You do not have to stick to popular characters and well-known franchises when collecting Nanoblock sets. For example, my family and I love to add animals to our collection.
I want my guides to expand as far as my collection, so I am once again stepping outside the usual characters and franchises. My research consists of blogs, websites, videos and my experience.
As you read through my guide, you can find the following:
- My list of the best Nanoblock animals sets
- Details of each set on the list
- A buyer’s guide to choosing the best sets
- Quotes and videos from other collectors
Did you know that Nanoblock offers several versions of certain animals in its collection? You can find a few earlier versions of certain sets in my guide.
My Top Pick
I always start my guides by putting the spotlight on my top pick for the best set. After I share my pick for the best Nanoblock animals set, you can find other great sets for your collection.
Green Chameleon →
What’s inside?
- Includes 120 pieces
- The smallest bricks are 4 x 5 mm
- Comes with step-by-step instructions
- Dimensions 2.44 x 2.04 x 2.91 inches
- Includes a display baseplate
Killer feature
- Tongue extending from the Chameleon’s mouth
Buying Options
The Green Chameleon set is my top pick because of the realistic details. Once assembled, you can find an extended tongue, black eyes and its tail wrapped around a branch. I feel the branch can be used as a unique display baseplate. In addition, the step-by-step instructions make it easy to put together this adorable reptile.
You can also add landmarks and structures to your collection. In this article, I share my list of the best Nanoblock Japan sets.
Also Great
I think the following animal sets are also great additions to your collection:
Giant Panda (First Version) →
What’s inside?
- Comes with 170 pieces
- The smallest bricks are 4 x 5 mm
- Includes step-by-step instructions
- Measures 2 x 1.9 x 1.9 inches
- First version of the panda, with limited availability
Killer feature
- The 3D design of a cute panda eating its greenery
Buying Options
I think the first version of the Giant Panda set is a great addition because it features several adorable details. This includes the panda’s facial features and the way it is eating its greenery. The fact that it has limited availability has made it a must-have for my collection. It also comes with precise, easy-to-follow instructions.
Koala With Joey →
What’s inside?
- Includes 145 pieces
- The smallest bricks are 4 x 5 mm
- Includes step-by-step instructions
- Koala stands approximately 2.2 inches tall
- Koala is attached to a branch instead of a display baseplate
Killer feature
- The Joey attached to the koala’s back, and the accurate details of both animals
Buying Options
When you purchase the Koala with Joey set, you are getting two animals in one set. I adore the little Joey attached to the Koala’s back, and I love the fact that the Koala is holding on to a branch instead of standing on a display baseplate. It adds a realistic feel to this animal set. The set also includes step-by-step instructions to create an easier building experience.
Buyer’s Guide
It is important to ensure you are adding only the best sets to your collection. This is why I have put together a buyer’s guide for your next shopping trip.
My buyer’s guide is broken into several aspects to consider when shopping for a new set, such as the number of pieces and difficulty level. My guide reminds you of the extra pieces, how to find the total count and how the difficulty levels work.
You can use my buyer’s guide to find the best set for your collection or a loved one’s collection. My goal is to make it easier to purchase your next animal building set.
Step One: How Many Pieces?
The first thing you want to consider is how many pieces are in each set. The number of pieces can be found on the packaging.
There are Nanoblock sets with as few as 90 pieces or as many as 1,000 pieces.
The animal sets may not include as many as 1,000 pieces, but you do want to ensure there are not too many pieces for you or your recipient.
After all, you may be shopping for your first building set. It never hurts to start with fewer pieces when stepping into the world of Nanoblock.
Of course, the number of pieces on your wishlist is also a matter of personal preference.
The total count includes the extra pieces, and the set may also include a display baseplate.
Step Two: Difficulty Level
You also want to consider the difficulty level of each set on your shopping list. This way, you can ensure it fits your wants and needs in a set.
All standard sets are based on a difficulty scale of one to five.
