-0.07 $0.06-0.07 $0.06-0.08 $0.04-0.05
2000pc Technic Set ~$200 ~$90 ~$110 ~$120 ~$80
RC/Motors Included Extra $50-100 Some models Rare No Yes, included
APP Control CONTROL+ (premium sets) Some models No No Yes + physical remote
Licensed Sets Premium (Star Wars, etc.) None None Halo, Pokemon None
Resale Value 60-150% MSRP 30-40% MSRP 30-40% MSRP 40-50% MSRP 30-40% MSRP
Display of impressive models from various building block brands

Best for RC & Electronics: JMBricklayer

Founded in 2022, JMBricklayer has carved out a unique niche in the LEGO-alternative market: motorized and RC building sets with electronics included in the base price. While other brands charge extra for motors (or don't offer them at all), JMBricklayer includes motors, 2.4GHz remotes, and APP control as standard.

What Makes JMBricklayer Different

  • Dual Control: Both physical 2.4GHz remote AND smartphone APP control included
  • RC Range: 65+ feet (20m) wireless range on most sets
  • LEGO Compatible: 100% compatible with LEGO and Technic bricks
  • Price: 4-5 cents per piece vs LEGO's 10-12 cents
  • Trustpilot Rating: 4.2/5 stars with praise for customer service

Top JMBricklayer RC Sets

RC Steam Train (2,139 pieces)

Full RC train with tracks, LED lights, and smoke effects. Control via remote or APP. The tracks are included - a $50+ value on their own.

Price: ~$90 | Best for: Train enthusiasts

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RC Tower Crane (1,797 pieces)

Working tower crane with motorized rotation and lifting. Dual remote/APP control. Impressive desk display that actually functions.

Price: ~$80 | Best for: Construction fans

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Mechanical Crane (2,820 pieces)

Larger construction vehicle with full RC functionality. Multiple motors for realistic crane operations.

Price: ~$120 | Best for: Serious builders

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Pirate Ship with LED (1,713 pieces)

Stunning display piece with 11 LED lights. Not RC, but the lighting creates an immersive atmosphere.

Price: ~$70 | Best for: Display collectors

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JMBricklayer: Honest Pros & Cons

+ Pros
  • 50-60% cheaper than equivalent LEGO Technic Control+ sets
  • Physical remote + APP dual control included
  • Motors, lights, and often batteries included
  • Excellent customer service (free replacement parts)
  • 100% LEGO/Technic compatible bricks
  • Great selection of trains, cranes, and construction vehicles
- Cons
  • Motors can be loud (common complaint in reviews)
  • Some sets consume AA batteries quickly
  • Instructions use red highlighting that's hard to see on orange bricks
  • APP not available in all countries (works in US, UK, most of EU)
  • No licensed designs (no Ferrari, Porsche, Star Wars)
  • Low resale value compared to LEGO

The Verdict: It Depends on Your Priorities

Best Overall Value: CaDA

85-90% of LEGO quality at 50% of the price. Best for adult builders focused on static display models.

Best for RC/Motorized: JMBricklayer

The only alternative brand with motors, remotes, and APP control included. Unmatched value for RC building sets - get a working RC crane for what LEGO charges for a basic static set.

Best Budget Option: Reobrix

Maximum savings with acceptable quality. Perfect for background builds or testing interests.

Best Licensed Alternative: MEGA

Only alternative with major licenses (Halo, Pokemon). Great quality, moderate prices.

Best Investment: LEGO

Still the king. Premium price justified by perfect quality, licensed sets, and 60-150% resale appreciation.

Which Should You Buy?

If You Want... Choose... Why
RC trains, cranes, or vehicles JMBricklayer Motors and remotes included, 50%+ savings vs LEGO Control+
Large static display models CaDA Best quality-to-price ratio for non-motorized builds
Maximum savings Reobrix Lowest price per piece, good for bulk building
Licensed themes (Halo, Pokemon) MEGA Only alternative with major licenses
Star Wars, Marvel, or Disney LEGO Only option for premium licensed sets
Investment/resale value LEGO Only brand that consistently appreciates in value
Shop LEGO on Amazon → Browse JMBricklayer RC Sets → Browse CaDA Sets →

Updated November 2025. We've personally built sets from all mentioned brands. Prices subject to change. JMBricklayer ratings based on Trustpilot reviews and The Gadgeteer product reviews.