One is the easiest level and ideal for those who are just getting started in building sets. Five is the most advanced level and ideal for those who have years of experience in building sets.
You may not want to purchase a set that is too difficult or boring for yourself or your recipient. Luckily, children and adults alike can enjoy a set based at level two or three because it is not too easy or too difficult.
The difficulty level of the set can be found on the packaging.
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1. Green Chameleon →Best for animal set with fun, accurate details. |
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2. Giant Panda (First Version) →Best for accurate details, which range from the red elements to the green trees to the tiny statues. |
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3. Koala With Joey →Best for building two animals in one set. |
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4. Orange Giraffe Deluxe →Best for building a tall animal with over 600 pieces. |
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5. Boxer →Best for building a popular dog breed with precise facial features. |
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6. Scottish Fold →Best for building a cat breed with adorable, multicolored details. |
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7. Hippopotamus →Best for putting together a level two animal set with fun details. |
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8. African Elephant →Best for building an animal with 200 to 300 pieces. |
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9. Tabby Cat →Best for building a multicolored member of the cat family. |
Now, here comes the fun part of my guide, which is my review of nine Nanoblock animal sets. I want to share enough information to help you purchase another set for your collection.
The number of pieces varies per set, but the blogger of All Things Geeky has shared a tip to help you get started on building your design.
To quote this blogger,
“Open each packet of bricks and sort them accordingly. Ok, just to be specific, sort them by shape and color. We usually sort the bricks so it makes the assembly process efficient.”
1. Green Chameleon
The Green Chameleon set allows you to put together a 3D model of this popular reptile. It features realistic details such as its extended tongue, black eyes and tail. Put together this reptile by following the step-by-step instructions included with the set. Once assembled, the model measures 2.44 inches by 2.04 inches by 2.91 inches. This allows you to display the model while leaving space for other finished projects. The chameleon sits on a branch instead of a display baseplate.
Number of Pieces: 120
Ages: 12 and older
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It: I chose the Green Chameleon because I love the accurate details of this reptile. It is hard not to notice the extended tongue or wrapped tail of this model. The finished design sits on a branch instead of a display baseplate, which I think adds a unique touch to this set. I feel this set is a must-have for anyone who adores reptiles.
[Content] shares a time-lapse video of how to build the chameleon. It is ideal for builders who want a glimpse but do not want to follow a video tutorial. This time-lapse video is less than four minutes long.
You can find the instructions for the Green Chameleon set online for quick access.
Buying Options
2. Giant Panda (First Version)
The first version of the Giant Panda set features an adorable panda sitting and enjoying a snack. It is full of the usual characteristics of a panda, from its black and white fur to its facial features. The dimensions of this product are 2 inches by 1.9 inches by 1.9 inches, and it is a great ornament for any desk, dresser or shelf. You can put together this panda by following the step-by-step instructions. The panda set does not include a display baseplate, but you can easily balance this sitting panda on a flat surface. There is limited availability of this set because it is the first version of the model.
Number of Pieces: 170
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It: I chose the Giant Panda because I cannot get over the realistic details of this precious animal. Everything from the eyes and ears to the way it holds its greenery is on point. I also love that the panda is in a sitting position because it is easier to display this little animal on my shelf.
If you enjoy time-lapse videos, you are sure to enjoy this video from Anything but Everything. They show you how to assemble the panda in this quick video. Anything but Everything also includes a link to panda set instructions on the video description.
For easy access, you can find a copy of the Giant Panda set instructions online.
Buying Options
3. Koala With Joey
The Koala with Joey set gives you the opportunity to build two little animals for your collection. Both koala bears include life-like details such as their facial features. The bigger koala is holding on to a branch, and Joey is holding on to the bigger koala’s back. Once assembled, the entire model stands approximately 2.2 inches tall. You can build this model by following the step-by-step instructions. The Koala with Joey set includes a branch instead of a display baseplate.
Number of Pieces: 145
Ages: 12 and older
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It: I love the fact that you can build the bigger koala and Joey with this set. It doubles the fun of building an animal for your collection. I also love that the koala is holding on to a tree, which is a normal characteristic of this animal. The Joey holding on to the koala’s back is a nice touch.
You do not have to sit through a lengthy video with this speed-build video from Tulio Studio. The video is only a few minutes long, and it shows you how to put together this detailed koala set.
If you prefer a digital copy of the koala instructions, you can easily find a copy online.
Buying Options
4. Orange Giraffe Deluxe
The Orange Deluxe Giraffe Building Kit is one of the tallest animal sets on my list. In fact, the set comes with over 700 pieces. Once assembled, the giraffe stands almost 6 inches tall. The height is sure to cause this giraffe to stand out from the rest of the animals in your collection. It does not come with a display baseplate, but it does include pieces to secure the feet. Of course, the giraffe building kit comes with step-by-step instructions to help you put together this tall animal.
Number of Pieces: 740
Ages: 8 and older
Difficulty: Level 4
Why I Choose It: How could I resist an animal set with over 700 pieces? It does include extra pieces in the total count. However, I still feel it is a must-have for any animal collection. There is a challenge to building the giraffe, but the work is worth the reward of an awesome display for your shelf, desk or dresser. I also love the realistic shades of this giraffe.
In this video, Kate Me Mate shares a quick build of the deluxe giraffe kit. You also get a glimpse of the packaging and instructions to get an idea of what to expect in this set.
Buying Options
5. Boxer
The Mini Collection allows you to work on micro-sized projects in different themes, and the Boxer Building Set is part of this collection. Once assembled, the model measures .94 inches by 2.36 inches by 3 inches. It also comes with step-by-step instructions to make it easier to build this adorable pup. The boxer can be balanced on a flat surface instead of placed on a display baseplate, which is not included in this set. Display this cute boxer on your dresser, desk or shelf to show off your latest creation.
Number of Pieces: 150
Ages: 8 and older
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It: I love dogs and Nanoblock sets, and the accurate details of this dog set have made it a must-have for my collection. Everything from its facial features to its posture is true to the breed. I am also glad to find another set that is somewhat challenging but not frustrating. I think the Boxer Building Set is perfect for both children and adults.
In this speed-build video, Hobby.J shows you how to assemble the boxer set. You can also view the packaging and instructions at the beginning of this video.
The Boxer Building Set is not the only dog breed you can add to your collection. I am excited to share several Nanoblock dog sets in this article.
Buying Options
6. Scottish Fold
Expand your collection with the Cat Breed Scottish Fold Set, which allows you to build an adorable white and brown cat. Once you are finished assembling this 3D cat, it stands approximately 1.89 inches tall. The small design of this Scottish fold cat is perfect for your nightstand, desk or shelf. The set comes with step-by-step instructions to help you build the cat. It does not include a display baseplate, but you can display the cat model on a flat surface.
Number of Pieces: 120
Ages: 8 and older
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It: I think this Scottish fold cat is absolutely adorable with its beady eyes and brown nose. The extended arm looks like the kitty is chasing a flying insect or reaching out to its owner. The set is easy for children and adults to put together, which makes it a great gift idea for others or yourself.
You can get an idea of what to expect when you purchase the Scottish Fold set in this video from Calamity Jenn. The video starts with an unboxing and view of the packaging, and it continues with the construction of this Scottish fold cat. Calamity Jenn even gives us a glimpse of her precious cat in this video.
Buying Options
7. Hippopotamus
The Hippopotamus set allows you to build a 3D design of this cute animal with less than 200 pieces. Once assembled, the hippopotamus measures 1 inch by 3.25 inches by 2 Inches to create a fun display for any collection. It also features accurate details, from its posture to its open mouth. The set does not include a display baseplate, but it can easily balance on a flat surface. It also includes step-by-step instructions and extra pieces.
Number of Pieces: 130
Ages: 12 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It: The Hippopotamus is one of my favorite sets because of its life-like characteristics. Every detail of this animal is accurate, from its open mouth with teeth and gums to its posture. The feet are great for flat surfaces, so I do not need to place the model on a display baseplate. This leaves more room on my shelf for other animals in my collection.
Nano Architect shares a stop-motion video of how to build the Hippopotamus set. The video is less than a minute to give you an idea of how to build the animal without taking up a lot of building time.
Buying Options
8. African Elephant
The precise features of the African Elephant set give you an idea of why it is perfect for any collection. It is hard to resist the tusks, ears and long trunk of this beloved animal. Once it is assembled, this elephant stands approximately 1.7 inches tall. The set is ideal for ages 15 and older, but it also comes with step-by-step instructions to help you put together this model. It does not come with a display baseplate, but you can balance the feet on any flat surface for easy display.
Number of Pieces: 230
Ages: 15 and older
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It: It is no secret that I love building sets with accurate details, and this is why I love the African Elephant set. My favorite parts are the trunk, tusks and ears because you cannot deny that the finished product is an African elephant. I also love that it offers more of a challenge than other sets because I enjoy testing my skills.
If you would rather follow a longer video than a time-lapse or speed build, this is the video for you. One For All, All For One shares a lengthy tutorial on the building of the African Elephant set. The video shows you how to follow the instructions to build this model.
You can find the instructions for the African Elephant set online.
Buying Options
9. Tabby Cat
The Tabby Cat set is a great addition to any cat collection because of its accurate details. You are building an orange and white cat with dark eyes, a pink nose and a striped tail. Once you are finished building this cat, it stands approximately 1.73 inches tall. The cat can stand on its feet without a display baseplate, allowing you to create more room for other cats in your collection. This set comes with precise instructions to make your building experience a little easier.
Number of Pieces: 130
Ages: 15 and older
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It: It is no surprise that I love the details of the Tabby Cat set. I cannot get over its beady eyes, pink nose and striped tail. If you look closely at the finished model, you can spot its white tummy. This set offers a challenge that allows me to put my building skills to the test.
When you need a break from speed-build videos and lengthy tutorials, you can check out this adorable video from 070. It features the finished Tabby Cat set being displayed on a resting kitty. The best part is, the model resembles the cat in the video.
I have not found a copy of the instructions online yet, but ZC-Infinity does give a review of the instructions included with most sets.
To quote this blogger,
The instructions are pretty good, very straightforward and clear as to what you need to do. I’m not a fan of the “single sheet” version of instructions, but since these are relatively small sets, the pieces are obvious and don’t try to cram an insane amount of detail onto one frame. I think that pretty much anyone who reads these will know what goes where.
Buying Options
Other Must-Haves
There are certain accessories that can enhance your building experience. I call these items must-have accessories because I feel they are necessary for any collection.
You may need a tool that makes it easier to pick up your pieces, or maybe you want a safe, unique way to display your models. Enhance your collection by checking out these must-have accessories.
Nanoblock Collection Case (NB038)
The Collection Case is essential for displaying your finished models. The display baseplate and acrylic case protect your models without hiding them from your family and guests. You can create a bigger display by connecting several collection cases together.
Nanoblock Tweezers
It is not always easy to pick up the micro-sized bricks, but the Simplified Tweezers can make it easier to pick up the pieces you need. In addition, this easy-to-use tool measures 4.7 inches tall to create a lightweight piece.
LED Display Base
There is nothing like an LED Display Base to light up your model in alternating blue, green, red and white lights. It creates a colorful display that is sure to stand out from the crowd. The base measures 4 inches by 4 inches to fit different models, and you can power the base with a USB port or batteries.
Choose The Best Animal Set For Your Nanoblock Collection
With my buyer’s guide and set reviews, you are sure to find the best Nanoblock animals sets on the market today. You can even enhance your collection with several must-have accessories. My goal is to always help you find the best sets for your collection.